Snowcaving is this weekend! 

Snowcaving is pretty self explanatory - we go dig a big hole in the snow (there is a particular way of doing it so it has useful things like a roof and walls) and then sleep in it! Its also a chance to go practice snow skills (like ice axe and crampon use, plus maybe some top roped ice climbing if conditions suit) for those that have been on an AIC and want to keep the skills up. And there will be a chance for a few that are new to tramping/climbing in snow to pick up the basic skills.

Due to limitations on our equipment and the practical size of snowcaves, we will probably not take more than 20 people, so get in fast! There may be a tramping option as well, depending on who is keen.

It is absolutely essential for this one to have some decent gear - tramping boots (not shoes), gaiters, overtrousers, raincoat and sunglasses are probably most important as you will be spending a lot of time on the snow. Also necessary will be a decent sleeping bag, sleeping mat (foam roll is fine), gloves, hat, and generally lots of warm clothes. The weather hasn't been too flash up Ruapehu lately so pays to be prepared!

If the weather looks really bad for Saturday then we will postpone it for a couple of weeks, and maybe go for a tramp instead :)

Kieran