On Tuesday the 19th of February the two Year 8 classes from Nelson College Prep woke to a hot, sunny morning ready for a BIG tramp over the Tongariro Crossing. With temperatures expecting to exceed 26 degrees, we packed lots of water, food, hats and sunscreen. We also prepared for the worst, putting wet weather gear and warm clothes into our day packs.
Fifty three excited students packed the buses along with 19 adults and we headed off.
We started the tramp led by Sarah Cate our guide. Quickly the group stretched out. We had regular stops to close up.
The start of the track consisted of wide flat surfaces and board walks but this quickly changed to a section called The Devil's Staircase which is heaps of steep steps and slopping paths covered with volcanic rock and dust!
After a good 30 minute climb we were welcomed by the magnificent Southern Crater. There the boys performed the school haka, witnessed by some confused but impressed tourists.
The next part consisted of an unmarked climb to the Red Crater struggling over tiny, loose pieces of volcanic rock.
Viewing the Red Crater for the first time I felt excited and relieved to have made it to the top. Also there was an adrenaline rush going through my tired body which helped me appreciate the wonder of nature and forces that work beneath us. After an info talk from Sarah Cate and a safety briefing we started our decent.
Heading down towards the finish I had a mixture of relief and sadness. Part of me wanted this over but another part wanted more as this was a beautiful and special place.
A big thanks to Ms E, Mr Nott, Joy (our photographer) and the awesome parents.
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Heading up the Devils Staircase.
| Haka in the South crater with Mt Ngauruhoe behind. |
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Heading up towards the Red Crater with the South Crater behind me.
Note the light line, that's the trail we walked earlier.
Phoning Mum from the Red Crater. |
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| Made it!... The beautiful Red Crater. |
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| Crossing the finish line with the saddle behind. |
