Snowcraft 2

Every year we like to head up Mt Ruapehu & learn a bit about alpine hiking. We learn how to use an ice axe, crampons & some info about safety in winter conditions.

We stay at the TTC Lodge on the mountain, which is one of the most incredible places to watch the sunrise & sunset.

What happens on Snowcraft?

On Friday evening we will meet at the gear shed from 4pm to sus ourselves out, then start driving north by 4:30pm. Bulls is about halfway & has a bangin' curry spot so maybe pop in for dinner on the way, or elsewhere (up to your driver really). We should get to Ruapehu before midnight, then we have to walk about 20min from the carpark to the lodge. 

Saturday morning we will rise at a reasonable hour, have breakfast, and sort the day's gameplan. We will split into groups, and spend the day on the mountain learning snow skills, & checking out some cool scenery. Then we'll head back down to the lodge for a mean feed & a bit of socialising. 

Sunday morning we have to tidy up the lodge but otherwise we can decide what we want to do. There's potential for more snow stuff, or maybe a trip to the hotpools or other locations on the way home. 
 

What do I need for snowcraft?

A comprehensive list will be sent out to those attending, but here's a rough outline of the kind of gear you need:

• Waterproof jacket, pants & gloves
• Boots that are compatible with crampons - this is very important! Bring your boots to a meeting if you're not sure. 
• Sleeping bag
• Warm clothes - thermals, fleece etc
• Headtorch
• Snow goggles or decent sunglasses

VUWTC will supply helmets, ice axes, and crampons.

What will it cost me?

The cost of the trip is $140. This includes:

• The fees for staying 2 night in the TTC lodge
• 2 breakfasts, 2 lunches, and 1 dinner/dessert
• Your share of petrol (it's a long drive!)

The trip fee for leaders will be subsidised to $100 each. 

We need 6 drivers - drivers will be reimbursed $254, which is in line with IRD's kilometre rates. 

How do I sign up?

Sign up using the sign up form below. Sign ups will open on the 12th August and close on the 21st August.

Due to the popularity of this trip it will not be first in first served - priority will be given to members that are currently active in the club (coming to meetings/going on trips) & those who signed up to Snowcraft 1 but missed out.

We are allowed 31 people in the lodge so that will be the trip capacity.