NZAC Wellington Alp 1 trip to the Travers Valley, 25–27 August 2023.
Thursday
Four members took the ferry from Wellington to Picton on Thursday afternoon. Initial plans targeted Tapuae-o-Uenuku, but discussion focused on avalanche risk. Meeting the Alp 2 group at a Blenheim campground, the collective decision shifted to the Travers Valley due to persistent weak layer concerns in the Nelson Lakes avalanche advisory.
Friday
The water taxi arrived at Lakehead Hut around 9am. The valley walk proved pleasant despite heavy packs and stiff boots. They spotted Mt Travers, Mt Hopeless, and Cotterell Peak. After identifying a bushbash route, the group reached John Tait Hut by 2:30pm.
Saturday
Departure at 6am led to a 700-metre bushbash through pleasantly open terrain. Upon reaching the bushline at 1500m, they encountered snow and donned crampons and helmets. Post-holing became necessary as they progressed through the basin toward the ridgeline. At Point 2067 around 1pm, they concluded their ascent due to timing constraints and exposure. They observed the Alp 2 group climbing Mt Hopeless across the valley. The Alp 2 group later joined them for dinner.
Sunday
With the water taxi captain absent, the group completed a 25-kilometre walk to St Arnaud. Despite tired bodies and heavy packs, good weather sustained morale. Most members swam in the lake before returning to Picton.
Emily Shrosbree