This text was read by OCR from a scanned newsletter and has not been proofread yet, so expect odd characters and mistakes.
WAILNGAWA — ARETE FORKS (Fit trip) 15-17 April Alasdair VYallace After the usual tedious bus ride we spent a tranquil evening under the redwoods at Kiriwhakapapa. The next morning we awoke early to face a pleasantly cool day. After an unexpected skate on the first wooden bridge I was ready for the steep climb over the ridge and down ta Cow Saddie for a most welcome iunch and to check if “the crew" could keep up with Brian's time schedule which dated from his younger days. After lunch we were geared up for the steep climb to Cattle Ridge, where Brian in his usual effecient manner split us up into two even groups. But, there was rebellion from the future Assistant Chief Guide and one faithful follower ‘yours truly). So Brian led the fast group off at a cracking pace down Cattle Ridge with the rebellious splinter group following close behind. Meanwhile the other group, led by Alex, started down the track. After tea we thankfully went to bed looking forward to the peaceful. trip cut to Ht Bruce next day.
Sowe of us were up early ready for the wander down the Ruamahanga River, while some of us (not mentioning any future Assistant Chief Guide's names) stayed in bed longer before surfacing to face the day.
After a short wait at the road. end for the bus and a bit of confusion at Masterton we were soon back in Wellington ready for another week. Thanks Brian from all of us.
On the trip were: Brian Hunt, Brian Charles, Sue Charles, Anita Catchpole, Hoel Thomas, Alex Gray, Miles Davison, Murray Brown, Wayne flamilton, Craig Kurth, Duncan Thonas, Liam Taylor, Anthony Brown, John Critchley.