I was originally intending to be at another function for Sunday but this day trip was also on the schedule. The forecast wasn’t sounding so great on the Saturday with some rain likely along with a southerly. Our starting point was at the 4 Square mini market on the corner of Aro & Willis streets. … Read more
The Walk (Kate’s take on it anyway…) Despite what you read in the rest of this carefully conceived article, in which we are attempting to combine a multitude of writing styles and varying levels of the truth, this was actually a tramping trip. Well, ok, it was an alpine trip which means we carried wee … Read more
“We’ll name it Bigwheels, and it’s a he,” said Jack, as we set off on our journey. Our rental van had enough character that we thought we’d better give it – him – a name. Character isn’t usually a great sign in a vehicle, unless maybe it’s a Ferrari or a Monster Truck. This van … Read more
I grew up happily located between Kahurangi and Abel Tasman National Parks. As a youngster tramping for me was an enviable choice between silver beech in the hills or golden beach on the coast. So naturally, when I first moved to Wellington I looked down my nose at the Tararuas. A fellow Mainlander, John Pascoe, … Read more
Richmond Range – I want me money back A 4 day hiking trip through the northern part of Mount Richmond Forest Park in winter The club newsletter for July listed a five day trip to the Richmond range and commented that the leader Jenny was planning an epic. This sounded like a trip one should … Read more
I was disappointed that we weren’t camping out on the Friday night. It is one of the few chances that I get to see the stars without the light pollution from the city. As it was, I had to set the alarm for 5.45am on the Saturday morning. Times before 6am are anathema to me … Read more
Quick out of the blocks on Friday night at 5.30pmish, Snowcraft 2 set off for our second trip to The Mountain. Due to delays from phaffing, traffic and phaffing, some had to consume their Bulls kebabs on-the-run. The sun-gods seemed to have turned their back on Whakapapa this time, choosing instead to warm the faces … Read more
I had one of those days where serious lapse in judgment overtook me. This coming Sunday weather was going to be a stunner. So, what do I do? I decide to enquire with Shirley (Queen of the Tararuas) if she’d like to do a day walk on the Sunday. Left it entirely up to Shirley … Read more
When we set forth on the Great Walk we hoped our way would be lit by the moon but it was still well below the horizon. Walking by torchlight and in silence it feels like one is in ones own world, thoughts slow down and there are only the night noises to keep you company. … Read more
In Arthur’s Pass on Friday night we pack ready for an early start. DJ has a cold and has so far refrained from reminding me that he is on an alpine sabbatical. I decide to sleep in the main room at the Alpine Club Lodge so DJ is not disturbed by me checking my watch … Read more