Missing Trampers

Dominion, Volume 26, Issue 184, 2 May 1933, Page 11

Missing Trampers

Sir,-—The statement of the four trampers in the Tnraruas that they were “not lost” appeal’s, judging from accounts, to lie without foundation. No doubt the party knew quite well that they were in the Tararua Ranges, but it took, fheui fourteen days to do what they should have been able to manage in one day, or at any rate within three days, 'Their account is very difficult to understand, and contains many obvious errors —for example, their caching food at Mt. Holdsworth, which is probably incorrect, and also their being twice at Totara Flats. However, there arc several features that show that the party was not totally lacking in experience. They were, I believe, able to make fires each night and secure some degree of comfort in very trying circumstances, and their equipment was good. Such occurrences bring unnecessary discredit upon other trampers, however experienced and capable they may be, and unless it is understood that, one does not necessarily take risks when setting out on a tramp of (bis kind, there will probably be unreasonable anxiety shown for other more competent members of tramping clubs when they wish to enjoy themselves out of doors.—l am, etc., F. W. VOSSELER, President Federated Mountain Clubs. Wellington. May 1.