Light rain this morning but knowing there was another hut at the end of it I bundled up in the wet weather gear and went for it anyway.
Most of the day was like walking through a rain forest. Between the rain and hail the sun would come out, the wind would stop and between the trees, moss and fern covered ground, large heavy drops falling through the sun beams... Quite beautiful. If only there was more of that than the rain and hail.
The trail notes describe the forested section as "rolls over foothills." In future I'll read that as "sometimes goes around a valleys and ridges, occasionally goes over. Expect near vertical inclines in some areas." Really glad I have the poles. Some of the near vertical bits would have been a lot more difficult without them.
The Aparima Hut is nice. Sleeps 8, spacious enough for that number. Rain water tank (currently over flowing) and an Oregon pot belly fire. Currently getting gear dry. Socks and shoes are soaked. No new blisters though.
WIll be pushing on to the Lower Princhester Hut tomorow. Hopefully the weather will turn out fine and I'll be able to keep the shoes dry.
If I have cell reception at Lower Princhester I'll give Mike a call, and if a lift is available, push through to SH94 and head back to Invercargill for a few other items and a resupply.
Mike also expressed interest in the next section (I think.) Possibility of a tramping partner.