Taramakau Valley

Shortly I'm about to cross from the west to east coast through Harper Pass on the Main Divide.

Absolutely spectacular large

It's a hot day and we're glad for any bit of bush to give us shade. Sweat has be en running down my face like a river. The Mount Cook Lily (Ranunculus lyallii) is in bloom on the western side of the pass. Native orchids and tree fuchsia are there to be seen too. The orchids are small and understated and the fuchsias small but and pink and easier to pick. Wonderful to see.

The day got progressively hotter so we deliberately slowed our pace and took more breaks. After 7 hours we were glad to see the Hurunui no.3 hut. We've all been down to the river in ones and twos to skinny dip and have a wash. Unbelievably refreshing!

No sand flies so I sat on a rock with a mate and dried off in the warmth. Lots of deer markings by the river so it's a social and refreshment spot for them too.

More laughter, food, my nip of single malt whiskey and cherries! Yes, a couple of blokes from my tramping club arrived at the hut late afternoon with a container of cherries for us.

Not a mall in sight, no crass advertising, no hideous butchered carols, just sun, warmth, physical effort and the most wonderful vistas wherever you look.

A great way to lead up to Christmas.

Peace.