A three-day club trip to the Karamea area for Kings Birthday Weekend had been planned but unfortunately had to be cancelled the week before. It seemed a shame not to get out walking so I put up a short notice day trip to Parachute Rocks, and was pleased to get three takers – Brian, Gina, and visitor Nonoka. We were also joined on the day by Leah and her son Tom who happened to be staying at St Arnaud campground for the long weekend!
The forecast suggested it may be cloudy with a cold wind, so we were delighted to arrive to a beautiful day in St Arnaud. It was still and clear, and although it was a chilly start we soon warmed up as we made our way up the steady climb. Everyone was fit and keen, and we made good time up through the beautiful beech forest, with glimpses of Lake Rotoiti as we neared the bushline. Before we knew it, we were popping out of the bush and up the short scrambly section to Parachute Rocks (approx. 1450m, approx. 850m climb from the lake). We were rewarded with stunning views across Lake Rotoiti and over to Robert Ridge, as well as warm sunshine and no wind! We had a very pleasant, relaxed lunch mingling with several others who were also out making the most of the beautiful day.
Views from the ridge
There were absolutely no excuses not to do the final 250m climb to the ridge, so we did that after lunch, and were greeted by even more sweeping views across the lake and ranges, and in the other direction to the many small tarns on the other side of the ridge, and across to the Raglan Range. There was a bit of a chilly breeze up there, but it didn’t stop us taking in the views and taking plenty of photos.
From there it was an easy jaunt all the way back down the way we had come. On arrival back at Kerr Bay, Leah kindly offered the group some refreshments from her caravan (beer, lemonade, wine and nibbles).
Refreshments at the lakeside
We enjoyed these in the last of the sun on the shores of Lake Rotoiti and shortly after the sun went down we all started turning into ice-blocks so called it a day.
Thanks all for a thoroughly enjoyable day which came together perfectly despite the short notice!
Participants: Michele (leader and scribe), Brian, Gina, Leah, Tom and visitor Nonoka