Benoit - 9 Décembre 2025
Benoit - 9 Décembre 2025
In December 2025, after a demanding year had kept me away from the wild places of Aotearoa, I finally returned to the mountains with Mat, Lucas and Adan for a four-day journey through the Kaweka Range. We set out to reconnect with multi-day tramping, to test bodies whose fitness we no longer entirely trusted, and to give the boys an adventure that would challenge them without breaking their spirits. Together, we crossed rivers and forests, climbed beyond the bush line, followed exposed ridges and rested in remote huts, carrying everything we needed on our backs. We faced steep ascents, tired legs, blisters, uncertain water supplies and the private doubts that surfaced when the track became harder than expected. Yet we also discovered sweeping views, quiet valleys and natural hot springs, while sharing laughter, food, conversation and the simple routines of life on the trail. By the time we returned, the journey had become more than a walk through the mountains: it had revealed how much the boys had grown, renewed old friendships and reminded me why these demanding adventures have mattered so deeply.
On Friday, 5 December, Mat, Lucas, Adan and I left Wellington for Napier, determined to complete a four-day loop in the Kaweka Range. After a year with little hiking, the journey north gave us time to reconnect, share food and prepare ourselves for the trail ahead.
On Saturday, we began with a long road walk before entering the forest and following the river towards Middle Hill Hut. Heavy packs, steep ground and uncertain fitness tested us, but conversation and the promise of hot springs sustained our spirits until we reached the hut.
On Sunday, we climbed beyond the bush line and crossed exposed ridges beneath a brilliant sky. The ascent challenged the boys and revived my own doubts, yet the views and their resilience carried us forward. After a demanding descent, we reached Makino Hut and settled in for the night.
On Monday, we descended through forest and along the river towards the Mangatainoka Hot Springs. The shorter walk allowed us to recover, swim and soak in the pools. Encounters with other trampers brought lively conversations, while the peaceful campsite offered time to rest and reflect on our journey.
On Tuesday, we completed the final stretch beside the river and climbed back towards the road. Fatigue, blisters and hunger accompanied us, but so did pride and companionship. Reaching the car confirmed how much the boys had matured and how deeply friendship, challenge and wilderness had shaped the adventure.
Benoit, le 9 Décembre 2025
