ON TONGARIRO.

Feilding Star, Volume II, Issue 592, 24 March 1908, Page 2

ON TONGARIRO.

A SUCCESSION OF PLEASANT SURPRISES. A PARTY OF EXPLORERS. (Special to the Stab.) As in other parts of the dominion, during the latter part of last week, the weather which greeted the moun-tain-climbing party (Messrs Braik, Purnell, Penny, and Bush) was distinctly disheartening. Under most adverse circumstances both Buapehu and Ngaruhoe mountains were ascended to within striking distance of the summits, but only a South Pole party could have sxtccessfullv advanced against the scudding mist and icy blasts which swept over the ridges with hurricane force, making quadra, ped locomotion the only available methody* and in the «nd even this was out of the question, and a hasty retreat had to be made. The party was more fortunate with Tongariro. This mountain was thoroughly explored, and proved a succession of pleasant surprises of crater lakes and various hues, active and extinct vents, and a glorious view of Roto Aira, Lake Taupo and beyond. It was reported that Ruapelm had been recently in active eruption, but the only indications of this noticed by the party, wore the sulphur fumes, so very distinct even on the ridges at an elevation of about 5000 to 6000 feet above sea level. The direction of the gale was complete evidence that these fumes could only originato on Ruapehu. During the stay at the mountain but several explosions were heard, apparently in the direction of Ngaruhoe, otherwise the craters and vents were not more active than usual. It may not be generally known that a mountain hut has been built by j the Government in a convenient situation to all the mountains for the free use of those desirous of visiting this part of New Zealand's Wonderland. The hut is divided into two rooms — one possesses a fireplace — and rough bunks are available for about eight persons. Plenty of firewood and water arc close at hjind, but food and bedding must be taken. Well selected tracks are now m course of construction to. Ruapehu, Ngarnhoe, and to Tongariro. The latter crosses right over the mountain to Lake Taupo, in almost a direct line, and it is now quite feasible to ride on horseback practically the whole, distance. Now that the locality is easy of access, it will, during the Summer months, become ono of the most popular of tourist resorts. The party left the mountain house at 12.30 (after midnight) by double buggy, entrained at Waiouru at 7.25 a.m. and arrived at Marton Junction at mid-day yesterday. A word of warning is due to those who may m future decide to undertake this trip. If they are persuaded to leave the beaten tracks for one they think more suitable, take Punch's advice ami "Don't." T)>e party "did," and gained some experience.