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KOHUKOHUNUI
PLUS
A MULTINATIONAL BILATERAL APPROACH TO THE WAHARAU AREA
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The 4TC-UK Waharau Expedition
justified a dawn start in cloudy but promising weather.
English guests Thelma and Chris showed touching faith in
Claire’s ability to keep Lindsay, Nigel, and Carl under
control, and set off bravely with the rest of the group from
the Waharau carpark.
The climb up to the ridge was as steep as
ever but was eased by tales of canal boating (far more
relaxing than tramping), and a welcome breather at the
lookout. Further enjoyable chatter accompanied the ascent of
the south face of Adams Lookout. There high level bilateral
talks were held resulting in the party splitting – Nigel,
Thelma and Chris to retrace the route and finish the Waharau
loop; Claire, Carl and Lindsay to complete the Kohukohunui/Mangatangi
Ridge circuit. The breeze faded and the clouds vanished as
the teams set off in their different directions.
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Adams Lookout - Thelma, Chris & Nigel |
The Waharau
loop division strode in pleasant harmony along their planned
route, pausing for refreshments and views, enjoying the bush
and the stream, and arriving well satisfied back at the
cars.
In the other team Claire’s character withstood the test of
Carl’s and Lindsay’s constant needling, and she preserved
team unity with blissful weather, a guided tour of the
refurbishment at Trig Hut, and graciously permitting an
after-lunch snooze.
The sleep worked
wonders on the grumpy ones and the group descended
delightful, fern-carpeted tracks to the Mangatangi steam
crossing. A further rest recharged batteries for the climb
up to the ridge and the long descent back to the car. |
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Even without Claire’s clever promise of ice creams, there
was a case made for this being “the best day tramp in the
Hunuas”.
The entire party reunited safely back at base camp in
Manurewa to share tales of bravado and spectacular
achievements.
Written by:
Lindsay Wood
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Carl & Claire |
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