TRAMPING CLUB

Hokitika Guardian, 17 September 1940, Page 4

TRAMPING CLUB

Oil Thursday last, an ascent of Mt. lieeves (oSSllt.) was made by two members of the Westland branch of the Canterbury Mountaineering Club, B. Andrewes and T. Ward. The climb was made from the Toaroha Springs hut, and the weather for the commencement of the trip was ideal. As the summit was being neared, however, clouds were seen to be approaching rapidly from the south, and these were soon to obscure all views except that to the east, where the main divide peaks were clearly visible. Canterbury skies were very inviting as seen across the snowy saddle of Clarke’s Pass. A large black “boulder” on the eastern slopes was suddenly observed to move, and another look confirmed that it was no rock, but a chamois. With au agility which only these animals can display and which every mountaineer envies, it raced up an impossible snow slope and was followed by two more of its kin. A lift in the fog presented a spectacle in which the Toaroha range, descending gradually westwards, could he likened to a huge iced, cake, for nothing broke the smooth whiteness of nature’s mantle.

An attempt was made, on Saturday, to conquer Mt. O’Connor (5957 ft.) The weather was deteriorating, however, and with the aneroid showing an altitude of 5450 ft. and visibility about ten yards, the climbers were forced to turn back. The snow was fairly soft and signs of avalanches were to be seen in places. Deer were surprised in several parts of the trip, one group consisting of four stags, all of whom still had their antlers. A boil up on the descent was enjoyed and the springshut was made as rain developed.