Richmonds - Top wairoa hut

9.65km 7hrs. We planned for a short day today, just 1 hut. Boy am I glad we did. The 8 river crossings were no trouble and didn't really start until the tramp was 2/3 done but there was a lot of sidling around rocky outcrops too high up for comfort. The first of these (but by no means the most daunting) had a cable bolted in as a hand hold, but none of the subsequent ones did. I think the adrenaline was what drained the reserves more than the actual activity. I'm so proud of us all for getting through them all unscathed.

The highlight would have to be the river. It really was a wonderful backdrop even when it was thundering away 100 meters below us clinging to the mountain. When we stopped for a snack on the side of the river we saw a stoat crossing over and back again. Which made me sad for the poor little birds.

The weather also deserves a mention as it was just stunning and made splashing into the river fully clothed after a crossing a very refreshing interlude. We made it to the hut in plenty of time to head down to the river for a splash and a wash off.Read more