Nestled high in the alpine in the shadows of the tallest mountain in New Zealand, lies the world famous Mueller Hut. New Zealand has one of the most expansive hut systems in the world and getting the chance to sleep in one, let alone one as famous as this in the peak of summer no less, is a real treat.
To be honest, it was a fluke that I stayed here. I was in the area exploring some of the other trails and thought I'd try my luck at seeing if there were any permits available. Normally this hut, which sleeps 28, is booked out months in advance. The ranger notified me that there were quite a few spots available but a wind storm was coming through and advised against going up to the hut. I vaguely remember hearing something like "100 kmh winds" but all I could think about was getting the chance to stay here. I quickly let the ranger know that I'll take the risk and to book my reservation for the next night.
To my surprise, the wind storm wasn't bad and mostly affected a different area of park but it had scared off nearly everyone so there were only a handful of us in the hut. It was a real treat and we were greeted with the most spectacular sunrise of my trip to New Zealand. Light beamed from the east under a thick layer of clouds and only lasted for a few moments. It was truly one of those mornings that made me grateful to be alive.