Hopkins Trip

After months of preparation and happy expectation, the party was in the Hopkins Valley at dusk on December 21st.

We split into three parties and attacked different areas with varying energy and success. Boanerges, Williams, McKenzies, Surveryors Col, Charity Col, Shauchon, MacArthur and Prudence all stood up to the first assaults but some fell later, together with two rock knobs on the Newman Range and an unnamed peak next to Anita. On December 31st we all collected at the high camp near the Richardson Glacier before moving over into the Dobson Valley. Though the weather and the snow conditions had been unkind we had all thoroughly enjoyed the experience of the new, wild country and the unusual Christmas conditions.

On New Year's Day we set off un-hurriedly, but with excellent going we were soon at the top resting and eating scroggin. After a few words of caution we moved off slowly, in single file in Bone's well-plugged steps. Without any warning a slip began from the rear of the line and in a second everyone in front was swept away helplessly and plunged out of sight. Two—Roy Dickson and Stanley Alla way—were dead; nine were injured. The least injured moved down to camp in the valley, while others ran for help and the remainder settled down as comfortably as possible. Very soon the Tararua party were back, helping us tremendously, and late the next day Dr. Wells and the rescue party arrived. Forty-six hours after the accident, the last three injured were being carried down. Assistance had been excellently organised and the helpers showed very real kindness and sympathy.

The inquiry, it is felt, was not only inadequate, but, as there were no reasonable opportunities for members of the party to present their story, drew erroneous conclusions about the organisation, experience, equipment and general conduct of the party. The Club Committee is now pressing for a full enquiry by the Federated Mountain Clubs.