Sunrise Hut, Ruahine FP, Saturday 20 January 2024
Banner Photo: Waipawa Forks Hut
Testing the wind speeds in front of Sunrise Hut
Nine eager trampers headed for the Ruahines early on Saturday morning. We picked up Di on the way and met Fiona and Lynette at the Sunrise car park.
The clouds looked a bit ominous as we turned onto North Block Road and the wind had picked up as we passed through a few farm gates.
I was happy to be losing a bit of the Christmas pudding walking up to Sunrise after heading off at 8.30. It was nice to see so many club members out for the first tramp of the year, including Liz on her first tramp with us.
The bench seat at the junction
As predicted, the wind was blowing quite a lot behind the hut and Te Atuaoparapara was shrouded in cloud. During a pleasant break and a snack, it was decided we would not continue to Top Maropea Hut.
Instead, we headed down to Waipawa Forks Hut, except Sue who returned to near the bottom to walk the Swamp Track.
Lunch was enjoyed at Waipawa Forks after we crossed the eroded Waipawa River. We all enjoyed splashing through the quite slippery river, heading back to the car park in hot, muggy conditions.
No wet boots??
I was a little surprised to see one member not wanting to get wet boots so they removed them and went barefoot for quite a way. Finishing at 3pm, we arrived safely back at Park Island by 4.30. It had been a great way to start the year.
Trampers: Julian Phillips, Shona Tupe, Amelia Moorhead, Di Reid, Sue Gribble, Craig Mountfort, Anne Mountfort, Geoff Donkin, Liz Perry, Lynette Morgan, Fiona Bryant and reporter Campbell Living
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