Tēnā koutou
It’s been quite a mixed month for everyone and the club.
At such a time, it’s important to not lose sight of the many recent great WTMC moments.
The Families Group enjoyed its awesome annual campfire cookout at Battle Hill with about 30 people. The kids had an absolutely wonderful time, learning how to safely be around fire, watching sheep and lambs, swinging on the giant swing, and feeding the eels. The Families Group are busily daydreaming about a full summer schedule of no restrictions and putting together another amazing schedule of activities. Email Amelia and Sam at to get involved.
There’s been a variety of trips again this month including Tiffany’s alpine trip up Mt Ruapehu in perfect conditions, and with the group also meeting a few familiar faces at Blythe hut. I’ve heard great stories about James’ trip to Mangahao hut including wet feet but happy trampers with smooth river travel to avoid the slip detour, and a great night at a beautifully kept hut (thanks to Manawatu Tramping Club). I was lucky enough to be part of a great day trip walking Burtton’s Track (near Shannon), a change of plans after the temporary closure of the track to Pouri hut (in Whanganui National Park).
The Lodge has also been busy – check out Our Maunga for more details.
We also recognise, though, that it is a very challenging time for members, and our whole outdoors and wider community.
Lockdown coming on the eve of WTMC’s Great Bake-off was a big disappointment for many. I want to recognise the hard work of many – with a special massive thanks to Amanda and Emily for all their work in preparing for this event. Hopefully some of you are now getting more chance to practice – as well as try some other recipes from the club’s cookbook.
We’re continuing with the Mountain Film Festival for now. As needed, we will decide closer to the time whether to cancel or reschedule and email everyone who has booked. Thanks to all the support so far – rest assured we will refund anyone not able to attend. Keep an eye out on our social media (Facebook and web page) for rescheduled and future events.
We are focused on providing as much certainty as we can for members, noting the Committee are also all volunteers learning and working our way through things ourselves. Below is a guide on club things at the different levels:
- At Covid Alert Levels 4 and 3 – we are not able to run any club trips or events, and the Lodge and Paua hut remain closed.
- At Covid Alert Level 2 – at this stage, some trips may run subject to certain conditions and the Lodge may be partially open but club events will not be able to be in person. With the highly contagious nature of the Delta strain, it is possible that Level 2 conditions may also change from what we know. Our Chief Guide, Families Group Coordinators, Lodge Booking Officers or someone else will be provide more information and be in touch as relevant.
- At Covid Alert Level 1 – trips, events, the Lodge are likely operate “as usual” but with increased hygiene measures plus contact tracing, and members wanting to wear masks made to feel comfortable doing so.
Please don’t forget there’s a whole community out there for each other and also a range of health, wellbeing and other supports, such as those on the Ministry of Health’s website here.
We’re continuing to be optimistic about the future – with our new Chief Guide, Anne preparing the next schedule – with a range of interesting trips planned to cater for all tramper levels. We’ve also heard a few people interested in leadership courses. To help us get a better idea of numbers and to help with planning, please email
To end on some delightful news. The Committee has expanded again with Juan (our Technology Officer and ICT wiz) and his partner had a healthy baby boy, Remy, a few weeks ago – just before lockdown. Congratulations both– and welcome to our newest tramper!
Kia kaha Kia noho ora ra, koutou katoa (Stay strong. May you all stay safe and well),
Maj-Britt
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