Ahuriri Valley

We set off at 10am this morning, initially walking, then realising there was a 4WD road we went back for our bikes ...

The next hour was spent cycling up a glorious valley alongside the Ahuruiri River (famous for trout fishing) and then when the track and the wind got too much we started walking. After another hour we got to Hagens hut and stopped for lunch in the sun, and the swarming sandflies! Then after another 1.5 hours we got to Top Hutt, nestled amongst the most amazing mountains. We reminded ourselves constantly how amazing to be in the hills again, just like the old days (PK).

We setup camp and settled into our books, but then the weather starting changing ... so at 4.30 we set off back down the valley to a more sheltered spot. By 5 we had re-camped and opened the champagne - such is life without kids! Just the two of us, beautiful scenery (this river), cold champagne (courtesy of a freezing cold river), a tramping dinner of pasta; heaven!

However, the weather was changing, and by 5am the next day ...