| Leader | Mentor | Understudy | Tail Ender | |
| Standards | Warren | Chris S | Jen C | Judy R |
| Alternates | Tessa | Norma | Pip L | Maureen C |
Distance: 12.6km Elevation gain: 772m (inc Helicopter Hill) Total time: 4hrs 20mins
With the promise of clear(ish) skies and mild temperatures, 39 trampers including visitors Nicky C and first-timer Glen T, eagerly embarked on a day promising adventure, camaraderie, and stunning landscapes. Birthday chocolates and lollies were passed around the bus. Thank you Bernice. And thank you to our driver Garth.
The Standards, comprised of 23 intrepid adventurers, charted a course up the Luge Track, aiming to reach the ridge before descending to Flock Hill Station. Luge Track proved to be a rewarding ascent, with sweeping views of the surrounding mountains reminding us of the breath-taking beauty of the Canterbury high country.
The allure of Helicopter Hill proved irresistible to many of the Standards who opted to add an extra 30 minutes (in total) to their journey to conquer this imposing peak. A few felt some trepidation on seeing to the north the scree face descent of the upcoming Camp Saddle tramp. The river crossing on the return to the bus was described by a couple of people as “very refreshing”. (Others may have described it as cold and wet!)
Meanwhile, the Alternates consisting of 16 trampers, embarked on a shorter route starting from the drop off at the Broken River access road and looping around Coal Pit Spur before returning to the bus. The Alternates were treated to stunning views, native forest, and fabulous birdsong. In the course of their walk, trampers picked up rubbish left by prior careless visitors. Items such as broken glass, lubricant tubes, coffee cups and McDonald’s wrappers were brought out to maintain the integrity of what should be a pristine area.
It was another day of free flowing conversation as people shared tales of past adventures, current activities and challenges. As they made their way back to Christchurch, the trampers reflected on the day’s adventures with fondness, grateful for the opportunity to connect with nature and with one another. Text By Brent M
