Sunrise and Triplex Huts, Ruahine FP, Saturday 20 June 2026
Banner Photo: Solstice lunch at Triplex Hut
Triplex Hut, undergoing a renovation
Times are changing, and this year we cancelled the traditional Winter Solstice overnighter in favour of a shortened day tramp along with a Solstice lunch. Jenny, Sue, Selina, Alison and I tramped to Sunrise Hut. Cloud hung over the Ruahines, looking rather threatening. We left our shared Solstice lunch packs at Triplex Hut, with fingers crossed that no one would help themselves. The hut has a lovely (as-yet unfinished) new deck and the bunk rooms have been painted. There’s a new door and window, both double glazed.
Glimpses through the bush during the climb to Sunrise Hut
The onward track was in great condition but as we climbed, the wind picked up. Thank goodness the trees provided some shelter. There were seven others at Sunrise, including a family of four who had tried to go across Armstrong saddle but quickly returned because it was too windy.
We had a snack and drink, then decided to make our way down as the wind had really increased. Sue had brought along a box of chocolates which went down well. It was an easy walk down to Triplex to enjoy a late Solstice lunch, which was delicious, and we arrived back home earlier than expected.
Trampers: Jenny Burns, Sue Martin, Selina Chilton, Alison Greer and reporter Kate Fuller
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