Jess is a Wanderer saw a clear spell in the weather and drove five hours at 11pm in order to do a hike and see that spectacular sunrise at the Pouakai Tarns.
In keeping with tradition of 4 out of 6 visits to Pouakai Hut, I began climbing in the dark. This time I was prepared with a decent torch though it did die after just an hour. Fortunately, I was racing against time and managed to actually get all the way to the hut in an hour and ten minutes so the lack of light didn't turn out to be a problem. With warmer temperatures, there was no frost so I power-walked/jogged down to the tarns. I don't think I'll ever get enough of this beautiful place.
As the sun began to rise, more backpackers appeared. I think there were six of us in the end - French, German, Kiwi, Malaysian, Aussie and my British self. All there with the hope of seeing the beautiful view of Taranaki. We got so lucky and I even managed to make a little time-lapse. Yay.
For now, this will be my last visit to the 'Naki as I'll be heading to the South Island on Christmas Eve. I've been told you don't need to drive five hours to get a mountain/lake reflection picture. I can't wait for what lies ahead.
I spent the rest of the day driving around the mountain and enjoying the view from the different vantage points. I even did the Stony Creek Walk which had some beautiful river/mountain views. Definitely worth it if the weather is clear. Certainly not to be missed. Can't believe I did miss it on all those other visits to the area!