A fine brisk morning drive up the south side of the Rakaia River, with time for a coffee with friends at Redcliffe Station. Some interesting history of the stations in the area, and some tips around good view spots, so we duly drove past the TA start point, around a few more corners, and could then see all the way up the Upper Rakaia valley towards the Arrowsmith and Ragged ranges – what a day !
So then off on the TA track following a stream through Glenrock Station, and following the old 4WD track all the way up to Turtons Saddle – some good views back behind me, and then to the sun burnt spectacular mountains ahead of me. Clouds soon vanished, but a cool southerly blowing towards me up the valley. The A frame hut provided a sunny lunch spot sheltered from the wind, and then it was on further to Comyns Hut.
Early afternoon, so a good opportunity to shorten tomorrow’s promised hard day by continuing on up the north branch of the Ashburton River. Many river crossings – and more promised for the next day too.
Soon enough found a suitable campsite at its junction with Round Hill Creek. No sandflies – YAY ! Out of the southerly wind, but still cool, and the sun soon disappeared behind the mountains, and a very cold night that night. Grateful for my decision to trade my summer sleeping bag for my winter one for this week !
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