22 September, 2024

On 22 September a group of twelve were in the van heading into the Ruahines for a day trip up to Sunrise Hut and weather permitting hopefully across to Top Maropea Hut.  The day started and was crisp but clear.  There was a prediction of around 1ml of rain at around 1.00pm.  The track was a steady climb the whole way and was in excellent condition. We ended up splitting into two groups fas some wanted to go on to Top Maropea Hut.  We made steady progress, and with a small snack break along the way, it took our first group about 2 ½ hours to reach Sunrise Hut. After having morning tea at Sunrise Hut, the weather was still clear and not overly windy so we decided to head out to Armstrong Saddle.

Our group made it to the Armstrong Saddle and marvelled at the views. The views were clear and stupendous.   It was windy but we decided to head on to Top Maropea Hut and had lunch there in the sun.  The weather was looking like it was going to turn so we didn’t stay too long after having lunch and decided to make our way back.  We had just got back to Sunrise Hut and it started to spit.  Ok so that was the 1 ml of rain that had been predicted.  However it got heavier and heavier and rained the entire way back to the carpark.  We were drenched to the skin.   

The other group had lunch at Sunrise Hut before heading back. The heavy rain hit a bit after the Waipawa Forks turn-off so they decided against a circuit of the Swamp Track and sheltered from the rain at Triplex Hut until the Top Maropea group arrived.   From there it was a mad dash to the van with us all hurriedly changing out of wet sodden clothes. 

Regardless of the weather it was a really fun day out. 

Party: : Glenda H, Minh N, Selina C, Anne D, Emily T, Megan M, Jude H, Judith M, Lou C, Nic W Stephen B, Simon W

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