Leader: Lawrie Halkett
After a typical spring cold snap, with rain and snow on the preceding day, Sunday turned out fine, which set the tone for the day.
Two cars with eight on board met at the Badminton Hall, Richmond, but by the time we arrived at the Flora carpark our fleet had increased to three – Dion, daughter Keillyn and friend Silva joined the party.
The drive up was challenging for David in his mighty Corolla, as the road near the top was very sludgy with fresh fallen snow.
The scene was magic, blue sky, offset by white terra firma, plus one raucous kea to trumpet the start to our tramp. As we began walking and the temperatures rose, so the sky literally began falling on our heads! The heavily laden trees began to shed their loads on top of us unsuspecting hikers! All the way to Mt. Arthur Hut we were peppered by great dollops of snow.
It was truly a picture postcard walk, with one or other of our group of 11 constantly exclaiming isn’t that beautiful ... ‘click’ would go the camera.
A quick spell at the hut then we went on to the tops for a view of Mt Arthur, Gordon’s Pyramid, Mt. Peel, the Tableland, Lake Sylvester and Iron Hill.
Because of a very persistent, cold wind, we dropped off the northern side of the ridge for an early lunch and a hot drink. It was a bit of a challenge; finding a snow-free posse to sit, but once ensconced we all enjoyed each others company, ate our lunches and soaked up the splendid views.
Then it was back down the track to the carpark to head home. We stopped off in Upper Moutere for coffee, cake and ice creams.
The younger among our party – nine year olds Keilyn and Silva – did very well, coping with the slippery track.
The party included Dion Pont, Keilyn, Silva, Marie Lenting, Sophie Barclay (visitor), Jacqui Bozoky (visitor), Kaye Halkett, Heidi (visitor), Ken Lefever (visitor), David Cook (photographer), and Lawrie Halkett (scribe and leader).