This article was first published in Tararua Tramper in February 2025
Year 10 tramp to Waerenga Hut
23-24 November 2024
This year's second tramp fell nothing short of what I’d expected it to be, a fun, healthy adventure out into the thick New Zealand bush. This tramp in particular had us retracing the route we travelled along in our first year at WHS, and was full of nostalgic moments as well as new memories I will cherish until I grow old. Upon exiting the school van, the excitement of the walk lured the group through the gate and towards the hut called Waerenga.
Most of the students did this tramp to satisfy requirements of the Duke of Edinburgh Award.
After an hour or two of trekking up hills and across bridges, a rocky clearing brought us relief. Taking off our shoes and stumbling across the river, which we would do a tortuous number of times, we arrived at the hut. After clambering up the steps I wanted to settle in and unpack; however my friends declared otherwise, planning to go to another hut to sleep in for the night, despite multiple warnings about upcoming night rain. Apparently, ‘luck’ was on their side that night; my friends did not get wet in their hut, and had a more comfortable rest than everyone else.
An hour later, and after discovering the right tree, our lovely caretakers Bharat, Jenny, and Henry took us out on a little excursion to consider doing one of two optional activities - a swim in a deeper part of the river, or a walk by the river. Three of my friends and I decided on the riverside walk and came back to the hut carrying sizable logs. I lost mine, as the river ripped it away from me when I tried using it as a makeshift bridge.
The highlight of the whole tramp was the campfire, which everyone gathered around, cuddled in a puffy sleeping bag, or cooked the ‘perfect marshmallow’ by holding it in the fire until it scorched and was ablaze. Everyone was laughing and listening to music, having the time of their lives. A great way to end the day before sinking into our mattresses for the night.
On the day we left, a more challenging trail left dead legs moving by muscle memory. The walk lasted about three to four hours, and it was much to everyone's delight when a familiar path stitched seamlessly onto the one we were [Photos by Bharat Pancha] on brought the vans into view. The tramp concluded upon entering the Wainuiomata golf club, where we basked in the sun, snacking on hot chips that’d singe your tongue.
I can’t wait to see familiar friends on the next tramp, and encourage next year's Year 9’s and 10’s to join the Tramping Club.
Thanks to Bharat, Jenny and Henry and to Tararua Tramping Club for the use of its hut.
Thomas Hoshino, scribe.