Re: Kapakapanui Loop on Sunday

achim — Mon, 18 Jun 2012 21:39:36 GMT

Addendum: Today I got a mail from an upset local, he found the hut door open. I can't imagine that I have forgotten to close the door, I must have left the door not properly locked - shame on me.

I promise to double-check doors in future!

... and in deed, the hut is looked after very well. Compliments.

Re: Kapakapanui Loop on Sunday

achim — Mon, 18 Jun 2012 03:03:07 GMT

On Sunday I started tramping the Kapakapanui Loop in warm sunshine at 11AM, after brisk warm-up bike ride from Waikane Station...

No wet feet after the river crossings! Thanks to alpine tramping boots and gaiters. I feared wet and cold feet on this tramp – that's what Kapakapanui is famous for!

From the bottom, I could see the white trees at the top third of the mountain. Taking the steep route (anti-clockwise) to get to the Trig on top of Kapakapanui ASAP. Sweet: 12:45PM I reached the top … (ah, that's the advantage of solo trips!)

And I was blown away – not by the wind, there was none – but by 30cm fresh snow. The clouds were hovering about 300m above me, but they were lowering slowly. It must have been a stunning view to east where the southern main ridge (Mt Hector, one-five-something) is. The trampers I met on the way down talked about it (next time, Alpine start!).

There was still a lot to see - after I put on my sun glasses: Kapiti Island, Wellington, snow on trees and everywhere, Waikane, South Island... have a look! After 20 minutes amazement I decided for lunch time in Kapakapnui Hut – I was never at that hut before (yes, really!). The hut is well maintained and tidy, but pretty boring (alone and compared to Alpha or Elder) - bugger. So I set off by 2PM and said the snow good bye!

A quick tramp down brought me back to my bicycle at 3:15PM. The river has risen a bit (right, that was the thing with the noon snow melt!), but I did well again.

So, I'm early enough to visit the Pottery Café close to Reikorangi. It was recommended by friends two years ago – but I never stopped on my cycle trips via Akatarawa pass. Today I treated myself with scones and a pot Latte while viewing all the pottery items and appliances of the 'good old days'.

Finally, caught the 4:30PM train well before sunset!

Kapakapanui Loop on Sunday

achim — Sat, 16 Jun 2012 16:40:56 GMT

Hi there!

Sadly the Northern Tararua trip is cancelled. Sunday will be the better day.

I'll go the Kapakapanui Loop, which is close to Waikanae - so the Southern Tararuas. This day trip is a medium trip, as it goes up to 1100 m...

On Sunday I'll to Waikanae by train (9:14 from Wellington) and cycle for 30 minutes to the start of the track (a simple route, sealed, no steep hills). Back the same way.

Achim

Non Club Trips or Activities

Re: Kapakapanui Loop on Sunday

Re: Kapakapanui Loop on Sunday

Kapakapanui Loop on Sunday