Paretetaitonga

A Tale of Two Snowcaves (and a Lasagne)

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Date: 20 September 2019.
Trip type: Alp1 (M).
Location: Ruapehu - Whakapapa.
Author: Mark L.
Trampers: Nick H (leader), Elisabet, Michael, Lukas and Mark L.

Dawn overlooking Crater Lake from Dome at Mt Ruapehu

“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 day for summits

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Date: 14-16 September 2018.
Trip type: Alp 1 (Medium-Fit).
Location: Mount Ruapehu, Tongariro National Park.
Author: Katy.
Trampers: Henry (leader), Katy, Mike W, Erik, George, Jess, Stuart and Tereza.

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

Ruapehu Summits from the Lodge

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Date: 22-24 September 2017.
Trip type: Alpine 1 PLUS Fit.
Location: Mount Ruapehu, Tongariro National Park.
Author: Henry.
Trampers: Emily, Jessie, Graeme, Gareth, Nick B, Elisabet, Tina, Nick H, Mike, Henry (leader).

INTRODUCTION The purpose of running the trip as an Alp1 “PLUS” was to give experienced Alp1-level members a chance to try something with a bit more exposure, and maybe needing the occasional rope to make crossing certain features safer. This proved to be a very popular proposal, and despite this being a Fit trip I … Read more