Sadly another person dies in NZ

[whitefang]

I'm not surprised by that. We had it sunny on the ascent and high clouds today, but had they been really low it would have been very difficult and would make me quite unsettled to be heading down.

[beean]

Debating whether or not to get some for a variety of reasons. Have used long sticks in most of my walks at home and they have been of great help when walking steep ascents. I think I will end up getting a pair and just stow one if need be.

Re: Mt Nguarahoe I have read people saying you need them, while others have said don't bother and just take it easy going down. Thoughts?

Poles are never a bad idea! You can always just stow one or both behind your back like antennae when you need your hands for a scrambly bit. I take one on alpine climbing routes.

[JohnStrider]

Thanks for that, Beean. Fantastic photo there, mate.