16 June 2024
Galbraith Hut is a private hut accessed from the Waitara Road on Waitara Station. The historic farm hut is a 2-roomed building, with walls lined with 1950s Weekly News articles, including the Royal family. The walk is over farmland to the hut nestled under the Maungaharuru Range. Once again it is with thanks to the farmer for permission to visit the hut.
There was a party of twelve who left from Te Aute Road at 7.00 a.m. to travel by van to Watiara Station; with a pick up at the EIT bus stop.
At the Titiokura Summit the Meridian wind farm was nearing completion and many wind turbines with their gracious elegance, positioned on the ridge line, were in operation.
It was great to be on the Maungaharuru Range; alas the scarring on the farm landscape as the result of the havoc caused by Cyclone Gabrielle solidifies the intensity of that storm.
My flawed memory saw us going across farm land instead of continuing along the farm track to the hut. It took us 1 hour 30 minutes to reach the hut. After a look around inside and outside of the hut a group of ten decided to continue on towards the Taraponui Mast. The group made good time despite the ferocity of the wind; stopping at the first saddle for lunch; using large rocks to shelter from the wind. This was also where the group turned around and headed back via the farm track to the van.
Thanks to all who came on the trip and welcome to first time trampers, with the club, Maree Martin and Adrienne Hurley.
Party: Simon W, Stephen B, Jude H, Murry A, Robyn W, Glenda H, Gabrielle S Adrienne H, Maree M, Judith M, Paula K Anne D.