The club expedition to visit the Organ Pipes area of the mountain had seven people take part. Starting from the Plateau in fine weather we walked over to Tahurangi and then took the high alpine route up and into the spectacular Organ Pipes valley area.

By this stage the thick clouds rolled in obscuring the views, but cleared now and then to reveal the surroundings. We then climbed out of the valley making our way under the Policeman rock down the ski field back to the Plateau.

Everyone had a great time which was scrape and tumble free!

Several were away this weekend so it was a small gathering of members, Alistair and Dorothy Linn, Pat and David McNair, friends Jude and Craig, and the Flemings met on the Saturday morning.   The first day was lovely, but much needed rain started Saturday night, so some abandoned the beach Sunday, but McNairs and Flemings stayed on until Monday morning.   Still, a pleasant couple of days away.   And the rain was desperately needed.

6 keen members, Wietze and Rae, Kathryn, Jayla (8) and Kora (6), and the writer braved the cold wind for a morning tramp to Wilkies Pools. The young ones danced around and up and down the rocks at the pools like mountain goats. Some returned via the Ridge track, the girls and I returned on the main track. As we were leaving we sighted a foolhardy person sliding down the rocks at chute, biting wind, freezing water. He didn't appear keen to head back up for another slide. A pleasant morning's activity.

On the Friday of Labour weekend a group of 12 members, 5 motor homes, met at Upokongaro, and carried on up the Whanganui River Road. The first stop was at the look out, then on to the hand dug culvert, a tribute to the early pioneers. The next stop was the Kawana Flour Mill, built in the 19th century. By the time we reached Jerusalem it was raining so we viewed the beautiful church and convent grounds. Our destination for the night was Pipiriki, a great camping ground where we had access to a common room for Happy Hour after exploring the village. The next day we headed to Ōwhango for lunch, then to Whakahoro and Blue Duck Station. The cyclists went for a muddy ride, others wandered around the base facilities. The next day most walked to the waterfall to spot the blue ducks. Kathryn, Michelle and Alan walked the Kaiwhakaukau track. Most of us enjoyed the cafe facility on return.
The next day we all headed home in different directions. A great weekend.