As we’re nearing the end of a challenging 2021, what stands out to me is the generosity of spirit, thoughtfulness and efforts of so many members and others. I’m continually amazed and impressed by the extent of to which people across the club contribute.
A massive shout out and thanks to each of our volunteers from the Club and all our members – as there would be no club without what each of you do.
We’re holding a small function on 8 December as one small way to show our appreciation. If you’ve volunteered in the last year and haven’t received an invite yet, please email Sam at .
It’s been great to see the club’s and member alpine skills and experience building further through the scholarship fund. We’re still committed to the scholarships aims of helping develop their own and others skills so members have great and safe outdoor adventures. We’d welcome more applications to build outdoor skills and technical knowledge across various activities – more details here.
I’m also delighted to see some our leadership capability building, with some more new leaders joining the other wonderful leaders that continue to make possible the range of trips and memories so many of us enjoy.
It’s easy to forget about a lot of that happens quietly in the back – all the efforts in keeping the club’s finances, membership lists, website and administration in order, organising and volunteering as emergency contacts, Lodge and Paua hut bookings and maintenance, gear checks and custodian, organising club events and giving presentations, trapping, and lots more!
Sadly, two of the club’s longer-term members passed away in late October, as Brian acknowledged in his last Our Maunga:.
- Peter Lillico helped construct the club’s Ruapehu Lodge and was involved with the Lodge in many ways over the year.
- Peter Goodwin also helped out with the Lodge, as well as in other roles such as gear custodian – this newsletter report has some more about his contributions to and adventures with the club.
Our condolences to each of their families and friends.
Onto more positive news, it’s great to see a new generation of outdoor enthusiasts coming through in the club. While Junior Bushcraft was cancelled this year due to rough weather – huge thanks to Barry for all his work in organising this again for the fifth year running! – the Families Group remains very active and excited to see fine weather on the horizon. To close out the year, they have an overnight camp in the Tararuas, and a picnic at the Botanic Gardens. Over the summer, a large number of the Group are planning to stay local, so their mailing list may be busy with last minute day walks, picnics, and bike rides. If you and your family want in on the action, email to join the list.
The Lodge will also be open over the next few months – at Summer Lodge rates – as long as there is a trained club member and usually at least 4 adults. Day walks tramping, trail running, mountain biking, crater lake climbs, white water rafting are just a few of the things you can do at or near the Lodge. Email .
There’s also a wide range of trips on the schedule for all levels throughout December and January – thanks to Anne and all our volunteer leaders. This includes the club’s iconic Christmas wine and beer tramp on 18 December – which still needs a leader (so the group doesn’t risk ending walking in circles all day). Email Anne at if you can help out.
As this will be my last President’s report for 2021, have a joyous and safe festive season with safe, enjoyable outdoors adventures – looking forward to finding what everyone is up to over December and January and letting you know more next year.
Mā te wā
Maj-Britt
