How scary is Waiau Pass?
“LOADS OF PEOPLE GO OVER ALL THE TIME,” THE BLUE LAKE HUT WARDEN SAID, AS IF WAIAU PASS WAS A SUNDAY STROLL IN THE PARK.
I am sceptical. “Look,” he continued, “tomorrow’s weather is cloudy with 40km/hr south-east winds. That won’t be a problem. Gale force winds are 80km/hr. It’s totally doable.”
But the reputation of the Te Araroa Trail’s second-highest point means I had a fitful sleep. It’s the most demanding section of the Nelson Lakes leg between St Arnaud and Boyle Village and is often thought of as the most challenging after the Richmond Range.
The trail notes had already struck fear into my heart: ‘A fair-weather route, suitable for experienced individuals or parties with experienced leadership.’ Hmm, it’s
