Rain rain go away

After a 10 hour flight to Christchurch overnight I landed this morning at 1030am, picked up the rental car then picked up climbing partner Big Al (Alan Silva) who flew over from Sydney. We then drove the 5 hours down to Mt Cook Village where we are currently staying tonight in Unwin Lodge (run by NZ alpine club).

That was the good news. The bad news is it is hosing down with rain, and the forecast for the next 4 days is solid rain, lots of snow at higher altitudes and gale force winds of 80 – 100km per hour. Getting out the door of the hut is a problem let alone onto a mountain.

Absolutely gutted. Will sleep tonight and re-assess situation tomorrow morning. Maybe pulling out is the best option. Or even heading to the Kaikoura ranges which is the only spot in the south island in the next three days with any sunshine. That’s the weather for you!

Good night.

Axe

Posted on December 29, 2012, in Grand Traverse Aoraki Mt Cook. Bookmark the permalink. 6 Comments.

  1. Mt T is looking mighty fine 😉 Welcome home Grant merry belated Xmas all the best for the new year. Sing out if/when you make it to the Naki. Keep dry my man.

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  2. Kate (Isadora) Smith

    Still got my eye on you. Enjoy Mt Cook and a Happy New Year. Stay safe Cheers Kate (UK). Hoping you are planning something exciting 2013

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  3. Rain sucks…. trust me I know – living in a rain forest environment I can attest to that.
    Be safe! I need my wing man in China in March.

    Best of the New Year to ya’, Bud!

    mork

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