Flick me an e-mail or sign-up at next Tuesday's meeting at the Welsh Dragon for the 12-14 November trip to Carkeek hut in the deepest, darkest remote region of the Tararuas, with plenty of river, tops and bush travel in (hopefully) some fine summer weather.

For those who haven't heard of Carkeek, it is the most remote hut in the range and a favorite challenge among even the most keen of trampers. There are many interesting and intriguing stories flying around about attempts to reach this place, or get out for that matter, and I'm sure I've even heard someone say you can't call yourself a Tararua tramper unless you've bagged this hut, here's your chance!

Depending on numbers, this trip might entail some variety of crossing east to west, or loops from either the east or west with everyone descending on Carkeek on Saturday night. This hut sleeps 6 + floor space I believe, so we'll take fly's too if numbers look big. Full details of the exact routes, groups and timings etc. will be sent out once numbers are confirmed, but whatever your route prepare yourself for some great bush bashing and a thorough test of your nav, river negotiation and fieldcraft skills - what better opportunity is there to hone your tramping skills for the summer calendar ahead and beyond!

Dave, Assistant Chief Guide
davidcoppack@hotmail.co.uk