This article was first published in the Tararua Tramper Volume 95 No.10 November 2023
Snow 2
31 August- 3 September 2023
On our first day out, headed towards the Pinnacles learning and practising rock and snow anchors along the way. An ice-climbing section under a rock arch close to the ridge got our hearts racing, but we all got through unscathed.
The next day we put what we learned to the test. We were up by 5 a.m. and had plenty of cramponing practice in nice crunchy snow. After trudging slowly up to the crater plateau and braving our way up to Paretetaitonga summit, with a stop to learn about T-slot snow anchors, we enjoyed unrivalled views at the top, and took our time eating lunch. We came back along the ridge using a rope, and then went down on softening snow. Exhausted but content, with bellies full, we learned more about avalanche safety before we went to sleep.
Sunday we stayed close to the lodge and practiced our avalanche rescue (and acting) skills, learning that snow transceivers work best when they are turned on. We quickly did our chores, tried to stay out of the way of skiers on our way down, and were back in Welly for dinner. A great way to end AIC!
- Party members
- Students - Nataly Noguer Blue (scribe), George Bowman, Kyle Bui.
Instructors - Paul Maxim, James Gilbert Milne.