The Last NZ Mission

Before wrapping up our time in NZ, we took off on a 3-day tramp with Cory and Camella. We hiked 6-7 hours the first day in some fickle weather, after crossing the Makarora River (COLD!) and heading up the Young River valley. We slept well after some wine and whiskey in the newly built Young Hut on night #1. Day #2 was up and over the Gillespie Pass, which had some incredible views of the Siberia Stream, Wilkin River Valley, and Mt. Awful and Mt. Dreadful (no, seriously, that's what the surveyors called them). Not like any of these names mean much, but it was one last breath-taking trip before departing to India. But, if I've seen anything close to heaven, it has got to be the Siberia Stream Valley - turquoise blue river, glacial valley and green grass. Not sure we'll see anything like that again for a while.

Day #3 ended up being our last day since the weather forecast called for rains and wind, meaning that our river crossing to get out of the hike may prevent us from getting on our plane to India. So, we had an unexpected Jet Boat ride out on the Wilkin River - like a roller coaster ride, but with glaciers and mountains everywhere!!

It was also a last mission as well for Nate's La Sportiva boots. They have officially been retired to the NZ cemetery. He will miss them greatly

More important, it was a great way to cap off our time with Cory and Camella - we will miss them so much. Thank you Cory, Camella and Bonnie for all your hospitality - we can't wait to see you in CO sometime soon