Ohau Tramp - 10TSH

The afternoon of Wednesday the 20th of November... gathering together after the rigours of a Level 1 NCEA Mathematics exam, 10TSH changed out of their school uniforms in preparation for the next challenge.

A van ride up through Central Otago brought us to our base camp on the shores of Lake Middleton. A quick stop to drop off some gear and we were into the vans again, up the road to practice river crossing technique under the experienced and watchful eye of Mr Campbell. Our feet would not be fully dry again for the next three days.

After dinner and a good night’s sleep, we embarked on our first day of tramping. Crossing the North Temple river branch, we headed up the South Temple valley to the hut that would be our home for the next few nights. Arriving in the mid-afternoon campsites were quickly assembled, and dinner preparation began. After our first night out we gathered on Friday morning to start our ascent up Mount Mason. Supporting each other through a series of steep climbs, we eventually reached the summit, where the wind was quite fierce, but the views were amazing. Our descent was much more rapid, and we returned to the campsite in time to relax a little before dinner. Saturday dawned, and after ensuring we had tidied up, our group departed downriver on the return walk to the vans and base camp. Back at base, we could finally dry our feet and keep them that way. Another great meal and relaxing evening rounded out our time at Ohau. 

Departing Sunday, we headed for home. Left to reminisce about skills learned and practised and tales told by our wise guide and leader Mr Don Campbell.