The Sleeper Wakes: Part 1

By DAVID HILL

Two girls stood with their parents by a car, watching him. So Corey tried to look cool and expert, as he started up the track behind his father.

The blunt pyramid of Mt Taranaki lifted into a blue winter sky. Snow softened the cliffs where lava had flowed, thousands of years ago. High up towards the summit, the ridge of The Lizard showed where more lava had crawled downwards before cooling and setting.

Corey lowered his gaze to the 4WD truck twisting up the mountain's north-east flank. Packed grey and green trees rose on either side. After just ten metres, all sounds from the carpark faded away. Only the crunch of their boots broke the silence.

Three steps ahead, his Dad walked steadily. He wore a woollen hat and green Gortex jacket to keep out the June cold. Warwick Lockyer, Department of Conservation Field Officer; expert on Mt Taranaki; tramper and climber.

Publisher: Puffin

Age group: 6-10 yrs


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