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The Day (and Night) of the Storm
Tue 29 Jul 2008
TSC Guests Amanda and Ali had an interesting time at the lodge during the storm - but later, things got more interesting.
Stephen Boyle had decided to take his boys Finn (7) and Rory (5) for an introduction to the snow last weekend, but none of them had any idea they'd end up rescued by TSC!
A glorious calm, blue skies day gave them a wonderful start, but by 11 am the snow started to fall heavily and the wind picked up.
Within half an hour, both the lifts and the Bruce Road were closed, leaving hundreds of people stranded in cars, shelters and Lorenz’s café.
A couple of brave forays into the howling gale ended with young Rory being blown over, cold and scared. A long afternoon was spent huddling on the concrete floor in the shelter, uncertain what might happen or if they would be able to get off the mountain.
Finally at about 7 pm, mountain staff loaded a snow cat cage with our three adventurers and several others, and they were delivered to TSC’s door.
“When I walked in, it just seemed like heaven” said Stephen. “There was warmth, some lovely, friendly people who were organising everything, and a superb feast laid on.
The boys unfroze quickly, enjoying the company of the other kids – and (with the help of a very welcome glass of wine and a great meal) I began to relax for the first time in many harrowing hours."
“We were settled in a cosy bunk at around midnight , when another 40 or so cold and tired people poured into the lodge – to be greeted with the same overwhelming warmth, friendliness and hospitality we had experienced.
What a great place - Thanks so much Tongariro - please convey my thanks to your marvelous cook, the two great hostesses and the other member who welcomed us.
How do I get to become a member?”