A misty mission, and a memory of a princess

Galbraith Hut, Taraponui Trig, Maungaharuru Range, Saturday 3 July 2021
Map: BH38
Banner Photo: The historic Galbraith Hut

In these continuing uncertain times of covid, 15 of us leapt at the chance to get out into the great outdoors. We were blessed with no frost or rain. We headed off onto the Napier-Taupo road, past the Harapaki Wind farm site which is in the early stages of development. Just before the Mohaka Bridge, we turned right onto Waitara Road and then Brooks Road, leading to Waitara Station. Two dogs at one of the first farmhouses announced our arrival, barking loudly and wagging their tails at us. We passed a litter of baby piglets and a few flocks of turkeys.

We donned our beanies and gloves and meandered up the slightly boggy farm tracks to the historic Galbraith Hut. Here a newspaper cutting of Princess Margaret still survives. We all enjoyed taking a peek at the quaint set-up.

From here, we continued the steady climb to the saddle where we regrouped and had a snack out of the wind. We were warned by Alison to stick together, as the clouds were descending and visibility was poor. The dull light accentuated the contrasting colours of the deep green koromiko, bright mosses and red ferns.

At the Taraponui trig, we met two Downers linesmen who seemed rather taken aback by this group appearing out of the fog. Light banter was thrown back and forth, including a challenge for anyone who wanted to reach the real top – the top of the mast where one bloke was dangling. It was great to have a willing photographer to take a photo of the entire group.

On a clear day, there are 360 degree views down to the Mohaka Valley, the Kawekas in the West, the sea to the east, but not today. It was surprisingly warm at the trig (1306 m); however, we were pleased with our timing so continued back down the hill to a partly frozen tarn for lunch. Marie captured many silhouettes on water in preparation for the photo competition.

As we made our way back to the farm buildings, sidling down from the ridge, the cloud began to lift. Some hunters on quad bikes stopped for a chat. Their dogs, carrying GPS trackers, took the opportunity and scampered off.

Despite mostly missing out on the views, we did spot a smattering of snow on the Kawekas and Mt Ruapehu in the distance. Barry’s highlight was sighting a kereru on our return. Leader Alison was glad we all returned safely and John Dobbs was tickled pink with still having dry socks. It took only 6¼ hours and everyone seemed excited to be planning further activities for the rest of the weekend. That’s what you get from such an energetic bunch of good sorts!

Trampers: John Russell, Marie Deroles, Juliet Gillick, Campbell Living, Di Reid, Alison Greer, Shona Tupe, Mary Campbell, John Bennett, Margaret Palmer, Barry Doak, Bruce Hodgson, Colin Jones, John Dobbs, and reporter Amber Cooper