Wednesday, July 12 - Fruit Haka to Snow to West Coast (take 2)

We were thankful for the warm and sunny day on Tuesday and the beautifully carved Takahenga Marae to stay the night as a strong southerly snow storm moved over much of the South Island over night.  We could hear rain down at the sea side elevation we were at, but knew that much of the South Island from the Canterbury Plains South was dusted or dumped on with snow.  In fact, when we checked on the weather and passes to the West Coast early this morning, we found that Lewis Pass (where we intended to go), was not open.

Our intent is to try to make it to the West Coast today so we can have another go at the Croesus Track hike that we missed because of bad weather earlier on. The weather is supposed to be perfect Thursday and Friday for this hike. So while we waited for a road update at 11am, we were very fortunate to have Brett (a gifted storyteller and educator) of both the Department of Conservation and also Takahenga Marae, get us warmed up by teaching us a fruit haka and telling us more about the Marae.  Then his college told us about a project they are both working on since the November earthquake where they represent their iwi in cultural matters as the earth has unveiled some archeological "bones and stones" that are of significance.  We got to see up close some beautifully carved jade tools and moa bones that were now in their care. They were also kind and let us take this picture:

"Bones and Stones"

Our Iwi at Takahenga Marae

It was hard to leave, but we got on the road late morning and headed for Lewis Pass via State Road 1 along the coast where we saw seals, and at least one dolphin jumping in the surf as we made our way south.  We traveled for an hour to Cheviot where we had lunch and checked to see if the pass was open - and it was!

So, we set off across Lewis Pass in light snow flurries (the dusting of snow made the beech trees look amazing), but on well cleared roads laid with grit and stopped at the top at the St. James Walkway for a brief walk in the snow (and snowball extravaganza).

Then onward ho with a stop in Reefton, which was the first city in the Southern Hemisphere to have electric lights.

Making PB&J sandwhiches

Finally, another hour later, and just in time for dinner, we made it to Greymouth on the West Coast.  After dinner we made our PB&J sandwiches for the hike and now it is time for a good night's rest. Big overnight hike tomorrow! m&m