Milford day 2: Neale Burn Hut to Mintaro Hut

We gradually ascend on walker friendly graded tracks to the sought after McKinnon pass. At the hut We met the rascally and rapacious kea,a bird known for its destructive mishief on backpacker's possessions.
The water was so calm and clear in places it is hard to discern the reflection from the actual mountain or trees.
Steep mountain sides seemingly drape themselves straight into the stream below.
Waterfalls regularly adorn the mountain sides.
Even in summer there was an occasional smattering of snow. The trail wends through forest and up hill.
It is a U shaped valley, the rocks are crusched into bouldery gravel on the river bed.
This trail was well maintained, no signs of disrepair, you can see where your money goes.
There were plenty of places where we could enjoy a soak, something we took advantage of on a warm day like this.
Everyone was in good spirit, how can you not be, with such fine weather and scenery ?
Mintaro Hut introduces us to what it means when New Zealand classifies a track as a Great Walk. It's not to the level of showers and private rooms, but for camping you have gas stove top, a well designed and clean facility to sleep in. If you are not tolerant of snoring or group sleeping, there are areas outside to pitch a tent.
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