We left Auckland around 4:30pm Friday night and arrived at Omapere Church soon after 9pm. On Saturday morning we got up at 6:30am and left for the start of the track at 8:30am. Doug and Leone graciously drove our cars back to Omapere  so they could pick us up at Mountain Rd on Sunday. At 9:00am we started on the track and reached the summit of Hauturu at 12:30pm where we had lunch. After lunch we headed on down to Frampton's Hut. The sign at the top said 30 mins to the junction of the Waima Track, but it took us 50min due to the steepness and very slippery surface. From the junction it was 20min to the hut. Doc had upgraded the hut, having put in a fire place and a sewage system. The hut is now rated as Standard and costs $5.00. It was free the last time we came. There is one side room which has two sets of bunks and in the main living area there are two large beds, each of which could accommodate a married couple. Only one person was required to sleep on the floor. The fire was very much appreciated, as although it was sunny throughout the day, there was a very cold southerly which kept us inside for most of the afternoon. During the afternoon we had a reflection about Psalm 18:33 - He makes my feet like hinds' feet, and sets me upon the high places During the night we were disturbed by a large rat. It obviously enjoyed the fire as well. Other than jumping up and down on someone's feet, it did no damage to the food etc. We rose again to a beautiful but frosty morning at 6:30am. The sky was cloudless as we set off at 9am. to complete the last leg of our journey. Our plan was to meet Doug and Leone at the end of Mountain Rd at 10am. It would have been nice to lie in but Doug was preaching at 11am. After a shower, Leone blessed us with a scrumptious lunch before they left for church. Thank you very much Doug and Leone for your generous hospitality and transport.

COST:  Transport $65,  Food, equipment levy and accommodation $20