Start – Middy Creek Hut
Finish – Hacket Hut
Daily Distance – 19 km
TA Distance – 1885 km
A wet but lovely end to the Pelorus river track. The morning began with a rainy 650m climb up to the
palatial Rocks hut, where I encountered the merry band of Mark and Amber (Kiwis), Rob and Hannah
(US) and Aly (Canada). They are all planning on waiting out the storm in the mountains and then walking
back to town for more food before reattempting the Richmond ranges in better weather. Another example
of how much of a bargain the $96 hut pass is. Warm, spacious and with the practically unheard of luxury
of flushing toilets, it was tough to venture back out into the rain. I am still set on at least attempting the
Richmond’s though, so needed to keep moving on. Heavy rain is due to hit tomorrow afternoon, which
will make my path to the first of the Richmond huts inaccessible owing to high water levels.
It was 16:30 when I arrived tired at Hackett hut and could finally rest for the day. Another hut where I
was beset by sandflies and had the place to myself. I imagine this is a rare luxury owing to the number of
hikers currently kicking their heels in Nelson and other nearby towns.
Weather issues aside, the south island walking just keeps getting better and more beautiful every day.
Hopefully the coming days will continue in the same vein.
