The Rimutaka Range are to the east of Wellington, the moutains are pretty visible even on average days. On sunny days they are a beauty
This Saturday we cross the range via Papatahi (902 m, the second highest). That track is maintained by DOC.

Traditionally we run this trip as a long (8h ?!) day trip with an early start on Saturday, having two groups swapping car (keys). There's also the option to stay in Wharepapa Hut (free!) from Friday to Saturday, making the Saturday a bit easier (start on Friday afternoon 5ish).

If you are interested, let me know: Achim.Gaedke@gmail.com or use the signup sheet.

(And as usual, details come on Thursday afternoon.)

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Map of the area: http://www.nztopomaps.com/15236/Papatahi/Wellington
Wharepapa Hut (DOC): http://www.doc.govt.nz/parks-and-recreation/places-to-stay/backcountry-huts-by-region/wairarapa/wairarapa/wharepapa-hut/
Papatahi Crossing (DOC): http://www.doc.govt.nz/parks-and-recreation/tracks-and-walks/wellington-kapiti/wellington/papatahi-crossing/

Or if you want to sign up you can fill out this online signup form and Achim will get back to you

One group (Pia's) will be starting from the Wairarapa side on FRIDAY evening (5:30 PM). They will stay in Wharepapa Hut.
That will give Medium Easy people a head start of two hours on Saturday.

The other group (Achim's) will start from Wellington train station on Saturday Morning 8:05 AM (this is when the train leaves...). We will go to Wainuiomata Homedale by bus and then up the Whakanui Track.

Both groups will meet in the Orongorongo Valley at lunch time.

(If you are intending to participate, please check your mail and confirm ASAP.)