Departure from Bracken Ave was soon after 7.30am once equipment and food had been distributed to all participants.  The group of five cars travelled in convoy from Paeroa to the Karanaghake Gorge, and through to the Franklin Rd car park.  The weather was sunny, despite earlier storm predictions.   We proceeded as a group, across farmland and into the bush.  The clear water of the river glistened and we enjoyed the pleasant easy tramp, stopping for a snack at ‘the Devil’s elbow’ in the track.  We stopped to photograph the old wagons for carting the Kauri logs, and continued across the first four bridges before stopping on the river edge for our lunch.  Then it was only a short distance to the one river crossing, which we waded through, with some supporters mid-stream.  Another 30 min brought us to the bridge below the hut, where Alasdair met us, and asked us all to carry some chopped firewood up to the hut. He had lit a fire and warmed the environment!

After hot drinks Ted shared devotions with us, about recognising God’s presence. He talked of the amazing churches and places of would have experienced God’s presence in these places. Evening meals were enjoyed and card games and other newer games were learned before a good night’s rest.  After breakfast on Sunday we set off, again with fine weather as we tramped out the same way back.  After a snack stop we tramped steadily to the end of the track, reaching the car park by 11.30am. COSTS: Hut booking $15.00 Petrol $30.00 Food  $7.50 and equipment Levy $2.50