Wednesday, 29 October 2025
Banner Photo: A selfie at the NTC bench seat, basking in sunshine and protected from the wind
October has been windier than usual, thanks to stronger and more frequent low-pressure systems and their relative proximity to areas of high pressure.
Across central New Zealand, October had eight days where the winds averaged over 60kmh. Typically, the region experiences just over five days where the winds average over 60kmh. Over the past 50 years, there have only been six Octobers that had more windy days.
Expecting problems, we changed our planned tramp to walk the Southern Ruahine cross-over to Sunrise Hut.
Five arrived at the first gate on North Block Road, looked at the terrible weather over the range, turned around and headed to Ongaonga for coffee. On arriving back in Taradale, four opted to walk over Sugar Loaf and up to the Napier Tramping Club seat for lunch.
At least we got some exercise.
Trampers: Selina Chilton, Donna Weston, Ted Angove, Mary Campbell and Alison Greer
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