Lake Rotoiti Circuit - 7 March 2004. Organiser: David Nielsen
We started around the Mt Robert side of the lake and walked quickly to warm up, glancing occasionally at the lake for any interesting boats (it was the Classic Boat Show weekend). We had morning tea at the jetty near Whisky Falls – the Falls themselves were quite spectacular due to recent rain. On reaching Coldwater Hut at the far end of the lake we all did a spot of bush bashing looking for a possible short-cut across the river flats. But no, the usual further up the track crossing spot was deemed best. Despite the river being barely knee deep, we maintained the plan of having river-crossing instruction, with Andy being tutor. After inspecting Lake Head Hut we continued walking about five minutes down the track before selecting a lunch spot.
The bird life on this track seems to be on the increase as we heard birds singing most of the way around the lake. And two birds of the NTC variety chose afternoon tea time to break away to a private spot for a refreshing swim. Back at Kerr Bay two others headed for the water but only one was brave enough to take the plunge. A quick car shuttle then to St Arnaud for icecream and coffee. Participants: Andy & Nicola Clark, Marianne Hermsen, Kazu, Heather Spence, Lindsay Twiname, & David Nielsen.
Cullen Creek to Waikakaho Village Clearing - 13 March 2004. Organiser: Uta Purcell
A more settled weather after an unusual summer brought out 16 eager trampers for this track, the youngest 11 years old. It was a fit group that made its way through historic Cullensville, where old gold mining shafts, hotel, bank, and theatre sites are commemorated, then on a steady climb up the old miner's track to a terrace. From here on a new track has been cut, bypassing the private farm hut. Just before entering the beech forest we gained good views back to the Marlborough Sounds. At the saddle we enjoyed the lookout, which displayed the country around Blenheim, from Cloudy Bay to the Kaikouras. An old mine shaft was explored by some. We settled at the Village Clearing for lunch and were warmed by some sun. Here are still 2 stone chimneys remaining. The collectors looked in vain for old bottles. The return on the same track was easy. It felt good to have been out and active for 7 hours. Party: Alice Patterson, Arthur Jonas & Yvonne Kyle, Roger Bruce, Andy Clark and Nicola, Shirley Gabrielsen, Mary Honey, Dion & Barry Pont, David Nielsen, Beryce Vincenzi, Alison & David Nicoll, Brian McLean and Uta Purcell.