Adventure Magazine

SURVIVAL
Testing Times in the
Braeburn Range,
Nelson Lakes
Words and images by Eric Skilling
Enduring a brutal storm in the middle
of the night, collapsed tents, falling
off a log into a stream, getting lost,
unwelcome encounters with wasps,
eels the size of pythons, a seconddegree
burn injury, hitting the proverbial
wall, and - a first for me - unwanted,
uncomfortable, and unnecessary interpersonal
conflict.
Reaching the more remote Mole
Saddle was an eventful five-days. A mix
of rugged, steep, and overgrown paths,
beautiful clear rivers and streams,
magnificent views, vocal native birds,
backcountry huts full of history and
character, and secluded, peaceful
camp sites. We also finished with the
warm glow of comradeship that comes
with shared adversity. This really was
an adventure for the ages.
Mandy and Ajay negotiating the narrow track to D'Urville Hut
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