President’s Report

Hello everybody.

Well here comes spring! This year has given us some good trips and photos of some of these trips were seen in the photo competition which had 67 photos in total. A new trophy has been donated - a framed photo of Balloon Hut - thanks to Diana Reeves for providing it. The trophy is awarded to the youngest winner in any section – well done to Rob Merrilees. Thanks to Maria and Rob for running the show.

Some past trips this winter have included - a new way up Jenkins Hill, the Mid Winter Christmas dinner at Whariwharangi Hut, Thomson Hill in the Wangapeka Valley which had pre trip work to clear the overgrown track. Thanks to the track team. On the day 21 trampers got to the top. Also Balloon Hut in the snow looked good in the photos.

Future trips include overnight trips like Lake Sylvester, also Murchison at Labour Weekend with a base camp at Kiwi Park Holiday Park, so you will need to book early. Trips there include Skyline Walkway, Six Mile Walkway and Johnson Creek etc. Also you could bring a bike – it's only a short ride to Beechwood Cafe. Other weekend trips are Slaty Hut or Starveall Hut via Lucy Creek, and Roebuck Hut via Totara Saddle from the Hacket.

Some of the day trips include Mt Stewart via Totara Saddle, Barnicoat Range from Stoke to Richmond coming down from the fire lookout, also Speargrass Hut as a day trip.

All the best for trips into the hills and valleys.                                                                                      – Bill