Hard Work Paid Off

This time round we thought we would tackle it differently. The plan was to fly in and walk out, carrying enough food and gear for eight days. Our mission was to find large, mature stags for me and my mate Jack Rowe

Day 1

We finished work as soon possible so we could get over the hill to Wanaka and meet the pilot, weigh our gear and do a last minute gear check. We loaded up and were off, grins from ear to ear as we made a quick flight up and over to the first base camp. The tent was set up at record speed as we were keen to head down the valley before last light to do some glassing. Much to our surprise, we only saw two hinds and a young 12 pointer in the distance, so it was back to camp for the night.

Day 2

Keas having a party outside our tent made for a light sleep, then the first weather system rolled in with rain, so we decided to have a lazy morning. Around midday it started to ease, and we were startled to hear voices outside our tent. We met a group of fathers and sons on a multi day trip comprising of packrafting, biking and hiking. It was awesome to see them teaching and showing their kids the backcountry of New Zealand.

After a quick chat they headed off down the valley so we decided to head in the opposite direction. Things can look easier on a topo map than they actually are, and as it turned out, it wasn’t the last time we had that problem! After