This article was first published in Tararua Tramper in December 2024
Gentle Annie Saddle
MF, SF, and M trips Forest Lookout, Carrington Ridge, Gentle Annie track, Murray's Track to Te Whakatūrākau
M - Wednesday 30 October 2024
Given recent wet weather and the prospect of more rain and swollen rivers, the MF and SF groups politely asked if they could join the M trip. Permission was graciously given. The forecast indicated a degree of dampness in the morning but clearing weather by lunchtime. It proved to be optimistic.
A grand total of 26 trampers assembled on time at the Holdsworth carpark. Lynne, the leader of the abandoned MF trip, had done a sterling job sorting out the transport arrangements as her contribution to the trip, which was appreciated by the M leader. We set off in quite pleasant conditions but there was a smattering of drizzle as we all emerged at the Forest Lookout, and the view was limited. Celia Wade-Brown was there with her black shadow, and two people decided to return to the cars. Celia came with us until just before the turnoff to the saddle and then returned home.
At the turnoff, we had morning tea in very damp conditions. Joan, as leader of the abandoned SF trip, had volunteered to bring morning tea for all. The M leader was starting to think this was an easy trip to manage. However, as we descended to the saddle and climbed up the other side to Carrington Ridge, we were getting wetter and colder. Lunch at pt 801 was an efficient event. Those who were wettest and coldest took the direct route down the Gentle Annie Track back to shelter and dry clothes. The rest of us went down Murray’s track to Te Whakatūrākau where the rain had ceased and the sun was threatening to shine. Back at the carpark there was a pile of sodden gear and a prolonged discussion on the efficacy of various raincoats.
The trip had taken 5.5 hours - long enough in that weather. The condition of the unofficial tracks was very good which made the going straightforward.
Peggy Munn (leader and scribe), John Allard, Karen Baker, Joan Basher, Paul Bruce, Lois Buckrell, Robin Chesterfield, John Dement, Colin Hoare, Leonore Hoke, Sam Kenny, Gerald Leather, Jenny Mason, Jane-Pyar Mautner, David McNabb, Chris Munn, Pip Newton, Wayne and Mary Perkins, Jo Poole, Janette Roberts, Peter Smith, Tim Stone, Mike Wespel-Rose, Lynne White, Cathy Wylie.