| Leader | Mentor | Understudy | Tail Ender | |
| Standards | Dave R | Wendy | Lynne R | Jan M |
| Alternates | Michele | Norma | Kay | Pip |
Distance: 9.5km & 15km Elevation gain: 720m Total time: 4hrs 30mins
What to do when there is a fire ban at the scheduled tramp in North Canterbury, or a landowner won’t allow access across their farmlands? Heading for an out and back walk to a well-known watering hole seemed to be a practical response to such dilemmas. Of course, there were also downfalls to this solution. More accurately several hours of walking up hill and down dale from Okuti Valley Scenic Reserve to Hilltop and back, rather than attaining the summit of French Peak itself.
44 walkers were greeted in Chinese, Korean, Māori and English by Jen our VP, substituting for our president who was potentially up to her knees in mud on Rakiura Track. Jen welcomed visitors Nicky C and Stella P, introduced our driver Tony, and extended congratulations to the Riddler grandparents on their new family member. A good effort all round and chocolates gratefully received.
A brisk breeze rippled the surface of Lake Forsyth/Wairewa, a portent of the cool easterly wind that accompanied us for most of this clear autumn day. 23 Standards and 21 Alternates set off steadily upwards through the Okuti Valley Scenic Reserve, a small but delightful area of lowland native forest with tree ferns, hanging vines, flitting fantails, vocal bird song.
The Standards were soon out of sight, though after our welcome morning tea stop and once on the open farmland above the road, they were visible in the distance. Plodding ever upward towards the saddle, slowing down noticeably at a boggy section where keeping boots mud free was well-nigh impossible. Perhaps making it even boggier for those behind.
Alternates followed along, ably led by Michele on her last tramp before returning to USA, escaping the New Zealand winter. It seemed we were like the sheep that were moving uphill along the narrow tracks, all going in the one direction. Magnificent views of Banks Peninsula hilltops and valleys surrounded us all day.
Standards eventually reached the Hilltop Tavern, but alas any plans for a midday beverage were scuppered as the pub was closed, undergoing restoration. Lunch was thus partaken in the nearby paddock, a minor disappointment, one could imagine.
Meantime Alternates lunched beside a rocky outcrop near the saddle, with views to Kaitorete Spit and well sheltered from the wind. It always seems shorter on the downhill return walk, nonetheless Alternates made good time. 50 minutes of whiling away time in the sun beside the bus is not a bad thing at the end of a 9.5km walk. Standards, having done a 15km walk, reported that it was also pleasant on their return, aided by a tail wind, albeit the track having a distinct lack of coverage for those requiring a toilet stop. So it was said.
Another great outing with BTC members. Thanks to everyone for the encouragement, laughter and good company. Text by Marie-Therese
