Heavenly testing ground :)
It is great to be back in HB for the weekend with the chance to revisit the Mangatainoka hot pools
carrying the new pack, camping gear and a packraft to see if it all fits and is a comfortable carry.
Conclusion is positive thank goodness!
Have decided to use the buoyancy aid as a sit pad rather than take a dedicated chair. The new flint worked well so have retired the fancy Karabiner flint that was difficult to light my meths stove with. Need to find a lightweight tiedown solution to keep the PR atop the pack.
Saw 22 Whio and 1 trout on the paddle out this morning with the Mohaka at a very low flow. Loads of folk out and about on this long wkd but surprisingly few camped at the hot springs - Te Puia hut must have been full last night.