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On Wednesday in fine weather the group had a hard road walk but enjoyed lunch on the cliff tops between Plimmerton and Pukerua Bay. 14 members, 1 non member The M/F trip transferred to Sunday, led by Colin Cook. Three members sweltered on the climb up to Waitatapia Peak and then followed a good spur down to the confluence of Gorge Creek and the Otaki River. We decided to come out down the river, which was a lot tougher than Merv Rodgers’ description said that it should be. River was deeper than expected and involved a lot of shoulder deep wading and one short swim. Last 3 hours in the rain. After a little difficulty finding the start, Masaki led a Medium group of six up the true left of the Waiohine River along old tracks for about three hours until they came to “trouble” and had to retreat. 5 members, 1 non member The Sunday trip to the Tauherenikau found stream walking preferable to the climb over the slips. They caught the rain on their way out. 11 members, 3 non members A 6 ½ hour cycle trip in good weather, went from Mana railway station, up Paekakariki Hill Road to Battlehill Farm Park and across to Bulls Run Road and back to Mana. 6 members Seven families split into two groups, one for buggy walking and one for beach walking before ending the day with a boat ride at Seatoun. A postponed trip around Tongariro Northern circuit took four members four days of mediocre weather but an enjoyable trip. Two groups had great weather on a five day trip to Whirinaki Forest Park, where they found wonderful forest and great birdsong. Five members did a hard medium circuit and seven members had a very relaxing easy/medium trip. The recent Alpine trip to Arthur’s Pass had great weather for the two climbing days, with some excitement! The successful climbs completed were: South Face Phipps – Temple Traverse South Face Phipps – descent via West Ridge Mt Phillistine 10 participants Seven members worked hard at Tararua Lodge to complete all tasks on the list, to make the Lodge ready for those using it over the holiday period and for painting in January. Two more work parties are scheduled, 23-24 February and 1-2 March. |