CAPTIVATING CANTERBURY
Summer Tramps 28 Dec - 13 Jan
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Our Annual South Island Summer Tramp ran from 28th December to 14th January and what an incredible journey
it was! With up to 29 trampers taking part, we shared unforgettable days across three stunning locations:
Lake Tekapo, Aoraki/Mt Cook (based at Glentanner), and Twizel. The highlight for many was completing
two overnight pack-carrying tramps to Camp Stream Hut and the iconic Mueller Hut. For those who preferred
to stay local, there were plenty of beautiful day walks to enjoy, making sure everyone could be part
of the adventure at their own pace. The dates were Tekapo 28-31 Dec, Mt Cook 1-6 Jan, Twizel 8-13 Jan
TEKAPO PACK-CARRY - CAMP STREAM
On 29 Jan a group set out for the Camp Stream Stag Saddle
and the Stream Hut where they camped overnight. Next day the weather was very misty with a forecast of
rain at 2pm. So they decided to leave base and return, unfortunately not making it to the saddle and
top.
TEKAPO DAY WALKS
On 31 Dec a group of 28 trampers enjoyed a lovely morning at Mt
John, Lake Tekapo. We began the day starting from base and up up with great views of Lake Tekapo, hot
pools and finally with morning tea at the café, taking time to enjoy the iconic views and surroundings.
From there, we made our way up Mt John and walked around the observation tower, soaking in the stunning
panoramic views over Lake Tekapo and the surrounding mountains. The downhill walk provided a pleasant
and relaxed return, leading us to a well-earned lunch stop. After lunch, we continued back to base along
the edge of Lake Tekapo, enjoying the lakeside scenery to finish a very enjoyable and social tramp.
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MT COOK PACK-CARRY - MUELLER HUT
Our overnight trip to Mueller Hut 4-5 January 2026
was a memorable alpine adventure. The climb up took just over four hours, with steadily changing terrain
and stunning mountain views along the way. Near the top on the first day, the snow was soft, adding to
the alpine feel and making the final section both challenging and rewarding. The highlight for many was
an exciting section where we slid down part of the snowy slope-great fun and a real sense of adventure
on our way down. The conditions changed overnight, and the descent the next day was much icier, requiring
careful footing and focus. Despite this, the group made good time, completing the return journey in around
three hours. Overall, it was a fantastic overnight experience, combining physical challenge, changing
snow conditions, and plenty of excitement in a spectacular high-country setting.
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MT COOK DAY WALKS
On the first day based at Glentanner, Mt Cook we did the Kea Point
and Hooker Valley track, finishing the day with a delicious buritto made by our in-house chef. Day 2
we did the Red Tarns Track. The tarns are named for the red pond weed that grows in them. We climbed
up to 1050m in the light rain & cloudy weather, seeing panoramic views of Aoraki/Mount Cook and glacier.
Day 3 we did the Mt Cook - Sealy Tarns Track, a Staircase to Heaven with 2200 steps. It's challenging
but rewarding. We did it in 3 hours return trip with majestic panoramic views of Mt Cook, Hooker Valley
& glaciers. Day 4 we did the Blue lakes and walked up to the Tasman Glacier view. Thank God for the
sunny weather. We ended the walk to the Tasman River followed by coffee in the Mt Cook village. Day 5
We went on a morning walk in Governers Bush before joining the Glacier Explorer Tour on the Tasman Glacier
Lake. It was so surreal to be holding a 300 years old iceberg. Touching the big iceberg and close up
the Glacier was truly a great experience. A group made their 2nd attempt to go up Mt Sebestapol on 3
Jan, but it was misty and wet, and didn't make it. They stopped at Red Tarn and return via Sealy Tarns.
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TWIZEL DAY WALKS
On January 8, we walked along a 4WD track next to the Twizel River
to Baikie Hut, which is a 16.7km return trip. The hut is set on grassy land by the river, ideal for picnics
or overnight stays, and accommodates four people. Some in the group collected fresh water from the stream.
On January 10, eight of us began our day from Mountain Chalet, passing by the Musterer Hut Café where
we humorously discussed stopping for coffee but decided to keep going. We followed the river, entering
a beautiful landscape filled with photo opportunities, including sheltered bushes and tall pine trees.
We took a break by the clear Twizel River, enjoying morning tea while watching people swim and dogs play.
Charming scenes along the route included a grazing horse and lovely homes with neat gardens. Two members
went back to base while the others continued to Lake Ruataniwha, where we enjoyed lunch at High Country
Salmon before returning along the road. We covered roughly 15 km that day. Sunday 11 Jan we had a day
of rest thanks to the rain, and enjoyed morning service at a local church. Next day we explored the
Benmore Peninsula Track with stunning views of Lake Benmore. Another group visited the ?marama Clay Cliffs,
fascinating formations shaped by erosion. Finally, on January 13, we walked to Jollie Hut, enjoying the
high country scenery and fresh air, which offered a perfect spot for resting or enjoying nature, the
work of our Creator God.
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