From the Vice-President | Andrew Brown
Kia ora tatou katoa
Daniel is overseas so I am writing this post in his absence. It has been a busy period, and it’s wonderful to see how many members are getting out into the hills. Our lodge is also seeing high usage rates this year which is great. Groups are taking advantage of the excellent location for a range of activities in Tongariro National Park and further afield, and the skiing and snowboarding has been generally good – and possibly a little better – than last year. Mountain operations are generally smooth, with fresh spring snowfall in recent weeks. Thanks to Anna we ran an impressive photo competition earlier in August with 32 individuals entering. Great to see what people have been up to in the past year. Congratulations to all who entered under the various categories and of course the runners up and winners. I also want to acknowledge Monique Bon’s contribution to the club as she moves on to new endeavors in Auckland.
From the Liaison Officer | Sam Harrison
Short update from me, in what has been a busy few months with quizzes and photo competitions…
Mountain Film Festival
Following the successful interclub quiz we are collaborating again with VUWTC to bring you the 2025 Mountain Film Festival on 22 and 25 September 2025! Tickets for WTMC members are $20 each, get in quick before they sell out! Buy tickets here.
We are looking for two people each night to help checking tickets (and watch movies for free!), please email me if you are interested (liaison.officer@wtmc.org.nz).
Pub night
On Tuesday 9 September we have another pub night at the Fork and Brewer, starting from 6pm. Turn right as you go up the steps and you should find us in the far corner.
From the Chief Guide | Sara Harrison
Recent Trips & Cancellations
During August, club members have enjoyed trips in the Aorangi Ranges, Remutaka Forest Park, and Tongariro National Park. Unfortunately, a few trips were cancelled due to poor weather and late withdrawals. A reminder: the variable component of trip fees is based on confirmed participants—late pull-outs may still incur costs.
Trip Highlights:
- Aorangi Ranges: Aorangi Crossing (MF), Mangatoetoe Hut (E), Tauanui Hut (E)
- Tongariro National Park: Ruapehu Summit Plateau (Alp1 – changed from Parachute Rocks due to lack of snow), Ringatoto Peak (Alp1+)
- Remutaka Forest Park: Paua Hut / Mt Matthews (M), Paua Hut (E)
- Cancelled Trips: Barlow Hut (EM – low numbers & late withdrawals), Paretetaitonga (Alp – weather), Meridian West Wind Recreation Area (Day – weather)
Farewell & Thanks to Monique Bon
A big thank you to Monique Bon, who is stepping down as Assistant Chief Guide (Training) to take up a new role in Auckland. Monique has been a dedicated contributor, previously serving as Chief Guide and leading many trips. We wish her all the best and hope she’ll continue to lead trips in the Upper North Island!
Assistant Chief Guide (Training) – We’re Hiring!
We’re looking for a new Assistant Chief Guide (Training). You don’t need to be an expert in bushcraft or leadership—just well-organised and keen to coordinate training activities like navigation, alpine skills, bushcraft, and trip leader workshops/webinars. Interested? Email chiefguide@wtmc.org.nz.
Change to PLB Policy and Intentions Form
Following our review of the St James PLB incident, we have updated the trip intentions form to include personal PLB serial numbers. If you regularly bring your personal PLB on club trips (in addition to the group’s club PLB), please take these steps:
1. Update your PLB registration with RCCNZ: Add “WTMC member” in the comments section of your registration.
2. Share your PLB details with trip leaders: Provide your personal PLB serial number so it can be recorded on our trip intentions forms (this will be included in trip sign up forms from December onwards).
This ensures we have complete PLB information for all club trips and can respond effectively in emergency situations.
Training Update
Due to low sign-ups, the Intermediate Navigation Course and Introducrion to Leading WTMC Trips Workshop (originally scheduled for 4–5 October) will be rescheduled for early February 2026.
Upcoming Development Opportunities
Check out these upcoming training events on the trip schedule:
- Trip Leader Q&A – Tues 23 Sep, 7–8pm – Curious about leading trips? Come along to learn more.
- Weather 101 Webinar – Tues 14 Oct, 7–8:30pm – Learn how to use weather forecasting tools for trip planning.
- Van Orientation – Sat 14 Oct, 9–10am – Nervous at the thought of driving Big Bertha? Take her for a test drive, and boost your chances of getting on oversubscribed club trips!
- Intermediate Bushcraft Course – Fri 14–Sun 16 Nov – For new or emerging leaders: off-track nav, first aid refresher, river safety, and leadership skills.
Summer Trip Ideas Wanted
Planning is underway for the Summer Trip Schedule (Dec 2025–Mar 2026). Got a trip idea or keen to lead one? Email assistantchiefguide@wtmc.org.nz.
Hut & Track Maintenance
We’re planning a work party for Mountain House Shelter and collaborating with the Greater Wellington Back Country Network on regional track maintenance. Details will be shared via HelloClub once confirmed – make sure you have ticked that you are interested in maintenance activities in HelloClub!
