tramping new zealand

Day walks from a bed are all very well, but with the weather improving for a few days, it was time to get out on the road again.

The forecast was for three nights before heavy rain would arrive, so time to make the most of it.

I crossed the Rakaia River on my South Island Te Araroa expedition a long time ago, and later explored the Wilberforce River, and it was about time I had a look at the lower reaches.

Cookie Hut seemed interesting as a destination, but it was after 2 pm when I left the car park and headed up Redcliffe Stream. The track runs through old grazing country that was reverted to DOC ownership following a tenure review and crosses the Hakatere Conservation Area.

You climb up the stream with a few ups and downs to get around bluffs and get glimpses back towards Lake Coleridge village. Then you pop out onto an extensive, flat area that is well-fenced and extensively farmed, the grass a lush green contrast to the dull tan hill vegetation.

That makes for easier walking, but some low matagouri is encountered. Crossed a low, flat saddle and it was more of the same terrain down to Swift River.

With some lingering concern for my Achilles, it took longer than the 2.5 hours shown on the DOC sign at the road. It was holding up well, but I realised it’s best to build up the strenuousness of the exercise over time. This was just the fifth day of carrying an overnight pack, although I was carrying my tent and a heavy-duty sleeping mat on this occasion.

Pack lugging uses different muscles than my daily walks around Nelson streets, and the uneven terrain underfoot is a workout for my tendons.

Eventually, I spotted Tribulation Hut, over Swift River in the shadows of the hills to the west.

So, wet feet finally, which had a chilling effect and led to an early night.

The previous occupants had left the place tidy and had set the mouse trap, that had evidence that rodents were about.

I had the place to myself, but being so close to Christchurch, it gets quite a few visitors. I guess being a Monday and before Christmas, many people were still at work.