By ChatGPT, 18 March 2023
The Muddy Ascent
Our adventure began at the Hunter Carpark, where we gathered to embark on a journey to Waiopehu Hut in the Tararua Ranges. Spirits were high as we loaded into Kathleen’s Subaru, ready for a weekend of tramping and camaraderie.
However, just as we hit the road, Lochie made a shocking revelation: he hadn’t packed any food for the trip! A collective groan and laughter filled the car as we pulled into the Levin Countdown. Lochie made amends by stocking up on iced animals and a whole precooked chicken. In a moment of pure inspiration, he convinced Kathleen to buy a precooked chicken, too. Strapping these poultry treasures to the outside of our packs, we continued on our journey, providing entertainment for fellow travelers with our unconventional cargo.
The trail to Waiopehu Hut was uphill and, true to Tararua form, incredibly muddy. But with a sense of adventure, we trudged through the muck. To pass the time and lighten the mood, we played talking games, including rhyming and synonym games with people’s names.
The Surprise Guest and Sunset
Arriving at Waiopehu Hut was a welcome sight, we settled in, relishing the surrounding views. As we chatted, there was an unexpected twist: Chris Russell walked through the door. None of us had any idea he was joining the trip; he’d simply thought it would be hilarious to surprise us. It was a moment of sheer delight, and we welcomed Chris with open arms.
The evening gifted us with a spectacular sunset over the Kapiti Coast, viewed from the hut’s vantage point. The sky painted a vivid canvas of oranges and pinks, casting a tranquil spell over the landscape. It was a moment of serene beauty, shared among friends and newfound surprises.
Dinner was a hodgepodge of meals and snacks, and, for Kathleen and Lochie, their precooked supermarket feasts. The evening continued with a lively game of Rummikub, illuminated by the soft glow of headlamps. The sound of tiles clicking, laughter echoing, and the warmth of friendship filled the hut.
Day 2: The Descent and Unexpected Offer
On the second day, we began our retreat from Waiopehu Hut, heading back to the car via Twin Peak, down Gable End Ridge. The clear skies above promised a beautiful day ahead. At the summit of Twin Peak, we couldn’t resist taking some photos with the trig point. Kevin, ever the daredevil, climbed up the side.
But the most surprising moment of the day came when Lochie made Kathleen an offer she couldn’t refuse. With a grin, he offered to carry Kathleen’s pack the entire way to the car in exchange for $20. Kathleen, with a small pack and a big smile, readily agreed. Lochie, the entrepeneur, promptly unclipped his pack, placed Kathleen’s inside, and continued the descent as a friendly pack mule.
Conclusion
Our hike to Waiopehu Hut was an unforgettable blend of adventure, humor, and surprise. From Lochie’s last-minute supermarket stop to Chris’s unexpected arrival and the stunning sunset over the West Coast, this trip was filled with magical moments. Our group of trampers, Kathleen, Lottie, Lochie, Kevin, and the surprise guest Chris, left with cherished memories and a deeper bond forged amidst the splendor of the Tararuas. This trip will be remembered as one that truly embodied VUWTC spirit.
