Transport logistics with driving up Tukino Road put a damper on our original plan to walk to Rangipō Hut and climb the east ridge of Ringatoto (a peak on Mt Ruapehu). But a lack of snow at Nelson Lakes National Park came to our rescue… Anne and Megan’s group diverted to Mt Ruapehu, so we … Read more
Don’t leave gear without surveillance at the train station! That’s the lesson we learnt almost the hard way on the Friday. As per usual with a WTMC trip, we were at Wellington Train Station faffing and loading the van, waiting for people to arrive and had some gear lying around – not really paying close … Read more
At 7.45 am seven bright-eyed and eager trampers stepped out of the WTMC Ruapehu Lodge and set off up Mt Ruapehu. It was a great day for a climb—blue skies with barely a breath of wind. It didn’t take long before we left the road and stepped our way across shingle and large rocks, tinged with … Read more
“And this is my snow saw,” said Nick, as he removed the gleaming blade from its holster. A strangely curved, unwieldy and yet hugely useful device for creating a snow cave, as I would find out later that weekend. Led by Nick H, we were a band of five who had gamely signed up for … Read more
A pillow, curtains, carpet, even a hot shower. I like this style of alpine climbing! Staying at the lodge on Whakapapa is a great way to soften the blow of an alpine start. Our crew were up at 5am and out the door by 6am on Saturday morning, and we enjoyed the soft glow of … Read more
Summiting Ruapimple – Ruapehu’s baby brother An easy climb to the summit of Pukeonake the lowest named volcanic peak in Tongariro National Park Two van loads of happy WTMC trampers reached our lodge close to midnight. Everything was completely fogged in. Luckily the green lights up at XXC gave a good hint where to stop … Read more