Orongorongo-Matthews

The boat chugged into the bay, almost displacing the wharf, and six strong V.U.C. men tumbled off. Then plunging into the depths of Gollan's Valley and struggling up the Wainui, we spent a pleasant half-hour eating. Ah, Wilderness, was the weather fine? B——marvellous!

In the company of numerous fan-tails, we hit the valley, but finding Baines Hut in a state of occupation, we found a small manuka flat—mar-vellous. The stew was dirty yet pure—it is doubtful whether the same can be said for the camp-fire conversation.

Next day, five stalwarts set out to climb Matthews. Leader Yen of course knew not the route, but at least had the decency to produce a compass from his hairless chest. The view from the top was breath-taking, and the sun shone to such an extent that Arnie and Doug bared their chests to it.

Then an exhilirating run down a 1,000 feet shingle slide to the valley and vegetable stew. Then home—a week-end superb.

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