7 – 8 March

We left Peter and Glenda’s home at 7am, picking up two more people on the way. By 9:15am we were setting off from the car park, our group of six crossing a farmer’s paddock before heading upstream with countless river crossings.

As we climbed higher, the rocks grew bigger and the challenges more exciting—one crossing even had a deep pool and a massive boulder to scramble around. Thankfully Murry was there to guide us so no one took an unexpected swim! A slippery rock climb with a helpful chain and rope tested our nerves, but after lunch beside the river we pushed up a steep final climb. The relief and excitement were huge when Kiritaki Hut finally came into view—a cosy six-bunk hut with stunning views.

With our group filling the hut and two others already there, Nic pitched his tent while Murry kindly slept on his mat inside. Later two adventurous 15-year-old boys arrived, and Murry generously let them stay under his fly for the night—something they were thrilled about. After exploring further up the track (and meeting a man happily trimming it with a hedge trimmer!), we returned to the hut as strong winds rattled the walls overnight.

Morning rewarded us with a spectacular sunrise before we began the descent at 9am. Carefully negotiating the rope and chain again, we crossed the river many more times—raincoats on when the weather turned—and lunched under the trees. Passing curious cattle in the paddock, we reached the van around 2:30pm, tired but buzzing. It was a fantastic weekend filled with adventure, laughter, great company, and a beautiful hut well worth the visit.

Party: Selina C, Murry A, Nic W, Donna W, Louise P, Paula K

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