......I spontaneously decide to do the Mueller Hut route (2 day trek in the Mt Cook national park) and even find an available. Nuke bed in the hut but before I decide to book it gets taken. So I opt for a tent. Apparently there is snow and high winds up there (1800 m asl) but I feel I can survive the night. By the way the hut booking system is all electronic and works flawlessly online. Impressive.
...I drive to the trailhead along the crazily scenic lake Pukaki. Unfortunately Mt Cook is obscured by heavy clouds.
...I register in the Visitor Center, pay the camping fee and am told I can use the hut facilities (gas, toilet) as part of the fee. I also register so they know they should look for me if I don't come back the next day.
...I set out on a steep climb, first half on steps and then up a steep slope. It's very windy and rainy and I'm almost wet through my goretex jacket by the time I make it to the ridge. Trail is well marked but no good pictures on account of clouds. Nice rainbow though.
...I make it to the hut in 3 hours (should take 4-5) and immediately find out the wind is much stronger than expected and the area is exposed so I stress about the tent.
...fortunately the warden, Caitlin, a young American volunteer, tells I can sleep in the kitchen. Cool! It's even better than the bedrooms because it's warmer!
...I drop my camera and crack my filter, fortunately not the lens but I have problems taking off the dented filter of the lens. It's wedged in place... so I just remove the shards of glass and leave the filter ring on. Later.
...I meet three other Polish tourists and a bunch of nice people and the evening is great with a nice sunset. Weather is supposed to be great on the next day. I sleep peacefully