I have called this cache Extreme and rated it as a Terrain 5 as irrespective of which route you take - Mangorei Road & track, Maude Road & track or from North Egmont Road via Henry Peak you're in for a big day! This is an alpine environment and therefore you will need to take special care and wet/cold weather equipment. Plus the route to the top of Maude is straight up the rock ridge.
There is no formed track between the Maude track junction to the top of the peak.
Route is very steep - vertical rock in places - but there is an old 'track' that can be discerned beneath your feet. Note, it is easier to find the route back down from the summit. The climb will take about 20 minutes, slightly longer coming down.
It is not recommended to attempt this cache in inclement weather, and even on a 'good' weather day, appropriate gear should be taken. I placed the cache on a clear autumnal day, but at the top the cloud rolled in blocking the sun and a strong wind got up. It was very cold, but when we got back down to the bottom, again the sun came out and the wind dropped.
Be Prepared for any weather! As with all 'tramping trips into New Zealand's back country it is important to plan and prepare your trip and be well equipped.
Before you go, know these 5 simple rules of the Outdoor Safety Code to help you stay safe:
- Plan your trip: Take a map/track brochure and remember to buy hut tickets if you plan to stay overnight in Pouakai Hut.
- Tell someone responsible where you are going and your estimated return time.
- Be aware of the weather: Check weather forecasts before you go.
- Know your limits. (This cache may be it!)
- Take sufficient supplies and consider taking a personal locator beacon
This cache is in an alpine environment. Weather on the mountain changes rapidly. You must be well prepared with suitable clothing and equipment for all weather and conditions.
The time for a comfortable hike from Mangorei Road end to Pouakai Hut past the tarn to the summit of Maude and return will take about 7 hours, including lunch and photo breaks.
When you do reach the summit there is a (now broken) snow pole marking that point.
The cache is a camo'd 1L container placed at the bottom of the snow pole. No attempt has been made to 'hide' the cache as visitors here are very rare.
Please don't litter. Some low-life had been there since I was last there, had their lunch, leaving behind a fish tin, and candy wrappers. It'll be nice if you practice CITO as I did