The Rogue – Mackintosh Spur, Wednesday 17 April 2024
Banner Photo: The top of The Rogue, with the wind blasting us
It was August 2021 when I last walked this track. And all I can remember was the long, hard climb to get to the ridge. Well, nothing has changed!
Two cars left Napier with a pick-up of two members in Omahu. We drove to the Lakes car park (and a big thank you to Tony who dropped off his passengers there, then made his way to the Mackintosh car park because he was walking up to the hut and returning on the same route. That meant a vehicle at each end).
It was a stunning day, so the weather didn’t disappoint. We all started with two layers as it was a little fresh, but it wasn’t long before we delayered. The walk down the track to the river proved quite slippery, which caught a few trampers out. When we arrived at the Tutaekuri River, we noticed it had changed considerably and was a lot wider, lots more cascades and running a little higher. Some of us rock-hopped, a few walked across in the water. Where we normally cross, there was evidence of a huge slip.
The Lakes, viewed from The Rogue track
It was head down and climb, climb, climb starting at 735m and topped at 1238m. There was lots of regrouping, which was most appreciated. The team even had to limbo under a fallen pine tree. As we climbed, the wind seemed to pick up and it got louder and louder as we made our way towards the top.
The usual morning tea spot was chosen in a sunny spot by a large knoll. We all took turns to venture to the ridge. Then we made a group decision not to attempt to walk the ridge as the wind was too strong and gusts could prove a little dangerous. Disappointing, but it was the right decision. It was interesting to see a helicopter fly over us in those conditions and we think it landed in the vicinity of the Lakes car park.
Himalayan Honeysuckle, a pest plant as it crowds out native plants, seen on the lower section of the track
So we retraced our steps, and at times we realised just how steep the climb was. The front group found an excellent spot on the bank to have lunch. Next stop was at the junction where another decision was made to continue to Lakes car park because making our way over to Mackintosh Hut then to the other car park would be another four hours and it was already 1pm.
We changed then drove round to the Mackintosh car park, relaxed in the sun and munched on Campbell’s delicious apples. It didn’t take long before Tony returned. He got quite a surprise to see that we had beaten him back. Tony was very pleased with his efforts, as it was his first tramp for some time.
Despite not making the loop walk, it was a pleasant day out, good company, good weather and a most satisfying tramp. The thighs knew it!
Trampers: Sue Trotter, Mary Campbell, Di Reid, Tony Pluymers, Denise Bavidge, Geoff Donkin and Sue Martin (reporter and photographer)
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