Wellington

I have made it to Wellington. The first day in Tongararo National Park was amazing with the stunning views and strange landscapes but the second was windy and rainy. I started by doing Tongararo crossing which is a day trek used mostly by the tourists. This trail takes you by Mt Tongararo then down to the Emerald lakes. in the area of the lakes the trail divides and those doing the circut (The Great Walk) leave those doing the crossing. Once off the main track there is almost noone. It was so quiet the only sound came from the wind, there were no birds or other sounds. It all had a very strange feel to it. Just before I arrived at the hut I walked through a valley filled with beech trees. This area was a nice respite from the desolate region before with birds and trees. The hut was nice there was a group that arrived shortly after me and we all ended up playing cards well into the night.
It started raining in the night and didnt let up all day. While it was just a drizzel the wind helped soaked me from the waist down within an hour of starting. I was walking with soggy socks and wet boots for about 4 hours. Well I made it out and had a great time also made a new friend I met on the trail. Also never carry everthing with you figure out a way to send it ahead or leave stuff behind. The bag gets way to heavy.
Yesterday I came to Wellington and am planning on staying here a few days before going to the south island. Today I go to the Te papa museum and for a wander. Hoping my boots are somewhat dried out.