Recent Trip Reports and club night reviews
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Sun 11 Feb 2024 FE Mangaoraka to Camphouse then Ngatoro Track Mangaoraka Car Park was nice and cool as we set off towards the Waiwhakaiho Track encountering all those magnificent rata along the way. Then the showers began, lightly at first and soon became light rain. We put on the rain jackets and pack covers and pushed onwards and upwards through a lot of sodden track vegetation. Warm and wet was how we reached the Camphouse and headed to the Visitor Centre to have lunch in the lobby. It had been a good steady climb to the top of the Veronica Loop with no drama. The downhill section on the Ngatoro was a breeze and the only drama was crossing the Waiongana Stream which has three prominent boulders for anyone with enough poise to stride across. Three attempts were noteworthy: The first one I witnessed was a pole-assisted boulder crossing and it lasted about three seconds when one leg slipped into the water, followed by the other leg, splash... 2 / 10 for elegance. The second one was “stuff this, I’m going to walk straight through this stream” ... 8 / 10 for Gung-Ho-ism. The third one was another pole-assisted crossing in which the crosser had the look of a limpet clinging to each boulder. Yet she made it with dry boots... another 8 / 10 for sheer tenacity. The trampers today were, Anne Kivell, Claire Chamberlain, Jane Moir, Karen Curd, Aarun Moral and Mike Donaldson. ~ Mike Donaldson
Sun 11 Feb 2024 Loop from North Egmont Strong wind was our main weather concern for the proposed summit attempt, but needed to turn up to check. It was totally calm at North Egmont and looking hopeful but part way up the Translator Track and still in the calm we heard the wind noise coming off the translator tower. Started feeling its presence on the Puffer but at Tahurangi it was wild and cold. An Austrian couple also hoping to tackle the summit were sheltering in the lodge but joined us for a loop back to the start. Headed out towards the ski field past the Surrey Road and Waipuku Tracks to a hidden one a couple of the group were aware of. After the initial bush bash it opened out to be well defined but had some steep, (suited to the more gymnastic) sections and one hard-to-follow part. Became more open bush as we neared the return track with one lookout place where a ski field building was on show. A nicely varied descent. Part way along the return track the unforecast rain became more persistent and we arrived at Maketawa Hut fairly wet with water-logged boots. A group going the opposite direction had beaten us there but changed their plans setting off back ahead of us. There seemed quite a lot going to the hut despite the conditions. Carol Stewart, Allison Wilkins, Soloman Ord-Walton and Kevin Reilly salvaged something from the day. Learned that most Austrians have never seen The Sound of Music film and probably have a different view of the war from the film makers. Len is sure to have ended up with the dry option, pulling the pin at Tahurangi. ~ Denis Goodwin
Thurs 8 Feb 2024 Club Night: Taranaki Kiwi Trust Always lovely to gather for the first club night of the year when the sun is shining bright, and memories of summer tramps are fresh in the mind. The presenter was Toby Shanley, a Kiwi Ranger with the Taranaki Kiwi Trust. Toby provided an outline of the trust’s purpose and focus and gave insight to the wider kiwi monitoring initiatives throughout the region. It was fascinating to find out where the concentrated populations exist and how much local support and effort is required to keep them surviving. It seems Rotokare Scenic Reserve is essential to the success of kiwi releases in our region, so we are fortunate to have this gem as part of our province. Julia Collins
Wed 7 Feb 2024 FE Lucy's Gully Kaitake Loop Eleven of us left Wallace Place and were joined by another three at the Lucy’s Gully carpark. At 9:00 14 of us headed up the Waimoku Track. The weather was overcast with a gentle south-westerly providing some fresh air but we still warmed up quickly and layers were shed throughout the day. Several regrouping stops were made including the obligatory 10.00 am cuppa. At the junction with Sefton Ridge Track, two of the group decided that the climb wasn’t for them and opted to wait there for the group on return. Having three radios meant that we could leave one with them and keep in touch. Two more called it quits after the detour to Frank’s Café and returned to wait with the others at the junction and we were able to confirm their arrival by radio. As we progressed to Patuh? Trig, four others decided to wait it out on the track as the climb got progressively steeper and more challenging. Six of us made it to the trig at 12.30pm and enjoyed amazing 360? views over bush, farmland and the coast. The cloud had cleared and the Mounga stood proud. After lunch we headed back down, successfully gathering up the others as we went, returning via Sefton Ridge track. The four left at the junction had let us know they were making a leisurely walk down and we caught up with them just as we arrived at the carpark at 3pm. The trip was listed as fit easy but would be at the top end of that given the steepness of the track. Our total time was 6 hours. Plotaroute indicated a distance of 6.8km with an overall gain of 546 vertical metres. https://www.plotaroute.com/route/2417880 This was my first trip as leader. Thank you to everybody for making the experience a pleasant one, my apologies for the sidetrack supple jack experience (that’s why a recce is recommended). Thank you to Alan Doy as contact and a big thank you to John Fisher for mentoring me as leader and doing a great job at the back of the pack. ~ John Velvin
The panorama from Patuh? Trig rewarded the six who made it
Sun 4 Feb 2024 E Weld Road to Back Beach At 8:15am we met at Back Beach, by the end of the Herekawe Walkway, where we sorted out cars and rides to Weld Road. The visibility wasn't so good at Back Beach due to sea fog. There were big waves but the trip went smoothly. At Weld Road we waited for Bev K to arrive. It was past 8:30 despite her just having to go down the road to get there. It turns out they had a dead cow, we rightfully assumed there was a farming issue which is why she was 5 minutes late. We headed down through the beach to ?akura past an Ultimate Frisbee game, heading up the Shearer Reserve and not Matekai Park as Kevin had intended. We walked through the ?akura streets to the Four Square and Corbett Park by going under the bridge covered in graffiti below. Morning tea was had at Corbett Park, with dogs eagerly looking for food from the bags on the ground. We headed along the beach past Tapuae for a stop, then onto the rocks, sometimes trying to avoid large waves coming in. On one of the holes through the rock (that we passed through) you could see the power station chimney (the second tallest and former tallest structure in New Zealand) and Paritutu with the Sugarloaf islands. We took a photo stop at this which hurt several of the old timers who had to kneel down to get the suitable photo. We continued on to Back Beach over rocks with one person even falling and sitting in the water. The heat was really starting to come and the visibility was still terrible. We even passed some other people with dogs and children who informally added to our party. And finally we made it back to our cars at 12pm. ~ Solomon Ord-Walton (on behalf of leader Kevin Curd)
The iconic Paritutu and Chimney behind these Sunday trampers
Sat 3 Feb 2024 H Northern Circuit Clockwise Planned to do the Summit via Surrey Road Track, but an out of season dump of snow forced a change of plan here. The mountain forecast did have snow showers predicted but I still didn’t expect to see it way down, just above Humphries Castle. So started and ended a loop from North Egmont. Couldn’t really see how things were on Ruapehu but had good but varying tramping conditions. Could be dead calm or a bit cold. Went out close to Holly Hut. Started to see people after the climb out of the swamp. It was a bit cool on Henry Peak but found sanctuary amongst the tussock on the steps for lunch, though we did have to move a couple of times. Kaiauai Shelter was packed with a group of ten or a dozen. Looked to be an older group taking on a challenge way out of their comfort zone. One lady had a lot of knee support taped to both legs. Had come from Pou?kai Hut, experienced hail the day before and mentioned we would catch them again. It didn’t take long but really had to admire their courage. The signpost close to the Kaiauai car park had the road at 45 minutes quicker than the Ram Track, to get back up to North Egmont. Thought we would check the time difference, so two went via Ram Track and two by road. The road choice turned out 26 mins quicker for us. Our group today comprised Sarah Hamlin, Allison Wilkins, Carol Stewart and me. Had been a bit over 9½ hrs overall, a good workout and as someone pointed out, with a summit you do the climbing at the start of the day. Hoped to try that the following weekend. ~ Denis Goodwin
Thurs 25 to Sun 28 Jan 2024 H Puniwhakau to Wait?tara Valley Two teams participated in this walk, starting on the same day but from opposite ends of the track. We swapped car keys when both teams met (and stayed) at Tahupo Hut. The southbound team (starting at Puniwhakau) was Alan Doy, Anne Kivell, Libby O’Connor and Martin Jones. The northbound team (starting at Wait?tara Valley) was John Sutton, Kate Lynch and Robin Bridger. The teams’ reports follow. Southbound Team report (written by Libby O’Connor) Our enthusiastic group set off from Debbie Langton and Ian Coombe’s house on Puniwhakau Road. Martin was already unsure about the weight of the vast supplies he’d packed to ensure food security for the next four days. Shortly after we entered the farm, Heidi the cow and her bovine mates proved their interest in a tramping future, trotting placidly with us on the farm tracks. Breakfast of lush grass soon won over tramping and the human team continued unescorted on the settlers’ road through stunning forest to the last remaining letterbox that served the area. Alan guided us to an old surveyors’ campsite where an amazing collection of bottles remains from over 100 years ago. Martin was the only one agile enough to walk over one very dodgy bridge. 4LD (4-Limb-Drive) was the preferred method for the rest of us. Charlie’s Clearing had the remains of the Reichardt home, where we lunched in the sunshine before carrying on to Puteore Hut, alternately thanking Mark, Julia and the track-clearing team and hoping they’ll come back again soon to clear the new tree falls. Puteore Hut was clean, comfortable and provided spectacular views in both directions. Day Two was through magnificent forest – Rata, Totara, Rimu and Kamahi, accompanied by the calls of long-tailed cuckoo and by sightings of toutouwai / robins, miromiro / tomtits, and kerer?. We lunched at Umukakap?, a beautiful fern gully where an old whare site remains. Kate’s goat-scaring whoops made a great welcome to Tahupo Hut which had superb views from its ridge-top perch, including right back to Charlie’s Clearing. Alan provided guided tours to his sophisticated hammock-with-tent-fly home in the trees and Robin’s tent and sturdy construction system survived the serious gusts which sprang up during the night. Day Three started along narrow ridges in beautiful beech forest, sometimes with fabulous fossils underfoot. The track then descended into a nikau palm wonderland near the Wait?tara River. Shortly after our arrival at Trains Hut, a day tramper arrived with news of heavy rain warnings for the next day. The thought of the narrow cliff-side tracks perched above steep drops to the Wait?tara River made even more slippery in a deluge was not appealing and we set off in good spirits to complete our 4th day’s tramp that afternoon. Terereohaupa Falls were stunning and we mentally noted this as a place to return and explore further. We explored Kapara, the site of the farm William Van Asch created in 1894. In recent years, the once splendid homestead with tennis courts and a croquet green had to be demolished after it was irreparably damaged by hunters. The large trees and original barbed wire remain. The final muddy farm track through Makowhai Station is lined by beehives. Large bulls eyed us lazily. The picnic we had at John’s car was very welcome – the culmination of three magical days in great company and incomparable surroundings. Thanks to John for his meticulous planning, to Alan for sharing so many tales and sites that brought the area to life and to the tramping team whose good humour and amazing stories made the trip truly awesome. Northbound Team report (written by Kate Lynch) With bull fighting at the Kaipara homestead site to gawking goats at Charlie’s clearing, this tramp was steeped in history and wild entertainment! We began with a 4hr walk up to Trains Hut, the first third travelling on a reasonably formed road and the remainder swampy and root laden underfoot. A worthwhile side trip to the numerous caves around the base of the Terereohaupa Falls, on the Wait?tara river. After first moving the goats along, we had a welcome rest at Trains Hut. Day Two, the fine warm weather continued. A brief 1-hour climb up from the river crossing to the undulating sawtooth ridge, through beech and rewarewa bush. The overriding odour was billy goat! We arrived at Tahupo Hut shortly before the southbound group. They were warmly welcomed by the goat scarer (Kate). The wind picked up during the night, clouds blew in and the rain fell. A wet but still enjoyable 5½ hr walk along a well-marked and gentler ridge top to Puteore Hut. A change from beech to podocarp. Long tailed cuckoos kept us company with their screeching calls. Sunday morning dawned overcast but dry. A 3hr walk to Charlie’s Clearing, the highlight finding Charlie’s spring and whare site. The rain set in as we followed the dray track down to letterbox corner and out to the road end. A tramp celebrating mother nature and human endeavour. Thanks to our contact Kevin Curd. History Note: Puniwhakau and Charlie’s Clearing The letterbox referred to in the above trip report was one of several dug into the grey papa bank on the junction of what had been Puteore and Manga Roads. These letterboxes took mail and grocery packages from Douglas. Mrs Reichardt and her daughter-in-law, Elsie, from one of these early families, used this spot to leave tea in a golden syrup tin so they could make a drink on the way home from a trip to town. The last mile to the Reichardt property was by pack track until 1930, when the Reichardt brothers had a contract to open this section to their farm at Taurakawa. Unfortunately, during the road clearing, gelignite plugs went off early and Otto lost a finger and badly damaged both arms from the blast. The Reichardt family milked about 15 cows. We visited their ingenious water-cooled system to keep the cream chilled until they took it to the road end each Tuesday to catch the Douglas Store Cream Lorry. ~ John Sutton
On the Puniwhakau to Wait?tara Valley tramp, the northbound and southbound teams met at Tahupo Hut
Wed 24 Jan 2024 Walk York Loop track Janet and I thought we would encourage some of the walking group to go outside their comfort zone and try a short, very easy tramp doing the York Loop track at Midhurst. This track is on the lower end of Easy Tramps and we were pleased that 13 people came along. We went upward on a gentle slope with a well-covered canopy of trees, and made good time to the grassed area at the top for our early morning-tea break. Commencing after an extended laze about, we strolled at an even pace, viewing areas of interest along the way down, including the swing bridge, and a really well-made boardwalk. This was where the metal was excavated for the rail-road tracks in the early days of rail at Stratford. Interesting boards were positioned along the way for you to read of the history. The pathway was in very good condition and there was only one stream-crossing, a step or two and we were over. Remnants of the crusher and other bits of interest were observed along the way, arriving back at the cars at 12.30pm. A 3-hour wander with 13 very pleasant people. Thank you for coming. ~ Janet Durdle and Kay Hall
Wednesday walkers enjoyed the historic York Road Loop
Sun 21 Jan 2024 FE Puniho to Bells Falls (Te Rere-o-Tahurangi) Seventeen keen trampers set off up the Puniho track, all aiming for Bells Falls. Not one of us got there. At the clearing we had morning tea then onwards to the Pyramid Stream where we decided to split the party, allowing the quicker walkers to carry on to the falls. Ten felt they could handle the quicker pace so with John Simmons leading and Graeme Taylor as tail they set off. I stayed with the other six and we sat down by the Stony River for our lunch. Just twenty metres up the stream we were very excited to see four Whio, also having their lunch. As we walked down the stream we came across another three, great to see they are doing so well. As we negotiated our way downstream, we came across a very difficult situation. The stream was right up to the bank with only a couple of large rocks to climb up and slide down the other side. This took some time to manage but by good teamwork we finally got around. The other option to cross the river was discussed but the height and speed of the water made this too risky. Just as we got over this obstacle it began to rain quite heavily. Knowing how difficult this obstacle was to get over and the ever-increasing river level, we decided to radio John and G T to ask them to consider returning the way we had come, avoiding this hard-to-get-around spot. They agreed, so went back and around the way we had walked in. This added more than an hour to their tramp. On the way up one of the many ladders, one of our group slipped and gashed their thigh. With help from our team mates they were patched up and soldiered on. As we all finally gathered back at the cars, they told us that because of the unmaintained tracks they had to turn back about twenty minutes before the falls. Summing up this tramp: Years ago this tramp to Bell Falls was usually done on a Wednesday as a Fit Easy. Because of the state of the tracks, some closed, this is now a Moderate Advanced. We arrived back at the cars at 6.30pm after starting at 8.45am. The changing state of the Stony River has made walking the river quite hard. It is still an hour or so quicker than going up to the RMT and across. Both groups had to work together to finally arrive back to the cars. Special thanks to all who overcame the different problems faced on the day; to the medics and particularly John and G T. The use of the radios was absolutely vital for this trip. ~ Kevin Curd
Sun 21 Jan 2024 FE Dawson Falls to Ihaia Road We were in for a pleasant surprise getting above the turnoff to Kapuni Lodge. The old steps that were sloping in places are being replaced. They could seem a bit disorienting when climbing in a steep, sloping environment in a kind of stressed state. The new ones look to be a solid and long term effort with supports being concreted in and the steps being recessed into the support frames. Also with stainless bolts and connectors. Were redirected back onto the old ones near the top. Things were looking good when we started but were now into light cloud. We missed seeing Lake Dive with it being misted out – unless someone had pulled the plug. We could see across to Mangahume Bluff after a few gorge crossings and it did look fairly easy. But no. An unobtrusive monster lies in wait for the unsuspecting. An upward climb is required to gain entry, followed by a zig zag down to get into the bottom of it. The climb out was redirected a few years back after erosion. Lunch was being called a bit before the bluff and this was a shrewd move. The light rain started as we were packing up. Had to undertake the obstacle course along the base of the bluff in unfamiliar conditions. Bum sliding down a wet rock brought an end to normally accepted comfort. The descent from the end of the bluff is normally a bit treacherous but all descended safely. Any hope of staying dry was dashed with the wet vegetation. The RTM track being closed and unused may have contributed. Some of the ferns would have been head high and swinging off little trees added substantial drips from above. Rock hopping in the Waiaua Stream is usually difficult and would have been totally pointless today. The water actually felt fairly close to warm. The sun came out when we were in the moonscape down from Waiaua Gorge Hut. It must have been a wild scene when it was created. Is hard to visualize with the little dribble running down through it. Out of the bush it was back into light spits. Don’t think Carol Stewart, Pam and Len Rodenburg and Aarun Moral would have been disappointed making it out to the car. Had been a patient, understanding and good crew. ~ Denis Goodwin
Sat 13 Jan 2024 MA Plane wreck, Waterfall, Tarns, Mangorei Stream A good outing today with a good strong group of trampers, tackling the many hills with gusto. A sunny trip with Scott, John H, Carolien, Val, Robin, Mike D and Sol. I’ve never seen the big car park at the top of Mangorei Road so full. Everyone must have been looking for that perfect shot of the maunga in the tarn. We parked on the verge with no actual spaces available then started on the endless Mangorei steps but quickly dodged off into the bush, leaving the steps for all the others. After an hour of ups and downs in the nice cool bush we reached the Airspeed plane wreck. Just a strewn-out collection of metal pieces really. Mike Donaldson gave us some info about it, and suggested making a laminated poster to leave there for others to read. We moved on to the waterfall for a break and a bite. No takers for a swim but it’s a great spot for a picnic. The steeper hills awaited us and slowed us down a bit. But in between the steep bits were some lovely strolls on flattish areas through the beautiful bush. Coming towards us were Rebecca and some friends; great to see her friendly smile. From the falls it was about another hour to the misty tarns where groups of visitors were patiently waiting for the mountain to appear in the muddy water. Carolien mischievously showed some of them a photo she took a few days ago of the mountain in all its splendour reflected in the tarn, and emailed it to a French woman to take home and show off. Back down the track we turned off to head across to the steps near Graylings Clearing. This predator track was a bit less cared for and “off the beaten track” for sure. More fitness training for us, with lots of downs and ups and streams to cross. We had a break in the last rocky stream before navigating the last steep bits and popping out on the steps again. The hour of stepping downwards turned into a minor competition to keep the pace up and we all arrived back at the cars tired but happy with our day out and the people we’d spent it with. Thanks to all for the fun, laughter and exercise, and to Alan Doy for being our trip contact. ~ Keith Coughtrey
Val peers through dense bush
Wed 10 Jan 2024 FE Awakau Lime Kiln Wednesday morning was a nice warm, pleasant morning in NP. We departed Wallace Pl en route to Hakari Farm in the Awakau Valley via Mokau, where we met 10 others of the group. At Hakari we met up with Maxine Lovell and two local people, Maxine would lead us through her farm to a reserve beside the Mokau River. On the way through the farm we saw the impression of a past tram line that was used to transport lime rock from a quarry high in the hills above. The rock was carried by boat up-river a short distance to be burnt in the kiln, fired by Mokau coal, and used as a farm pasture dressing in the area. Some was also shipped to Waitara to be sold. This operation lasted only two years and workers were accommodated in tent dwellings for the duration. As the day heated up two of the trampers were slightly overcome, particularly as this was the first Wednesday tramp after the Christmas break. They decided to rest in the shade a while, one gentleman of the group went back to accompany the two back out, so the main group of 23, being 21 NPTC trampers including Maxine and two locals, continued on through the beautiful Nikau Palm grove reserve to the main objective, the remains of the lime kiln. This was a timely stop for an enjoyable lunch break. The walk back out was bit of a slog in the afternoon sun for some, but uneventful. I am sure there was much relief for everyone to reach the comfort of an air-conditioned car for the drive back and ice creams at Whitebait Inn. Many thanks to Maxine and Bruce Lovell and to John D for acting as contact. ~ John Fisher
Maxine Lovell (left) led the hot trampers to the Awakau Kiln site
Sat 6 Jan 2024 MA Kaitake Flats – Kirihau circuit
On reaching the Timaru Stream we stopped for a bit of a snack. On my recce I’d got onto the wrong track here, so made sure to find the right one this time. The Kaitake Range is riddled with predator lines now, so many blue triangles to choose from. All the trapping has been good for the introduced kiwi population though. There are at least 25 adults up there and possibly as many others that have hatched there in the last three years. This was where the real hill climbing began and we took our time winding our way up, around, over and under the many windfalls as the track rose up between the Te Iringa and Pioke hills. Another blue- triangled line to turn on to, this time the Pirongiha predator track. You’d almost need to know where you were going up there. Steep and slippery going down to the stream and our crew had a few slips and slides and some broken skin, but our wonderful nurse had it all under control. Pretty soon we were up on Kirihau Peak with great views of the Taranaki landscape laid out before us in the sunshine. After a sunny lunch (“almost like being in the Pacific islands”) we headed off down the steep track to the Pirongiha Stream. Then it was uphill above the Oakura River and back to the Kaitake Flats track intersection where we’d been that morning. A bit more hill work and we were back at the cars, all 12 accounted for, a trip leader’s delight. Thanks to all who joined in, it was fun. Thanks also to Alan Doy for being our contact, and special thanks to Carolien for her excellent nursing skills. ~ Keith Coughtrey
Kevin, Carol, Allison and Fiona
Sat 17 Dec 2023 M Waiaua Gorge Hut Entering the farmland, we discovered a lack of cows, which meant we had reign over their paddock and didn’t need to cross over the electric fence. Coming into the Ihaia Track, it suddenly became quiet and peaceful as the trees protected us from the wind. Having a small group allowed us to move at a brisk pace, so we reached the Rimu tree earlier than expected and decided to delay morning tea till we got to the junction. On the way we saw a lost beanie. Traversing up the river, we encountered a few other trampers that were on their way back after spending the night at the hut. Solomon courteously asked if they had lost a beanie, this wasn’t the case, so the beanie remained, alone on its branch. Continuing on, we realised the second half of the bush was going to be considerably more wet than the Ihaia Track. One section was particularly bad and Carrie adequately titled it the bog. There were a few steep parts, however they were no match for this limber crew. Upon arrival at the hut at 11.00, we were offered an extra walk to find the ladder down to the gorge, which included a 20-minute time limit, with the consequence being that Kevin would steal our lunches. The two of us and Solomon accepted this offer but we became confused after reaching a junction and decided to turn back as we were wanting some food anyway. During lunch we were treated to fleeting views of the mountain as it alternated between being covered and partially covered with clouds. By the end of lunch, Kevin had come up with the idea of offloading the responsibility of writing the trip report onto us which was agreed to reluctantly. We departed from the hut at 11.40, making quick time on the way back with no trouble. We even got to witness the mountain fully uncovered as we travelled down the river bed. At 13.25 we reached the car. Thanks to Kevin Curd for organising and leading this tramp, as well as Carrie Smith and Solomon Ord-Walton for being enthusiastic trampers. ~ Kyran Fawkner and Esther Denholm
Thurs 14 Dec 2023 Club Night: Quizmas Special With the hall decorated, and members dressed to match, the festive spirit was on high at the December Club Night Quizmas Special. Starting with some tasty treats and a light tipple to engage the brain, teams were assigned, and minds tuned to face the challenge of Peter Winter’s quiz. Peter had outdone himself with a wonderful range of questions presented in the most engaging style. From images to spider maps and brain teasers to boot, teams were put to the test. The biggest thank you to everyone who behind the scenes contributed to a most fun-tastic December club night. ~ Julia Collins
Quizmas Special!
Wed 13 Dec 2023 All Grades Christmas Tramp A group of 47 gathered at MataRata Downs (Hockens’ Farm) woolshed for the final tramp of 2023. Most met at Sanders Park, some at Inglewood and a few went direct to the farm. The woolshed was nicely presented with all the tables and chairs set out and the tables were adorned with tablecloths and a vase of flowers. The activities began with morning tea followed by a short address from Bryan. He had to attend a meeting, otherwise I am sure it would have been considerably longer. Before heading off on our walk one of Bryan’s grandsons played a few tunes on the piano. He was good and I hope he continues with his lessons. Tradition has established that we have a short walk before lunch and this year we followed the Waitara River to the flat paddocks where the river winds around the papa bluffs. The walk was less than two hours but we were ready for our lunch upon our return to the woolshed at 12.30. Thanks to Doug for being the Back Marker and responding to the radio. The oven was on ready to warm the pies and savouries. The cold buffet was set out and what a beautiful spread we were presented with and at the end of the day still some remained. Towards the end of lunch we listened to a short piano recital from our own Wesley Bell. I was so impressed with the musical competence of Wesley as indeed were all those present. As Alan Morris and I have relinquished the role of Trip Convenors after 11 years, a surprise presentation was made to each of us. We understand the hat was passed around for the gifts. We were both overwhelmed and thank you for your generosity. It was a great day and thank you to all the participants (there are too many to name) for the contribution you each made to the success of the day and thank you to the Hocken family for providing a lovely venue. ~ John Depree
Wed 6 Dec 2023 E Waitara to Lower Turangi Road Twenty of us assembled for this walk. After a car shuttle which Sharryn arranged we set off on a beautiful day. We started from the Waitara River Mouth, northern side. At the beginning we were below the Waitara Golf Course and noted there is lots of erosion, the cliffs look unstable. We didn’t get too close. This walk took us to the buried forest at Airedale Reef where there are stumps and fallen branches buried in peat and therefore preserved. The information we were given is that there was a podocarp-dominated forest typical of a warmer climate then it progressively changed to a peat bog. There is a shipwreck of the steamer SS Airedale but the tide wasn’t low enough to see it. It struck the reef on 14 February 1871 en route from Onehunga to New Plymouth. Her twenty passengers and ten crew were able to get to shore in the ship’s lifeboats and her cargo of mail from England was retrieved later, as was the ship’s engine - the hull was abandoned. The cliffs contain wood and trees buried in an avalanche deposit from Taranaki Maunga. It is thought they were buried in mud and died before the avalanche came down. There are different colours and various layers of volcanic soils and volcanic ash beds in the cliff. It is thought these occurred 20,000 – 125,000 years ago. Not many of us went as far as you can go where there was a rocky outcrop. A few people collected a variety of rubbish on the way. We waited for everyone then doubled back a short distance to Lower Turangi Road where the cars were. We had to get off the beach by 2pm because of the incoming tide and just made it. Lower Turangi Road is the 3rd road past Motunui and when you are driving you realise that’s a long way by foot from Waitara. It was 14.1km. It was a lovely, picturesque, interesting walk with even a few waterfalls. We were the only ones on the beach apart from one man. Thank you to Sharryn for organising and who provided us with written information from the Auckland GeoClub magazine and Papers Past re the shipwreck which we handed around during our breaks. ~ Joanne Edwards
Sat 2 Dec 2023 North Egmont Native Orchids Revisit Twelve keen plant spotters gathered at the North Egmont carpark before setting off on the same route as the 21 October trip, to see what orchids might be flowering six weeks on. On the Ngatoro Loop Track we found the Green Bird Orchid Chiloglottis cornuta in flower, old flowers of the small greenhood Pterostylis venosa (which had been in full flower in October, with identification confirmed on this trip), leaves of the odd-leaved orchid (Aporostylis bifolia) with an occasional flower bud (one to come back for in a few weeks - and yes, we did find flowers, just after Christmas), leaves of a spider orchid in the Corybas trilobus group, another species of greenhood in bud and leaves of another spider orchid, Corybas acuminatus, which had been flowering in October. On the link track between the Translator Road and the Round the Mountain Track we were delighted to find flowers of the large greenhood, Pterostylis patens. Some of the crew abandoned us at noon, not having realized how long we would be out, while the rest of us climbed the steps to the Lookout. Along the way we found many more P. patens, some in large groups of up to 30 individuals: magnificent! Further up we found the leaves of the spider orchid Corybas confusus which had been flowering on the earlier trip, and further up again, leaves and some seed pods of Corybas walliae, another that had been flowering last time. We also saw one plant of a very different greenhood, Pterostylis Among other flowering delights were: Clematis paniculata, magnificent in the trees on the road up to North Egmont and in the bush on our walk, rangiora (Brachyglottis repanda), the daisy bush Olearia arborea, wineberry (Aristotelia serrata), the bush lawyer Rubus cissoides, with petals littering the track in places, the groundcover Nertera ciliata with its hairy leaves and tiny flowers, the mountain tutu Coriaria pteridoides, showing mostly the first of its two stages of flowering – the dangling stamens (later, the stigmas are exerted, a way to minimise self-pollination). Ourisia macrophylla (mountain foxglove) was just starting to flower. For some reason, possibly because we were laser focused on orchids this time, it was a much faster trip than October, and we were back at the carpark at the early hour of 1.40pm, with some of us planning a third visit in a few weeks’ time. Thanks to Ngaire, Alan, De (NPTC), and Sandra, Gonzalez, Marianne, Hans, Carol, Hilarie, Rodney and Jennifer (Taranaki Botany Group) for your enthusiastic company. ~ Barbara Hammonds
Plant spotters Ngaire Riley, Carol Burgess
Sat 2 Dec 2023 H East / West Crossing of Pou?kai Range They were still forecasting showers for the mountain, but hopefully we’d be far enough away. Was overcast but calm as we dived into the bush, no worries about sunburn today. The big 2-person swing bridge just before Kaiauai Shelter, was new to a couple in the group. It was pretty straightforward doing the climb up to Henry Peak with additional steps occupying the large drop-offs that had developed at the bottom of the original steps. Were into dry cloud as we got higher up the back of Henry. Time to dress up after a warm and sweaty climb - with the cool breeze up there. Had pretty well accepted it would be a no-view tramp. Encountered a group of seven going the other way along the back of Maude Peak. All women - notably more youthful looking than some of us. Crossing the plateau after Tatangi, the wind was noticeably stronger, coming from the East and was pretty wild at the Trig. Had a sheltered, moss-covered rock face, refuge to lunch beneath. Had to contend with a pretty severe buffeting after returning to the track. Just had to keep moving and a walking pole in the left hand sure was reassuring. Had sheltered patches that were very welcome before making it to the sanctuary of the bush. Along today were: Allison Wilkins, Carol Stewart, Pam and Len Rodenburg and Kevin Reilly. Had been a pretty speedy group, on Henry in 3 hrs, the trig in 5 and Carrington Road in 7½. Had not been a good day for sight-seeing or loitering on the top. ~ Denis Goodwin
Wed 29 Nov 2023 FE Waiaua Gorge Hut The forecast wasn't great but 18 eager beavers turned up to tackle whatever weather was dished up. It was pretty overcast and a bit misty and damp on arrival at the Ihaia Road car park so on went the raincoats and off we went. Made good time to "the Rimu tree" our traditional morning smoko spot. As expected the track was pretty muddy in places as there had been rain earlier in the week, but all tricky spots were safely negotiated and there was very little water in the Waiaua River which was crossed with few, if any, getting their socks wet. It was a bit of a slippery slidey grunt up the last section to the hut and lunch. A few went to check that the big ladder was still in place, climbing down into the river bed, before having a look at the enormous amount of erosion the river had caused when it destroyed the previous track to the hut a couple of years ago. The trip out was very uneventful and it was nice to see the sun shining when we came out of the bush for the last 15 mins of the tramp. Thanks to Noel and Jane M for helping me clear the track a week or two earlier, to John F for being tail and then lead on the day and to Janet D for being our contact. ~ Graeme Taylor
Not much water in the Waiaua River
Sat 25 Nov 2023 Kirihau Peak / Kaitake Flats Loop With the strong cold southerly it was hard to know how cold it would be in the bush. Wasn’t too bad going down Saxton Track and most of us had warmed a little by the Rimu tree turnoff. Found our way through to the ?akura River / Pirongiha Stream peninsular no problem today – the first time in a couple of years or more. As usual, the last section to the top of Kirihau was pretty steep. Was calm when we got there - against all assumptions - but this didn’t last for long and soon became not a nice place to be. It was a reasonable trek along Davies Track to the Kaitake Flats turnoff, by a stream that had a really user-friendly crossing, 20 odd meters up from the positioned rope. Closely spaced rocks with Tradescantia or something similar growing on them. Missed or took a wrong turn in the Predator Track maze so rejoined the main track fairly well up. Making the most of a fairly wild day were: Carol Stewart, Alison Wilkins, Delwyn Masters, Helen and John McDonald, Soloman Ord-Walton and Derek Andrews. Had been a bit draughty in places, but pretty pleasant while we were on the move. ~ Denis Goodwin
Sun 12 Nov 2023 M Pou?kai Trig via Dover and Plymouth Tracks The weather forecast predicted fine weather but with a strong westerly wind. Five of us decided to go anyway, willing to turn back if the wind proved unpleasant or unsafe. The wind was strong at times above the bush line. However we weren’t unduly challenged by it, and we completed the trip. All of us were very pleased we did so. It took us three hours of steady climbing up the Dover Track (960m height gained) to reach Pou?kai Trig. The cloud cover of Taranaki Maunga was intermittent, driven by the westerly wind. The trig was where we stopped for lunch, with wonderful views of the Pou?kai range and the north Taranaki coastline stretched out before us. After lunch, we walked at an easy pace along the tops to Pou?kai Hut. We stopped for a short break at the hut before continuing down the Mangorei and Plymouth tracks. As expected, we passed a steady flow of overnight and day trippers – all ages and a variety of nationalities. The walk (stops included) took approx 7 hours. It was a most enjoyable day’s walk! My thanks to the group Anne, Robin, Kyran and Esther for your company. Thanks to Lester Barnes for being the contact. ~ John Sutton
Esther D, Kyran F and the view
Sat 11 Nov 2023 M Mangorei Circuit The five of us set off on the track to the Mangorei Waterfall area. By chance we happened upon the plane wreck first. The wreckage of the AS10 Oxford Airspeed is scattered in a small area with notices explaining that no items are to be removed or altered. The waterfall was the main attraction for the tramp but our climb up to the 1000 metre contour took priority. We tramped upwards, resting several times before reaching our target 1000 m elevation ridge. The serene quality of the light in the bush struck us as we paused at the side track for a bite to eat. Our left turn took us over some challenging terrain eventually crossing two small, rocky streams feeding into the Mangorei basin. The low canopy around us was a pleasure to cross, though we needed care at every step of the way. We descended the next main track, crossing boulders in a large feeder stream. A short march through fern-filled tracks, took us past our plane wreck again and on to the waterfall (photo page 31). The waterfall had a huge effect on two of our hydrophilic trampers (hydrophilic meaning a strong attraction for water). They leapt into the pool at its base and after two minutes of ecstasy (or was it just so bone-chilling?) they leapt out again. By this time, we were all feeling the effect of tramping in difficult country and the final 3 km to the car didn’t feel as wonderful as when we walked it coming in. Trampers today were Keith Coughtrey, Robin Bridger, Mike Donaldson, Dilum Dissanayaka and Rebeccah Olley. ~ Mike Donaldson
Fern-filled "tracks" on the Mangorei Circuit tramp
Thurs 9 Nov 2023 Club Night: Taranaki Rescue Helicopter Hangar Visit Over 40 NPTC members found their way to the helicopter hangar and pad at the back of Taranaki Base Hospital to meet members of the rescue team, and their helicopter, on the November club night. One of the pilots spoke to us first. He outlined the sort of work they do, the challenges of the job and then answered questions. The Taranaki team is one of several crews in the central North Island. They work together. For example, the helicopter we saw was not the usual one, as it was in Auckland for an overhaul. The current one is on loan from one of the other centres. Four of the rescue team made themselves available to us: a pilot, two support crew and a medic. The crewmen work as spotters, winchmen, and assistants to the medic. The crewman I spoke to was also training as a medic. He said this was being encouraged as it made them more versatile. Two of the four we met had military backgrounds. It was interesting to hear that when a PLB is activated it pings to Hawaii, then Wellington, then to the team nearest to the activation. The Maunga is only 20 minutes from Base Hospital, Hamilton Hospital is 40 minutes and Auckland and Wellington hospitals are an hour away. A large proportion of their work is ferrying people to other hospitals. The number of people who can be carried partly depends on how much fuel needs to be on board for the flight, as there is a weight limit for the aircraft. We were then invited to have a look at the helicopter up close and chat to the flight team. This encouraged informal discussion and questions. It was an informative hour (from 7pm-8pm) on a lovely evening. Several people brought their children, and I would encourage this on our next visit. ~ Ngaire Riley, Club Secretary
Club President Alasdair Nicoll introduces a Taranaki Rescue Helicopter pilot.
As a club, we are very grateful to the work this team undertakes and acknowledge how much we rely on the service. The NPTC gives an annual donation based on the number of club members to the Rescue Helicopter Trust, as well as an additional donation every time we use their service. Not a service we aim to use, but an acknowledgement that even with the best intentions and safest practice, accidents do happen. ~ Julia Collins, Club Captain
Wed 8 Nov 2023 E Ararata, Makino Valley Road Walk Seventeen turned up for this 15 km walk. The countryside with its green hills was looking lovely and the farmhouses with their established trees and well cared for gardens likewise, and so many different farm animals. We saw lambs, newborn calves and their mother looking so healthy and well fed, goats and horses and foals. The last hill back to the cars was steep and long. Graham came and picked up the stragglers. We finished up at Malone’s in Stratford for a well-earned drink. ~ Christine Feigler
Sun 5 Nov 2023 Pete’s Cycle Tours – Lepperton Loop On a beautiful Spring Sunday morning I cycled down to meet my fellow garden travellers – Keith and Marie, Diane, John, Robin and Sue. We quickly mounted up and made the short trip to our first stop, the Galleys Garden. Of note were the already productive raised veggie gardens, the use of ivy as ground cover and the turtles in the wetland area. The garden was superbly divided into sunny and shady, planted and wooded areas. Around the corner into Smith St, we reached Olde Thyme, the compact Fringe Festival Garden of Keryn and Ian Stothard. This little garden is one of my favourites and I have visited it many times. There is always something new to find here packed into this tiny space. Morning tea was taken at the Lepperton Café, a real gem since it re-opened, and very popular with cyclists. Well-fortified, we chugged up the hill to Lepper’s Garden, quite often visited by the Club. Graeme was very welcoming, and we wandered around the large garden finding little hideaways, nooks and trails, and many well-established shade trees. Some people I noted took advantage of the complimentary tea and coffee for a second morning tea, before we headed off on the long haul on Manutahi Rd, crossing SH3A and turning down Corbett Road for the flat-out downhill run across the bridge to the Naus’ Riverlea. Vince welcomed us at the gate despite being in the process of organising the rescue of a campervan that had run off his driveway. I love his garden, and admiring the huge globe artichokes and the neinei, the native Dracophyllum, so hard to grow in a garden situation. Someone asked me about the pretty blue flowers planted along a border, and I was surprised to find they were garlic chives, unusually used as an ornamental. We found a shady table by the river for our lunch before a short cycle next door for a berry fruit ice cream. Some people had second ice creams, having already purchased one from the stall at Vince’s. From Riverlea it was a lovely rural ride down Corbett Rd, turning into Ninia Rd which joins Te Arei Rd for our final stop, Millfield, FF17. Again, another of my favourites. I love the contorted hazelnut (I’m told it fruits) and the massive grapevine, thick as a ship’s hawser. There are some lovely shady spots in this garden, with complimentary afternoon tea. They also had a plant sale, featuring the very stinky corpse flower, a type of Arum lily. Back out to Richmond Rd we finished the loop to the church – a great ride in great company. ~ Peter Winter
The garden cyclists
Sun 5 Nov 2023 M Loop from Carrington Road It was clear and calm as we burrowed into the bush off Carrington Road. There were some fairly large windfalls to negotiate on the bottom part of the Timaru Track. Out of the bush the track was still easy to follow – just had a bit of shortish, scrub bashing to do to get onto the top section of Dover. Had clouded over quite a lot by this time and were experiencing fairly wild changes in temperature – especially at the trig. Cloudy windy moments could be followed quite quickly by sunny, calm patches. Were lucky to get some good views over the countryside to the north and over Pou?kai Hut. The hole at the top of Kiri Peak seems to have normalized now. A few years back, we’d arrived to a blackened and slightly desecrated looking scene with charred bits of leatherwood and vegetation spread around, as if there had been a lightning strike. Had some steep places that were also slippery from the rain the previous day. Also had large windfalls closer to Pukeiti – just a couple of ridges across from the other ones. Along today were Ashley Butler, Allison Wilkins, Carol Stewart and Keith Coughtrey. ~ Denis Goodwin
Wed 1 Nov FE Kaiauai - Mahood Lowe Circuit This tramp involved a short car shuttle between the Mahood Lowe Reserve and Rahiri Cottage so that was sorted out using our Club Shuttle Organiser before we left Wallace Place, easy as! Kevin C and Anne K in Kevin’s car and myself and two others in my car drove to Alfred road end, parked mine, and left Anne to wait until Kevin returned and the rest of us went around to Rahiri Cottage in Kevin’s car. Kevin had to drive back to meet Anne. He was not wanting to complete the full circuit having recently had surgery. 7 women and 12 men started on the Waiwhakaiho Track and Kevin and Anne started up the Alfred. We kept in radio contact to give us an idea at what point we would meet. The weather was fine with no rain over night so it was fairly dry under foot. After veering left near the old, washed out suspension bridge junction, we proceeded up beside the river, crossed two small streams and after an hour stopped for morning-tea break, ‘best time of the day’. Moving on, at 11.30 am Kevin checked in to inform us that they had reached the Kaiauai - Alfred junction, while we still had 30 minutes to go to the Waiwhakaiho - Kaiauai junction, and then another hour or so to get to the point where they were. After we crossed the Waiwhakaiho suspension bridge (which took 21 minutes, one by one) we decided to fuel up with lunch at the Kokowai track junction. Kevin and Anne could have a long rest and wait for us. Having had a relaxing lunch break we moved on and 30 to 40 minutes later we could hear Kevin and Anne chatting and we all met at the Alfred junction. A quick count up, 21 ‘happy hikers’. Steady progress was made down a mostly easy grade and easy to follow, not so used track. The bush here was lush and a pleasure to be walking through. There were quite a few obstacles to negotiate though. When you can see the old fire pit, you know you’re almost out. Over the stile and a short walk in the sunlight to the car and a comfortable seat. Roughly 6 hours walking and 1 hour for stops. Good day, tired feet and legs, no injuries. I think we should put this one in the programme another time. Thanks to John D for being my contact person and everyone else who was happy to come along on the day. Thanks also to GT and John S for helping me correct a minor mishap! ~ John Fisher
Sat 28 Oct 2023 M Kaitake range – Wairau Track loop What a day out in the Taranaki hills, we’re so lucky to live here. And on a sunny day like today it was a joy to share it with Laura, Carol, Darryl, Graeme, Alison, Mike D., Richard and David (from Tasmania). Starting at the top of Wairau Road in Oakura we charged straight ahead, onwards and upwards. It was a chilly start to the day but we were soon pulling off layers as the Kaitake hills worked on our muscles and the sun bit down above the bush. After about an hour we took a rest on the rocky outcrop that looks out across to Goat Rock and the sparkling coast. Then it was on and up to the Waimoku track where we made a quick visit to Frank’s Café. No coffee but the views were energising. Heading up to the trig was a good bit of fitness training, up and up. But lying on the grass up there in the sun with 360º views, who could complain? There’s a cache box there with a notebook, food, hiker’s wool and even beer. We decided to split into two groups from here as some were finding the climb a bit much. Graeme T, as always, stepped up and offered to lead the smaller group down the Davies Track, an easier option. The rest of us carried on and ascended Kaitake Peak where we lay in the sun (again) gazing at the Maunga during a lazy lunch. Then it was down, down, down to Goat Rock which we climbed for a peek at the views. But it quickly got chilly in the breeze, so off we went again, down to lower altitudes where Nikau palms and grass paddocks awaited. Soon we were crossing the Wairau Stream with just one hill left to climb. Back on the Wairau Track it was a pleasant stroll down to the cars. Thanks to all who joined in, it was fun. Thanks also to Julia for being my contact, and to GT who is always great to have in the team. ~ Keith Coughtrey
Maunga backdrop to the group photo at the trig.
Sun 22 Oct 2023 Ihaia Road to Dawson Falls A great tramp (hike?) with Scott, Yumi and Miyuki. We were also accompanied as far as Waiaua Gorge hut by Graeme, Jane and Noel. Many thanks to them for shuttling our car to Dawson Falls. As we drove along Wiremu Road the mountain looked glorious in the sun, but of course the south side can be a bit different. We started at the Ihaia Road car park and followed the tracks towards the hut. It was a lovely walk up the Waiaua River bed but the track in general could do with some work. Our three companions did some great pruning, so the track is now better than we found it. From the hut the four of us descended the steel ladder into the deep, dark gorge and crossed the Waiaua River to begin the long ascent through beautiful bush with great views of Brames Falls. It was jackets on / jackets off, hot and sweaty / cold in the breeze as the cloud began to push in across the ridge. We found a great sunny spot for lunch just below the final grunt up to Bob’s Bluff. The track up there is eroded and muddy but it was dry enough that we only had a couple of slips. From the Bluff we carried on through the golden tussock with the clouds coming and going and rain threatening and receding. While the weather kept changing, one thing remained constant – cheerful banter between us in Japanese and English. I can even say Konnichiwa, daijobu, arigato. There are great gullies full of moss-covered rocks and lava flows which mean a lot of ups and downs for a tramping crew. From the Lake Dive turnoff the clouds had smothered any chance of seeing the lake but didn’t unleash too much of the wet stuff. It’s always a bit knee-jolting coming down the Dawson Falls steps for the oldest member of the team, but great to see the car waiting for us at the end. Many thanks to all for a great day out and to Julia for being our contact. Loved it. ~ Keith Coughtrey
Descent to the gorge
Sat 21 Oct 2023 TAKT York Road Loop As usual our regular trip to York Road proved popular with the kids. Heaps of fun exploring the remains of the old quarry and crusher sites. Of course the tunnel proved popular with both kids and adults clambering through the pipe! Lunch in the sun by the swing bridge allowed plenty of time to cross and recross the bridge a few times. After lunch it was a quick trip back down the old service road with eyes peeled for supplejack vines strong enough to support our Tarzan wanabes. This is a really fun family walk and was enjoyed by all. ~Jo-anne Mowat
Sat 21 Oct 2023 North Egmont Native Orchid Exploration After meeting up at North Egmont VC in fine and balmy weather (despite the sea of mist below us), and discovering various connections, our group of ten set off on the Ngatoro Loop Track. Before arriving at the prime terrestrial orchid spotting zone around the Maketawa Track junction, ferns were the order of the morning, starting with the Blechnum genus (seven species seen). At the junction, we found only one set of tightly furled orchid leaves just poking out of the moss, so off down the Maketawa Track we went to see what we could find. Many pairs of eyes gave us more chances of discovery, and at last, yes! (much to the relief of yours truly), first one tiny, 3-4cm high, greenhood, Pterostylis venosa, then another, and another – and then one of the highlights of the day, a group of nine. The leaves of the odd-leaved orchid (Aporostylis bifolia) had partly emerged from the moss, so another visit in a month or so could be worthwhile. Back to the junction and on up the Ngatoro Loop, with many stops to admire more of the tiny greenhoods, and odd-leaved orchid leaves, until our first spider orchid, Corybas acuminatus, growing out of moss on the rocks in the path. Only a few were in flower, but they impressed. Groups of young leaves give promise of more flowers to come over the next few weeks. After this, it was a leisurely walk up through the mountain cedars, with more fern identification, this time the filmy ferns, before lunch in the sun at the rocky area where the track comes out on the Translator Road. On the roadside bank under Blechnum novae-zelandiae we spotted another highlight, the calceolaria relative, Jovellana repens, not in flower but worth checking in a month or so. Cutting through to the Round the Mountain Track it was up the steps keeping a good look-out on the banks at eye level each side until – yes – orchid leaves and then flowers of the spider orchid, Corybas confusus, on top of the right hand bank at the ‘first bend’. After much admiring and photographing, onwards and upwards we toiled. What else might we find? Aha! About 20 minutes later we found the pale flowers of the tiny and very cute Corybas walliae, and not just one, but many. It could well have been peak flowering time for this species. Also present were a few more C. confusus flowers! Once the photographers were satisfied we continued up to the Lookout, hoping to perhaps see some greenhoods, but no, too early for that. When we emerged into the open, it was a surprise to see an ominous grey cloud in the direction of the mountain, after the bright sunshine and clear skies we’d had most of the day. After a snack stop it was back down to the carpark at a smart pace, feeling well satisfied with our outing, and with some of us planning another visit in a month or so. Thanks to Ngaire, Anne, Sue, and Kev (NPTC), and Mick, India, Thomas, Sandra and Gonzalez (Taranaki Botany Group) for your enthusiastic company. ~ Barbara Hammonds
Greenhood orchid, Pterostylis venosa
Sat 21 Oct 2023 M Loop from Alfred Track It was a bit tricky getting to the start of the track, but we did have instructions (from in hospital) to follow. Once over a fence and a bit higher up, we had blue markers and stoat traps to follow. Were also tracking along the Waiwhakaiho River for a while. The main track from Kaiauai car park to Henry Peak track was pretty obvious when we clambered onto it. Followed along this to the shelter, encountering a couple of tramping pairs who were making their way through from Pou?kai Hut. Returned over the swingbridge, looking for our turnoff near the top of the climb. Were mainly onto downhill now, tracking along the Kai Auahi (just to be difficult) Stream. Had some quite large windfalls to decipher and negotiate on this section. We were into bright sunshine after crossing the fence, for the trundle along the boundary back to the cars. Enjoying ideal tramping conditions today were Mary Hutching, Carol Stewart and Allison Wilkins. ~ Denis Goodwin
Wed 18 Oct 2023 FE Lockheed Ventura Crash Site A RNZAF Lockheed Ventura plane was on a training flight from Ohakea on 3 October 1944 when it crashed in Egmont National Park killing all five onboard. The plane crashed in dense bush approximately 1.5km inside the park boundary inland from Opunake. 16 of us turned up at the end of the Kina Road for the walk to the crash site. We followed a farm track from the car park to Kopac Lodge, and then entered the bush to follow a well-marked and recently cleared track to the crash site. At times the track demanded an up-and-down scramble. It also required us to cross the Taungatara Stream which had risen from recent rain. The stream crossing was the most challenging part of the trip but, by assisting each other, our happy group managed the stream crossing and other obstacles with ease. Fortunately, the forecast rain never arrived and although stream crossings guaranteed wet feet, we all stayed warm and dry. Our group arrived at the crash site after a two and a half hour walk and explored the site to see the scattered engine parts, pieces of wing etc. Moss and lichen covered the trees and partially obscured the wreckage. We zig-zagged back to Kina Road the same way as we came, arriving at the cars mid-afternoon. It was a very enjoyable trip thanks to all those in our cheerful group. Members of the group were Carrie S, Graeme and Lyn T, Joe C, Jane and Noel M, John H, Lorraine E, Lesley P, Chris P, Robin B, Wally B, Ross H, John F, John R and me. My thanks to Jo-anne Mowat and her TAKT team for the recent track work and track guidance. Thanks also to Graeme Taylor for minding the rear of our group, and to our contact Lester Barnes. ~ John Sutton
Thurs 12 Oct 2023 Club Night: Plant & Tramping Equip. Buy, Sell, Exchange Dusting off the old boots and packs, potting up seedlings and cuttings, members came along with their contributions for the plant sale and tramping equipment buy, sell, exchange meeting. A club night with a different approach allowed people plenty of time to mingle and chat amongst themselves. It was fantastic to see many new members attend, as well as members of the public. Probably the club night I have seen the most new faces at. Huge appreciation to those who provided plants for the night, especially Ngaire Riley and Kevin Curd – whose plants contributed to half the number (at least) in the room. Overall, a successful event with $491.40 being raised for our choice of charity. This year the East Taranaki Environment Collective benefited from the generous donations. Their good work with predator trapping and protecting native fauna in the East Taranaki region is something we all benefit from. Hearing an update on their projects might just be a club night in 2024. ~Julia Collins
Wed 11 Oct 2023 E Whanganui Heritage Walk 23 of us in two Rent a Dents went to Whanganui, now a UNESCO City of Design, part of the Creative Cities network. We had morning tea at Moutoa Gardens on the steps of the WWI memorial to the M?ori battalion. Moutoa Gardens has plenty of colonial history. Mr Ballance who lost his head in the 1995 occupation of the gardens has been totally removed apart from the base which has his name on it. The Federal and Commercial hotels which reaped the harvest from the land sales are still there. We walked past the Masonic Lodge 1883, past the Tylee Cottage 1853, past the Sargeant Art Gallery still being earthquake proofed and extended and due to open in 2025, to the Peace Sculpture. We were welcomed into the old library now containing the archives by a M?ori lady who spotted us peering through the glass doors and gave us an interesting conducted tour. We headed across the river through the Durie Hill tunnel, and up the lift to lunch on the grass after a climb up the shell rock war memorial tower. Then to Cooks Gardens to the Carillon which plays on the hour daily and overlooks the race track where Peter Snell broke the one mile world record. Then we met Anique the creative community advisor at the Council Chambers where we sat on the councillors’ spinning chairs and viewed the stained glass windows depicting the history of Whanganui and listened to Anique’s informative talk. We also walked to the Opera House built in 1899, where we had a conducted tour right down into the basement. These are just some of the sites we saw and visited. Many thanks to Sharryn for organising the transport and Graeme for helping with the driving and Lyn for the containers of chocolate Rocky Roads we enjoyed on the way home. ~ Christine Feigler
Sun 8 Oct 2023 FE Curtis Falls to Ski-Field and back to Mountain House A challenging tramp set by Kevin Curd for the teenage members of NPTC. At Wallace Place the outlook was bright and promising as we filled the tramp book. Driving towards Midhurst a cloud of fine drizzle appeared and it stayed with us for the rest of our day. The weather began to bite as we descended into the Manganui Gorge and started the climb towards the first waterfall (Curtis Falls as shown on maps). You take this first one to the left and that’s what we did. At the second one we stopped for morning tea and the waterproofs started to appear as we stared at the imposing cataract (the water fanning out as it ran over the rock ledge). The ascent (on the right for this one) required plenty of agility, and everyone managed it in pretty quick order. (This was a good omen as I knew the fourth fall required a similar amount of wriggle to get up and over.) The next stretch was through a boulder-filled gorge all the way to the third fall. Manganui Gorge experienced massive slips about eighteen months ago which saw trees, mud and boulders of all sizes filling the space below, on a scale comparable to slips in the Stony (Hangatahua) River. The tramp became a boulder traverse, requiring a lot of effort and concentration. The drizzle became colder as we climbed. At last, we scaled the third fall on the left side (with a cute, tiny “plunge” pool at its base). Minutes later we scrambled over fall number four with an ascent on the right. This was a brute thrust through interlacing low bushes and once again no-one faltered! It became clear at this point that some of us were feeling the cold more than others. Graeme suggested the ski-field shelter as a place to have lunch and we all agreed to that. As we passed under the three power lines to the ski-field we knew we were level with the ski-field tunnel above us to the left. The mist was so dense we couldn’t make out the pair of wires above for the flying fox. Even in the Shelter we began to feel the cold. Lunch over, we descended as quickly as possible to the Plateau which was bleak and shrouded in mist. The return journey was down the Enchanted Track and five and a half hours after we had set out, we reached the Mountain House. Thanks to Graeme for his role at the rear and that of ace photographer. Commiserations to our teenagers who endured such poxy weather and kudos for Ashlee who was on her first ever club tramp. Those tramping today: Ashlee Butler, Graeme Taylor, Esther Denholm, Robin Bridger, Leonie Landsheer, Matthew Riley (Rocky), Kyran Fawkner and Mike Donaldson. ~ Mike Donaldson
Above the fourth fall.
Sat 7 Oct 2023 M Scrambler Track from Surrey Hill Road There was long grass either side of the fence line at the start of the climb – must have been shut for silage. It was a little way up into the bush before we came to the turnoff. Fairly undefined and difficult to follow at the start. This track is appropriately named but also showed a tendency to be a Wipeout Track on more than one occasion. But the landings were always reported to be soft. Expected to be secure on the main track before reaching Pirongiha Stream but with new tracks to act as distractions this wasn’t the case. Were into backtrack mode before reaching the real problem area. With the plethora of new tracks we kind of knew what to expect in the next section, but somehow ended up going the wrong way along the right track. Seemed to have a happy bunch along today in: Julia Buttimor, Allison Wilkins, Carol Stewart, Pam and Len Rodenburg, Kevin Reilly and Derek Andrews, with everyone helping to get us lost and unlost. Were kind of wondering if we will have to stick to the Pou?kai. ~ Denis Goodwin
Wed 4 Oct 2023 Historic Boys’ High 31 walkers enjoyed viewing the magnificent Pridham Hall at New Plymouth Boys’ High School, built in 1917 - 1919 in Edwardian Freestyle architectural style. It was named after Ernest Pridham, who was the first Headmaster at the school, from 1882 to 1911. We then went on to the famous amphitheatre at Gully Ground, classrooms, and Ryder Hall (named after Tom Ryder who was Principal from 1979 to 1995) and the Museum. From the school we walked down to the Te H?nui Cemetery and eventually back to Timandra Street. ~ Karen Eagles
NPBHS walkers.
Wed 4 Oct 2023 FE Tahurangi Lodge Circuit On a picture-perfect day 10 keen trampers turned up to keep me company on this tramp. It was a rather cool morning but no ice on the road up to North Egmont. Snow had been forecast to be at 900m but there was no sign of it at the carpark and there appeared to be not much fresh snow higher up. A large group of trampers were heading for a day on the mountain when we arrived and it turned out they were from the Whanganui Tramping Club and were going to do the Maketawa Hut loop in an anticlockwise direction. We passed each other a couple of times on the way up the Translator Track. After a pow wow at the Hut turn off at the bottom of the Puffer, we set our sights on the climb ahead! It’s fair to say it didn't disappoint. We got into lovely white soft snow at the S bends but there were a lot of red faces and lots puffing going on by the time we reached Tahurangi Lodge. The views were absolutely stunning, the central mountains were very visible above a distant bank of fluffy white cloud and many stops were required to enjoy the vistas and remove layers as the bright sun meant it was plenty warm! We had made pretty good time so carried on to Jacobs Ladder before stopping for a lengthy lunch break. It was with quite a bit of reluctance we put our packs back on and headed down to the carpark. Ice creams, for some, were much appreciated once back at the Visitor Centre. The Whanganui crew were there and very excited about their day. It was great to have new member Wayne B, and newish members John and Helen M with us today. Thanks to Noel M for being our back marker and to John Depree for being our contact. ~ Graeme Taylor
It wasn’t fresh snow, but it was still welcome.
Sat 30 Sept 2023 Outdoor Accident and Emergency workshop, Durham Hall Instructors: Gail Geange and Terry Baldwin from OTNZ (Outdoor Training New Zealand) On a very cold, blustery, wet day at the end of September, ten willing learners put themselves in the very capable hands of Gail Geange and Terry Baldwin, to learn some coping skills in emergency situations, especially in the bush. Some of us became patients with realistic looking burns, blood, bruises and stories to match. In one role play, "Rescuers” found Wesley Bell in the woodshed at the hall, with an axe, a couple of empty beer bottles, a “badly cut leg” and a story of “chopping wood, a drinking problem and an unsympathetic wife!” The responders had to apply real bandages or use whatever was in their packs to manage the situation. We were capably side-coached by Gail and Terry as we muddled through, learning as we went. This was the best sort of learning: hands on, addressing a variety of situations, and swapping roles during the day so we all had the opportunity to be the medic, the group leader and the notetaker. What were some of the takeaways? Ensure your personal safety first – remove the axe! Talk to the injured person and clarify what happened and what hurts. Check for all injuries, not just the one(s) they point out. Consider the worst scenario – how will we manage if we have to stay here the night, is the river likely to rise, can the patient be moved? Write down information about the person: age, medical history and the results of regular checks of pulse and breathing. (We all learned that there is a pulse in the foot that can be checked – to ensure that blood is getting to the foot in the case of a bad leg break). In the stress of the situation, information can be forgotten. Did you know that hypothermia is the biggest killer in the outdoors? So, we worked on keeping the patient warm and ensuring that there was warmth under the patient, as well as on top. We practised putting a person into a recovery position and learned a helpful technique to manoeuvre an unresponsive person into a sleeping bag. Huddling close and using a tent-fly over everyone creates a dry environment and quickly warms the bodies underneath. It may take 24 hours before help arrives. My best takeaways from the day: for burns, place the burn in cold water for 10 –30 minutes. Rain puddles work; Gladwrap a burn. (We all vowed to go home and cut off a 10cm section of a gladwrap cylinder and keep it in our pack.) It does not stick to the wound and keeps it sterile. If the burn is not painful it means the flesh is cooked! And a final note to remember, use the patient's gear not your own! If they are airlifted, or carried out by a SARS team, they will not stop to give you back your gear and you may find yourself without clothing, sleeping bag and poles, as you walk the long way home. Everyone who took the course found the practical learning extremely memorable and helpful. The Club pays for members to attend these courses, run by Gail and Terry from OTNZ. Don't miss the next course when it is offered. We all learnt heaps. ~ Ngaire Riley, Secretary
Wesley Bell deserved an Oscar for this performance!
Wed 20 Sept 2023 FE K?k?wai Circuit The day dawned a dull grey. While everyone was organising themselves with rides, I was working out cars and shuttles. One of us was checking the webcam at North Egmont Visitors’ Centre and wow - bright blue sky and sparkly white snow. I welcomed two new members. Nineteen of us set out from the Visitors’ Centre and made our way up the Holly Hut track to re-group at the lookout which allowed those that wanted a blowout to power their way up. The lookout is quite the meeting place as three other parties passed through while we were there. About 20 minutes after setting off again I got a call from Graeme who was looking after the tail end saying that one of our group was struggling and wanted to turn back. Fortunately, she had her car at North Egmont and I had an empty back seat so could take her passengers back. She rang me when she got back to her car and assured me she was OK but just not ready for the top end of FE. We stopped at the old Jacob’s Ladder junction for morning tea and basked in the gorgeous day and spectacular views. It was then onwards and upwards as we ambled along the Round the Mountain Track, the moderate pace allowing for sightseeing and the odd photo. At the Boomerang Slip I reminded everyone that we needed to spread out for safety so there was one finishing, one in the middle and one starting. (Some listened). As it was only 11.20 am by the time we got to the K?k?wai Junction (go us) we had a drink break then headed down the less structured K?k?wai track for about 30 minutes. Thankfully there had been no recent rain so the track was not overly slippery, unlike the day we did the recce. We had lunch on a ridge overlooking the ochre deposits in the valley far below and above the shining white mountain. We are sure we saw two groups on the snow heading up. After lunch we dropped down into the bush for the last couple of hours. Some were pleased to have a bit of shade from the sun. This tramp took 5 ½ hrs which was not fast, but with 18 in the group it was expected. I would like to thank all my fellow trampers for a wonderful day, especially Graeme for making sure no one got left behind and for the radios and PLB which I had forgotten to collect from Hunting & Fishing. Also for checking in with our new members making sure they had the right gear before we left and were doing okay during the tramp. Thanks also to John Depree for being my contact. When I got home, I played phone tag with our 19th tramper for a while but finally we connected and again she assured me she was fine had enjoyed her day and would work on building her fitness as she was enjoying being a member of our club. ~ Claire Chamberlain
Sun 17 Sept 2023 TAKT Te Popo Gardens It was a blustery day with showers threatening but it didn’t put us off. Six families (12 adults and 10 children) arrived at the Te Popo Gardens ready for some exploring and we weren’t disappointed. The rain held off and we found shelter amongst this wild garden, were in awe of the wild South African animals living there and plenty of fun was had playing in the fairy garden. The dramatic river gorge of the Ahuroa Stream twists around the garden and bush walks provide a small tramping experience, including wind falls to negotiate and vines to swing on. ~ Jo-anne Mowat
Spring outing at Te Popo
Sat 16 Sept 2023 MA Waitaanga Exploratory An early start placed 11 of us at Waitaanga South Road on a clear, frosty morning at shortly after 8am. We walked across the paddocks once cleared and now planted in rather dead looking pine trees, to the bush edge where we followed the tram line to Falls Hut. Arriving for a late morning tea, we signed the book and chatted to a hunter who had stayed the night. Luckily, he was heading in the opposite direction to us. A short distance past the hut we located the service track which loops back towards Waitaanga Saddle and road. This was to be part of our circuit back to the bogey near the tram line. We followed this to a key junction where some of us went for a nosey to scout another potential trip, while others began their lunch. We had glorious weather for our lunch break, then continued following the track along the ridgeline in a northerly direction. There were plenty of newly laid trap lines, so perhaps the K?kako may be residing in this area. We then turned westerly and navigated our way along the ridgeline through many windfalls, popping out onto the tram line a short distance from the bogeys as planned. On our return across the farmland to the vehicles, we spied a deer watching us intently from the bush edge, before stealthily sneaking back from where it had come. Many thanks to those who came along on this Waitaanga exploration, Joe C, Mark R, Basil C, Keith C, Barbie H, Carolien V, Mike G, Steve B and Len and Pam R. ~ Alan Doy
Resting at the end of the Waitaanga Exploration are Basil Cook, Mark Robbins, Pam and Len Rosenburg, Mike Guthrie, Joe Connor, Steve Boot, Keith Coughtrey, Caroline van Reekum and Alan Doy.
Thurs 14 Sept 2023 Club Night: 2023 Oxfam 100 km Trailwalkers Reliving the journey of a lifetime, Yumi Iwasaki and Rebecca Frechtling presented on the NPTC Wonderers 100 km Oxfam trailwalk. The challenge was completed as a team of four, including members Mark Robbins and Julia Collins, over Taranaki Anniversary weekend in March 2023. Yumi, team leader, recounted the adventure from its very conception to the reflections upon completion. Joy and exhaustion were shared in bucketloads with the full impact of the task summarised so well. Perfectly concluded with a video compilation by Rebecca. What stood out was how much of the task didn’t involve walking! Fundraising was an adventure in itself, with team members challenging themselves to come up with creative ideas. Then there was the trailwalk planning and support team, from fresh socks to plasters and hot chips – the team required so much to get through the challenge. Huge appreciation goes out to the dozens of club members who supported the team – baking for fundraising, purchasing raffle tickets, attending the quiz night, being part of the 10+ strong support team. For 24 hours the support crew operated like clockwork to ensure the team were catered for in every way. It surely was the challenge of a lifetime, and the team were so proud to represent the club in this way. ~Julia Collins
Sat 9 - Sun 10 Sept 2023 TAKT Maketawa Overnight Sadly a few families had to pull out due to other commitments and ill health but four adults and four children headed off from North Egmont carpark towards Maketawa Hut. With plenty of time we stopped to build rock piles in the Little Maketawa stream bed. The boys deciding to combine efforts to build a monster pile! Some big steps and ladders were negotiated on the way up, the kids leading the way, with me struggling to keep up. Plenty of fun at the hut, building forts etc. Ben and Allan took off for the afternoon exploring a hunters’ hut and dragging themselves back just in time for tea. Well done Ben, carrying all your own gear and cooking all your meals too! A fast, easy trek out via the Translator Track the next day. ~ Jo-anne Mowat
A Maketawa Hut overnighter is always fun for trampers of all ages
Sun 3 Sept 2023 FE NEVC to Rahiri Cottage Pam and Len Rodenburg had phoned and said they would meet us at the car park. We had six takers at Wallace Place making a party of eight. I was thankful for the chart (page 18) telling us how many cars were needed to organise for the shuttle. Leaving my car at Rahiri we crowded six into Graeme Taylor’s vehicle and headed up to the car park. I told the team it was nearly all downhill from here. I was not quite right and we did get a little puffed walking over to the Ram Track. The weather was beautiful and we enjoyed the outstanding views of our glorious mountain and the bush clad ranges. We discussed the possibility of walking from the Visitor Centre, down the Ram, over the swing bridge towards Kaiauai Shelter, turning onto the Alfred track then onto the proposed Waiwhakaiho Track which will follow the river all the way to the sea. It is planned but will it happen? We had lunch at the Waiwhakaiho - perimeter track junction then a quick 25 minute walk back to Rahiri, arriving around 1.30 pm. Others joining the tramp today were Karen Curd, Barry Dravitski, Kevin Harvey and Carrie Smith. Thanks to G T, our tail end Charlie. ~ Kevin Curd
Sat 2 Sept 2023 H Crampon Climb to Syme Hut It was looking like the ideal sunglasses and snow day - clear and calm. The plan was to leave early to climb while it was firm and return when it was soft. Were into ice and snow shortly after passing Hooker Shelter. There were footprints that had been made when it was soft but it soon became apparent that white could be slightly grippy but silver or ice was certainly more slippy. Made it to the Kapuni Lodge turnoff without crampons. The steps higher up were very different, with drifts of snow sloping steeply across them in places. They were covered completely towards the top so things became more straightforward then. From then on there were footprints that could be utilized or ignored but nearing Fanthams (also to be known as Panitahi – Ed) they became more icy and it seemed preferable to create your own. An experienced snow guy had beaten us up – had left at 3.30 am to see the sunrise, take photos and enjoy the conditions. Had just returned from the South Island after leading Ski Tour adventures. Had a different view of Syme Hut today. The ice was covering the southern side but had an ice cave at the base. Only had the top half of the door to climb through and this was a bit tricky with crampons and pack and being spring loaded to the closed position. They did have a form to step down onto. Was well shaded inside with the western window iced over. There was a gap to the ice on the northern side but a big block of ice broke off and crashed down against it while we were there. Must be bullet proof or close to it. Back outside the view was amazing. Were bits of cloud low over gullies but no haze to obscure the view in any direction. The central mountains were clear and South Island ranges visible. As always, it seemed fairly steep heading over the edge but there was no wind and just had to settle in to the best way (hopefully) to go about things. A bit further down when it got softer and maybe not so steep, it seemed a good time to try bum/hip sliding. Just needed a bit of a death grip on the ice axe and control on it and with the feet to come to a halt occasionally. The navigating wasn’t very good and needed to realign away from rocks a couple of times. Had to readapt to a more confined space on the steps. Also a bit more tricky with a steep slope in places. One foot high and the low one alternating between snow and wood – could be a little or a lot usable and had to be cautious not to trip. Getting close to Hooker Shelter we were back to the thin ice and water mix so it was off with the crampons. Along today was Steve Boot. Carol Stewart was eyeing the summit, but not so sure. The lower legs and feet seem to get a different sort of a workout with crampons. A bit under 3 hrs up and a bit over 6 hrs total. ~ Denis Goodwin
Sun 27 Aug 2023 FE York Road Discovery I had not done this tramp for a couple of years so was relying on memory to find several of the interesting items of the wonderful history emanating from this area. The first track we followed was the wrong one so had to turn back. After ten minutes we found the right track and came across the first of our targets. The next was to find the old railway track. We discovered the gem of history which really impressed those first timers. We then came out on the main track, so up we climbed to the Curtis Track junction. I told the team it was about twenty minutes (bad memory) - it was nearly one hour. We had our lunch and discussed visiting the mine shaft which was another twenty minutes (right this time). Although I was sure we were on the right track we failed to find the entrance to the mine. The place I thought it was had collapsed, so a disappointment for the team. We all set off back down, really enjoying the long downhill walk to the cars. Those looking for the adventure were J and N Moir, S and R Doherty, C Smith, C Paul, R Bridger and the Fawkner family, Mathew, Riley, Kuranda and their friend Esther Denholm. ~ Kevin Curd
Sat 26 Aug 2023 M Northern Semi-Circuit The car park at Kaiauai was popular - one space left after our arrival. It didn’t take long to warm up on the Ram Track on a cool and crisp morning. A steep section or two to get the lungs working. Also had clearings to see across to Henry Peak. Met one who had come across from Tahurangi but she hadn’t had any problems. We were into patches of snow/ice higher on the Holly Track but again – no problems. The bluff that can share a severe dousing could only muster a few drips today. It was a good clear day but a bit hazy - even at the K?k?wai turnoff we still couldn’t see Ruapehu and friends. Going down the K?k?wai we met a couple who were heading for the Ram Track – doing our trip in reverse. Doing half circles descending the steps near the bottom seemed a bit reminiscent of being in a lighthouse. Would have been a lot of work gone into them. Took a good break and cool down at the junction – with the background noise of the river. Were back at the start in 6 hrs total – all car parks taken. A young couple we had seen earlier and were packing their van were from France. But didn’t realize this till our international traveler, who had just been there, Allison Wilkins had taken off. Were planning to go to Holly the next day. Also making the most of a great day were Carol Stewart, Scott Tyler and Derek Andrews. ~ Denis Goodwin
Sun 13 Aug 2023 TAKT Te Waiora Forest and Bird Reserve Even with a forecast of wet weather and the rain teeming down, three families and two extra adults turned up for Peter Winter to show us around. But the rain stopped and our coats were not as necessary. There was plenty to see in this little reserve and Peter educated us on the history of fungi collection in Taranaki and had the children looking for critters in the trees. The mud was definitely enjoyed and though it wasn’t dry enough for a good picnic I think we all enjoyed the day.
An interesting day in the bush with Peter.
Sat 22 July 2023 FE Plateau to Waingongoro Hut Loop We left New Plymouth in sunshine and set off from the Stratford Plateau in light drizzle, hopeful the mountain would clear soon. Darrel made a great leader, constantly checking we stayed together and that no-one needed help on the sometimes challenging descent down the rather overgrown Enchanted Walk. Soon after we turned onto the Waingongoro Track, we descended to the river, and started the climb up the other side. We diverted to the track leading to one of many exploratory tunnels (photo on cover page) dug to investigate stone for local road construction and for the base of a planned railway to the Manganui Gorge. These tunnels are found on many of the main ridges from York Road through to Dawson Falls. However, in 1909, the rock from Waingongoro area was found to disintegrate when crushed and explorations in this area were abandoned. Initially, the tunnel proved elusive but on Libby’s heading back along the track, the entrance, although well disguised, was visible. The walls show evidence of the painstaking work needed to create the tunnel, which is in astonishingly good condition after over a century. We stopped at the main track for birthday cake to honour our nearly 83-year-old group member. Wading through shallow unbridged streams, we continued to the highest swing bridge in the park (24m above the Waingongoro River before it flows by Eltham and to the sea 5 km west of Hawera). Five more minutes took us to the Waingongoro Hut where most of us enjoyed lunch. Rain was falling more consistently as we set off through the forest towards the upper track but we made time for a quick visit to Wilkies Pools. Tall slender waterfalls were a highlight of the climb northeast through picturesque mountain totara and cedar leading back to the Plateau. Thanks to Darrel, Carrie and Derek for great company and constant smiles despite the drizzle and to Alan Doy for being our contact person. ~ Libby O’Connor and Martin Jones
Sat 12 – Sun 13 Aug Holly Hut Overnight via Mangorei Track or 'Follow your own Drum’ The freedoms a small group offers were fully utilised by the six who started on this trip, which was held as a 49th NPTC birthday celebration. Yumi Iwasaki Schroeder arrived with snow axe and helmet, keen to head beyond Holly Hut, and quickly disappeared up the track. Alasdair Nicoll's knees soon began to grumble and then complain, so at the Plymouth Track junction he turned back, after generously giving us the chocolate brownie he had bought to celebrate the birthday. Claire Chamberlain and Anne Kivell tramped on together, Barbara Hammonds botanized and photographed, and I followed the pace of my own drum. The weather was clear and pleasant over the Pouakai saddle and the snow crisp and crunchy. I successfully tried out my new micro-spikes as I walked down the icy steps to the Ahukawakawa swamp. What a joy it is to walk the Pouakai Crossing track now. Across the swamp it meanders and floats above murk and vegetation. Two fern birds called to each other as I enjoyed a late lunch on the boardwalk. Barbara took some of us on a plant identification wander in the afternoon. What knowledge that woman has! And so organised: recording sightings and sounds of birds, the times for the sections of her walk and the scores of our Five Crowns card game. We were joined at Holly Hut that night by six others, and the chocolate brownie was shared by all. Sunday's return was wet and windy. However, I still find it a joy to be well dressed for the elements and experience winter weather on the Maunga. ~ Ngaire Riley
Dressed for the elements, Ngaire Riley at Holly Hut.
Sat 12 Aug Plymouth Track to Tatangi It seemed a bit odd, heading to a snow tramp with the wipers going. This didn’t last too long and we didn’t need waterproof coats to get underway. Access was good at the start of Plymouth Track and we were into the snow by the bridges above Graylings Clearing on the Mangorei. The plateau above the hut was white and the mature consensus was it would be tricky climbing Tatangi and getting down off the trig for returning down Kiri Track. So we were off to the Tarns. The boardwalk was pretty much a continuous snow/ice trail and the puddles were mainly ice covered – about an inch thick and not strong enough to walk on. Were back in the hut when the other group heading to Holly for an overnighter started arriving. Yumi was well equipped with her snow/ice gear and was keen to give it a workout. Decided on an excursion off the Plymouth to Kiri Man to fill out the day. Riley was looking dapper at this point, wearing his thick, woolly looking moss hat. This added a couple of river crossings – the first being pretty straightforward. The second on Memory Lane was more of a challenge with only 2 trusting their boots and balance for a rock top crossing. Close to the end of the day the others settled on sploshing through the cold water. Even our agile balance specialist wasn’t interested in showcasing her skills. Along today were: Esther Denholm, Kyran and Riley Fawkner, Carol Stewart, Robin Grant and Derek Andrews. The young ones fronted well - as did the not so young today. Had been a bit over 8 hrs, start to finish. ~ Denis Goodwin
Wed 9 Aug Ihaia – Kahui Circuit We have a significant group that have traversed most of this circuit three times since the middle of June but that did not deter 17 trampers from turning up for another walk on a well-bridged part of the RMT. After organising the shuttle we all headed off to the Kahui Road end, where those in the shuttle car could hop into the other cars for the ride around to Ihaia Road. Started from there a little after 9am. Graeme Taylor kindly offered to be the leader and I took the role of back marker with the other radio. We made good progress up the Ihaia Track and had morning tea by the rimu tree which continues to grow beautifully. Continued on past the junction for Waiaua Gorge Hut to the Oaonui Hut site where we had a short break. We did not go to the wreck of the Avro Anson on this trip. Had lunch at a nice spot on the Oaonui track, albeit a little dampish, before continuing on to the Okahu Stream where there was no rock hopping but wet feet. Arrived at the Kahui Track junction at 1.45pm and were at the Kahui Road end just before 3pm. A big thankyou to Graeme, to all the drivers and to all who participated. A great day despite the mud, rain, hail and wet feet. ~ John Depree
Sat 5 Aug Maude Henry Circuit As ten of us departed there was not a cloud in the sky, although on beginning our tramp up Maude Track we were encouraged to keep moving due to a cool southeasterly. Eventually we partook in late morning tea in the lee of Maude Peak. Making our way up to Henry Peak we were rewarded with an absolutely magnificent 360° vista, Mt Taranaki dominant in her splendour. We backtracked 50 metres heading north to descend the ridge where we encountered more splendid views, this time of Inglewood and beyond. The route steepened and on reaching our first river crossing a broad open ridge to the 600m contour lulled my party into a false sense of normality. Don't be fooled! Our route soon became incised with many steep and narrow water courses as well as numerous windfalls to negotiate. We all reached our vehicles at Maude Track start feeling most satisfied after a 7½ hour trip. Many thanks to my great group of fellow trampers and to Kev Curd my contact. Those who came along were Carol S, Denis G, Robin B, Angela R, Bernie W, Libby O, Martin J, Miyuki E and Mike D. ~ Alan Doy
Wed 2 Aug Central Parks, New Plymouth Eleven of us headed off into a day of wind rain and hail to St Mary’s Church where we went to Te Whare Hononga (the house that binds) where we were met by Jennifer, the office lady who took us on an informative and interesting tour to the renovated Vicarage and into the Cathedral now seven years closed, with huge costs ahead for restoration. We walked to Pukekura Park for morning tea on the band stand but it was taken over by a boxing group so we ended up on the dry Brooklands Bowl stage. The walkway took us through the rugby park and across Carrington St, through more bush to Frankley Road and down into Kauri and Kahikatea bush, planted in memory of the early settlers. Then up through more walkways to Francis Douglas Memorial College and not a soul to be seen, then down Omata Road to the walkway through to Devon St up the hill to Lynmouth Park and through the Paulownia walkway and yet more walkways to Wallace Place. Officially 13kms but someone’s watch said 18kms. ~ Christine Feigler
Sun 30 Jul TAKT Ratapihipihi/Barrett Lagoon Six families met at Ratapihipihi Reserve (11 adults and 11 children in total) in dubious weather but the weather held and we enjoyed the stunning Ratapihipihi reserve without getting wet! With so many new families, a kick around with the football soon had us getting to know each other and then we headed down the track with the children leading. We soon learnt how trees were sawn up before chainsaws and how to find the age of the many beautiful Nikau in the reserve. Found fungi, learnt about widow-making epiphytes, strangler Rata and what lives on dead trees…. Back at the carpark three families drove on to Davies Road and walked to Barrett Lagoon for lunch. Seemed all the runners came with us, with running up every peak we could find, climbing trees and hiding from the adults! Rather spoilt to see swan cygnets, eels and hear the booming call of the elusive Matuku-h?repo (Australasian bittern). A relaxing amble (the adults) as we headed back to the cars and the end of our trip. Thanks to Sally for stepping in and helping on the day. ~ Jo-anne Mowat
Climbing!
Wed 19 Jul Monarch Butterflies, Mangati Walkway Fifteen Walkers, Easy and Fit Easy, turned up. We found the butterflies at the top of the Walkway, hundreds of them, flying around, sunning themselves on the Banksia and variegated Pohutukawa trees where they come to this warm sheltered valley by the sea. Sharryn from her couch sent information, as she belongs to the Butterfly and Moth Society. They tag the wings of the Monarch so they can track where they go in the winter. Paper Wasps are a big threat to them as they eat the eggs, caterpillars and chrysalis. As Sharryn believes in the humane killing of all creatures, she puts the nest in a plastic bag at night when they are asleep and pops it in the deep freeze. But Wesley the vet who has been stung many times uses fly spray. Morning tea was at the picnic tables on Bell Block Beach and then it was down on the rocks to the lower walking track. The bridge was closed for maintenance so we cut down to the inlet and walked to the sea where we spied the Dotterels, rare and endangered, scurrying along the high tide mark. We stood and watched them for a few minutes and then walked along the beach to the picnic tables where we caught up with the flat surface walkers and John with a group who had shot up the bank into the scrub as we appeared to be running out of the sand and into rocks. John was bleeding from the knees down. He must have been caught in a blackberry bush but he had a big grin. We walked back to the cars and were greeted on the way by a lady on a mobility scooter who asked us what retirement village we came from, which was a little deflating, but it was a lovely day. ~ Christine Feigler
Thurs 13 Jul Club Night: Southern Explorers II Completing the epic Southern Explorers adventure of 2022, Keith Coughtrey, Mike Guthrie and Carolien van Reekum presented an account of their journey across Gillespie Pass, Waterfall Face and Rabbit Pass. Accessed via Makarora, Young, Siberia, Wilkin and Matukituki Valleys. This one-way journey is truly a once in a lifetime encounter. The infamous Rabbit Pass and Waterfall face are to be treated with extreme caution ‘Not a trip for bunnies’, ‘Rabbit Pass has a fearsome reputation. Its waterfall face ascent is notorious’ (Wilderness Mag). However, there are plenty of return trips around these features that many a tramper can still enjoy without white-knuckles and bated breath. Siberia Valley and Crucible Lake being a highlight. ~ Julia Collins Rabbits are best dished up in pie Not upon a mountain high Waterfalls and cascades fall with grace It was time to climb, was this really the place? Gripping rock and earth tightly A fall to death seemed so likely At eye level falcons soar Had man really walked this path before Felt like walking on the moon Reality kicked in all too soon The turquoise river was a sight to behold Had we really grown seven days old? A magical place to have been But not a rabbit was ever seen. ~Poem by Mike Guthrie, Keith Coughtrey, Carolien van Reekum and Julia Collins
Wed 12 Jul Mid-Winter Lunch The Wednesday Walkers group met at Sun World Restaurant to walk for two hours along the Coastal Walkway to Fitzroy and back via various walkways, before enjoying lunch at the restaurant. ~ Janet Durdle
A change from the usual trampers’ lunch
Sun 9 Jul FE Ihaia - Kahui Circuit Eight trampers turned up for this tramp, all hoping for a pleasant wander from Ihaia Track road end along the Oaonui Track to the Kahui Track road end. The weather forecast was not too bad and a farmer contact who lives near Upper Ihaia road assured me at 7am, that although it was foggy, there had been no overnight rain and things were pretty dry! Well little did he know... as we drove through Okato the drizzle started and was with us for most of the day. Turns out farmers are no better at predicting the weather than meteorologists! So it was on with the rain coats and away we went in surprisingly good spirits. We stopped at the "large rimu tree" for morning smoko, then carried on to the old Oaonui Hut site and then to the Avro Anson plane wreck for a quick look around. The crash site is getting a bit overgrown and there seems to be less of the plane to see each time we visit. We returned to the hut site and had a quick lunch stop. It is hard to believe that the hut was dismantled in 1984 because it was feared it would get washed away by the Oaonui Stream! We carried on along the Oaonui Track to the Kahui Track junction. The Okahu Stream had more water in it than when we were there with the mid-week group four weeks earlier but was an easy cross apart from most getting wet feet (if they weren't wet already). A short refuel stop then off down the Kahui Track to the shuttle car, and all were back at Sanders Park by 4.30pm. It was a great day despite being pretty damp and very wet and muddy under foot in places. It was very pleasing to have three younger members join us today. Kyron and Riley F and Esther D, all students at Spotswood College. They were great company and Riley's knowledge of edible plants was very impressive. He had the leader eating "hounds tongue" like there was no tomorrow! Thanks also to John S, Claire C, Wally B, Barry R and John D, who was my tail, for their company, and to John F for being my contact and also doing the Ihaia Track recce with me. - Graeme Taylor
The gang at the Oaonui Hut site. Barry R, John S, Claire C, John D, Esther D, Kyron F and Riley F
Sat 8 Jul Mt Humphries Direct It was still quite damp as thirteen of us left our Wallace Place assembly point at 6:30am. However, on arrival at Aotuhia the sky was clear. Our tramp start was 8:45am where parts of the farm track were so gluggy our boots became heavy with mud. Never mind, the day was glorious, with not a drop of rain or breath of wind and our company was awesome. We followed the Whangamomona Road along the true right bank of the Whangamomona river to where it joins the Kurapete Road. Our route to Mt Humphries (Whakaihuwaka) 730m, followed the Kurapete along a cleared track with an easy grade and views over to Round Hill and Aotuhia. We partook of morning tea in a location where the birds, also enjoying the fine weather, were singing, chirping, and flitting about in the canopy above. Three and a half hours after our start, and shortly before midday, we reached the Matemateaonga Walkway (Kurapete Junction). From here we followed the ridge directly to the summit, steepening as we reached the sedimentary rock bluff caked in fossils. Amazing! Before long we were lunching in sunshine, overlooking a magnificent vista of Aotuhia, the distant Republic of Whangamomona and snowcapped Ruapehu. We returned to the cars by the same route, enjoying once again the splendid bird song including Tui, Bell Bird, Fantail, Tomtit and Grey Warbler. We were so fortunate that our tramp taking eight and quarter hours was all in fine weather. Many thanks to those who came along on this East Taranaki excursion, Martin J, Libby O, Carol S, Barbie H, Joe C, Mike G, Carolien V, Keith C, Mark R, Robin B, Mike D and Steve B. ~ Alan Doy
Wed 5 Jul Lepperton Farm Walk After a hiccup at Wallace Place which caused a chain of events, nineteen of us met at St Marks Anglican Church. The cemetery is interesting with the same names reoccurring in the towns. We walked up to the new school and viewed the roof recently replaced after leaking for three years. Then up the hill to Graham Lepper’s farm for morning tea and a walk round the garden. We followed the farm track through to Phipps farm, and down their farm track to Te Wairoa Reserve, managed by Forest and Bird Protection Society. There we met Janet Hunt from Forest and Bird who explained how the protection of this bush came about and how it was financed. We followed the track through the bush and then drove to the weird and wonderful Manutahi Museum at 360 Manutahi Road. It was packed with stuffed animals, birds, preserved foetus, and fossils from all over the world. Its owner was a character and gave an interesting talk. He pointed out an African animal now on the verge of extinction and commented that for your children and grandchildren these collections will probably be the nearest they will get to seeing many animals. Thanks to Peter Winter and Graham Lepper for doing the rectifying run around. ~ Christine Feigler
We enjoyed the beautiful garden and homestead at Leppers' farm
Sat 1 Jul East West crossing of Kaitake It was hardly an ideal start – sitting in the cars waiting for the rain to stop. Heavy showers early morning and towards evening were predicted so there was still a glimmer of hope. With a maze of new tracks in the section between the Oakura River and the Pironghia Stream, (was it named by Waikato Maori?), staying on track is a challenge now. The old markers cut from Venetian blinds are the only confirmation really. Always a relief crossing the Pironghia Stream – despite the challenging climb ahead. It was wild and cold on Kirihau Peak so we didn’t loiter there. The soft grainy rock for getting off it offers reasonable grip in the dry but didn’t inspire confidence today. Had a light shower on Davies Track, on our way to the trig – pretty insignificant and probably the only one of the day. It was pretty sheltered at the trig – unbelievably different from Kirihau. At this point it was close to lunchtime but was more of a snack than a siesta, with cold hands also a shared experience. Down into the bush it was mainly sheltered but draughty till the end. A tree on top growing with a 30? lean was well suited to the prevailing wind today. Stopped for a visit to Frank’s Café. Pam and Len Rodenburg, Carol Stewart, Allison Wilkins and Derek Andrews were out in under 5½ hours start to finish. Had been a good day for keeping on the move. ~ Denis Goodwin
Wed 28 Jun Inland North Road, Onaero a sunny June day, 26 walkers met at 600 Inland North Road, at Dianne Christensen's home, which is set on a lifestyle block, on which 17 happy laying hens, a flock of sheep and some healthy beef cattle resided. The previous owner of the property planted several hundred chestnut trees to be used in a business venture, which did not succeed. We walked among the trees, some had been cut off at ground level, others ring-barked - interesting to see rotting and dead trees, as a result - and some left creating a leafy mulch underneath and shelter for the stock. After having our morning tea on the spacious deck around the home, we walked the block, about 7km, on the country roads. On a perfect winter's day, it was very pleasant, chatting to friends, and enjoying scenery, and getting exercise. It was a perfect morning, venturing into a different area. Thank you Dianne, for hosting us in your part of Taranaki. ~ Margaret Emo
Tea break at Dianne Christensen’s home on a sunny midwinter day
Wed 28 Jun Sausages at Maketawa Lorraine Eldershaw, Derek Andrews, Graeme and Lyn Taylor and I left half an hour earlier so we could get the fire going, prepare the mulled wine and start cooking the sixty sausages. Thanks for carrying all the important ingredients up to the hut. John Depree helped by doing the book and organising the cars at Wallace Place, thanks John. The main party arrived around eleven, to a warm hut with the lovely aroma of the mulled wine exciting their taste buds. A slice of bread, onions, sausage and a good squirt of tomato sauce, Great. The sun was still shining providing a wonderful view over our beautiful countryside, what a lovely setting. By the time we were ready to leave this cosy hut the rain had started to fall so it was on with our coats. The climb from Maketawa Hut up to the Translator Road seems to be getting steeper every year. We had several rests on the way up and had a good spell at the track / road junction. We met a group of Boys’ High students out with a TOPEC leader and had a good chat with them. Their leader was reinforcing the importance of staying together so it was very embarrassing to have one of our party decide to walk off without any of us knowing. The rain was quite heavy at times, so we were all happy that we had good gear to keep us safe. Back at the car park the weather had cleared, but one more problem. The cold had drained the battery in my fob so I could not open or drive my car. My mobile phone also had gone flat even though it was eighty percent charge charged before leaving home. With the help of Mary Marshall, I rang Karen to bring my second fob to me. Besides the walk off, it was a wonderful get together of club members. We shall do it again next year. AN IMPORTANT MESSAGE: Either turn your phone to flight mode or keep both fob and phone on your body so they are both warm and dry. ~ One of the helpers, Kev Curd
Maketawa Hut was filled by our group.
Sun 25 June NPTC Tramping Tips Workshop Feedback from members and discussion at the Trip Leaders workshop held last year, resulted in the first Tramping Tips workshop being held this year. Terry did an excellent job of organising and presenting the workshop to ensure it was tailored to the audience and covered different topics to other workshops we run. There was plenty of time for discussion, Q&A, and the opportunity to learn from one another and our shared experiences. Topics included clothing, footwear, packs, sleeping, shelters, food and ropes. The Durham Road Hall venue again proved successful, with an open fire to sit around while the day warmed up. Once it did, there was plenty of space to move outside into the sunshine and practice putting up different shelters. The only disappointment with the workshop was the low attendance. Having been organised to cater to member feedback, it would be good to know why attendance was low on the day. If these workshops are to continue, they need to be supported by members and deemed worthwhile to run. All feedback on training, workshops and how to cater for members is always welcome. ~ Julia Collins
Sat 24 Jun Kaitake Peak Circuit The weather forecast was for early morning rain followed by some respite until early afternoon. That was how the day turned out (in any case the bush provided us with good cover from the weather). As we climbed up the slope to Kaitake Peak a voice called out. It was Keith Coughtrey emptying a trap of a dead rat. Derek stopped to have a chat with him as we continued to the top. The descent from the peak was steep (as usual) and a request to climb Goat Rock had already been made. Going back down the Rock, Derek must have missed the advice to turn sharp right to avoid a steep drop. At the foot of the Rock we heard him pushing through the bushes to reach us. Not sure what his descent was really like. Turning on to the Mander Track, we dropped down over the Wakamure Stream and had our lunch at the first flat spot. Not much more to reach the Davies Track again other than the steep climb out from the stream. A little bit of rain splashed us as we crossed the paddocks to the cars. Good timing. This was an interesting short-but-sharp-in-places tramp. Along today were Carol Stewart, Allison Wilkins and her sister Fiona Campbell, Derek Andrews, Scott Tyler (a new member) and Mike Donaldson. ~ Mike Donaldson
Wed 21 June Sandy Bay Reserve, Oaonui Nineteen of us drove to Tai Road, Oaonui, where the Sandy Bay Reserve is administered by DOC, the Taranaki Regional Council and the Ngati Tara Sandy Bay Society. The reserve is 35ha. We parked by the stile and walked through sand hills and followed the fence north to the stream, where we had morning tea. There was quite bit of rubbish washed down the stream which we picked up. We walked back along the beach past flocks of terns, blackback gulls, oyster catchers and ordinary gulls, but no dotterels. At the end of the beach we went up the far steps, up the cliff to the baches where we had lunch. Here we found the native groundcover Pimelea Carnosa with its tiny white flowers. We saw one native moth Notorea on the plants. with its distinctive amber and black wings. It is only found in Taranaki. We walked north along the front of the baches and down the first staircase to the beach. Then back over the sandhills to the cars. Sandy Bay is a magical place, a beach break on a rocky shoreline with big sand dunes. ~ Christine Feigler
Sandy Bay Reserve on a fine June day
Sat 17 – Sun 18 Jun TAKT KOPAC Overnight Wow… what an incredible weekend! Sorry for those who missed out, we had so many wanting to go and only so much room in the hut. With eight adults and eight children, the hut was at maximum capacity, but we have decided we will have another trip soon for those who missed out. We met at Hollard Gardens for lunch. The Family Corner there is perfect for TAKT adventurers to practise their climbing skills. After lunch we headed to Kiri Road and walked across the farm to the KOPAC Lodge. What a great resource the lodge is and with the ability to carry most of the load to the door it was a great base for an outdoors weekend. Bernie had everyone building an amazing bivvy. A great evening around the fire sharing food and laughs. Glow worms lighting up the creek bank on our evening explore was a perfect way to end the day. Now Allan, Stephen and young Ben had been busy all day whilst we were having fun, out checking and cleaning up the track ready for us on Saturday but they still hadn’t found the plane wreck. So Bernie, Allan and Ben headed off again to see if they could find the track. The rest of us followed much more slowly behind and had a lot of fun. With all the massive tree falls from Cyclone Gabrielle there were plenty of tunnels and climbing for the kids to enjoy… maybe not as enjoyable for the adults who had to get down on their hands and knees more times than they probably wanted to! Was totally tramping at its best! With a stream crossing and some banks to climb there were a few challenges too, but our little ones did us proud. We got to the turn off marked clearly with Allan’s jersey, but the younger ones were getting tired and it was decided to split the group. I led the young ones and parents back down the fun obstacle course, leaving Stephen to lead, with support from Angela and Laura. They caught up to the others and they all made it on to the plane wreck which hadn’t seen any visitors for very a long time. It was certainly the highlight, seeing the remains of this Ventura Bomber which crashed here in 1944. My group wasn’t long back before the rest arrived back and we all enjoyed cleaning up all the left over bolognaise with the kids lining up for hot chocolate too… Too soon it was time to pack up, clean the hut and head home. ~ Jo-anne Mowat
Bernie Whitehead (right) helped the children make a bivvy.
Sat 17 Jun Loop from Gravel Dump It was a dark start close to the shortest day and we had a bit of trouble finding the start of the track – third time lucky. The ‘Conservation Only’ warning sign was a welcome sight. There were wet areas on Carrington Road but they were meaningless really, with track conditions nice and dry courtesy of a mid-winter dry spell. It was clear and calm out of the bush for the climb over Kiri Peak and we could see someone at the trig from the valley after it. But nobody was there when we arrived. Took a break on the plateau up from Pouakai Hut with the view over the swamp. Found that a gentle gust up there while we were cooling down could feel like ice. There was a fairly large group enjoying the outside at Pouakai Hut but the track down from it seemed more deserted than usual. Headed cross country down Plymouth Track and across to Kiri Man. Managed to lose one who continued up after a river crossing instead of veering right along the track – but this was only briefly. A reminder of how nice it is having tracks to follow. A bit under eight hours, start to finish. A leisurely stroll for Allison Wilkins and Carol Stewart. ~ Denis Goodwin
Wed 14 Jun Kahui Road to Oaonui Hut site and return This was a dual-purpose tramp and it performed that function admirably. It replaced a tramp that was completed earlier in the year and was a recce for an Ihaia – Kahui circuit which is coming up on both a Sunday and a Wednesday. A party of 18 left the carpark at the end of Kahui Road and had a quick, uneventful walk to the track junction where we had morning tea. Shortly after starting on the Oaonui Track we came to an area strewn with boulders which made for careful negotiation as we traversed the area. Quite some time ago this must have been the stream bed of the Okahu stream. The Oaonui Track is well bridged but it would have been much better with just one more bridge. The stream crossing meant wet feet. Trampers expect that occasionally. The tramp was led by Graeme Taylor and I was the back marker. About halfway along the Oaonui Track I noticed my radio had somehow slipped off my belt. Fortunately a five-minute backtrack and there it was in conspicuous orange lying on the track. We arrived at the hut site at 12.30 and left on the return trip at 1.00. Took two hours to get back to the Kahui Track and arrived back at the cars at 4.00. It was a nice day with a lovely group. It was a successful recce for the two Ihaia –Kahui circuits coming up in the third quarter. Thanks to Graeme for his leadership and to Alan Morris for being my contact. While on this tramp I thought of the many times I took school groups around the mountain when the western side was so much easier than it is now. I recall leaving Holly Hut, crossing Peters Stream, skirting the Pyramids before having lunch at Kahui Hut. After reaching the Oaonui Hut site it was a short distance to the suspension bridge leading to Waiaua Gorge Hut. Two of these bridges were washed away before the track was rerouted upstream and now that access is lost as well. It is a nice walk between the Kahui and Ihaia tracks but oh it would be so much nicer with “Just one more bridge” ~ John Depree
Large boulders slowed progress on this section of Oaonui Track.
Sun 11 Jun Mt Messenger to Pukearuhe Road By closing day we had sixteen, so when Mark Robbins phoned to come and take his van we could take another four, a total of twenty. Mike Donaldson was happy to drive one van and I would drive the other. We dropped the group at Mt Messenger then drove back and around to Pukearuhe Road. We then walked in to meet the others. We had two big climbs on our way, which had us considering having a long rest and waiting for the others to come through to meet us. But no. We kept on moving towards the others, meeting them at 11.30am. We then walked back to find a truly magnificent spot to have our lunch. From here we could see up north to Raglan, back around to White Cliffs, Paritutu, then further round to Mt Taranaki. The day was excellent, the views spectacular. Because the pipeline track was steep and very slippery, we decided to take the slightly longer track along the ridge, then a not-so-steep descent to the Waipingau Stream. Had a small rest before the big climb up to Mt Davidson. Derek counted 625 steps. Upon arriving at the top we took a well-earned spell. Once again, the outlook was brilliant. Down over farmland to the private road which led us back to the van. The trip took seven hours so we really loved taking a seat in the van for the ride home. Good to have such a large group who all worked together to make this long day so enjoyable. It was also great to have three teenagers along mixing with other members. Special thanks to Alan Doy who led the team from Mt Messenger through to meet us, Mark R for his van and Mike D for driving this around to Pukearuhe. A day that will be remembered for the spectacular views we had during the tramp. ~ Kev Curd
Thurs 8 Jun Club Night: Clothing and Food for Day Trips There is a lot to learn about the world of tramping and hiking, and we all absorb skills and knowledge over the years, depending on what level we want to achieve. So in order to help newer members, or those wanting to participate in different or more challenging types of tramping, the club organised a couple of workshops – this one on a normal club night; and a half day one a couple of weeks later (see report by Julia on page 47). Tonight we split in to two groups – Clothing (covered by Terry Baldwin) and Food (covered by Ngaire Riley and Mark Robbins). Each ran for about 30 minutes. Whilst Terry talked about the importance of base layers, mid-layers and top layers (waterproofs), as well as footwear and hats, Ngaire covered what she likes to take on day tramps, and Mark discussed the more demanding multi-day food requirements. Overall, a very informative and well-attended evening, but way too short to get into much detail. Feedback would be appreciated on the evening, and what members would like to see in the future. ~ Mark Robbins
Wed 7 Jun Manaia Walkway Ten of us set off for Eltham, arriving just as the cheese factory opened. Well stocked up, we drove to Te Ngutu o te Manu Ahipaipa Road for morning tea at the picnic tables. There is a children’s playground, toilets, a shower and tennis court in this park, but it is silent. It was a village and pa site but it has been flattened and the surrounding big farms have lost their population. There is a monument to Von Tempsky and the soldiers who died, shot by the pa defenders who were up in the trees, someone said. Information panels tell the story. We moved on to the Manaia walkway which wanders around the edge of the golf course and is nicely planted and maintained. Then we headed to Yarrow’s bakery shop, where prices and variety were good. So loaded up with pies and cakes we headed for the bandstand right in the middle of the main street where we devoured them. We saw the statue of the little dog who died defending two children from a vicious dog. Next we went to Kaupokonui Beach and ate our lunch at the camping ground overlooking the river and sea. After a walk across the bridge along the beach and over the sand hills, Ngaire suggested we visit the possum factory, which we did. The lady there said they were busy and now the overseas tourists were coming back some lines were a bit depleted, but the children’s possum and merino socks were nice. It was a fun and interesting day. ~ Christine Feigler
Sat 3 Jun Loop from Mangorei Track It was cold and a bit sleety at the car park so was nice getting into the shelter of the bush. There were a couple of large windfalls as well as the streams to negotiate on the way to the plane wreck. A gully or two later had us on the ridge that goes to the base of Maude Peak – a steady up, steep in places. We were meeting Fiona Campbell and Derek Andrews at the tarns but continued on by to the rendezvous as we were early and sitting waiting wasn’t an option in these conditions. Only seemed to be tramping clubbers on top today. Hands were a bit on the numb side for swinging off the trees and ropes on the steep, slippery sections after the tarns, but was warmer at the track leading to the waterfall. As some hadn’t seen the falls we did the short downhill to the base. It was a bit like the Jungle Gym from school days climbing through the windfalls. There were some thoughts that the water cascading down the rock ledges was more impressive than some more notable ones with water falling directly into a pool. Doing the longer cross country route were: Pam and Len Rodenburg, Allison Wilkins and Kevin Reilly. No concerns about sunburn today. ~ Denis Goodwin
Wed 31 May Newtons’ Farm, Urenui There was a good turnout for this tramp, 27 people assembled at the Urenui Community Centre. Helen outlined the day’s tramp, which was to an old Slab Hut on Newtons’ farm. We drove in convoy up the Kaipikari Road and left our cars at the turn off to the farm track which we were to follow. We enjoyed the sunshine and warmth of the last day of autumn as we walked along the clay road, which was slippery and steep in places and there was evidence of recent rains, causing ruts and gutters on the downhill sections. We had a leisurely morning tea break in the warm sun before tramping further along the undulating track. No bush bashing today. The track took us though patches of native bush, but we were never far from pockets of farmland. We did deviate to climb a prominent hill where technicians were working on a communications tower. Little did we know that these men and their transport were going to be of assistance on our return journey. Eventually we arrived at the Slab Hut where we had lunch. Situated in an area of open country it would have been a great base to hunt from or enjoy a weekend away from the pressures of city life. After lunch we started retracing our steps along the track, but as we came up the track close to the Comms tower, Sharryn tripped over and, with her foot jammed in a water rut, she fell heavily and injured her ankle. Fortunately help was nearby and we were able to ask the technicians if they would transport Sharryn back to the cars. The remainder of us made good time back and found Sharryn resting with her leg elevated in a farmer’s trailer! The diagnosis was two broken bones in her ankle / foot and the hard part will be no tramping for a couple of months. Thank you to Doug and Helen for organising the day, an interesting tramp enjoyed by everyone. ~ Alan Morris
Sat 27 May Te Awa River Mountain Bike Ride It was a cool but calm start – was foggy in places in the Waikato. Didn’t see many people for a while but getting into Hamilton there was a large crowd by a rowing club building. It looked a bit like the start of an Oxford/Cambridge boat race with two eights on the water and nobody interested in moving off the trail. We had to weave our way through living, talking skittles. A detour was in place where we had to ride into the outskirts of the city and something wasn’t quite right. Soon came across a gate blocking the trail where three older women were unsure about their next move. Helped them get their heavy e-bikes round the gate, through the bush to continue their ride. Were heading for the velodrome – close to Cambridge. There is a huge variety on this trail, with surfaces ranging from older-looking paving to complex wooden structures and bridges to make tricky places doable. They’ve got double yellow lines in the center of obscured corners to keep traffic left. Did a bit of a dash for the last km or so with a half-flat front tyre. Was still ok in a straight line but a bit dicey and bitey on corners. Had been a great ride with Robin Bridger - 3 hrs 43 riding time showing on the computer. ~ Denis Goodwin
Sun 21 May Moki / Spotswood College Hut Shall I cancel or shall we go? That was the question regarding the weather. As we were not on the mountain and there were no rivers to ford, I thought a little rain would not hurt us. Libby O’Connor and Martin Jones joined Esther Denholm at Wallace Place and we met Sharryn Sait out at the start at Moki Road. The farm track in had some muddy bits but nothing too bad. We reached the first concrete bridge after 45 minutes, then another 15 minutes to the tunnel which is slowly being eroded away. We crossed the swing bridge into the Moki Forest around 11.15. After a short walk we found the ribbon indicating the turnoff to locate the hut. The sun was shining on the iron roof, making it easy to see through the bush. The hut is now in a bad state and although still standing is hardly inhabitable. It is sad to see this hut in such a terrible state. We can only imagine the pride those involved in the construction of this hut would have had. There would be so many special get togethers and great memories all around this special place. We took an early lunch at the hut then began our tramp back. We had one small shower during the day. Pleased I had not cancelled. Kevin Curd
Wed 17 May Dawson Falls Circuit A well-worn track and a tramp somewhat lacking in imagination, but despite what I thought 21 trampers turned up on the day. Had a later than anticipated start from the Mountain House as the one lane bridge was closed for repairs which meant a lengthy detour encountering heavy traffic. I thought with the late start we would have morning tea somewhere on the side of the track. The group made such good progress that we got to Waingongoro Hut albeit a little after 10. It was pleasant there as it had started to drizzle. Some track improvement was evident by way of steps and this was good to see. Nine of us had a look at the falls and then went via Konini Lodge to the Dawson Falls Visitor Centre, while others went out to the road and visited the power station on their way to the lunch break. After lunch it was off to Wilkies Pools before continuing on to the Enchanted Walk. Not too many experienced enchantment, but we all made it safely down to the junction from where we had a quick trip back to the Mountain House. It was an enjoyable day and thanks to all those who participated. Thanks to Noel Moir for his work as back marker and to Alan Morris for being my contact. ~ John Depree
Sat 13 May 2023 The Hump We were on our way up the Mangorei Track in good conditions but there was a bit of ~ Denis Goodwin
Thurs 11 May 2023 Club Night: Southern Explorers It was a thrilling and well-presented talk on the southern wanderers’ South Island trip, ~ Mike Guthrie
Wed 10 May 2023 E McCluggage Tunnels, Pohokura Once again the weather forecast was dire but we went ahead anyway. Twelve trampers ~ Christine Feigler
Sun 7 May 2023 Pouakai Traverse It was always going to be a bit dicey with showers predicted for the high country. Despite ~ Denis Goodwin
Sun 30 Apr 2023 Wairau Hunters – Davies Tracks Loop A good 13 km walk in the bush with Val (new member – welcome), Nicole (visitor, yoga ~ Keith Coughtrey
Val and Robin climb up to Patuha Trig
Sun 23 Apr 2023 Puniho to Kahui Hut Two cars driving down SH45, driven by two well-known characters of our club. Taranaki ~ Keith Coughtrey
Sat 22 Apr 2023 Bridge to Nowhere Mountain Bike Ride Had heavy showers the previous day and wipers on in places on the way to the start of the ~Denis Goodwin
Sun 16 Apr 2023 Wilkies Pools / Kapuni Lodge We did this trip with the Wednesday group a couple of months ago. I had several members ~ Kevin Curd
Sat 15 Apr 2023 Pouakai Circuit Martin’s early communication with the weather gods had been successful, ensuring a ~ Martin and Libby Jones
What a perfect April day for the Pou?kai Circuit
Thurs 13 April 2023 Club Night: Three Presenters Combined speakers for the night were Terry Baldwin on locator beacons, Katyana ~Barry Greenbrook
Easter, Fri 7 – Sun 9 Apr 2023 Aotuhia, Matemateaonga, Whanganui River On arrival at Aotuhia, we shuttled a vehicle to Tahunaroa Road and commenced our ~ Alan Doy with assistance from Libby and Martin
Enjoying the Easter trip were, from left, Alan, Eifion, Libby, Basil, Martin, Robin, Kevin and Helen.
Wed 5 Apr FE Malone Gates to Kouri Hill Our group of 17 departed from the Malone Gates in Stratford, for a tramp that promised ‘a little bit of everything’. We started by walking along the Carrington Walkway down as far as Swansea Rd, where we stopped for morning tea. Then it was on to the tarseal, at the end of Swansea Rd we turned on to Warwick Rd and walked down to the Dolly’s Milk farm where we were met by the owner and her employee, who gave us a very interesting talk about the production of their milk. After leaving the cowshed we walked across the hills to Jack Rawlinson’s farm. He was having fertiliser spread on his farm, so a few minutes were spent chatting to him and watching the trucks working. Then down the hill past the house and over the railway line that we would follow later and over the Patea River and we were on to the ‘Forgotten Highway’. We crossed the Kouri single lane bridge and turned into the woolshed paddock where we had a leisurely lunch. After a break we climbed to the top of Kouri Hill. Unfortunately the cloud prevented us seeing either Mt Taranaki or the central mountains but the 360? views around the eastern hills were interesting. Our return to the cars was retracing our steps to the Rawlinson farm, where we walked along the railway line to Victoria Rd. We got a surprise when four rail carts came along the line from behind us! A chat to the occupants took place and one of our trampers saw the opportunity to rest her legs and climbed into an empty seat. At Victoria Rd we left the carts and it was the long walk on tarseal back to the Carrington Walkway and our cars. Overall an interesting and diverse tramp. Those who shared it with me were: Barbie H, Mary M, Neville N, Sharryn S, Christine F, Doug W, Helen W, Trish C, Denis C, Sarah D, Murray D, John F, Claudia L, Sue W, Cathy F and Susan K. Also my thanks to Alan Doy who acted as my contact person. ~ Alan Morris
Wed 29 Mar 2023 Mangare Road, Whangamomona The weather forecast predicted a fine day and we woke up to rain. However ten of us ~ Christine Feigler
Sat 25 - Sun 26 Mar 2023 TAKT Pouakai Crossing Now a BIG SHOUT OUT TO Lochie, Harry, Ella and Ben who completed the Pouakai Crossing, ~ Jo-anne Mowat
Ben, Harry, Lochie and Ella on a damp day two of their Pouakai Crossing
We did it!
Thu 23 Mar 2023 Four Mountains in a Day We looked to have the perfect weather for the Thursday/Friday but had a dump of snow ~ Denis Goodwin
Wed 22 Mar 2023 Lake Rotokare and Environs On an overcast day 16 trampers met up at Eltham, and then headed to The Old Lake Road ~ John Simmons
The views over Rotokare bush were worth it!
Sun 19 Mar 2023 Lake Dive Circuit Sharryn Sait was concerned about holding people up going up the climb towards Syme Hut ~ Kevin Curd
Sun 12 Mar 2023 TAKT Blue Rata Reserve Wow… this was popular, with 27 (13 adults and 14 children) meeting to explore this little reserve! Like a snake we ~ Jo-anne Mowat
The magnificent giant rata
Wed 8 Mar 2023 Kahui - Puniho Loop Well, finally the weather gods played ball at the third time of asking. 17 enthusiastic ~ Graeme Taylor
Sun 5 Mar 2023 Waitara to Te Rewa Rewa bridge After carrying out a recce for this trip I found it very difficult to walk along the beach. ~ Kevin Curd
Peter Winter was on top of Kevin Curd's Sunday walk
Wed 1 Mar 2023 Tarurutangi Farm Walk 24 turned up at Ken and Barbara Maul’s for a farm walk over three properties. We walked ~ Christine Feigler
Sun 26 Feb 2023 TAKT Jacob’s Ladder / Translator Loop At the start Kevin Curd offered to lead up the Razorback but soon it was the kids who took ~ Mike Donaldson
Sun 26 Feb 2023 Kahui Hut and Holes The plan was to enjoy a beautiful walk that includes fascinating human and geological Carové’s giant dragonfly is our largest species of dragonfly, named in M?ori for the ~ Libby O’Connor and Martin Jones
Carove’s giant dragonfly
Sat 18 Feb 2023 TAKT Waitara River Kayak A lovely sunny Saturday saw a group of eleven assemble for a fun adventure down the ~ Clarke Anderson
Declan and Jeff enjoyed the TAKT river trip in February.
Sat 18 Feb 2023 Summit from South Side From the Dawson Falls car park we could see a beautiful clear mountain and lights at the ~ Denis Goodwin
Thurs 9 Feb 2023 Club Night: Towards Predator-Free Taranaki Mark Danenhauer has lived in New Zealand since 2016, and for the past two years he has worked for Taranaki Regional Council with the Towards Predator-Free Taranaki project. The urban program began in 2018, working with schools and volunteers to target rats, possums, hedgehogs and mustelids (stoats, weasels and ferrets). The native bird life is now returning, thanks to over 20,000 pests caught in New Plymouth since 2018. Many in the club are already helping with monitoring their own traps, but the group would appreciate knowing when and where a pest is caught. This would help them immensely. Completing trap checking records on the Trap NZ website, is the way to do this: https://www.trap.nz/ The Kaitake Zero Possum project which runs from Carrington Road to the coast has found no possums for over a year and is the first successful large scale possum eradication on the mainland without fences. ~ Lorraine Eldershaw
Wed 8 Feb 2023 Magical Matau We left New Plymouth at 8 am, stopping at Inglewood to pick up another five people, then ~ Alan Morris
A large group enjoyed Alan Morris' Matau tramp in March.
Sat 4 Feb 2023 Surrey Road Summit With the dodgy looking forecast we took the ‘turn up and see’ approach. With the wipers going intermittent in town and a bit quicker on Egmont Road, things were not looking good. Out of the mirk and getting close to the Visitor Center, a clear mountain, with a bit of cloud at the top on the western side appeared. At Tahurangi the cloud at the top had gone and the option of skirting around to the Khyber Pass route wasn’t floated. It was pretty warm climbing, with occasional breezes being pleasant and the photographers in the group having a field day. Had cloud coming and going as we were getting close to the crater rim but the occasional breaks in it were reassuring we were on track and Sharks Tooth was getting closer. It was clear on top and could see a couple with a nine-year-old boy completing their climb to the summit. Not much snow in the crater so had a long climb down from the chimney. There were a lot of people coming up as we were going down. Met a large group with adults and children close to Drinking Rock. They had been planning to do it the next day – some had just flown in, but didn’t like the forecast for then. They were wanting painkillers for someone with a migraine – two would be enough. Allison to the rescue. Had become misty by Hongi’s gully, making it tricky to follow the poles. The cooling drizzle had become a bit more wetting by the public dunny so it was coats on then. Derek Andrews had gone the Khyber Pass route, leaving at the same time and was on the summer entrance as we were starting the summit step.
Wed 1 Feb 2023 E Sandy Bay, Oanui The weather forecast predicted torrential rain so we did Sandy Bay instead of K?huratahi, further away from Auckland where the worst weather was. Only five turned up and it rained in New Plymouth but not a drop at Oanui. We climbed back up onto the sand dunes and back down to the beach to the south end, and back up to the track in front of the baches. Here to Sharryn’s delight (who belongs to the Moth and Butterfly Society) grew the rare coastal ground cover Pohuehue or Muelenbeckia and feeding on it were Rauparaha, the Copper Butterfly.
Sun 22 January 2023 Matapeka Falls, M?hakatino Conservation Area I had never even heard of Matapeka Falls before, and my interest was piqued. On the day we had a pretty good weather forecast and drove north from New Plymouth, turning east just before M?kau to park at the end of a dusty M?hakatino Road. Our group of 11 was kindly given permission to commence the trip over farmland. Striding out for an hour or so over a flat farmland track, we then walked along a riverbank with bush cover. Here the track got a bit scrambly in parts and in some places we had to imagine a track! After one or two hours we made a river crossing in ankle-deep water. Here I began noticing plenty of fossils in rocks and it was not long before we came to the high horseshoe-shaped cliffs that formed a natural amphitheater. And here we were! The Matapeka Falls are very beautiful and isolated. It was a stunning view as we lunched on the rocks around the pool. A few of us took the opportunity for a swim and even to stand under the falls, which was spectacular given the height of the falls. Thanks to Alasdair for arranging this walk, which I enjoyed immensely.
Matapeka Falls
Sat 21 Jan 2023 Paul Falls missed – adventure After a few delays and changes, those keen enough on the adventure joined me for a tramp to Paul Falls. From Puniho Road end we hiked up the Puniho Track until reaching the Kapoaiaia Track. Here we turned left and followed the track, crossing the Maero and Turehu Streams until dropping down to the Stony (Hangatahua) River. Mass erosion in this area meant a careful scramble down the exposed gravel bank, where my senses told me not to linger under the unstable cliffs above. A suitable crossing point was identified right where we came out and linking up in teams of two or three, or using hiking poles for stability, we safely crossed. From here we boulder-hopped to the opposite bank, with a second river crossing en route. Having reviewed maps and talked to those recently in the area, we were looking for blue markers, slightly north of where we came out from the Kapoaiaia. Sure enough, these came into view as we walked up the river bed. Now my instructions were to follow the blue trail until another trail came in from the left. How far up, I had no idea, and this lack of detail proved to be my failing. Along with thinking that there was actually a sign indicating “[to] Paul Falls” – definitely must have made that notion up myself. The trail very quickly climbed steeply up a bank, which left a few uncertain about where we were heading and what more to expect. Taken by surprise, at this point I probably became too focused on the current track and missed the vaguely marked junction. Upwards we climbed; the trail was steep, though well marked. At one point Carol had us ‘pop’ out to the right, where we stood on a clearing and took in the most magnificent view of the Stony River with tributaries far below, and Mt Taranaki looming above. As we continued, I became increasing suspicious that I had missed the junction. Eventually, when well above the elevation of Paul Falls, I determined the terrain no longer allowed for the possibly of a track to come in from the left. We made the call and stopped for lunch before returning somewhat defeated. During lunch, I had a text conversation with Colin to determine we had well overshot the track junction – lesson 101 – get full details before the trip, especially when they are so readily available! Sure enough, we found the junction on our return journey (slightly better marked from this direction); but given the time of day, we knew exploration would have to wait for another trip. Out on the Stony River bed, we boulder-hopped down to the lower track entrance and back on to the Puniho Track. Regular discussions regarding the extent of erosion were held on the way.
Stony River and Mt Taranaki
Wed 18 Jan 2023 Oakura Beach to Fort St George Tataraimaka There were 21, including Tahi Hepburn, who thought it a great idea to head to the beach on a sunny day. Our walk started through the ?akura Beach Holiday Park and along the ?akura Coast Nature Trail. I hadn’t planned to start the day using this trail, but thanks to John Fisher and Bev Kirkby, who showed me the way, it proved to be a much better route, as we would have had to trudge through soft sand. Barbie and Tahi had turned back at the Whenuariki Stream swing bridge, and Bev led us through her lower coastal paddock, which was where we paused for morning tea. Jim Logan spied a butterfly, a Rauparaha’s Copper, an endemic species of butterfly that is found in the same coastal areas where the rangatira and warrior, Te Rauparaha, had fought his battles – hence its name. When we reached the end of the beach, we walked around the base of the p? and up a track to Fort St George, where Murray read out the information on the display board. Then we entered the pa site and stood, admiring the vast views. Tataraimaka P? was attacked and taken from the Taranaki Iwi in 1820 by a northern war party. It is said to have been the site where the first use of muskets in the region was fired. After lunch, which was in the shade of some p?hutukawa, we ambled back along the beach, and with the tide well out it was a pleasant return walk.
We walk in a line, we sit in a line.
Sun 15 Jan 2023 Maketawa Hunters Ngatoro Loop The weather had been much better so we reinstated the previous week s trip which had
Wed 11 Jan 2023 Pouakai Trig in a cyclone With wind and rain from Cyclone Hale hammering the east coast, it was no surprise that a few trampers pulled out of this adventure at the last moment. Still, nine hardy souls turned up to try and get to Pouakai summit. It always seems hard to get going after a break and we had some trepidation going over the ridge as we expected a gale but it was almost calm. Our first view of the mountain was spectacular with Holly Hut, the lower mountain and the swamp standing out and the upper parts shrouded in mist. The trip around to the junction was a pleasant respite from the steps. We had rugged up expecting it to be cold but were soon pulling layers off. Back to Pouakai hut for a brief sit down and catch up with John F then it was time to head down the steps. As always the last 15 to 20 minutes down the boardwalk seems to drag, then you come out to the sign saying 450 bloody meters to the car park. Still it’s all downhill and you get to take your boots off at the car. We were lucky with the weather, it was almost perfect for a summer tramp, never too hot and no need to worry about sunburn. Thanks to John Depree for being Tail-end Charlie and to Graeme Taylor for looking after the radios. The rest of the crew were Carrie, Claire, Jane, Sharryn, Robin and John Fisher.
Above Pouakai Hut, from left John Depree, John Fisher, Graeme Taylor, Robin Grant, Sharryn Sait, Carrie Smith, Jane Moir and Claire Chamberlain
Sun 8 Jan 202 3 Rahiri Manga o raka Waiwhakaiho Loop We did this trip instead of the planned tramp cancelled because of high river levels. Eleven The weather had been kind to us and we found a nice place to stop for lunch when reaching
Wed 14 December 2022 All Aboard! Christmas Train Ride and Shared Lunch Here was something a little different to end the year. 49 passengers boarded the ‘Christmas Express’ for a fun social day. Beautiful sunny weather helped with the high spirits and anticipation as we waited and waited for the train to arrive. We were informed that the locomotive had a flat battery and after a quick jump start, it was soon seen rolling toward us. Having heard that John Depree was a keen railway enthusiast, I had prearranged a special treat for him, a ride in the engine room to our first stop – the Waitara depot. With a couple of toots, we were off to the depot for morning tea. The first part of the journey had the train chugging up the steepest climb on a preserved railway in New Zealand with a gradient of 1 in 40, then under the SH3 over-bridge, through to the yards and depot where we stopped for morning tea. On the return ride, we disembarked at Kairau Rd and walked along the tracks for a short distance and then along Richmond Rd to ’Clarty’ a garden belonging to Jane Allen and Steve Kane that features in the Taranaki Sustainable Backyards Trail. Jane gave us a tour of their garden “rooms”, explaining the principles of their self-sufficient lifestyle. After thanking Jane for the tour, we all headed back to the Waitara depot for our shared Christmas feast where John Depree volunteered to give a thank you speech and gift chocolates to the wonderful rail society’s volunteers, Dave, Jim, Mike, Brenda, and Jim B. Once the food was all but gone, we boarded for the last time and the train returned us all safely back to the cars. Thanks to Graeme and Lyn T, John F, John D, and Kevin C for wearing Hi Vis vests to keep us safe while walking along the road and especially to Kay Hall for collecting the registrations and payment from everyone. We were able to give a $200 donation on top of the $400 charter to The Rail Preservation Society and $106 went to Jane for the garden tour.
John Depree rode in the engine
Morning tea at the depot
Sun 11 Dec 2022 Kaupokonui Bivvy Seven trampers left Wallace Place picking up Megan Alexander on the way. Entered the From the hut and back to the cars took us one and a half hours. The track has many ups
Sun 11 Dec 2022 Round the Mountain in a Day Changing the day to the Sunday in hope of getting a fine day dropped us to a group of two, probably just as well. It was light at the top of the steps and navigating through the overgrowing tussock wasn’t really a problem. Met a couple coming up the riverbed moonscape down from Waiau Gorge Hut, who live locally and often come up to the hut. They wondered what we were doing and over how many days? When Miyuki said one, he replied, No! The bridges between Ihaia and Kahui Tracks were a treat. Look to have been there a while and there were many of them. DOC recommends taking care on the recently reopened descent into the Stony. It is easy to see why – having to move down a slippery gravel part. Took different approaches to different river crossings. If I got across OK on large grippy rocks sticking out of the water, as in the Pyramid Stream, Miyuki would do the same place as a running jump. In places like Peters Stream with small and slime covered rocks it was quicker and safer to splosh through. Met three older ladies on the track from Holly down to Bells Falls. Seemed concerned about how far down they would have to go. One decided she would follow us back. Looked to have done well getting into Holly Hut. Was disappointing to see Jacobs Ladder gone.1 The improvements between Tahurangi and Dawson Falls – wooden steps, bridges etc. made things easier in the dark. Had taken 17 hrs 53 minutes start to finish. Seems unbelievable we could do in around 12 hours in our fifties. The detour at Waiau looks to have added an hour comfortably. The original detour going upwards looked to have added 20 minutes to the direct swingbridge version. There’s also rockhop places nearer Kahui and Peters Stream that have vegetation obscuring rocks and deep gaps between them, ensuring that care is taken. Miyuki Edwards went really well but it has to have gotten tougher for the old and unfit.
Sat 10 Dec 2022 TAKT Tupare Christmas BBQ/Picnic
Thurs 8 Dec 2022 Club Night: Christmas Celebration Thank you Yumi lwasaki-Schroeder and Wesley Bell for entertaining us on the classical guitar and piano. What amazing talent you both have. Thanks to everyone else for bringing along your singing voices. It was a fitting way to finish off another adventurist year. With the lovely decorations around the hall and Christmas tree, the wine and the delicious platters put together by Ngaire, it certainly was a great night. Thanks everyone who came along and to the many helpers. ~ Lorraine Eldershaw
Christmas Club Night Celebrations.
Graeme and Lyn Taylor and Miyuki Edwards in Christmas style
Wed 7 Dec 2022 Humphries Castle My ability to estimate the number turning up for a tramp is not good as I thought, maybe eight or ten would present themselves, when in fact we had 23. A most encouraging start to the day. The forecast did not mention any precipitation but winds reaching 45 km/hr. The wind did not eventuate and it remained remarkably calm but it was cold. Quite suitable conditions for tramping. We left the N.E.V.C. just before 9.00am and made our way up to the lookout where we regrouped. From here we made our way around to the new Jacobs Ladder (steps) and had morning tea just below the castle. One or two felt the climb up to the castle and beyond to the summit track was just too daunting. At this point I handed over the leadership to Mike Donaldson who has followed this route many times previously and he took the main group on the planned tramp. I took the smaller group along the R.M.T. directly to Tahurangi Lodge where we had an early lunch. At the conclusion of our lunch break, the main party began arriving at the lodge. As my group was a little slower we headed off on the return to North Egmont via the R.M.T. and Jacobs Ladder and within five minutes of our arrival back at the cars the main group started to arrive. All’s well that ends well. Communication was great throughout the day with both the radios and cellphones. A big thank you to Mike Donaldson who stepped into the leader’s role at short notice and to Graeme Taylor for the sterling work he did as the back marker. Thank you to all the participants who contributed to the success and enjoyment of the day. ~John Depree
Sun 4 Dec 2022 TAKT 11+ Whitecliffs Walkway 25 of us started up and over Mt Davidson on this beautiful day. Sadly three had to turn back and Allan went with them and caught up with us again at the Waipingau Stream. The track was dry and clear and not a problem, with views right along the coast. Had a little fun navigating the track to the beach through a large wash out. Thanks to Basil and Jack for their help. We made good time and had plenty of time for lunch on the beach with the tide still going out. We were a bit early when we hit the water still going out and navigated across some slippery rocks that took a few victims. Then it was homeward bound with a cuppa at Cafe 487 on the way home.
What a great turnout for TAKT's Whitecliffs adventure!
Sat 3 Dec 2022 Mt Humphries, Whakaihuwaka When you stand on the higher slopes of Mt Taranaki and look east towards the central mountains, Mt Humphries stands out as a ridgeline above the others, ending abruptly with a sharp drop-off to the lower ridges below. So, it stands to reason the M?ori name for Mt Humphries is Whakaihuwaka – “made like the prow of a canoe”. To be able to appreciate the aspect of Whakaihuwaka requires a clear day permitting a 180° view north, from the central mountains to Mt Taranaki. To my surprise, people were quite prepared to meet before 5am for a trip! Carol Stewart, Mark Robbins, Kevin Rielly, Yumi Iwasaki and I started out from New Plymouth, collecting Rebecca Frechtling in Inglewood and Janet Rivers in Stratford. Our team set out from Kohi Saddle at 6.30am along the Matemate?onga Track. Being an old M?ori trail and settlers’ dray road means the track is well benched and largely a gentle gradient of travel. We passed Omaru Hut 1½hrs in and continued on to the Mt Humphries junction, a further 3hrs on. From here, the track leaves the original trail and begins to climb to the 732m vantage point. Observation was required to follow the markers along the slightly overgrown track. Then, when it seems the track ends at a steep drop-off, look behind you (or to a sharp left) and carry on down a short descent before the last push up to the trig and clearing. Once there, you may never want to leave. Well, it felt that way the day we were there, with some taking a while to realise the full extent of the overwhelming view. After a decent time for lunch and photos we returned to the Matemate?onga and out to Kohi Saddle. Travel was about 10hrs, meaning we’d kept a fairly good pace. This trip would be an option for a slower group as day packs make a big difference as do the longer daylight hours in Dec-Jan.
Mt Humphries crew reach Whanganui National Park.
Wed 30 Nov 2022 E Bushy Park and Waitahinga trail Two Rent a Dents and 23 of us made it to the Waitahinga Trail. It was raining steadily so we had morning tea in the vans, waiting for the skies to clear. We walked to the lookout along a muddy track. Unfortunately, Ruapehu was in the rain clouds, but the loggers were working on very steep pine forest. From here on as far as you can see the hills are rugged. All the mud and rain slowed us down. We had lunch at Bushy Park and a look through the lovely Edwardian homestead. The volunteers were working and their leader asked to speak to us. Basically, Bushy Park runs on volunteers. It would be nice to see the club making donations to these sanctuaries. We had a lovely walk through the bush and saw plenty of native birds. A big thank you to Sharryn Sait and John and Maureen Simmons for signing in for the vans, and picking them up and washing out the mud, and to Kay Hall for collecting the money and returning the surplus which made for a very cheap day.
Sat 26 – Sun 27 November 2022 Rerekapa Hut This trip was to a part of Taranaki I hadn’t heard of before, and that was the perfect reason to embark on my first tramp with NPTC. Our trip leader, Sharryn Sait, made the call earlier in the week that the trip would go ahead, no matter what the weather. So, while the weather forecasters predicted havoc, we bucked the trend of planning indoor activities and prepared our packs instead. Sharryn’s 4-wheel drive easily handled Kiwi Road (which needed a grader!) and after parking, our group of six began the walk to the backcountry private hut. This took a couple of hours, over farmland initially, and then through bush. It was wet underfoot, and we were walking the plank (literally), over fallen logs, through mud, and running water over parts of the track made it slightly more challenging than a Sunday stroll. The hut itself was a gem, very picturesque next to a stream. After dropping our gear off at the hut we stretched our legs by walking through the cleared bush and past a few sheep to Rerekapa Falls. Here we relaxed and a couple of us even braced the cool water for a swim. After, we walked back the same way to the hut which was followed by a spot of relaxing yoga before dinner (thanks to a wonderful yoga instructor in our group!). We were out and back to the cars the next day before lunchtime.
Rerekapa Falls with Megan Alexander, Leonie Landsheer, Miranda McDowell, Brigit Otero, and Heather Aldridge.
Sat 26 Nov 2022 Ihaia Track to Dawson Falls Gosh! How was this tramp going to shake down? Got the book sorted in the dry, but once in the car it was wipers on, intermittent at times, around the coast to Ihaia Road. The tough nuts in the car seemed prepared to tackle anything. Had eased off at the top of the road and the clouds were looking a bit less consistent around the south where we were heading. The tracks were pretty sploshy in places and the new swingbridge detour to Waiaua Gorge Hut was also new to most of us. The ½ km moonscape of riverbed to walk up was impressive considering the piddle responsible for it - that was easy to cross. With it being called the Waiaua Stream on the warning sign, had wondered if we would be missing the hut and ladder. Not so. We emerged on the back side of the hut. Had a good view of Brames Falls in a few places after the signposted lookout but still had the long uphill scramble to the base of Mangahume Bluff. It was a strong wind at the top of this, but was calm as a few paces along. It is a good obstacle course along the base of this and had water running off the top one part – a good place to top up water bottles. Stopped in the tussock at the end of this for a lunch break. Lake Dive looked close from here but knew from past experience this is not the case. The clouds behind us were looking black at this point, but we still had to stay in the game with holes and narrow ledges hidden in the overgrowing tussock, along with steep and tricky descents. Had some long zig zags in place for negotiating the gorges and a long steady uphill from the Lake Dive turnoff, before the Dawson Falls car park came into view. When
Thurs 10 Nov 2022 Club Night: Blue Mountain Conservation Society David Atmore and Barby Wylie presented a talk on the Blue Mountains Conservation Society, its history, geography and climate. They had moved there in 1995. We were also very lucky to have four ladies from the Christchurch over 40s Tramping Club join us for the night. They had spent a few days tramping up our mountain and visiting interesting sites around New Plymouth.
Sun 6 Nov 2022 Pete’s Cycle Tour #2 (Taranaki Garden Festival week) This time my gallant band assembled at Te Henui Cemetery. Riding in, we met one of the volunteer gardeners responsible for the resplendent display within the cemetery. Like many cemeteries, Te Henui had fallen into overgrown disrepair until this group of talented volunteers, with the approval of and a little NPDC assistance, turned this place of remembrance into the showpiece it is today. I loved the story of the Council functionary who placed ‘Please Remove’ signs on many of the trees adorning the pathways, and the unknown member of the public, who, following the instructions, removed the signs. The trees remain. Leaving Te Henui, and under the guidance of John Sutton we reached Hirst Cottage and Garden in Pendarves St. The cottage was built in 1865, and the current owner told us the story of the pioneer family that built the group of similar houses that still survive in this location. John now led us down Brooklands Rd, over Carrington St and on to the Huatoki Walkway, which has much improved since I last cycled it. We found a turnoff to Glenpark Ave, and reached the pottery of Janeen Page. Janeen makes purely utilitarian kitchenware in the farmhouse style that I love. I would have been tempted had not my wife bought a teapot the weekend before. Much of the material she works with, clay and glazes, are sourced from Taranaki locations. She had a nice functional garden as well. We finished the afternoon rambling around the magnificent property that is Nikau Grove. Ian Lind gave us a run down on what the garden looked like when they first moved there, how it has been developed and what is intended for the future. As well as a formal garden, there are tiered areas and bushwalks, plus American vintage cars and motoring paraphernalia on display. Once back up the hill (get that bike seen to Christine) on Govett Ave our group disbanded in different directions after a thoroughly interesting and fulfilling day.
Wed 2 Nov 2022 Pete’s Cycle Tour #1 (Taranaki Garden Festival week) The Hawera Tour having been cancelled due to bad weather, it was nice to be able to set off from Te Rewa Rewa Bridge on a great day for a lovely ride to Hickford Park, in Bell Block. Here Dianne took over the lead (she was brought up in this area) and led us to Taylor Made Gardens (bromeliads galore plus air plants). A magnificent collection of this Central and South American native – many different types and colours. The circular corona of leaves holds water and many types of animal – insects, frogs and curiously a kind of crab make homes in them in their natural habitat. The pineapple is a bromeliad. Then it was on to Judy Chapman’s postage stamp of a garden, one of my favourites of the entire festival. Colour, variety and even vegetables packed into the area available, all beautifully layered and every space utilised. Lester now took over the job as path finder, leading us on to the Mangati Walkway, under the highway and on to the southern part of path. Negotiating some rather complex roadworks on De Havilland Drive we finally made it to Bertie Burleigh’s Townshend Retreat, a secluded haven in a rural area, still quite close to industrial Bell Block. Here we enjoyed tea and scones served by a jovial Bertie (supplemented by our own lunch) before wandering around the lovely garden surrounding the 100 plus year-old colonial homestead.
Wed 9 Nov 2022 FE Puniho / RMT / Turehu Stream 24 keen trampers set off up the Puniho track just before 9am. After a gentle climb we stopped for morning tea at the clearing, which was caused by a huge washout some twenty years ago. We turned left at the RMT and proceeded over to Turehu Stream. Going down the stream bed we came across multiple slips and tree falls. The sheer number of these slips was very surprising. It would have taken us at least thirty minutes longer to reach the Stony River than it did three years earlier. Because of these slips the huge display of flowers is no more, very disappointing. We had lunch at the Stony / Turehu junction. We continued to be amazed at the amount of devastation happening in this river valley. The track leading back to the Puniho was hard to find because of a huge washout, around 100 metres across, where the old track began. Several of us doubted that this was the correct track but Anne Kivell insisted it was, and she was right. A few short climbs up some banks led us back to the Puniho, arriving at the cars at 2.30pm. Because of the number of slips, tree falls etc the tramp was much more difficult than expected. ~ Kevin Curd
Sat 5 Nov 2022 H Kahui to Kaiauai It was great to see the track from Puniho Track to Bells Falls had reopened, with the proviso that care needed to be taken, a few days before. Going cross country from Kahui Track, the streams were mainly small or easy to cross and the ones with large steps down or up often had easier alternatives. Going clockwise around the mountain and descending to the Stony River bed, the moss flat is no more. The erosion between here and the Pyramid Stream is substantial. DOC has been busy with gravel pick and shovel to make it passable, with added markers, but there is tree debris etc to negotiate as well. Thought we had done pretty well at maintaining dry feet, but that ended abruptly at Peters Stream where widely-spaced, slippery, orangey slime-coated rocks made boot dunking the only option. There was minor alteration a bit further on – didn’t take time to analyse, but a small stream may have taken a short cut to the Stony River. Did have a mossy, turfy bridge, fairly well supported by tree roots to cross. Was a bit down and up but seemed okay. There were a few at Holly Hut – one was going to Pouakai Hut. Met Derek (who had come in from the other end and been waiting patiently for an hour) before the Kokowai turnoff. We were well above the Waiwhakaiho River, but near the bottom of the Kokowai Track the semi-spiral staircase which a lot of work had gone into, seemed to bring us closer to water level. Soaking up the kms today were Julia Collins, Allison Wilkins and Carol Stewart. Took a bit over 9 hours. ~Denis Goodwin
Wed 2 Nov 2022 E Lucy’s Gully Frank’s Café is a nob of land with a great view from New Plymouth round towards Okato, if the cloud allows it. You do have to bring your own coffee though. Fifteen of us set off from Lucy’s Gully and walked up through the redwoods, on the Waimoku track. It was billed as an easy trip, but walking in the Kaitake Range is always a solid up or down hill tramp, so we took our time. It was interesting to find that many of the regular Wednesday group had not done this walk for many years. There were also several newer members who met the challenge for the first time. The turn off to Frank’s café is unmarked. About five minutes climb beyond the intersection of the Waimoku and Sefton Ridge Track, there is a low tree trunk that crosses the track and to the left of this there is a blue marker track heading down towards the Wairau Stream. Follow this for about 100 metres. At another low branch there is an old orange disc pinned to the trunk. Head under this and in another 50 metres or so there is a sign that tells you that you are at Frank’s café. Unfortunately for us, the clouds were low so we were treated to a very white view. Frank Van Kuyk was an enthusiastic Dutch man who emigrated to New Zealand after the Second World War. He became a passionate tramper and is remembered by friends Kevin Kurd and Derek Andrews as full of enthusiasm. He summitted the mountain over 100 times, the 100th with Derek. Frank had a particular love of the Kaitake Range and knew it intimately. His family scattered his ashes in the area we now know as Frank’s café. The return walk via the Sefton Ridge track had Sharryn Sait showing us the qualities of her slip-on, anti-slip crampons. Graeme Taylor had also put his on. Recommended as a Christmas gift! The Sefton Ridge track is very pretty and less consistently steep than the Waimoku. The sign that used to be at the start of the track gave a time of two hours for the loop but we did it in four very pleasant hours! ~ Ngaire Riley
Ngaire Riley, 3rd from right, led a group of 15 up to Frank’s Café
Sat 29 Oct 2022 MA Patuha Trig and Pa, Kaitake Range
Next up were the Caple’s Mines – something I had previously disregarded with little interest, as walking into ‘black holes’ in the bank while on solo recces is not my cuppa tea. However, by the time I reached the first mine half the team was inside, leaving me with little option but to follow. Here the adventure really began and a whole new world of mine shafts opened up under the illumination of head torches and phone flashlights. The last of the track descends a slippery stream before climbing back up to the Davies Track at the edge of the farmland. Those on the adventure were Carol, Ray, Kevin R, Mark R, Dave, Darrel, Denis, Yumi, Mike D and Allison. ~ Julia Collins
Raincoat twins at Patuha Trig
Wed 26 Oct 2022 Anne and Jono’s Farm, Pukeho What a wonderful day it turned out to be despite the inclement weather at the start. A group of 13 met at Sanders Park and drove out to Pukeho School. We were met soon after our arrival by Anne and Jono. The walk in the morning was on the northern side of Tarata Road. I was expecting something similar to the previous walk, but while there were some similarities the majority was quite different. Spent a lot of time in indigenous bush which was predominantly totara before moving into manuka. We were up on a ridge for most of the morning, before descending to the entrance to the cutting that was dug with pick and shovel over 100 years ago. From here it was a short walk back to the school where we had lunch. After lunch we drove down to the house from where we began the afternoon walk. Once again this walk was entirely different to what we had done previously. It was over more open farmland, interspersed with several stands of bush and a cutting which this time was completed by machine. As the day progressed the weather improved markedly. Arrived back at the cars at 3pm. The work done by Anne and Jono was acknowledged. A very generous couple who spent the day leading both the morning and afternoon walks and prior to our arrival had spent time planning the route we would follow. Thanks to Anne and Jono. ~John Depree
Spring Tramping! Graeme Taylor enjoys morning tea under his trusty umbrella on Anne and Jono's farm
Sun 23 – Mon 24 Oct 2022 Labour Weekend at Aotuhia With a cloud-free sky, we headed off far too early for any civilised Sunday. However the thought of getting to the Whanganui River for the first time dragged me out of bed. A couple of hours later when we arrived at Aotuhia, there were by then nine of us: myself, the Curds, Alan Doy, Barbara Hepburn, Barry Rollo, Mark Robbins, Graeme Taylor and John Sutton. After dropping our overnight gear at the shearer’s quarters, we were on our way tramping. With the track not on the topo map I had little idea what I was in for. Turns out it was mostly farm tracks, which make for great views if rather sore feet at the end of the day. With his excellent knowledge of the Taranaki hill country, Alan was able to fill us in on the history of Bill Marriot Boulevard (the track we were using) and on how Aotuhia Station had looked at developing the route for tourism around 20 years ago. Arriving at the Whanganui River I wasn’t disappointed, it’s a spectacular and remote location. I could easily have sat there for a couple of hours with my feet in the river. However like all good club trips there was a schedule to keep to and the beers were awaiting us back at the shearer’s quarters. We took a different route along the ridgeline on the way back, which took us through bush on the climb, a relief on an afternoon that was rapidly warming up. On our return the first priority was to fire up the generator to get the beers cooling. It became clear that we could have survived in there for a few days once we saw what was available for our potluck dinner, with four desserts alone having been brought in for nine of us. The following morning we headed for Whangamomona Falls. By then my feet were getting pretty sick of the hard-packed farm tracks, but getting to the falls made it well worthwhile. There was a bit of a scramble down to the falls but thanks to Kevin having a rope with him we all made it down there. Heading home, we were we all (especially Kevin) looking forward to a drink at the Toko pub. However as the first car to arrive and discover it was closed on a public holiday, we had the unfortunate task of breaking this news to him. ~ Jeremy Chirnside
Gathered on the site of an old M?ori pa at Aotuhia are John Sutton, Jeremy Chirnside, Karen Curd, Barry Rollo, Kev Curd, Graeme Taylor, Robert Young, Alan Doy. Tahi Hepburn is the dark bundle in the foreground
Sat 22 Oct 2022 Loop tramp from Gravel Dump The way was a little uncertain as we pushed through the scrub behind the dump area but we were soon onto an old logging trail. As seems pretty normal on the Pouakai Range, the climbing was gradual at the start but got fairly steep in places before making it out into the open. It was ideal out of the bush, with no wind or cloud – making it easier to enjoy the views. Descending the Kiri Track gave good variety with rocky ledges among the ups and downs. Also has a couple of mini peaks to go up and over before getting back into the bush proper. With everyone chatting away, (including the ones at the front) we found ourselves at Kiri Man and had to backtrack two or three minutes for the turnoff back to Carrington. The windfalls tend to enforce delays, with markers often obscured or in some cases repositioned on or close to the ground. Often demand an elderly form of gymnastics also. Half marathoner Helen Gray and Kevin Reilly slotted in effortlessly with Carol Stewart, Allison Wilkins and Derek Andrews today. ~Denis Goodwin
Wed 19 Oct 2022 E Waitara River to Waiongana Stream 28 trampers arrived at the start of the Waitara Heritage Trail which follows the Waitara River from West Quay, over the unique eel-themed walkway to Marine Park, near the mouth of the river. This was our morning tea stop and shelter was sought from the strengthening south-westerly wind whilst we enjoyed our beverages and snacks. Leaving the Heritage Trail, we entered the beach, where we were soon getting pelted with sand. There was slight respite as we neared the Tuaranga Reef, but we were then challenged with navigating a path through the rocks. Lorraine T commented that it was “a good exercise for the brain.” We arrived at the Waitara West Marginal Lagoon for lunch and managed to again find shelter behind large pieces of driftwood. No birds were found, apart from a lonely black swan / kak??nau nesting on a makeshift island in the middle of the lagoon. After lunch we all started collecting rubbish, concentrating on the area in front of the lagoon and then back along the beach, which was relatively clean thanks to the local residents. On our return we could see the windsurfers were out in force, making the most of the conditions. We stopped to chat to Graeme T and Noel as they were changing their sails readying to go back out. Once off the beach I stopped to chat with a friend who works for the TRC. They had also just been to the lagoon where they are monitoring alligator weed that has unfortunately found its way there. This invasive South American pest clogs wetlands, lakes and rivers and can increase the risk of flooding. Hearing a noise, I looked up to see a magnificent flock of royal spoonbill / k?tuku ngutupapa in flight, resembling long darts and honking in unison as they flew closely overhead. Thanks to everyone for your epic efforts in collecting rubbish and to Graeme T for organising the book at Wallace Place. Also, thanks to Terry Baldwin for being my contact on the day. ~ Sharryn Sait
Thurs 13 Oct 2022 Club Night: Footsteps of the Nomads Wietze and Rae Hoogeveen presented a very interesting and enjoyable talk on their experience when travelling through Mongolia. There were seventeen in their group, mostly Australians, plus two Canadians, one American and themselves. They were very lucky in that the group also consisted of three doctors and two physiotherapists, as by Day Three there were four to five sick trekkers. But Wietze and Rae were thankfully not among the very unwell. The trek was broken in two different parts and in two different areas in the Altai Mountains. The first in the Kharkhiraa Valley and the second from Olgiy to Tsaat Ulul, mainly by vehicle and for a shorter trek up the valley. Throughout the trip they travelled by camel, horse (which they were thankful for when crossing the many rivers), vehicle and a whole lot of walking. Their presentation also included many interesting photos showing the local people, children and animals. Thanks to Wietze and Rae for a marvellous talk. ~Lorraine Eldershaw
Wed 12 Oct 2022 FE Kahui - Puniho Circuit The forecast was for wet weather all day, so rather than tramp in the rain then sit in it and wait for the shuttle to take drivers to their cars and return, I decided that it would be prudent to change the tramp and go to a hut so we could at least get out of the rain to have lunch. Kahui Hut seemed like a good idea, as we were supposed to be going in that direction. Three keen trampers, not afraid of a little dampness, turned up and off we went. True to forecast it rained all day albeit mostly lightly, but we were pleased to have a day out, enjoyed the exercise and appreciated very much the hut at lunch time! Thanks to Lorraine E, Carrie S and Sharryn S for keeping me company and to John F for being our contact. ~ Graeme Taylor
Welcome shelter for Carrie, Graeme and Lorraine on the Kahui tramp
Sat 8 Oct 2022 TAKT York Rd Loop Our group met at the end of York Rd and headed up the track exploring all the history and remains of the old quarry and crusher sites. Following the old railway route, we had a lot of fun checking out the remnants and reading the information boards. Being able to walk hrough one of the pipes was a major highlight! The swing bridge was a great sunny spot to stop for lunch and then it was a quick trip back down the old service road. This is a really fun family walk and was enjoyed by all! ~ Jo-anne Mowat
TAKT enjoyed the York Road loop track in October
Wed 5 Oct 2022 E Patea Town River and sea. The forecast was high winds, rain, and snow. Not to be daunted, Sharon, Mary Anne, Trevor and I turned up and drove through sunshine to Patea. We did have the occasional drizzle, and on the coast winds and dark threatening clouds, but it made the ship wreck of the Waitangi on Patea Beach even more atmospheric. Some of the logs in front of the wreck were so smooth and shaped by the sea they also must have been long submerged. One looked like a beached whale. The river walk in Patea is well documented, with photos showing just how big the freezing works were and telling us about the history of the area. We visited the interesting museum and finished our walk, much energised and refreshed, back at the cemetery. Remember, nine times out of ten, the weather is never as bad as predicted. Snow in Stratford the next day! ~ Christine Feigler
The Waitangi shipwreck on Patea Beach
Wed 28 Sep 2022 Walk Pukeiti Gardens We are very fortunate and blessed to be able to walk around the world-renowned gardens, so close to our city. The Taranaki Regional Council is to be thanked for all their work, and for the pleasure these gardens give. 24 of us enjoyed the meander, with folk adding information about various areas. September is certainly a time to appreciate the colour, and vista. Today was no exception. sat on the steps of the Lodge for morning tea, and later lunch, before heading home, all feeling refreshed from the morning wander, and time with friends. ~ Margaret Emo
Morning tea on the Pukeiti steps
Wed 28 Sep 2022 FE The Tarns I anticipated a low attendance today, as I regarded the tramp having limited appeal because it had been completed so many times previously. Pleasantly surprised to have a party of 15 heading off from the carpark. I was quickly made aware of the fact that I was going too fast. Sharryn and Vanessa took over the leadership role both there and back. Kevin was the back marker and at best I described myself as the “middle man.” Had the usual stop at the Plymouth Track junction for morning tea. Our arrival at Pouakai Hut was too early for lunch which meant we carried onto the Tarns. It was cold, windy and misty and we saw virtually nothing but because of the conditions there was still an inherent beauty about our surroundings. Got back to the hut at 12.15, lit the fire and spent 45 minutes there before we returned to the carpark where we arrived at 2.45. ~ John Depree
Sat 24 Sep 2022 TAKT Pukekura Park Off the Beaten Track A small group met on Fillis St to explore the less traveled paths within the park. Three new families joined us, six children and a baby in total. Not satisfied with the bush tracks I led them on, they found trees to clamber across and streams to jump. A sunny picnic at Brooklands was followed by a scavenger hunt and looking for geo caches in the afternoon. ~ Jo-anne Mowat
Sat 24 Sep 2022 TAKT Maketawa Loop Take a Kid Tramping. After postponing this trip from two weeks earlier due to the forecast of snow showers to 1200m, what would today bring? Showers were forecast, but not the freezing temperatures of the earlier date, so we went ahead. It was fine when we set off on the track to Maketawa Hut, so we could take our time, and with two keen botanists in the group it was no surprise we stopped for plants of interest along the way. Kamahi, mountain cabbage tree, mountain cedars, filmy ferns, hen and chicken fern and a tree-like moss were all admired, as was the abundance of mosses, liverworts and lichens, which were glowing with good health, a bonus of the generally damp conditions. The steep section up to Maketawa Hut slowed our pace, but we picked it up again when it started to rain. Luckily, the hut was only about 10 minutes away. It poured down soon after we arrived and were eating lunch. Even luckier, the rain had stopped by the time we headed off again. Not far uphill from the hut, Miro spotted very clear kiwi footprints in the mud on one of the steps: a bonus of the wet weather! On we went, and for some the steps seemed endless, but before long there we were at Maketawa Corner on the Translator Road. We were in the cloud, a new experience for some. Down the road, and back to North Egmont just after 2pm. A great walk, with great company: thanks Angela, Ben, Ella, Janica and Miro, and Jo-anne for organising TAKT and being my contact person. ~ Barbara Hammonds
Little Maketawa Valley
Sat 24 Sep 2022 MA Mangorei Adventure A beautiful sunny day, with only Mr Curd keen enough to tramp with me to the plane wreck and the foot of the large waterfall on a branch of the Mangorei Stream.
Waterfall on Mangorei Stream
21 Sep 2022 E Keep New Zealand Beautiful Week Te Wera Wera Bridge to Bell Block Beach. The Whangamomona trip was cancelled due to wet, slippery conditions, so instead we joined the District Council’s beach clean up. Te Wera Wera Bridge to Bell Block was our section. The eco warriors were Mary Anne, Trevor, John, Sharon, Heather, Mary, Cecilia and myself. The plastic from the bridge to the sea was thick and plentiful and we packed two council bags full. Heather carried the remnants of a wooden fence with a plastic covering. Dotterels and sea birds nest among the plastic. At Bell Block Beach a lot of fine plastic was washed up in the seaweed. We filled another bag, had lunch and walked back to the cars. ~ Christine Feigler
Fri 16 - Sat 17 Sep 2022 TAKT Piwakawaka Hut Five adults and six excited children met at the Pukeiti gates straight after school on Friday night, ready for our long-planned walk into the popular Piwakawaka Hut. We headed off through the gardens towards the swing bridge exploring the dragonfly treehouse on route. On the route down to the swing bridge, Aya and Yoav took a wrong turn and we learnt quickly how easy it is to lose one of your party! Luckily we were all reunited and headed on to the hut. The muddy 4-wheel-drive track was up and down and a little hard for a Friday night with tired kids so we were all very happy to arrive and settle in for dinner at the hut! A scary walk in the dark to check out the glow worms and back to the hut for story and bed. The next day the kids had a lot more energy and after cleaning up the hut we headed out over the new (not completed) track checking out all the new bridges. This track is far superior and much more interesting and will improve the walk to Piwakawaka Hut enormously. Arrived back at the gardens just before the rain. Then a bit of time exploring the Kokopu treehouse and water wheel before heading home. ~ Jo-anne Mowat
The TAKT group checking out Pukeiti tracks in progress
Wed 14 Sep 2022 FE North Egmont - Rahiri Cottage After a couple of days of heavy rain, it was good to get out and stretch the legs. 15 like-minded trampers turned up to enjoy a leisurely jaunt from North Egmont down the Ngatoro Track to the Mangaoraka car park, where we had lunch, and then down the Waiwhakaiho Track to Rahiri Cottage. There had been a fresh snowfall overnight so the temperature at North Egmont was quite chilly. Noel M managed to find a very small patch of snow on the ground but it wouldn't stay long as the sun was shining. There are quite a number of unbridged streams on this tramp and although they all had more than usual water in them, all were successfully crossed, however the last one of the day did claim a few wet feet! Both tracks were in reasonable condition and it was pleasing to see that some windfall had recently been cleared, presumably by DOC. Thanks to Noel M and John D for being front and back markers and to Malcolm Smart for being our contact. Thanks also to John Fisher for designing the Car Shuttle Ready Reckoner, it worked a treat. - Graeme Taylor
Leader Noel Moir at the front of the group
Sun 11 Sep 2022 FE Stratford Mountain House, Curtis Stream to RMT We had a good mix of trampers keen on this adventure. The stalwarts of the club, Julia Collins, Carrie Smith, Miyuki Edwards, John and Maureen Simmons were joined by newer members, Aya Doran, Elexa Winther, Ami Adams, Steve Boot, and Angela Richards with her 11-year-old son Ben. Light rain had us wearing our coats for the first twenty minutes but as the day progressed we all began to shed more clothing. Morning tea when we reached the Curtis Stream then our trip became more interesting as we negotiated our way up the stream, crossing and recrossing the river all the way up. Since our last trip up the stream there have been several slips and treefalls so finding the best way was a guess at times. The three waterfalls challenged us all, but after considering different options with the help of John S we all made it to the top. It wasn’t easy but very satisfying for the group to work together to obtain our goal. We reached the plateau around 1.30pm for a late lunch. The sun was shining as we sat in the shelter, taking in the beautiful view of our magnificent mountain, what a great spot. A 20-minute stroll to reach the vehicles and after a car shuttle we arrived home about 3.30pm. A real good adventure. ~ Kevin Curd
Thurs 8 Sep 2022 Club Night: Buy Sell and Exchange What a great night - there were so many plants, books and lots of tramping gear. It was a shame, though, that more members didn’t attend. Even so, $444.30 was raised for the ‘Wild for Taranaki’ organisation and a box of goodies went to Foodbank. Big thanks all those who put in the effort to pot up and bring along such a wide variety of plants etc, well as those who brought surplus tramping equipment and to the committee for organising the night. ~ Lorraine Eldershaw
Wed 7 Sep 2022 E Omata farm walk with protected bush, good views The day dawned with some rain but as promised in the weather forecast the day improved with some sun in the afternoon. A party of 17 were at the Duke farm to commence the walk. Murray gave a short talk on where we would walk, some local history and QEII covenants in the area. The Omata block of 12,000 acres is the rohe of the Ngati Tairi hapu of the Taranaki iwi and was sold to the government in 1847 for 8d an acre. It was then divided into mainly 50-acre blocks and sold to farming settlers. The Omata/?akura district originally had a significant Maori population with at least 37 pa sites in the area. A number of small patches of bush were not cleared and there are currently 28 QEII covenants in the Omata area covering nearly 50 ha. We viewed eight of these today. After viewing 1.5ha of new native plantings on the Duke farm we crossed over to Len Jury’s property. Len has had substantial eight-wire fences erected around the four covenants on his property. There is a stock tunnel under Surf Highway that links to John Matthews’ property and we took a diversion for a quick peek through this. There was then some mud to negotiate and one of our group slipped and looked like she had been to a chocolate factory. We then climbed the steep Pukiekie pa site with nice views for morning tea. Backtracking back to the Duke Farm we entered the “Woodside” covenant. This small piece of bush has some really old trees including three large Pukatea. John Depree was spotted giving one a colonoscopy with a stick. A creek goes underground for about 15 metres and reappears under the buttressed roots of one of the Pukatea. We then viewed a wetland which has recovered well since fencing in 2001, before crossing a tricky fence into David Berridge’s property and viewing a large pond and some Manuka plantings. Then we crossed Hurford Road into Wayne Berridge’s property for lunch in a sunny valley. After lunch, three of our number took the opportunity to shorten the walk by going down Hurford Road back to the cars. Then down a steep hill before a climb of about 50 metres elevation to a great view out to the coastline and parts of New Plymouth. A gentler downhill in the direction of Sealy Road where we met a farm track to head back towards Hurford Road. We passed a wetland of which there is a wall-sized photograph in the NE end of Puke Ariki Museum. Sadly the Kahikatea trees there are dying, for an unknown reason. After passing more covenanted bush we entered Hurford Road and briefly back onto the Duke farm before returning to the cars. The walk took about 5.5 hours with Sharryn Sait’s GPS showing a distance of exactly 11km. Thanks to Sharryn for organising from Wallace Place and to Barry Dravitski and John Depree for closing the numerous gates. ~ Murray Duke
The Jury Covenant with the Kaitake Range beyond
Wed 31 Aug 2022 FE Kiri, Plymouth Loop The forecast was for a lovely day, encouraging 28 trampers to take on this interesting trip. After a short walk up the Kiri we took the turn off and headed across to the Plymouth. In our way was the Kiri Stream which provided some exciting moments. Some of us are not as good at rock hopping as we used to be, but with assistance we all made it across without mishap. At the Plymouth Track we stopped for morning tea. From here we had a gentle climb up to the Momona Track which leads us back over to the Kiri. This time we stopped and had lunch, sitting on the rocks in the Kiri Stream. It was disappointing that the sun disappeared, spoiling this lovely spot. The climb up from the lunch spot had us all puffing hard so we took a spell and visited the Kiri Man. From here it was an easy stroll of one hour back to the cars. Thanks to Graeme Taylor, radios and Tail End Charlie. A great day out. ~ Kevin Curd
Sun 28 Aug 2022 FE Maude Peak It was a chilly breeze and clear skies as we prepped at the carpark for the start of the Maude Track; my first tramp as a Tramp Leader. I wasn’t too worried as I had some experienced members along for the hike, plus one new member. The walk through the farmland to the real track start was probably the most challenging with 50-100 young bulls all watching attentively as we crossed the paddocks. Safely across, we made our way into the bush and up to the Mangakotukutuku Falls junction in just over an hour. The breeze had dropped right off and periodically we got a touch of sun in breaks in the canopy. We had morning tea at the junction and headed down to the falls. What a delight to see a good flow of water and we were blessed with a rainbow in the mist across the falls. We were like tourists and got some good pics before heading back up to the junction for our hike to the top of Maude. We made good progress on a rough track at times, and of course it was all uphill! There are a few slips that you need to cross near the saddle and what a view looking back to Mt Messenger and further afield. A moment for pause and to appreciate our wonderful country before heading up to the peak. We found the side trail and Anne lead the way to the top. Oh, what a beautiful day. The wind had died down, the sun was shining, and it was so tranquil. After 40 minutes or so it was time to head back down, but it was so pleasant no one really wanted to leave. Karen mentioned that she had lost her sunglasses on the way up and to be on the lookout for them – yeah right! Kevin led the way down at a cracking pace while we were looking left and right and being super careful where we placed our feet. Unbelievably, Karen found her glasses on the way down – very lucky Kevin didn’t step on them. After 2½ hours and negotiating our way around the bulls, we were back at the car. Thanks to Kevin, Karen, Anne and new member Angela for a lovely day’s hiking. ~ Ray Dench
Sat 27 Aug 2022 M East West Crossing of Kaitake Range Crossing the ?akura River on the Rawson Track can often be difficult with large and deep gaps between the rocks, so we opted for the shorter route through Pukeiti. It wasn’t long before we were on the hauling trench, with lots of tracks for predator trapping leading off. Making it through to the ?akura and Pirongiha Streams peninsular, without unintended diversions, is a bit of a relief these days. A rope at chest height has been positioned across the Pirongiha Stream and this makes crossing it a lot easier to retain dry feet. It’s a pretty small crossing but the rocks can be slippery but being supported by the rope would probably guarantee a second chance. The long haul to the top of Kirihau Peak was rewarded with a clear view and no wind. These conditions were repeated at the trig, although the mountain had clouded over by then. Enjoyed a break in the sun here. Paid a visit to Frank’s Café, but it was standing room only today. Very fresh-looking windfalls of tall and straight macrocarpas were beside the track just before we got to the redwoods. Making the most of a beaut day were: Derek Andrews, Carol Stewart, Allison Wilkins, Maria Van der Poel, Miyuki Edwards. Yumi Iwasaki, Basil Cook, Ross Hoffman and Keith Coughtrey. Had taken us six hours. Two of the group chose to finish their day with the Sefton Ridge option. This added about 13 minutes. ~Denis Goodwin
21/08/2022 Jacobs Ladder to Maketawa Hut The last time we did this tramp it was clear blue skies, snow on the ground and Kiwi footprints in it! It has been torrential rain all week throughout the country with slips and floods everywhere so we knew things would be different today. We started of up the steps from the EVC and after 20 minutes or so, we came across a large ginger cat eating a hare it had caught and had draped its prey unceremoniously across the steps! It ran off as we approached. (The cat, not the hare! The next thing that happened was that Jocobs Ladder no longer exists and a new track has been cut. This is all new wooden steps and joins the old track at the top. The walk to the lodge was pleasant and the weather, surprisingly had behaved itself ever since we left the car. While we ate breakfast in the lodge shelter, we could sense that things were changing as the wind picked up and was howling past the shelter. We walked to the transmitter tower and the strong wind was extremely cold at this point, at least it was dry! Then it came! As we descended the ridge behind the tower, first we had horizontal wind with a few spots of rain that stung the face, then we had full on horizontal rain for a while. My right side was dry and warm, the left side, not so much. The wind eased as we descended and the horizontal rain just became normal rain, which just got heavier and heavier. Lunch at the hut was a welcome relief from the weather which just got worse as we sat and watched. Eventually, with dry gear on to replace the wet stuff, we made our way back to EVC via the lower track. This track was a total washout and had become a full on stream which we had to walk down the middle of. This made it difficult to gauge the depth of the water with all the tree roots and holes that could no longer be seen. After a while, our boots had become soaked inside and out. So, all these new streams fed down to the existing stream which was now a 5-metre-wide raging torrent. We took a minute to find a suitable spot to cross, not finding one, we went for it anyway and took the opportunity to practice our river crossing techniques! Thankfully the water wasn’t to cold as we were in it for good few minutes while we edged our way across. Safely across, we continued on the new stream tracks until we reached EVC, totally soaked, not cold though and all thrilled with the adventure we had just completed. Thanks to Julia and Kevin for joining me today and thanks to Rebecca for being the contact today. -Colin Smith
Kevin goes 'Over the Edge'
Tracks just starting to flood. They got a lot worse than this!
This is normally a quiet, almost dry stream, but not today!
Sun 14 Aug 2022 M Kiri, Plymouth, Mangorei Loop The forecast for this trip was for a lovely sunny day. My wife Karen decided it would be an ideal day to spend in the garden, many other trampers thought the same. Mike Donaldson, John Simmons and Derek Andrews were the only takers for this trip. An easy stroll up to the Boundary track then across to the Plymouth crossing the stream with no wet feet. From the Plymouth, the track over to the Mangorei is somewhat harder with several tree falls slowing our progress. We took just under an hour to climb up to the Plymouth junction, then it was all down hill to find the upper track that takes us back to the Kiri. On my recce a month earlier we missed this junction, even though it has several markers clearly visible. Lunch was sitting on rocks in the Kiri stream, a truly beautiful spot even though the sun disappeared during our rest there. From here a short climb up and over to the Kiri track, visiting the Kiri Man (he’s looking a little haggard) then an easy walk down to the car, a 6-hour tramp. ~ Kevin Curd
Sat 13 Aug 2022 M Loop Tramp from Maude Track The occupants of the bull paddock seemed relaxed and at peace with the world – unperturbed about intruders passing through. Progress up through the bush was steady, but out in the open the breeze had quite a bite to it. The foliage to push through at the bottom of Maude Peake was dry but there was a trace or two of frost or ice in sheltered spots on the climb up. Had a good panoramic view at the top – couldn’t see the cars but could see the road leading up to them. With the wind there being strong and cold we didn’t stick around for long. Back around the base of the peak we took the turnoff back towards the cross-country track from Mangorei. The ones at the front found a sunny and sheltered spot but decided it was too early for lunch. Robin mentioned two of his mountain-biking friends in Canada riding past a cougar. The one who noticed it stopped and took the recommended action, stopping and holding up his bike to look big. Would be a nasty surprise, being pounced from behind by a big cat with claws and teeth. The turnoff back to Maude Track was well marked, as was the track. Remember doing a circle on a part of this track some years before – following stray markers that different people had placed. After a long descent we had a couple of deep gullies to remind us about climbing, just before getting back on the main track at the waterfall turnoff. Along today were: Robin Grant, Carol Stewart, Ali Jordan, Derek Andrews, Allison Wilkins, Kliment Duitriev, Jo-Anne Mowat and Lucus Flay. ~ Denis Goodwin
Panoramic views from the Maude Track in August
Sat 13 – Sun 14 August 2022 Leitch’s Hut (48th Birthday Weekend Celebration) This weekend birthday trip was the first one to a backcountry hut since the much talked about 1st birthday trip to Holly Hut in 1975. It was a slow but enjoyable trip full of surprises. Firstly, slow because the celebratory birthday cake could not be damaged. Secondly members took compulsory lie-downs every half hour. Thirdly because we got distracted and managed to waylay and catch our tea. Fourthly, time was taken to sniff the daisies and watch the birds. Fifthly, there were more pigs to catch when we got to the hut. If you want to be part of the 49th birthday weekend trip, mark 12 - 13 August 2023 on your calendar now. There will be trips for all grades. Thanks to Terry Baldwin for being our contact. ~ Alasdair Nicoll, Anne Kivell, Sharryn Sait
Alasdair N celebrates Leitch's Hut's 48th
Thurs 11 Aug 2022 Club Night: Backcountry Trust A perfect way for the club to give back to the outdoor community was to host a Backcountry Trust North Island volunteer recruitment evening in conjunction with our regular club night. North Island Project Manager, Megan Dimozantos, presented an overview of the organisation including the history, structure, focus and operations. In brief, the Backcountry Trust funds and supports volunteers to maintain huts and build tracks for outdoor enthusiasts. Emphasis is on huts and tracks ‘off the beaten’ path, that might otherwise fall to disrepair due to lack of funding and ability for DOC to manage. This mission is of personal interest to me, as my father has shared his interest in the Permolat Trust, Remote Huts of the South Island’s West Coast – contributing to Backcountry Trust’s origins. It has also been exciting to see our club connect with Megan and Backcountry Trust to coordinate recent volunteer hours in the Wait?tara Conservation Area. Let us hope this relationship continues, allowing our club to support the preservation of the unique, valuable hut and track network we enjoy on a regular basis. ~ Julia Collins
Wed 10 Aug 2022 Tapuae River and Beach Walk 31 trampers carpooled from Wallace Place and drove to the Tapuae carpark. We walked on the beach in beautiful weather (it was blowing a howling southeaster in town). The sea was calm and sparkling. Before we entered the Okurukuru property, we had morning tea on the beach. A climb up through the vines and farm to the restaurant showed off bush, sea and mountain views. Heading through a gate, we entered the Tapuae Estate, walked down the farm and into the bush walk beside the lakes, admiring the wonderful plantings planted by Mary Washer and her workers. Finishing earlier than we thought gave those who wanted to do a circuit of the bush, or walk up the estate road to admire the houses! Thanks to the management of Okurukuru and the Washer Estate. I guess it was a success as quite a few asked for it to be done again sometime. ~ Therese Waghorn
Sat 6 Aug 2022 Pouakai Traverse With showers forecast to start in the afternoon it seemed fairly risky tackling this one. Exiting the bush on Dover Track had us into the wind, but it was light and dry cloud scooting over. Got wind break gear on (wet weather gear), from the boots up, in a spot sheltered from the north, for the final push to the trig. Didn’t loiter at the top, pressing on for the more sheltered conditions at Tatangi. The raised boardwalk going to the tarns was impressive – wide enough for mountain bikes, but with the steps, obviously isn’t intended for them. The strong cross wind today would have made it easy to ride off. Continued the up and over approach on Henry Peak but started to cool down in the shelter of the bush. We noticed fresh Ponga fronds on the track from the bottom of the Henry Peak steps. Had a few spits of rain after the Waiwhakaiho swing bridge, but made it out to the carpark ok, jumping in the car fairly quick. Relishing the marginal conditions today were Carol Stewart and Allison Wilkins. Had taken 8 ¼ hrs. Derek had tramped into the base of Henry and beaten us out by 10 minutes. Had the wipers on going down Egmont Road. ~ Denis Goodwin
Sat 6 August Lake Rotokare Predator Fence Line With a break in the (seemingly) relentless rain of the previous few weeks, it was with relief that the weather looked likely to stay fine until the evening, allowing me fair certainty for a suitable day to continue with the planned trip. Those who joined me were of similar mind, that it would be interesting to walk the full perimeter fence line of this unique feature on our landscape. In fact, there were even some who had not yet visited Rotokare Scenic Reserve – a real treasure in Taranaki conservation projects. Before we even left the carpark, tieke/saddleback were greeting us with their noisy chatter. Once up on the ridgeline, travel was steady between the typically regular incline and decline of a ridgeline track. Walking poles definitely came in handy on the steeper slopes and we all seemed to take turns at demonstrating pirouette skills attempting to remain upright when the slippery slopes got the better of us. It was particularly interesting to meet up with a couple of hardy volunteers who were trimming back vegetation from the fence. Apparently, as a group the entire predator fence is monitored and checked every week for structural integrity. Having not walked the entire fence line before, I was unsure of the full challenge. We came out at four hours total, with plenty of rest stops, and 8.3km distance. Appreciation to Sophie of Rotokare Scenic Reserve Trust, for allowing us to walk the perimeter fence line. On the trip were Claire C, Mike G, Dave H, Mike D, Ray D and Sonya B. ~ Julia Collins
Sat 23 - Sun 24 July 2022 TAKT Dawson Falls / Konini Lodge What a perfect day, freezing cold and clear skies, 12 adults and 12 children, met at Dawson Falls ready for a day exploring! The TAKT 11+ group headed off for Stratford Plateau and the rest of us took a bit of time to get organised before heading for Wilkies Pools for lunch. It was pretty cold, but we were all well kitted out and it didn’t stop the kids playing around the rock pools. After lunch the trek down was a little more challenging with waterfalls and the river to cross... no problem for our amazing kids! We met up with the 11+ group back at the carpark and headed down to settle into Konini Lodge and a cuppa. That wasn’t enough for some though, so off for a fast paced trek up to Hillary's Seat. I was puffing but the kids didn’t even notice the climb! ~ Jo-anne Mowat Ben's perspective: The 11+ group went to the Stratford Plateau and the hike up there was great. The leader of the tramp (Terry) taught us about some of the things that we encountered on the way, for example hoar frost and some poisonous plants. When we got to the plateau the mountain was clear and covered in snow. We had a bit of a stop for some morning tea before heading off again. On the way down to the Konini Lodge the views were amazing - it was such a beautiful clear winter's day. We could see lots of Taranaki towns below us and even Mount Ruapehu. We stopped off at Dawson Falls which were amazing, creating a refreshing spray from the water falling onto the water at the bottom. We did not stay there for long as some of us were hungry and eager to see the lodge where we were going to stay for the night. When we got to the lodge and opened the door it was nice and warm inside and to our surprise, there were heat pumps, a proper kitchen and lighting. Most of the space in the lodge’s dining area was taken up by bench seats and massive tables. The rooms were inside and the only things in them were big wooden beds, some of which were bunk beds. At around 2 o’clock some of the group decided to head to Hillary's seat which was dedicated to Sir Edmond Hillary. The hike up was not all that long but the view was amazing. When we got back to the lodge the sun was starting to set. At about 6pm we ate dinner which was yummy because everyone had brought something to share. A few hours later after dinner (when it was pitch black outside), everyone who wanted to went for a night walk. We went to the lookout at the visitor centre and when we looked up, we could see the Milky Way like a cloud full of stars. We also tried to go down to Dawson Falls but got to an extremely muddy part and decided to head back. On the way back to the lodge we saw some wild rabbits who sprinted away as fast as possible as soon as we shined our lights on them. As soon as we got back to the lodge, we had dessert (pavlova and sponge cake) which Jo-anne had made for us. After a bit of fun with all of the kids and chatter amongst the adults, we all felt tired and headed to bed. The next morning, we woke up and had breakfast. Jo-anne was busy in the kitchen making very thin pancakes for us all which tasted amazing. At around 9ish when we had packed up our rooms, we all decided to go for a tramp down to Dawson Falls. When we got to the falls, we had a bit of a break to soak in the sights, take some photos and also discovered an old overgrown track which took us to a different view of the falls. Jo-anne told us that you used to be able to walk behind the falls; however, due to a big flood, some rocks moved and took the falls in a different direction. On the way back to the lodge, we went to the old Dawson Falls power station which was super noisy because of a massive torrent of water shooting through a tunnel under our feet. When we got back to the lodge it was around lunchtime and we all started to leave and go our separate ways. I was really tired when I got home, but it was worth it! I can't wait for our next adventure together. ~ Ben Richards (13 yrs)
Fun on the TAKT Dawson Falls / Konini Lodge weekend
Sat 23 July 2022 Te Awa River Ride There seemed to be a lot of new and swanky looking houses built to the river front in Ngaruawahia – more like what you would expect in Hamilton, but you have to pass a golf course, the Horotiu Works, a horsey looking playground and the Te Rapa Fonterra site before reaching the big town. The trail was signposted to the town centre from 8 or so kms out – for the cycling citizens of the city? The car park at Hamilton Gardens was bursting at the seams with eagle-eyed motorists circling round and parking on grassy areas when we arrived there. Probably rode on part of the yet to be completed section from here to Newell Road. An article featuring new construction work appeared online the following day, showing photos of a digger that had slipped off the track and was downside up beside a river, chained to the bank. The local authorities were unaware of the situation apparently. Don’t imagine anyone would be rushing to involve Health and Safety (for another couple of months of delay). Passing through the Airport Road underpass, we were onto the recently completed part of the trail. It was a nice wide concrete path through open country with good looking Waikato farms to see. Getting close to Cambridge, there were nursery paddocks of thousands of leafless trees in precise straight lines. May have been Cherry, Apple and Plum trees? Some pretty impressive timberwork has made the track possible in places here. Wooden zig zags up and down, (instead of Spirals on rail lines), have been created over bush areas. Helpfully, they have built wide and level platforms at the ends. Sharp hairpin turns tend to be high wobble places of poor stability on push bikes. Had a fairly steep climb up into Cambridge, (one of the group chose walking - that may have been faster than riding) and after catching our breaths and sharing motor vehicle roads, had to try slotting back into good road etiquette for roundabouts and the like. There seemed to be more concrete trail under construction on the outskirts of Cambridge, hooking into the 10 kms or so that goes to Karapiro. This is a long distance of pure flat but had a variety of people, young and old, runners, walkers and riders using it. The bike computer showed a ride time of 4hrs 20 but we did have stops along the way. A 61 km ride may seem crazy to some, but two of the group ended their day with a mid-winter swim in Lake Karapiro. Seemed disappointed we didn’t have hot water bottles for their feet. There was no problem about sweaty feet here. It hadn’t been a hot day. Along today were Anne Brough, Julia Collins and Mark Robbins. Denis Goodwin
Sat 23 July 2022 Puniho Loop II A cool but clear morning at Wallace Place. Four of us drove to Puniho Road end, to take the twenty-minute hike to the track onto our lower Waiweranui Stream crossing. The full running stream had us crossing smartly. Then it was away across a few dozen shallow streams and a few with deep gullies. The air in the bush was cold but the exertion of crossing such rugged terrain kept us warm. A welcome tea break from climbing over and around tree falls was had at the turning point south to the Kapoaiaia Track. The next 800 metre stretch of track was less rugged, but the 100-metre climb to the Kapoaiaia Track was definitely noticeable. We made short work over to our upper Waiweranui Stream crossing and stopped above it for early lunch. The warmth of the sunshine at that spot was too pleasant to miss. The rest of the tramp over to the Puniho Track and downwards was relaxing and we stopped to admire a view of the Turtle on the mountain. This was a tramp of about 14 km and 5¼ hours. An enjoyable day with three keen companions who really made my day, Carol Stewart, Claire Chamberlain and Robin Grant. ~ Mike Donaldson
Carol S, Claire C and Robin G look up admiringly at the July snow on the mountain
Wed 20 July 2022 FE Kaiauai Shelter: A winter workout After keeping an eye on the mountain weather forecast for two or three days prior to the Wednesday tramp, a ‘personal’ depression set in and I had resigned myself to the fact that we would not go walking on a rough bush track any time soon. Come Tuesday evening, while rain was coming down in buckets the ‘YR’ forecast appeared to be improving for most of the day until mid-afternoon, so I thought I had better check out my gear. Wednesday morning the rain eased off and the forecast had improved further, although I was not confident myself that we could go. At 0650, I called JD, his positivity boosted my confidence and we made the decision to go. Wow this is going to be wet! We arrived at the Kaiauai car park at 0900, the rain had not long stopped. Nine keen pairs of boots set off, splashing along the track trying to avoid the deep puddles. This would be the Ancient Mariner’s dream. The bush was dripping and this was the only reason we were wearing wet weather gear. At 0950 we crossed the Waiwhakaiho suspension bridge and stopped for morning tea at the river lookout, it seemed like we hadn’t been walking long but it’s a nice place to stop. The river looked pretty spectacular with tea-stained water tumbling down. After a nice hot drink and biscuit we walked on, Sharryn counting wooden bridges. The rest of us were, but nobody else seemed to know how many we had crossed. It was amazing to see the numerous waterfalls that appeared on a day such as this. The light from the partly clouded sky filtering down through the trees and the water everywhere was a sight to behold. It just looked and felt so good for the soul. At the old Goat Hut site the Maunga stood above us for a moment with his bright white coat that has already got shorter. There were many opportunities for snapshots and with mobile phone cameras there is no need to hesitate. After crossing the last stream, we climbed the ladder to the shelter and sat down for lunch at 1205. A nice lengthy rest I thought was totally in order for the mainly senior group, myself included. On the way back at about 1415 the sky darkened and bush appeared to close in. The forecast now looked pretty realistic to me, rain was coming! But… it didn’t. We all washed our dirty boots in the last remaining puddles and stepped onto the tar seal, back to the cars, safe and sound with no mishaps. Dry road at Egmont Village but solid rain at Mangorei! Sometimes you get lucky. ~ John Fisher
Kaiauai trampers were lucky with the weather
17/07/2022 Veronica Loop from Mangaoraka Car Park It started off very cold and icy, only 2deg showing on the car thermometer once I had cleared all the ice out of the way! We met Basil and Antoinette at the Mangaoraka Car Park on Egmont Road and were ready to set off for the day around 0800. The early frost was mostly gone, the sun came out and we had glorious weather for the best part of the day. 11 trampers out today, somewhat of a record for me! No speed records broken today as we set a leisurely pace up the Ngatoro Track to the Visitors Centre. After a short break in the Winter sunshine, we continued on up the Holly Hut Track then took the turning for the Veronica Loop. This was a very pleasant track with some great mountain views and fairly easy walking. This connected to the Ram track which then became the Kaiauai track. We all sat around the sign at the junction to have our lunch. Heading down the Kaiauai Track, we soon linked up with the Waiwhakaiho Route track which took us back to the car park just before 2pm. We had a lovely day today, no rain and great company. Thanks to Bernie for being the contact today. Thanks to Rebecca, Basil, Antoinette, Carolien, Keith, Kevin, Karen, Miyuki, Robin and Mike for joining me today. -Colin
Sat 16 July 2022 Combined Club Tramp, Matemateaonga - Trig 8 19 eager trampers turned up at Stratford for this tramp. The day had dawned fine but we ran into rain at Inglewood. The forecast was however for good weather and good weather it turned out to be! Of the 19, eight were members of our club. John S, John B, John and Maureen S, Anne Kivell, Sharryn S, Alan T and Graeme T. While the drive into the Kohi Saddle is quite long it is very picturesque and was made all the more so with plenty of fog lingering around the hills. The first half of the unsealed section was very rough, the logging trucks sure have wrecked the road surface! The sun was shining but it was only 2 degrees when we arrived at the start, the shuttle car was put in place and we were all set to go by 9.15am. The "Mate" track was in good condition and there were only a few muddy patches despite the rain we have been having, so good time was made. We stopped for morning smoko at the Puniwhakau Link Track Junction and then headed off to Omaru Hut. A short loo stop then it was off up the ridge to Trig 8. There was plenty of huffing and puffing going on as the trail was pretty steep in places but it was only about half an hour before the old trig site was reached. There is only a cut-off piece of pipe left of the trig and why it is called Trig 8 seems to be unknown, however it is the highest point near Omaru Hut at 449 metres! A lovely panoramic view of the ridges to the northeast were on offer and Ruapehu's summit was just poking its head out above the clouds. From the trig it was to be all downhill... but rest assured it wasn't, it was very steep in places, with lots of ups and downs and very slow going. We reached the very impressive waterfall after a couple of hours. The waterfall, located in the Tanawapiti Stream, is about a 20m sheer vertical face and had quite a bit of water flowing over it. From here it was a one-hour slog out to the road, exiting the trail about 100 metres before the "Elephant Gates" which just happen to be the boundary gates of Aotuhia Station. It was a long but very enjoyable day and it was great to meet and chat with other trampers from clubs in the province. Thanks to John and Maureen S for organising and leading the tramp, and John S and Chris (from the Stratford Club) for doing a recce and re-marking the track from Omaru Hut to the trig and out to the road. - Graeme Taylor
Matemateaonga - Trig 8 route
Thurs 14 July 2022 Club Night Report I had my granddaughter staying with me so we ransacked the dress up box for red, white and blue clothes and found a Where’s Wally top, a white apron and a lacey tie for her hair. I found a white linen shirt and a red and white spotted handkerchief and we were off to the July Club night on Bastille Day. It was lovely to see berets and navy and white striped t-shirts and other nods to the French theme of the evening which continued with biscuits and camembert cheese, profiteroles and, of course, red wine after the talk. George White spoke of his posting to East Timor as part of the peacekeeping force in the early 2000s. He was part of a police group which was sent by the Helen Clarke government to try and help broker peace and harmony as part of a UN Force. His stories and slides were depressing and showed how hard, he would say impossible, it was to build cooperation and goodwill once the social fabric law and order had been destroyed. He spoke of the difficult situation the New Zealand group was put in by only being issued with pistols, when everyone in the villages and towns around them was fully armed. Most of the fighting and arson occurred at night when it was pitch dark. Part of the New Zealand approach was to try and get on side with the children. They had soccer balls which a supermarket in New Zealand had supplied. They gave these out and played with the local kids. But, like everything George spoke about, brute force was then used by youths from neighbouring villages to raid and steal the balls. He found the experience extremely difficult and demoralizing and made it clear that he never wished to return. George’s talk shared how challenging peacekeeping can be. East Timor (Timor Leste) is part of the Indonesian archipelago and was colonised by the Portuguese. The Dutch colonised the rest of Indonesia and an agreement to divide the island between the two powers was signed in 1915. The Indonesian invasion of East Timor began in 1975. This quarter-century violent occupation was further exacerbated when East Timor, in 1999 voted in favour of independence from Indonesia, in a UN referendum. NZ worked from 1999-2002 with the UN Peace Force, then in 2006 NZ support was sent after riots erupted in Dili. In 2011 the NZ Defence force still had 79 troops in East Timor. These were withdrawn in 2012. ~ Ngaire Riley, Secretary
East Timor map and flag
Wed 13 July A different perspective on Stratford Seventeen of us met at the Stratford Show grounds. After a tour of the Show grounds we went to the Race Course, which along with the Show grounds looked as if nothing has happened since 1950s, but apparently there are big plans for improvements with a big budget. Two of the ladies remembered the big New Year’s Day race meeting which everyone attended. We had morning tea on the Grand Stand. The Rugby grounds also had a good Grand Stand where we had lunch. We found the original Stratford Cemetery with names of the deceased at the entrance. The cemetery is mainly lawn with very few old head stones, some lying up against the fence. Many of the early settlers only had wooden crosses. We walked to the duck pond which is at the back of the park behind the trees, and then to the main street to the book shop which closes at 1 o’clock, and very good value it is too. All adult books are $2 and the children’s 20 cents each so I got five for $1.00. It is run by volunteers. Thank you Rob for this information. Next to the Book shop is New Zealand’s first talkies movie Theatre. The children were all coming out and we went upstairs where volunteers, the mothers, were tidying up. The lady who runs the theatre gave us a talk on its history. Next we went to the Municipal Building where in the wide hallway are individual photos of every World War I and II local boy who didn’t return. The numbers are sobering. World War II photos also recorded where they were buried. Many airmen just missing. Then some of us went to the Gin Palace for a cup of tea and some to the Art Gallery Café. We walked back to the Show grounds after an interesting day out. ~ Christine Feigler
Sun 3 July 2023 Rahiri and Beyond Seven of us left the car park at Rahiri Cottage and headed across the boundary track to the Waiwhakaiho. Here, we diverted for a short side trip to check out the river and old bridge site, before returning to continue up the Waiwhakaiho Track. Travel was steady, following length of the river on the upper banks, with frequent glimpses out to view the river below. A short break was taken below the branches of a Rimu, one of the several larger specimens along the track. We took a left at the junction to Mangaoraka car park where we stopped again to take advantage of the picnic table, facilities, and plan our return. A brief discussion whether to walk back along the road or find a trapline on which to return to the cars, reached a unanimous decision to take a trapline. After a quick scout around, the trapline was located and away we went. It was generally easy going EXCEPT for the intermittent obstacles (such as tree falls and side streams) that made progress a little slower going. Eventually we joined the boundary line track back to the car park. Sonja (a visitor from Austria) who joined us, commented that they would never have crossed some of the obstacles we encountered back home. Those on the walk were Marilyn, Carrie, Julie, Julia, Ray and Sonja. ~ Terry Baldwin and Julia Collins
Short and steep, crossing a stream on the Rahiri tramp
Sat 2 July 2022 Loop Tramp from Top of Alfred Road With new roading and fencing, things were a bit different at the top of Alfred Road. Took a little while to find the start of the track near the river, but once over the fence into the park the track was easier to follow. The track went close to the bank with huge drops down into the Waiwhakaiho in places. The track in from Kaiauai car park was pretty obvious and followed along this to the shelter for lunch. Crossed back over the swing bridge, doing the climb most of the way out of the gully to the track to take us back along the Kaiauai Stream. This also had some impressive vertical drops down into it. After crossing the fence back out of the park we witnessed some intensive predator trapping. Kill Count: A hanging possum with its fur falling out was the first specimen. Seemed to be a few heavy breathing trampers seeing if they could shallow breathe here. A freshly deceased rat with blood on its head also featured. (A visitor to one of the non-cage, poke-your-nose-in type curiosity / food dispensers). This was followed by a rat writhing on the ground in its death throes. Kind of looked like it had heard us coming and was keen to beat us to the food. And shock – horror! We even saw a stoat in a stoat trap! We were enclosed in the bush here for a while, but once out onto the dampish looking fields it wasn’t long back to the cars. Must be a good place for a quarry at the top of Alfred. They looked to have a new 100-ton digger sitting there. Along today were: Carol Stewart, Allan Taylor, John Barrell, Maria Van Der Poel, Steve Boot, Julia Collins, Derek Andrews and Allison Wilkins. ~Denis Goodwin
Wed 29 June 2022 Stratford Walkways Some fog and a hint of showers did not deter 12 members to tramp the Carrington Walkway following the Patea River. Parking by the Malone Gates on Fenton St, Stratford, we headed down the Eastern Loop on LH side of the river, with co-leader Heather. A leafy well-trodden track under a canopy of trees, some mossy stones and concrete slabs to navigate when next to the river. Stopped at the Thomson Arboretum, developed in 2001, and represents native flora of NZ. Walking through plantings of rimu, miro and native conifers they will eventually become a patch of rainforest. The well sign posted route takes you past Stratford High School on RH side of the river, past the oxidation ponds, over a bridge and return to the town. Steady rain led to us sheltering under the library deck veranda, enjoying lunch. Replenished we ventured past TET Multisports Centre, to the Western Loop via King Edward Park, continuing on RH side of the river. Here rhododendron plants from the Exbury Estate in Southampton, UK, were planted in the 1920s, along with seeds from the Royal Botanic Gardens in Edinburgh. Great to see three rhodos beginning to bloom (a red, a white and a cerise pink). A selection of azaleas, hydrangeas, native shrubs and trees make this a wonderful picnic spot. This track is well maintained and signage very good, taking us towards the mountain, that was unfortunately clouded over. Completing the loop we arrived back at the cars and six members enjoyed a cuppa at the ARTS collective. ~ Margaret Bunyan
Fri 24 – Sun 26 Jun 2022 Waitaanga Forest Making the most of the country’s first Matariki public holiday, a three-day excursion in Waitaanga Forest Park seemed fitting. At 11am on the Friday, Kevin C, Anne K, Yumi I, Miyuki E, and I headed off from Mt Damper Falls carpark, Okau Road. First destination was a 15min detour to view the 74m Mt Damper Falls – one of the highest in the North Island. From the falls, the start of the track requires crossing of cleared forestry land and a steep climb up to the ridgeline. At the top, we stopped for lunch #1 (feeling like morning tea had been missed). Once on the ridge, the track sidles the Forest Park for 1km or so, before crossing the fence and heading north into the Waitaanga. Travel keeps to the ridge, with gentle ups and downs and one extended climb; after which we stopped for lunch #2. It takes about 1-hour to reach the bush line and then 2hr 30min to reach Damper Hut (unmarked on the Topo map). Kevin soon had the fire going. Cosy and warm, we spent late afternoon reflecting on the day, contemplating what day two might bring, sharing a yarn and composing lyrics. Gentle drizzle in the night abated for our 8.15am start. We reached Mt Damper (as marked on the Topo Map) after an hour. However, no apparent marker provides any indication, and we wouldn’t have known had it not been for checking the GPS. Pig rooting had been notable throughout our journey, some very fresh, and we eventually came across two piglets, who made a quick exit. About 10am, we began our radio communication with Mark Robbins, who had planned an early start from Waitaanga South Road to meet us en route. First communication was broken, but an hour later we received a clear message from Mark that he was close to Te Rerepahupahu Falls and heading our way. An encouraging notion in the dense forest. It was about then the low cloud turned to rain and we donned our wet weather gear to continue a soggy walk for the next couple of hours. Mark appeared just as we began the steep descent. Now a team of six, with rain easing to light showers we stopped for lunch. Onwards, the descent was impressive, sidling above cliffs leading from the Te Rerepahupahu Falls. Still one of the most impressive waterfalls to visit, it was elating to arrive, knowing that we were now on familiar ground and nearing closer to our destination for the day. After the obligatory photo shoot, we began the steep climb. Up and down – mostly up, becoming our trip motto (thank you, Anne). Fortunately, the showers were now infrequent enough to remove jackets before the climb. Up on the ridge, it was about an hour to Falls Hut, where we collapsed, satisfied with our day’s efforts. In an instant, Kevin had the fire roaring allowing us to dry out wet gear and hunker down for a cosy night. Mark and Yumi were the brave souls who tented. On reflection, the track between the two huts was very well marked and often well defined, with just a few sections that required navigation around tree falls and where there was a distinct change of direction on the ridgeline. By 8am on day three we were tramping along the old tramline, counting swing bridges, headed for Waitaanga South Road. Reaching Mark’s van shortly after 11am, we shuttled around to Mt Damper Falls, to collect Kevin’s ute for our return home. Special thanks to Kevin Curd and Mark Robbins for transport, and in particular, Mark for providing a shuttle allowing the others to complete the trip in one direction. ~ Julia Collins
Happy trampers, from back Yumi, Kevin, Anne, Miyuki
Wed 22 June 2022 Sausages at Maketawa This tramp was promoted as the sixth but on checking through previous “Footprints” I discovered it was in fact number seven. There is no sign of declining interest in the annual activity. We had another beautiful day. Although the snow level was considerably higher than last year, the clear sky provided a magnificent mountain panorama. 33 met at NEVC and joined the advance party of five at Maketawa Hut. Stopped for morning tea at the usual place. That is the dry stream bed about 30 minutes from the start. Although I have never experienced any water flow in that stream from all accounts a significant amount was going down there the weekend before our trip. I was told the track was in very poor condition but it seemed no different from when I was last up there in February. We are trampers. What a delight to arrive at the hut and find it so warm and to inhale the tantalizing odours of the onions and mulled wine. Graeme and I started cooking sausages just before midday and everybody was well satisfied by 12.40. A good system has been developed and refined over the years so my successor will have no problem leading the activity. It is a lot of fun that is well worth giving some consideration. Before departing we had a brief talk about Pythagoras and his right-angled triangle along with the golden rectangle. For those who have forgotten the ratio it is 1: 1.618. The party members were very polite and feigned interest in the brief dissertation. We did the round trip and on leaving the hut went to the seat at the base of the Puffer. From here it was down the Translator Track and then home. Thanks to all 38 who came along and made the day such a success, to the advance party of Kevin, Karen, Lorraine, Lyn and Graeme and to Alan Morris for taking on the role of back marker. ~ John Depree
The Midwinter Sausages Team at Maketawa Hut. From left, Karen Curd, Graeme Taylor, John Depree, Kevin Curd, Alan Morris
Sun 19 June 2022 TAKT Stony River Walkway After a very wet week the sun came out and we had a glorious day! We met at the Swing Bridge in Okato and were joined by three new families. Whilst we all got ready, the kids clambered over the swing bridge framework and got to know each other, then 11 adults and 10 kids headed off into the reserve, with Miyuki in the lead. We came to a dead end and realised we had missed a turn. Luckily one of our new families is an Okato local and knew the way out. Most of us chose to take the short cut, with the kids clambering up a steep bank followed by the adults, who found it not so easy! Eva met us at the top and we headed off across the playing fields and headed for the farm track to the Stony River. Other than negotiating a bit of low lying water it was an easy walk over stiles alongside the river. After lunch beside the river we returned to our cars, this time taking the correct route! ~ Jo-anne Mowat
This TAKT group enjoyed a glorious day on the Stony River Walkway
Wed 15 June 2022 Forest and Bird Hut, Colliers Farm Christine F was on jury service so I coordinated this trip with a big input from John Simmons and Ross Sattler. A good description of this trip would be, Mud Mud Glorious Mud. We started with a long steady climb, which had us all breathing heavily even though we had several stops to remove extra layers. It was very wet under foot but we did not let this stop us from enjoying the view over this rugged landscape. After morning tea there were a few more ups and downs before reaching the hut just a little after 11 o’clock for a short rest. Jo-anne Mowat, our Take A Kid Tramping leader, told us how well the TAKT programme is going. Because of so much interest she is asking for help from anyone who may be able to assist two or three times a year. To try and avoid some of the mud, we took a different route on the way back. There were plenty of ups and a few downs, more heavy breathing. Finally we could see the cars and after a very steep descent arrived, somewhat a little weary around 1.30 pm. Although we had a few brief showers they did not dampen the spirit of the 15 trampers that took part. ~ Kevin Curd
Thurs 9 June 2022 Club Night: North Island Coast to Coast On 12 February 1998, with sand in hand, eight hardy trampers set off from Pukearuhe Beach, North Taranaki, en route for Marine Parade, Napier. The goal – to scatter the black, west coast iron sand on the east coast beach – having walked across country with as minimal road travel as possible. Carolien van Reekum presented a summary of the journey with photos, maps, newspaper articles and the poem she wrote – one verse per day. This was no ordinary tramp, endurance was dished up daily with wet, blistered feet proving problematic from the get-go. Coupled with risky, sometimes relentless river crossings, pack floating, railway tunnels, navigation over cloudy mountain ranges, and 80km of road walking to complete the journey, the fortitude required is humbling to contemplate. The eight that started the journey were Peter B, Charmaine H, Blue R, Brad S, John W, Ivan H, John Hill and Carolien. After five days, having walked to National Park, three returned home, leaving five to continue east. They reached the Pacific coast at 12.30pm on 25 February 1998, 14 days after starting their epic journey. ~ Julia Collins
Tenting by the railway; Wallies posing on the Central Plateau; Destination reached – Napier Beach
Kokowai Adventure MA 04 June 2022 A beautiful early winter’s day today for our tramp. A little chilly to start with but soon warmed up when we started to go uphill! As it had been raining in the week, we opted not to take the more “scenic” option which crosses the Waiwhakaiho River using the “tree bridge”, instead taking the suspension bridge route. We had a steady climb up the Kokowai track, stopping short of the top to take the bush track, off to the right. This track is pretty gnarly but fun. Lots of slippy & slidey ups and downs, interlaced with Bush Lawyer and hidden tree stumps to trip you up! We stopped at the track cross roads for lunch before taking the easy walking track back down to the old Kaiauai Hut site. From there we had a gentle walk back across the suspension bridge and back to the cars. 6 hours all in today, we had great weather and a great day out. A big thanks to Rebecca for being the contact today and a big thank you to Carol, Yumi, Steve, Andrew, Lee, Miyuki, Mark and Dennis for joining me. Colin Smith
No one looked!
Awesome weather today
Sun 29 May 2022 TAKT Explore North Egmont After two cancellations, the sun came out and we headed on to the mountain at last! Seven families headed up the Veronica Track, with Brenda Maw leading the way followed by the keenest kids. The rest of us ambled along behind. Little legs clambering up monster steps and over rocky creeks. The mountain played its part and peeked out from the clouds occasionally. On the Holly Hut Track we headed up to the lookout seat for lunch and were joined by Aya and Yoav who had been held up by a flat tyre. Then back down the Holly Hut Track to the carpark, with Maggie and Tsubuki checking out the drips along the route. Great to have three new families join us today. ~ Jo-anne Mowat
The TAKT group on the mountain in May
Sat 28 May 2022 Kaitake Peak Circuit With the sun rising on a clear sky, the day was looking promising for a pleasant walk in the hills. This thought was validated while crossing the farmland to reach Davies track, with the pasture and Maunga glinting in the bright morning light. A steady climb of about 1 hr 20 min on the Davies brought us to the old Kaitake Peak track junction. From here, we scrambled up through overgrown vegetation, following marker ribbons and a faint trail. In 30 minutes, we were at the top ready for morning tea in the sun, and a chance to dry off any clothing dampened from pushing through the wet vegetation. After enjoying the view of the Pouakai Range and Mt Taranaki, we began the steep descent to Goat Rock. Heading north, the Maunga and ranges were obscured from view for the remainder of our journey, until back on the farm. The track down to Goat Rock has a few overgrown patches, mainly from tree fall, but is otherwise easy enough to follow and opens up with the descent. At Goat Rock, we climbed to the top for an early lunch. Sitting on the lee of Kaitake Peak, with views of the central mountains and north along the coast, everyone was happy to take an extra-long break and soak up the tranquil atmosphere. Prising ourselves up, we continued the descent to the Manders Track, where we turned right, crossing back to the start of the Davies and returning across the farmland. Thank you to Jamie K, Bevan C, Nathan W, Anne K, and Jeremy C for joining me on a nice little circuit and enjoyable day out. ~ Julia Collins
Kaitake Peak with Mt Taranaki in background. From left Anne, Jeremy, Bevan, Nathan
Wed 25 May 2022 Lake Rotokare Had a change of plan from scheduled tramp. Hopefully we can incorporate Ray Willys’ tramp into the fourth quarter. The alternative was a well-used option but the weather and the personalities of the trampers made for an enjoyable day. Nice to have two new members along today, Jonathon Spencer and Robert Young. Hope you both enjoyed the day and that we see you on more of our tramping trips. Rather than start with that rather daunting climb up the fence line from the carpark we chose to walk around the lake to the junction that leads up a track of gradual gradient to the perimeter fence. Consideration was given to having morning tea on the pontoon but we were a little bit early and the wind made it unpleasant. There are still a number of hills to climb going this way but they are not continuous. Climb a hill, slight descent or a flat area and then another hill. Upon reaching the highest point prior to the big descent the mountain views would be superb. Unfortunately the mountain was shrouded in cloud for our trip. Got back to the carpark at 12.30 and had lunch. We were met by Lindsay Maindonald who was driving his Triumph Stag. Quite a few of us were interested in what was under the bonnet – a well-presented V8. A nice car and one of many in Lindsay’s stable. After lunch we walked around the lake in a clockwise direction and spent time looking at the Banded Kokopu that live in a stream far enough from the edge of the lake to stay safe from the eels. Arrived back at the cars at 2.35 then went to the Cheese Bar before returning home. Thanks to Graeme and Lyn, Brenda, Sharryn, Jonathon, Robert, Christine, Lorraine E, Lorraine T, Wesley, Vanessa for their company. Thanks to Graeme for being the back marker. He frequently gets nobbled for this task but he will not have to do it when we have Sausages at Maketawa! ~ John Depree
Rotokare lunch stop, where Lindsay (aka Biggles) arrived in his Triumph Stag sports car
Wed 18 May 2022 Stratford Plateau to Dawson Falls and back via Wilkies Pools At the Stratford Plateau we were greeted with the most stunning view of the central mountains, standing gracious and powerful. It was so lovely just to stand in the sun and appreciate their majesty. 24 of us then set out along the newly restored track from the Plateau, towards Wilkies Pools, and it seemed very little time before we were turning off onto Ridge Track. This is a beautiful walk, through large trees dripping with epiphytes. Although billed as an easy walk, Ngaire turned it into a fit-easy by leading people down and back up part of the Waingongoro track, despite having done several practise walks. Most of the group continued down to Dawson Falls and then up to Curtis Falls for lunch. On the way back to Stratford Plateau some sharp-eyed members of the group found several wonderful fungi. Maori legend tells how a slave called Noke escaped to Taranaki and hid from his pursuers under the falls. The Maori name for the 18.2 metre falls is Rere-a-Noke, the falls of Noke. Thomas Dawson was a telegraphist at Okato in 1873. Someone who knew him said, “Many a settler’s tui was trained by him and learned to copy his soft method of speaking”. He was transferred to Manutahi, South Taranaki, in 1878 and became first postmaster at Manaia in 1881. From here, on an exploring expedition, he heard the falls but could not get to them. With local farmers (including the Wilkie brothers), they “blazed a track up the left bank of the Kapuni River,” which brought them to the foot of the falls. When they retraced their way to open ground a member of the group, “proposed that they be called Dawson Falls. We then dipped our pannikins into a small stream… and drank to the health of Mr Dawson, thereby christening the falls. After three cheers for Dawson we mounted our horses and rode home.” (Source: Egmont, by A.B. Scanlan.) The weather was kind and the company cheerful. Thanks everyone. ~ Ngaire Riley
Dawson Falls
Sun 15 May 2022 Loop Mountain Bike ride from Raetihi With strong wind and frequent showers here it seemed high risk heading to Ruapehu. We pedaled off from Raetihi in overcast and calmish conditions that also prevailed in Ohakune. The climb up into the bush on the Old Coach Road had us in very light untroublesome drizzle. Passed a closed off tunnel (207 meters long?) before getting to the biggest viaducts. The one currently in use is built on concrete columns and is close to the old one and easy to see. Julia Collins is obviously good on mountains but wasn’t so keen on see-through viaducts. You can ride across the old one but it is see-through in the middle where the sleepers are. Saw another concrete one further on and walked up to the top of an old, partially dismantled one. The support columns were built from 2 universal beam girders, (The capital letter I – eye, shaped at end view), braced together to make 4 sided columns. Thousands of holes would have been drilled into steel. Would have been a tough and probably short life as a drill bit with many visits to the sharpening grinder. These viaducts were built over 100 years ago. Were into flatter riding once out of the bush and had to cross the line on foot – similar to the New Plymouth walkway but with a couple of steps up and down. Rode over a couple of piped fords, would have water to ride through in heavy rain situations. At Horopito the drizzle had become proper light rain and we were feeling kind of drenched so decided to skip the Middle Road part. At an 8 km to Raetihi sign post the rain had lifted and it seemed like we had made the wrong choice but had just got the bikes back on the car when down it came. Had been lucky to squeeze this ride in. ~ Denis Goodwin
Tues 10 - Wed 11 May 2022 Holly Hut Overnighter We'd all been nervously watching the weather forecast for a few days hoping the good weather predictions were going to be on the money, but waking up early and hearing the pouring rain on the roof our confidence in weather prediction was definitely under threat! However by the time the shuttle arrived for our pick-up the rain had cleared in town, and we were all looking forward to a lovely day’s tramping. Driving up Egmont Road we saw there was plenty of cloud hanging around the mountain and a beautiful rainbow was telling us that all may not be so rosy at the Visitor Centre and beyond. And so it was to be, no sooner had we got out of the van than a heavy shower did its best to get us soaking wet before we even started! It was a mad dash to get under shelter… out came the raincoats and pack covers… and then we were on our way. It was cloudy, a stiff sou' easter was blowing and visibility was limited but if the showers stayed away it would be a pleasant walk to Holly Hut. We were a party of six but as we climbed up the razorback one of our number began to feel unwell and by the time we reached "the seat" it was clear that some decisions had to be made. It was definitely not a day when choppers would come, if needed, so it was decided that the unwell would return to the Visitor Centre to be picked up by hurriedly arranged transport. The party was now five but it did seem that Murphy was very keen to come with us today. Every time we stopped for a break the next shower would come in to try and dampen our spirits… no chance! We lunched at the Kokowai Track junction, again in showers, but about half an hour later, as we got further round to the west, we came out into lovely blue skies, amazing views, very welcome sunshine and glimpses of snow much higher up. There was a very strong southerly wind blowing by now which made staying on our feet an interesting exercise in the gusts, but we had made very good time and arrived at Holly Hut early afternoon. To our amazement, to a deserted hut! There was no sign of the track workers we were expecting to find there and so we had the place to ourselves. There was more interest in cards than in going down to Bells Falls and as the leader had been there the previous weekend cards it was! The temperature cooled very quickly due to the snow dusting and the very strong wind but a roaring fire and hot coffee or something a bit stronger soon warmed the cockles… Five Crowns was the name of the game and quite a few hours were spent perfecting shuffling so many cards till it was time for shut eye. The wind died out overnight and we woke to a picture-perfect day, albeit to a very heavy frost. After a leisurely breakfast, we packed up, chopped some kindling for the next arrivals, did a quick sweep of the hut, then we were on our way. Absolutely stunning is probably an understatement for the day we enjoyed. Not a breath of wind, not a cloud in the sky and I think I can safely say there has never been a day when more photos of the mountain have been taken... It was a day when you just had to have your camera out and of course you just had to go down to the tarns for a once (ok maybe twice) in a lifetime picture! After a well-earned lunch it was off down those blasted steps to the waiting shuttle and home for a soak in the bath… Thanks to Anne K, Sharryn S, Lorraine E, Lyn T, John D and MURPHY for their company and making this tramp such an enjoyable one. Thanks to John F for being our contact and also to Ducks and Drakes Shuttle Service for being our transport provider. - Graeme Taylor
Sun 8 May Mother’s Day at Maketawa Uncertain how many mothers and others would be available on such an important day in the annual calendar, it was most pleasant to have eight join me on a Mother’s Day excursion. Including my parents, who – I would like to add – were present of their own free will, no coercing involved. At best, my interpretation of the forecast would see us in cloud all day, with rain from 3pm. Therefore, arriving at North Egmont to a clear view of Mt Taranaki was a welcome sight. Dry underfoot, and picturesque surroundings, made for enjoyable tramping up the bush track to Maketawa Hut. Although, the few ‘larger’ steps (due to erosion) posed a challenge, and definitely could do with a touch of track maintenance. After a fair slog, we reached the hut ready for lunch to celebrate. And celebrate we did – out came the tasty treats – including a platter of cheeses, crackers, tomatoes and dips, sausage rolls, hot cross buns, jam and cream pikelets, fruit loaf and chocolate. All this we washed down with Rosé bubbles and a selection of juices – sipped out of champagne flutes. Tea and coffee was on offer to finish. Possibly the only flaw in my plan was that we were still only half way through our tramp. However, as the afternoon remained clear with lovely views, the climb to the Translator track was equally pleasant. A gentle walk down the newly graded 4WD track was the perfect way to complete the trip. My sincere thanks to all who joined in the celebration, contributed to the shared lunch, ate and drank (thus reducing the weight in my pack), carried items for me, and made Mother’s Day 2022 something special: Sue Wood, Julie Harness, Bev Kirkby, Lorraine Taylor, Ray Dench, Mike Winsborough, and Stuart and Helen Collins. ~ Julia Collins
Saturday 07/05/2022 "A Long Day in the Hills" A pleasant Autumn Day for today’s epic adventure with a mixture of sunny spells and cloudy periods. No rain and very little wind which is always a bonus. 4 of us set out from Puniho Road end just as the sun was rising. A little dark but no need for torches. 40 minutes up the track we headed down the old track towards the river then followed the river track up to the Pyramid Stream where we stopped for a quick lunch. Taking the track to Bells Falls, we crossed all six streams before reaching the falls after 3.5 hours. After another quick break at the falls, we headed up to Holly Hut then across the swamp and up the steep hill towards the Pouakai track junction. This track is in the advanced stages of being renewed and this made the going a little easier. The track up to Pouakai trig is another matter and is still as rough as it ever was! Really tough going too after being out all day. After another quick lunch stop at the top, sheltered behind large rocks, we took the track along the ridge line then followed it down the ridge towards the river. The first hour of this track is very steep and most people ended on their bums on more than one occasion! Reaching the Stony River, the near and far streams were empty and all the water was running through the middle stream. After a quick wade across, we headed up the short tracks back to the car. Today’s hike was completed in 9 hours 55 minutes, and we were all glad to get our wet boots off. Heading back to New Plymouth, we could see the sun setting to close out a perfect day. Thanks to Julia, Mike, and Mark for joining me today and many thanks to Rebecca for being the contact. Colin
Up to Bells Falls
and back down the ridge
Wed 4 May 2022 E Whanganui Eleven of us departed for Whanganui in our Rent a Dent van, minus Murray who had suspected Covid, and driven by professional driver, Sharryn Sait. We had morning tea at the lovely lake, Roto Mokoia, and enjoyed our walk through the native plantings. As we travelled to Westmere Walkway the ladies admired some of the lovely old houses and established trees and gardens. There were some interesting old brick warehouses at the beginning of the track. Whanganui was once one of New Zealand’s biggest cities and then stopped growing, so it has retained many of its heritage buildings. We walked the paper road through the farm and had lunch in the valley. We continued to walk to the top of the hill and enjoyed the sweeping views over the Whanganui River and city. Sharryn drove us to the other side of the river to Gordon Rd where there remains the last remnant of the Wetland Kahikatea Forest. The boardwalk went through some awe-inspiring giant Kahikatea. We then drove to the new cycleway bridge across the Whanganui River. The café was closing but we got an ice cream. Then it was the journey home, stopping in Patea for the hothouse tomatoes the Chinese owner was selling on the roadside. They were excellent tomatoes, full of flavour, unlike some of the supermarket ones. Many thanks to Kay for her work collecting money and names and for Ray for picking up and returning the van and also Sharryn our Professional Driver. ~ Christine Feigler
Sat 30 April 2022 Loop from Mangorei Track The summery autumn weather continued as the five of us headed up the Mangorei. It wasn’t far along the track to Maude that we were at the turnoff down to the park boundary. Seemed close to civilization, one part with a good looking fence to walk beside. Had plenty of gullies with water in them to cross before reaching the Maude Track and making our way up to the waterfall turn-off. The return section started with a couple of substantial gullies and a steady climb up to the cross-country track going to the base of Maude Peak. Turning for home revealed a surprisingly steep downhill. (Going the other way we are probably focused on heavy breathing on this part). The ridge to follow along here gave a cruisey downhill but were back into gullies with streams in them before and after the plane crash site. Had been a good seven-hour excursion for Yumi Iwasaki, Allison Wilkins, Carol Stewart and Derek Andrews. ~Denis Goodwin
Fri 29 April - Sun 1 May 2022 Round the Mountain in 3 days This trip was originally scheduled for Anzac weekend but when Footprints came out only one bed was available at Holly Hut, so it was postponed to the following weekend. There was quite a bit of interest in the tramp so Leader Kev had a bit of head scratching to do, to get everybody to the start and home again! 14 trampers started the tramp.
DAY 1 Dawson Falls to Holly Hut Sharryn S started an hour before the others as she felt she would slow the group too much. The other 13 trampers started the tramp at 8am from Dawson Falls on a picture-perfect Taranaki day. Unfortunately the cloud started to roll in after a couple of hours so that was the last of the stunning panoramic views for the day. Sharryn was waiting at Tahurangi for us to catch up and then it was off to Holly Hut. Leader Kev informed those doing the whole tramp that they would all be doing an item of some sort, be it song, poem, joke or whatever! When Jacobs Ladder was reached it was time to say bye bye to Barb, so we all thought she should give us an item. She reckoned she couldn't sing but had a poem for us, which went something like this, " There once was a lady called Jill, she played with dynamite for a thrill...” As this is a family publication, you'll have to ask Barb to finish it for you! Suffice to say we all had a jolly good laugh. You will all be aware that a lot of work is being done on the Taranaki Crossing, new bridges, track work and board walk. A lot of progress has been made but there is still plenty to do. The trip to Holly Hut was pretty uneventful. The observant ones did spot a digger down the bank on the way down the ridge, about 30 minutes past Kokowai Junction. It’s been down there since an accident on 30 January! On reaching the hut, six of the group still had enough energy left to go down and check out Bells Falls. Still spectacular as there was plenty of water coming down. We got a bit of a surprise about 5.30pm when a solo tramper turned up looking for a bed. Turned out Lindsay, as in Maindonald, decided at the last minute to join us. The track workers started rolling in from their day’s work and there turned out to be about 8 of them! Anyway there were just enough beds. One of them had spent a number of years in Japan and was able to have a great chat with Miyuki in Japanese. Karen had given Leader Kev the job of preparing their dehy dinner. Big mistake... instead of beef stew they ended up with beef soup! Some cards, a bit of banter then off to bed.
DAY 2 Holly Hut to Waiaua Gorge Hut We were all up early and after a hearty breakfast which for some included leftovers from the track workers’ breaky (which they started making at 5.30am!), we were packed up and ready to go by 7.20am. We said our good byes to the four that were heading out to Mangorei Rd and the group (now a party of 10) were on their way on another beautifully sunny day. After about an hour, at the first stream crossing, one of the group twisted an ankle so it was off with the boot, on with some strapping, a bit of pain relief, boot back on and away we go. Moral of the story, better to get wet feet than risk injury... We exited the river bed at the first exit point (but it took a bit convincing Leader Kev that this was where we should go) and headed for the Puniho Track Junction. From there it was onto the Kapoaiaia Track. This has recently been re-cut (a few months ago now) and was well marked and so a lot less difficult than previous experience. Don't worry, there are still plenty of challenges to test you. Lunched at the Kahui Track Junction and then onto the Oaonui Track. This is an easy track through bush and as most of the streams were bridged we got to the Ihaia Track junction much sooner than expected. A quick refuel and then down the Ihaia Track for about 15 minutes to a recently installed sign pointing out the new track to Waiaua Gorge Hut (2kms and 1 hour). The first section was an easy walk through bush before coming out onto the Waiaua River. The track then goes up the river bed for 500 metres. Signage warns trampers that in periods of heavy rain the track may be impassable. The last section of the track is a wet, muddy, steep climb out of the river bed up on to a ridge that rises up the hut. A farming couple and their three young children from Okato were there when we arrived thankfully so this curtailed the evening’s "items"!
Most of us were pretty stuffed and were in bed by about 7pm when Lindsay was made aware that the wife of a couple of late arrivals was having a severe asthma attack, was in difficulty and needed assistance. Lindsay and Alan (with help from the team) did an outstanding job assisting the stressed patient, contacting emergency services and successfully getting the patient to Base Hospital by Rescue Helicopter. A couple of hours of high drama ended with a happy outcome as the "patient' has recovered and was back at her home on Monday. It is worth noting that Spark Cell phone coverage is available when standing on the "helipad" near the hut. DAY 3 Waiaua Gorge Hut to Dawson Falls Despite a fairly hectic night everyone was up early, fed and ready to hit the trail by 7.30am. Yet again the weather was perfect and all were hoping that the day would be an uneventful trip out to the cars at Dawson Falls. Not to be! About half an hour past Brames Falls a wasp nest must have been disturbed by the leading trampers and four of the team were stung a number of times. Time to delve into the first aid kit again... luckily those stung were not too severely affected and antihistamine and soothing cream did the trick and the show was back on the road again! The rest of the day the group enjoyed the fantastic views of the magnificent Mangahume Bluffs, the panoramic views of the west coast of Taranaki and then the very welcome sight of the Hooker Shelter and Konini Lodge!
A fantastic trip enjoyed by all. The weather was perfect, the views were spectacular and we were all impressed by the number of young kids we encountered enjoying the outdoors. Thanks to Leader Kev for putting the trip together and to those who joined me for the fun and games. Thanks also to Julia C for being our contact. ~Graeme Taylor, "least reluctant scribe"
Wed 27 April 2022 FE Piripiri Station This was a tramp the club hadn't done for a while and we had a good response for it. 21 people turned out for the day which was gloriously fine with little wind. I had changed the route from the original description in Footprints, because of the number of logging trucks using Taumatamaire Road, which I felt made it too dangerous to carry out the car shuttle. We assembled in the woolshed paddock and before leaving and we had a moment’s silence for our late tramping mate, Ian Gregory. Ian was instrumental in taking the first tramp on this farm more than 20 years ago. Leaving the house we walked a short distance along the Awakino River before turning off on to the farm track which climbs steadily through the centre of the farm. John Depree gave us a short history talk on NZ coastal shipping during WW2, as we gathered around a German mine which now rests under a tree on the property. Then as we followed the track up the side of the hill, some good fossil rocks were found, evidence that this land was under the sea millions of years ago. We had morning tea admiring the wonderful view down the Awakino Valley and Ladies Mile and out to the Tasman Sea in the distance. Then it was onwards and upwards with a couple of steep descents and an uphill slog always working towards the 320m high trig which we would visit later. Piripiri has been farmed since 1899 and we had a short stop at the site of the first cottage on the farm, but all that remains now is a few macrocarpa trees. Good time was made, arriving at the top yards for our lunch where we were entertained by a very noisy top-dressing plane, landing and taking off from a neighbouring airstrip. After lunch we had a short diversion over to the Taumatamaire Road for a look down the Mangatoa Valley and across to Pioi Station and then it was on to Trig A8Q2 for more great views. Retracing our steps to the ridge we had followed up in the morning, we were back at the cars at 2.30 pm. Wendy and Mark Smyth were unfortunately away in the South Island but had given permission for us to look through the 104-year-old woolshed. The timber for the woolshed was cut from the forest on the Mokau River and barged out to sea and then up the Awakino River to its present site. Interesting to look at the shearers’ names stencilled on the walls dating back to the early 1900s. Overall a great day’s tramping with some interesting local history. Thank you to all who came along and my thanks to Alan Doy for being my contact. ~ Alan Morris
Wed 20 April E Hawera – Nowell’s Lakes A good crowd of us arrived at the end of Fairfield Rd, Hawera, and set off across the farmland on the new walkway through to Waihi Beach. We had morning tea at the lookout before descending. The erosion was very obvious. Kay said the coast had been eroding for years and the coffins of the Maori War Soldiers had become exposed in the cemetery and were removed to Ohawe Beach cemetery where they are today. We returned to Fairfield Rd via the housing, visiting Lois Sundy’s colourful and very tidy garden on the way and drove to Nowell’s Lakes. The native plantings have grown a lot since we were last here, but it was all looking a bit neglected. Lois informed me that all the energetic volunteers who established it have now grown older or have passed on, but we were impressed by what had been achieved and it has become a beautiful area. ~ Christine Feigler
Wed 13 April 2022 Taramoukou Trig, Tarata After watching the weather all week, the day turned out not too bad with a bit of wind forecast. Eight trampers turned out at our meeting place and two met us at the start of the track. After a good walk over farm land we reached the start of the track in the bush. The track follows a ridge with a lot of ups and downs and a few tricky turns. This track has been re-marked with a few different markings as it now has a trap line right along the ridge. There were a lot of rats caught in these traps. The weather stayed fine all the way up and back down with the wind getting a bit stronger. We had a morning tea break on the way up with lunch at the Trig. The views on top were great, looking all the way out to the coast. After lunch we headed back down to the cars, a great tramp with a great group of trampers. Thanks to all for a great day and to G T for bringing up the rear. ~ John Simmons
Sat 9 - Sun 10 April 2022 TAKT Lake Rotokare Reserve Wow, what a day! Six families, a total of 11 children, a stunning day at an amazing location… it couldn’t go wrong. We met in Eltham and traveled in convoy to Lake Rotokare where Lee McCracken and her family were waiting. Lee took the lead and showed the children the stoat, rat and mice traps and how they worked. Amazing to know a stoat has not been caught since 2009! It wasn’t long before we were joined by a robin and the children managed to get up close with many robins during the day. We had been told the track was partially closed, so took a short walk before lunch, spotting eels off the pontoon and waiting patiently at the feeder stations in hopes of seeing more birds. We could hear the elusive fernbird/matata but not spot them, thanks to Lee we did spot rifleman/titipounamu. After a picnic lunch, a few families left and the remaining four families headed the opposite direction around the lake to complete the full circuit. Not long in we spotted saddleback/ t?eke and along the route spotted stitchbird/hihi and many other birds. I have yet to find a better place to spot these rare native birds. Back at the carpark, those camping put up their tents and thanks to Aaron lots of fun was had in the water. That night, once tea was over and the sun had set, we put on our warmest clothes and headlamps and headed out to find kiwi. With a red spotlight we were hopeful, the children kept very quiet, listening and looking. Lochie was leading when suddenly a large brown shape ran across in front of him, standing on his foot! He didn’t even realise what he had seen and sadly Yumi and Kanami missed seeing the kiwi. We continued on, but though we heard a few we didn’t spot another. With over 200 kiwis in the reserve, I’m sure we will another day. ~ Jo-anne Mowat
Wed 6 April 2022 "Here we Go Again" Bus Trip to Waitomo We woke to a bit of rain but we were all enthusiastic that we would enjoy the day regardless and we did, for at each stop we only had the odd spit. With late declines, our final number was 12 so we hired a van instead. Our journey was not without some excitement: A large truck and trailer had angled itself on quite a lean into a drain on the new area of road building at Uruti and further along a ute had gone through a fence as well as another car in a drain. At Piopio we had morning tea under the shop verandahs as the seats at the park were too wet with no cover. A bit further north we turned right and then onto a metaled road that wound through the hills until reaching our first walk of the day, at Whakatumutumu (Miller’s Mission) a Wesleyan Mission site on top of the hill, which was an old Maori Pa site. Miller and his young wife arrived soon after their marriage, being posted here to New Zealand in 1839. After the birth of a daughter in Wellington they sailed up the West Coast to Kawhia where they met John Whitely, a minister who had established a Wesleyan Mission at Ahu Ahu on the south side of the harbour now named Te Waitere. Both were aged 22 and, with their child travelled, overland to Mokau, went upstream in a canoe paddled by Maori, to Mahoe, continuing to Wairere Falls and the junction of Mokau and Mangapehi Rivers and on to the mission site. We went over a small bridge and along a well signed track, through two paddocks to the site of the mission and Urupa and up a short steep pathway to the top of the hill where Miller’s Grave is situated with a tall iron cross that can be seen from the highway north near the Taumarunui turn off. Our next stop was just past Waitomo Village after going cross country on road not travelled by many in the van, with some super views from the high hilltops. We lunched in the park before entering a lovely bushwalk with plenty of steps, lots of bridges and wonderful bush. A small tunnel and underground caves with stalagmites and stalactites. Kay shone her torch upwards so we could observe all the nooks and crannies of all different shapes and sizes. Unfortunately, the water levels were quite low and the water force slower than was expected. Further West we visited the Marakopa Waterfall in all its splendor. What an amazing site just 10 minutes’ walk from the parking area. On our return we entered the Natural Bridge, another amazing formation, viewing the river from a platform (many steps) and followed a short walk among the gorse and blackberry, over a stile to enter a short track back to the van. A stop at the Berry Farm on our return trip saw us all indulging in a fresh fruit yoghurt cone or ice cream and the odd coffee and hot chocolate. Although we expected to get damp some part of the day, it only rained whilst we travelled between each destination, arriving back in time for Barry to preside over a committee meeting. Thanks to all who came along and enjoyed the day: Barry, Greenbrook, Murray Duke, Barry Dravitski, Judith Stanners, Maree Armstrong, Bev Kirkby, Liz Shaw, Marie Brown, Margaret Emo and Barbara Hepburn and thanks to Ray Hall our van driver. ~ Kay Hall
Sun 3 April 2022 Awakino-Mokau wander/wonder This tramp was conceived to encourage / allow more of the working members of the club to enjoy some of what our Wednesday trampers do every week. In addition, it was used to encourage the presence of members of the EAC and STC clubs to join us and enjoy some of the North Taranaki landscapes. Fortunately, John Fisher knows this area well, and the local farmers, and along with Graeme Taylor did a recee along with the farm owner. Thanks to these two for putting the time and effort in to map the route. Unfortunately, John could not make the day due to illness. We set off from New Plymouth at 8am meeting Egmont Alpine Club members at the Mokau loos at 9.15am. From there we backtracked to the Mokau bridge and parked our cars on Te Mahoe Road, the site where we would exit the tramp. EAC did not bring two cars as requested that were needed for the shuttles so Baz had to climb into the boot of a van to enable this to work. Off to Ladies Mile, north of the Awakino petrol station. Parking on a farm there, we geared up, crossed the road and headed up the valley toward an expected hill grunt or two. It was very hot especially in the sheltered valley and three members struggled up the farm track to the top of the first climb. Near the top we all stopped for a drink and a bite to eat... a few carried on to the top in fear of seizing up if they stopped! Awesome view back down to the Ladies Mile and what was in front of us – great North Taranaki hill country landscapes and colours. Onward down the farm tracks. Coming around a corner, we see Graeme standing up a bank addressing his flock – well that is what it looked like, but alas no, it was a grunty zigzag hill climb through gorse and sheep tracks to the top of a ridge line that would eventually take us back down to Mokau. A slow climb up and a wait at the top while trampers climbed over a barbed wire fence... Slip on the fence wire and it will be a long ouch! One can view snippets of the Mokau river and estuary from the point. Down into another valley and the last slog up a farm track that gave us amazing views of the valley and Mokau River below. Half the trampers climbed to the highest point on the ridge line for an uninterrupted view. Now it was all downhill to the cars and the ultimate prize – an ice cream, at the Whitebait Inn. A number of trampers walked along the road and under the bridge to work up an appetite and en route to the shop, tasting a tree’s fruit. Thanks to Graeme for being the trip leader for the day and to John F for doing all the organising and negotiating prior to the tramp and to the 23 trampers (four from EAC) who thoroughly enjoyed the day. ~ Barry Greenbrook and Graham Bocock
Saturday 02/04/2022 Summit via Humphries Castle This was the 2nd attempt to get this tramp completed and this time we were able to get into the car park at Egmont Visitor Centre, so, a much better start to the day! The first 20 minutes were still dark but this gave way to warm, early morning sunlight as we headed up the Holly Hut Track. We could see that Taranaki was surrounded by thick white cloud but the mountain itself was clear. The clear skies and warm sunny weather would remain throughout the day. We had a good mixture of abilities and some cramp problems to tend with and the pace was adjusted to suite all. The track was very peaceful as we headed up past Humphries Castle but this was disturbed by loud yelling up ahead. Looking up, we could see Derek and Lyndsay attempting their millionth summit and they were waving down to us enthusiastically. We arrived at the summit after 5 hours and had a well-deserved rest and ate our lunch. Skies above were clear and sunny but not much to see down below through the thick cloud. The bugs at the top were plentiful as usual but nowhere near as bad as they can be so we were in no hurry to get off the summit. Heading back down the Lizard, it never seems to get any easier no matter how many times you do it so we made our way to the scoria at the earliest opportunity. One member of the party did not like the uneven ground at all and would have preferred to stay in the rocks but with a great help from Julia, they linked arms and shuffled sideways down the slippery slopes. At the top of the steps, we took the mossy slopes back to the Round the Mountain Track and this gives great relief to your legs and feet after the trauma of the scoria and Lizard rocks! From there, it was a straight forward walk back past Jacobs Ladder to the cars at the visitor centre. Total time today was 10 hours and 10 minutes. During the tramp we noted that the snow and ice in the summit was practically non existent and the Round the Mountain Track upgrade is well in progress and is now fairly easy going. Thank you to Rebecca for being my contact today. Thank you to Claire, daughter Olivia, Janet, Mike, Mark, Julia and Miyuki. ~Colin
Wed 30 March 2022 Kevin’s York Road adventure A happy group of 24 turned up at the York Road car park. We had left the Midhurst cloud behind and enjoyed a sunny autumn day. We almost left before the tardy Lindsay turned up, but after a friendly ribbing we set off. The start was a gentle climb, wide enough for two abreast, allowing for the morning catch ups. Morning tea was called about ten o’clock, which always keeps at least one of the Johns happy. After a couple of kilometres of uphill and a quick check of location from Anne, Kevin diverted us into a much less travelled track and the adventure began. Up hill and down dale, this section certainly tested some of the party but everyone helped, when needed, and gave us an appreciation for the pest controller’s daily grind. At one particularly steep section I fixed a rope and some members unfortunately used this while most of the party found an easier zigzag to the top. While Kevin was helping push Lynn up the rope we heard a call from Graeme, “Be careful where you put your hands,” for a good chuckle. Eventually we made it to the bank of the Manganui River where hand-dug cuttings for the old rail line were visible. The Manganui over the years has changed course many times and many sections of the rail track were only 100m long, with big drop offs into the stream. There we found an intact section of line. We managed to get down to the stream at one point. No one was keen enough to get wet but we had views of the summit and Fanthams Peak. Kevin was a mine of information on the history of this area, starting in 1901 and opening in 1908, about 200 men worked on building the railway, crusher and pipeline. This was all to get rock for road building, railway ballast and the port breakwaters. Mr Google tells me that the operation decreased from 1928 and was abandoned in 1951. Apparently the effort was in vain because the rock they were accessing was found to be unsuitable. Most of the old train track had been plundered over the years for the railway sleepers and steel track. Still, a lot of history remains visible, with the concrete sand trap filtering the Manganui water into a 2-foot steel pipeline ending at the water-driven crusher. The story goes that the smallest man had the job of crawling down the pipe line to clear it. If he got stuck, they would open the valve and flush him out, ha ha. Towards the bottom was where the single men’s quarters stood. Only the chimney base remains, with 4x2s showing the layout. Apart from some dirty shorts, everyone made it back intact and were surprised that we had only travelled 8km. ~Noel Moir
Sat 19 Mar 2022 Navigation in the Bush On a beautiful sunny Saturday, a fantastic opportunity to learn the ins and outs of bush navigation was enthusiastically embraced by five New Plymouth Tramping Club members—Ngaire Riley, Janet Rivers, Miyuki Edwards, Don Skelton and myself. Led by Outdoor Training, Terry Baldwin, the Bushcraft Navigation Course kicked off with a run-through of the Topo50map and all its components, from scale to longitude, latitude and grid numbers. We then practised giving grid references and learnt how to find our position and relate it to the map, which highlighted the importance of carrying a physical map as part of our kit. We were then taught the art of using a compass. Terry demonstrated how to take a magnetic bearing and convert it to a grid bearing, and vice versa. We also learnt how to set a course using a compass and map. During our lunch break, we discussed pack sizes and what essential gear we should be carrying in them. This included fossicking through Terry’s backpack which was useful for the group and reminded us to get into the habit of regularly checking our packs and reviewing the gear that we’re carrying, to ensure we are well prepared for any scenario that we may encounter. Then, it was off the beaten track and into the bush where Terry taught us about situational awareness—our catchphrase of the day! To put our new skills to the test, we snaked our way for a distance, ascending, traversing, and descending until we came to a stream where Terry asked us to locate our position on the map. Terry taught us not to rely on one aspect of navigation—he taught us that our surroundings, whether it be streams, ridges or even the direction of the sun, give us vital clues in navigation. At the beginning of the day, it was clear that none of us knew how to read a compass or use a map correctly. Luckily, we were in the right place with an outstanding and patient instructor. The group walked away with stronger navigation skills and felt more confident using a compass. A huge thank you to Terry for making the course both fun and hugely beneficial for us all! For those who missed out on the course, but want to develop their Topo50 map reading skills, this guide is a great resource to download: https://www.learnz.org.nz/sites/learnz.org.nz/files/topo50-map-guide.pdf ~Sharryn Sait
Wed 16 March 2022 FE Kahui Moss Slopes Strong south-easterlies were forecast and I had it in mind that this may thwart our attempt to get to the moss slopes once again. After traveling to Kahui road end we parked and found Janet who had driven around from Cardiff to meet us. 23 trampers in all set off at 0945 with the intention of stopping at the Kapoiaia - Oaonui track junction for a little but necessary refreshment, which we did. That morning cup of whatever is your vice is most welcome to the fairly mature Wednesday faithfuls. At about 1130 we arrived at the Kahui Hut. At this point the weather was flat calm and clear. After a short break, the decision to continue on up was easy to make. The track above the hut up the ridge over-looking the Okahu gorge was in surprisingly good condition and easy to walk on. At a high point, the ridge narrows and extra care is needed as the gorge side is quite undermined. From there we could see the distance to the moss slopes and also the gradient of the track. 10 of the group decided to wait here while the rest continued on to the goal, at this point John Depree took the lead as he had experienced this part of the track and I hadn’t. Each group had an RT and PLB, we kept in contact and knew each other’s position. We could actually see (those with good eyes) some of the 13 group make their way onto the moss. After lunch the 10 group returned to the hut, made an entry in the Intentions Book (for DOC’s benefit) and carried on down to the road end. We got a little spread out but not so bad on a safe track. The intrepid 13 got to their goal and enjoyed the amazing views and calm conditions. Personal sustenance was taken on board for the return trip and good progress down to the cars was made, arriving at the road end at about 1620, 30 odd minutes after the cruisy 10 group. We left Jill and Phill picking blackberries, Jill reckons it’s addictive but she loves Phill’s tasty jam. ~ John Fisher
Sat 12 March 2022 Pukerangiora/Everett Park At last, after three unsuccessful tries, the weather held and we went ahead with this day out! Thanks for everyone’s understanding with all the date changes. The kids enjoyed the photo hunt en route to Pukerangiora, stopping at various places of interest and getting a selfie and using the clues to guide the driver to our destination. Allan Nokes guided us around the historic Pa site, so much gruesome history and respect for how tough life was through the musket and land wars for local Taranaki Hapu. We then went on the Everett Park and walked the short bush walk between swimming holes. Well, some of us walked, running was popular for the young ones! Due to windy conditions, sadly we didn’t get to cook our sausages but still enjoyed our picnic lunch. Then those brave enough hopped into the water and had a go at the wave ski. ~ Jo-anne Mowat
Fri 11 – Mon 14 March 2022 Fletcher Bay, Northern Coromandel Graham arrived bang on time at 7am to collect me and my myriad of gear – camp cooker, fishing line, tent, camp stretcher, tinned treats, you name it, we had it! Not the normal tramping pack and dried food for sure. With 445km to drive we were on our way, with a good weather forecast ahead. First stop at Te Kuiti Warehouse to buy a stainless steel weet-bix/dessert bowl. Next stop Cambridge – here we stopped at a friend’s house for a coffee, a refreshing shower and some very nice scones and blueberry muffins. Well-fed and watered, we were off to Thames for the first petrol stop, then driving to Coromandel where we stopped for a walkabout and lunch. North of Colville we came across stopped traffic to find a pohutukawa tree had fallen across the road – fortunately there were numerous people breaking off branches and a ute with a winch. After a number of attempts, we all managed to push the tree far enough off the road to allow for one way traffic – great Kiwi team work and some very strong young women. Must have been 10 – 12 of us pushing the tree as the winch groaned. A windy road but pleasant views en route, reaching Port Jackson then Fletcher Bay at 4.30pm. Port Jackson is a DOC camp dotted along the shoreline, whereas Fletcher Bay DOC camp is up a valley from the beach: 60 campsites, non-powered, with a maximum number of 300 people at any one time. Great shower/toilet/ fishing washing facilities. $15 a night for tent sites. Graham and Barry had their tents up, beds ready, cuppa done and an hour later Peter arrives in his trusty ute in with his fishing kayak on the trailer. The fun begins – well not for Peter! With instructions in hand Peter starts to erect his tent – one of those partial blow-up tents. All ready to blow and Peter has forgotten to load his tent blower – bugger 1. Problem solved, he will blow up by exhalation. Cheeks inflated, the blowing begins and he puffs and puffs and puffs and the tent does not erect - bugger 2. Graham’s blower has the wrong connection so both methods fail - bugger 3. No problem, we will erect with the poles... the poles don’t fit, there is something wrong here – bugger no 4, the wrong poles. Seems Pete left a few things behind! Darkness surrounds the camp and Pete packs the tent and plans to sleep in the back of the ute. Dinner time and a wine for Peter and his cheek colour begins to return. An unplanned humorous beginning to the weekend – well not for Peter. Just on dark Don and Sharryn arrive in their monster motorhome they had hired from Hamilton. Saturday. An early get up, with the plan to walk the Coromandel walkway to Stony Bay then circuit back via the bike track. Don decides to stay and fish so Peter, Sharryn, Barry and Graham head off up the hill. Great views on the walk to Poley Bay where we have a break and Barry decides to walk back checking out the historic Shepherd’s Hut en route. On the way back, some 10 - 12 mountain bikers appear and disappear into the hills. Barry then caught up with Don, finding out he had worked in the same places and knew the same people in the process. Don gave Barry some valuable lessons in fishing techniques, all appreciated. The intrepid trio that was left headed to Stony Bay taking a 5-minute side trip up to a lookout then carried on to Stony Bay. The bay has a DOC campground that can be accessed from the south through a road ford. A 20-minute lunch break in the shade under a large and beautiful tree. Then back to Fletcher Bay via the mountain bike track that climbs to the top of the range at 530m. The clay track up is steep but through the bush. The boys found it tough climbing, not realising how unfit they were. At the top they emerged from the bush to stunning views. The steep descent through farmland led to the historic Shepherd's Hut, which is probably 100 years old. Back to Fletcher Bay, the round trip taking seven hours. Unfortunately, we discovered that Graham’s vehicle had a flat battery so Peter jump-leaded it and all was good – so we thought. We found a spot for Pete on the porch of the DOC office and he slept there for Saturday and Sunday nights. Peter had the last laugh as when Barry went to throw his pot of waste water into the trees it missed and ended up on his bed roll! Don and Barry tried fishing and caught a few but undersized and threw them back to sea. Sunday was off to Port Jackson via the Muriwai cliff track. Graham’s car failed again but with a jump start we made it to the start of the track and Graham carried on to Port Jackson to walk along the beach and meet up with Don, Sharryn and Barry on the track. Peter stayed behind to catch fish via kayak. Barry did not like the height so headed over the farm fence down to the beach via the farm while Don and Sharryn carried on, meeting Graham on the track. A walk along the beach and lunch under another shaded tree watching the shags. Returning to the campsite we found Peter had not ventured out due to bad wind flows. More fishing at night, lots of bites but no catch. Monday, another flat battery, but with another jump start we headed to Coromandel to get a new battery. Then on to Whitianga to visit Graham’s daughter and grandson. After some very nice fried bread it was off to Cambridge for another stop for a shower and a late lunch of orange and date muffins and more scones. A highly recommended stopover! Home in good time with no incidents en route. Thanks to Graham Bocock for the organisation and ride, to Peter for his knowledge and humour, to Don for his fishing tips and Sharryn for her chat and cookies... and to my Cambridge buddies for the double feed. ~ Barry Greenbrook and Graham Bocock
Wed 9 March 2022 Cape Egmont Lighthouse I led the first of these tramps in 2003, another in 2014, and then 9 March this year. My family were early settlers in Pungarehu and I lived there for some years. I know the area well and enjoy sharing what I know with others. There were 21 of us this time and we began at the Cape Egmont Boat Club at the bottom of Bayly Rd. The rescue boat, historical photos of Pungarehu and Warea families, and the replica lighthouse are of interest. It was a perfect day to walk along the coast road to the end of the Pungarehu Road. I pointed out the areas where the Calm went aground in 1956, (the lighthouse didn’t function that night) and the Marchioness, which was wrecked in 1864 near Okawa Pa near the Okeroa property and the lighthouse. The Cape Egmont Lighthouse was moved from Mana Island near Wellington in 1874 and my grandfather Andrew Gilhooly was one of the 42 constables who guarded it for two years. The boat club displays the original lens and lantern. We walked a little way up the Pungarehu Road then crossed Kane Barrett’s farm to get closer to the lighthouse. (Fortunately Kane had moved his 19 bulls across to another paddock). We walked on until we found a good spot to view the lighthouse. We had lunch there and observed a number of painters working on the exterior. I have never seen scaffolding around the building. We returned to our cars at the boat club ready for home. My thanks to Bruce Durdle for being my contact person and the trampers who joined me for a rather warm but most enjoyable walk. ~ Liz Shaw
Wed 2 March 2022 Walk Barrett Road to RDA 26 folk enjoyed the visit to the Riding for the Disabled Association in Alba Street, Whalers Gate, where we saw and learnt about the work the team do with folk, on the horses. Nicola spent half an hour with us. We then walked through the Kauri - Cowling Reserve, and then the Rayward Bush, getting to Barrett Lagoon in time for our morning tea. The walk through the bush was very pleasant on a hot summer's day, dry underfoot, walking beside the stream. A number of walkers had not been to the area, and also not many knew of the wonderful work the RDA did. ~ Margaret Emo
Wed 2 March 2022 FE Warwick Castle
~ Lindsay Maindonald
Thurs 10 Feb Club Night: Inglewood Lions Amazing Maize Maze A puzzling, fun start to 2022 club nights. Meeting outdoors, the perfect way to enjoy longer daylight hours and warm summer evenings. Contenders entered the maze armed with the challenge of identifying 50 marker posts located throughout, before finding their way out. The majority entered in teams to share the toil and turmoil, while a few brave souls ventured in solo. Tension was high as baffled participants crossed paths and retraced their steps, trying to beat the clock for the fastest time. Now you might think, as an avid tramper, my navigation and route-finding skills would aid in this challenge. I proved this theory incorrect, relying totally on the skill of my teammates – how they ever worked it out is beyond me – and so, spent the majority of my time taking selfies with any unfortunate soul I came across. Eventually, tired and bewildered, we stumbled out to a very welcome BBQ sausage, cold beverage, and opportunity to catch up with fellow club members. Congratulations to Darrel Chudleigh who completed the maze challenge, locating all 50 marker posts, in a record time of 33 minutes. Thank you to Peter Winter who organised the meeting, and Margaret Bunyan who ensured everyone was fed. For those who have not yet faced the challenge of the Inglewood Lions Maize Maze, I encourage you wholeheartedly – it is a fun activity for family, friends, social and work groups. Even better, all proceeds go to support our local community. If you missed out this time, give it a go next year. ~ Julia Collins
Sat 5 Feb 2022 Puniho Loop via Kahui Hut The weather forecast was for heavy rain starting in the early hours of the morning. The rain hadn't yet started at Wallace Place but we knew it was going to pour sometime during the tramp. All the wet weather gear went on at Puniho Road end and we crossed the Waiweranui Stream whilst it was still in a good mood. We pressed on over the many streams and gullies, going up and down so many times until we arrived at the “turning point”. South (left turn) would take us to the Kapoaiaia Track and straight on would take us over the Kapoaiaia Stream and on to the Kahui Track. After a short break we went straight on and reached the Kahui Track to get to the Hut for lunch. The rain was really teeming down now and despite the wet weather gear we were sodden. Bronwyn's fruit cake helped a little bit to cheer us but by then we just wanted to press on to get back to the car. The regular track back was much easier than our “jungle gym” experience over to the Kahui Track. I think I went into dream-mode as we trudged through streams of water flowing down the Puniho. We completed our loop at the Stony River lookout. Only twenty minutes to go. The river was a mass of cream and brown as it roared down. No way anyone would have dreamed of crossing it that day. A great day out with Julia Collins in some lovely mountain stream territory. ~ Mike Donaldson
Sunday 30/01/2022 Summit via Ski Fields and Sharks' Tooth This was programmed to be a straightforward summit via Jacobs Ladder/Humphries Castle. Things didn’t get off to a good start when we couldn’t even get into the National Park and were stopped at the bottom of the road. The queue of cars wasn’t moving so we abandoned the planned tramp. A new plan was quickly created and approved by all so we turned around, headed for the Stratford Plateau and prepared for our new tramp, a summit via the ski fields and the Sharks tooth. We headed off up the ski fields track and quickly we could see this was going to be a battle of attrition due the beautiful sunny weather. We could see the white marker high up in the distance, but it took a long time to get anywhere near it. At this point, the going gets considerably tougher as we start our accent to the Sharks Tooth. The climb up was tough but we all made it safely and had spectacular views at the top. Though we had to share this space with a million or so bugs!! A short while later, we descended through the Chimney to the crater. The party split at this point, Julia took two others up to the summit while the rest had lunch, tried to find respite from the scorching sun and Yumi practiced her toboggan skills using her jacket as a makeshift sled. It seemed everybody on the mountain was watching this and there was much clapping and cheering echoing around the crater when she completed a successful run. We regrouped and made our decent of the mountain. Heading down the Lizard for a while, we cut off this to tackle the deeper scoria instead. We made good progress and soon we were at the top of the stairs. Here we took the mossy slopes instead of the gorge track and were soon at the Lodge and the junction of the RMT track. This track back to the Plateau has had a lot of work on it and the progress was good. We arrived back at the cars, 10 hours after leaving them. We had a great day today, the weather was amazing, the scenery fantastic and a great team who all accepted the new challenge willingly and tackled it enthusiastically. Thank you very much to Rebecca, Yumi, Miyuki, Mike, Julia and Carolien for joining me today. Colin Smith
Yeehah!!
Still a long way to go!
15 - 16 and 29 - 30 Jan 2022 TAKT Waingongoro Hut Overnight What a fantastic first overnight tramp for the young ones! As it’s hard to coordinate dates and nobody wanted to miss out, we ended up having two trips. Thanks to Bernie for leading the second trip! Beautiful weather for both trips… wow what a summer we are having! Leaving a car at Stratford Mountain House enabled us to do an easy loop. We headed across from Stratford Plateau to Wilkies Pools for a cool off and a bit of fun in the pools. Then my group headed back up and down the ridge to the hut and Bernie’s group took the Wilkies Pools loop track down and then up to the ridge track and the hut. This had the advantage of lots of little waterfalls to explore. The next day we took the lower route back to the Mountain House. This challenged those with a fear of heights but they bravely crossed the swing bridge and were very proud to do so unassisted! Well done Heath, Nadia, Kanami, Lution, Lochie and Darcey! And a big thanks to the mums and grandmothers carrying all the extra gear. ~ Jo-anne Mowat
Kanami Edwards, Nadia Ratcliffe, Heath McKee and Jade Roberts.
Overcast skies greeted the three keen climbers at the 1pm meeting at the Mangorei Road school, Barry, Claudia and Sophie. Two others, Basil and Antoinette, were to meet at Dawson Falls and one other, Lee, en route as already on the mountain for the day. Arriving at the Dawson Falls carpark at 2pm we phoned Basil to discover they had arrived already. Introductions, a loo stop, signing the intentions book at the DOC visitor centre and then the five of us were on our way. It was a weird sight, and feeling, to see the completed demolition of Dawson Falls Lodge. An icon of the mountain, it has many fond memories for me, and for many others. The Swiss-themed lodge was run for many years by Berta and Keith Anderson before Keith was killed in a road accident near his home at the entrance to the park. It is to be rebuilt as a hotel by the local Iwi who intend to promote the Taranaki Crossing from the site. As was always intended, and promoted, this was to be a slow walk up to the Lodge with plenty of rest stops for the leader. Fortunately for the leader, Antoinette was on some form of diet and had not eaten either breakfast or lunch so she also started to flag on the way up and that suited me fine! The intent was to stop at all three seats en route and take a breather and admire the lush vegetation. It has most certainly flourished over the past five years, as in the past you could observe the lodge most of the way up from Hillary seat but now, with the height of the vegetation, one has limited views of the lodge en route. After the first seated break, we arrived at the Hillary seat to be greeted with amazing clear views of the mountain and the lodge. The final seat was at the Hooker Shelter where we all dropped our packs for the last sit down. Again, great views of the Taranaki plains, minus the landmark Dawson Falls Lodge! Lee arrived at Hillary seat all keen to get moving, so with the lodge key in hand she disappeared upward to open the hut and boil the pot ready for our arrival.
Dinner was a variety of food - finger food, snacks and chocolate and homemade cookies from Claudia – Basil and Antoinette had a major cook up with meat, green vegetables and potatoes. After dinner Lee headed back down the mountain to her car, texting us on arrival at Dawson Falls. Watching the shadow of the mountain extending over the Taranaki plains and watching the twinkling lights of the South Taranaki Plains and night stars was an awesome sight. Up early to watch the dawn and sunrise we headed down to the cars at 8.30am. En route down we trimmed some of the mountain tutu that was covering the entire track, leaving the EAC clippers behind Hooker Shelter. We met up with a group of EAC members at the visitor centre who were trimming the track back up to the lodge. Basil, the visitor centre warden, tells us that he is about to retire as he is 79 now - he certainly does not look that age so the mountain airs have done him well. A quick stop at the hydroelectric plant and the waterfalls to show both Claudia and Sophie and then back to NP. Thanks to Claudia, Basil, Antoinette, Sophie and Lee who made the trip interesting and worthwhile. ~ Barry Greenbrook
Basil, Antoinette, Barry, Claudia and Sophie after a night at Kapuni Lodge
Fri 21 – Sat 22 Jan 2022 Get Together for Rerekapa Hut 50th Anniversary Well there’s nothing like a group of old codgers having a get together and spinning tall tales that are a mixture of fact and fiction depending on the state of their memory loss. Around 30 people gathered on Friday night in Waitara and reminisced and looked at old photos and maps and memorabilia and of course a bit of food and a cake. The cake was cut by Ray Bellringer and his mother Mrs. Ailsa Sarten. Rerekapa Hut was built by the 1st Waitara Boys’ Brigade Company. Ray, one of their members, first thought of building the tramping hut in 1969. Participants in the gathering came from as far afield as Hamilton, Palmerston North Napier and Mount Cook. On Saturday it was the trek into the hut and down to the falls for a visit. which was for some the first time in 45 years. This brought back the memories of boys carrying the materials that were not transported in by the helicopter:
For those who may be interested, there have been two histories compiled, one about the Hut and one about the history of the Rerekapa District. Contact me and I will email them to you. ~ Alasdair Nicoll
Celebrating the 50th Anniversary of the Rerekapa Hut
Wed 19 Jan 2022 Priest’s Fingers Well, my last trip report can’t have put people off as 15 people turned up to join me at the Stratford Plateau. Introductions all round to welcome Bernice and my wife Anita to the group and Lindsay’s talk – “No one leaves my tramps early, we’re in it for the day; to watch out and care for one another”. My catch phrase is adhering to Club rules, “We start together, we stay together and we finish together.” Off we go, pointing out to the members where the trip leads up the ridge. I was amazed that out of the 15 people, 12 had never done it before and two had only done it for the first time with me last year and John S a regular. What a great group they turned out to be. Everyone cooperated, paced themselves well and helped each other. All obeyed my instructions when I said don’t walk to the left or right when on top of the Priest’s Fingers area, as there are sheer bluffs either side. No one bothered to check out whether I was telling the truth. Thank goodness, Lindsay really wanted to share his lunch with all 15 others. I had to gently say to some to come up to the flat moss area, so I could keep you safe. It often looks more daunting than it really is, as they found out. We all sat in the sun having lunch on the top and had hands up, who would like to go to the base of the Fingers. 10 people put up their hands up. Yikes these lot are keen! So, Graeme Taylor and John Depree led the others down to a big safe area and sunned themselves, with reports of at least two having long ‘nana naps’, (names won’t be divulged of this ageing condition displaying itself on a club tramp. LOL!) John Simmons, who Lindsay had judged to be another like-minded mountain goat, rounded up the base group and Lindsay having deposited the remaining group to John D, went down the slope to join the base group which John S ably helped lead down into the valley and up to the Priest’s Fingers while Lindsay helped those needing reassurance on some of the steeper tussock. The base was reached, photos taken, refreshments had and the comment, “Do we have to go back down the valley Lindsay?” “Yes” says Lindsay. “Well, what about that track straight ahead? Can we go on that?” “Well, you could, but you have to climb up through the Bluffs.” “Well can we, do it?”” What!” says Lindsay. “Can we do it?” they echoed back. “You’re meant to be sensible grandmothers!” came the reply. “If it’s there, we will give it a go”. Yikes! thinks Lindsay, they're not keen, they're mad, including my wife who usually hates this type of thing. John again is called on. “You know the track, John? You can lead.” I will safeguard the group through. “Grab my hand!” I hear John say. “Ooohh, we’re on top of the Bluffs where we had lunch, won’t the others be surprised to see us coming down this way again,” are the sensible grandmother’s comments. Sharon even mentioned (of course she not being of the grandmothers’ age group) maybe she should join the alpine club. As for the sensible grandmothers, well what could I say but well done! People look at age and say ‘Geriatric!’ I reckon ‘Geri active!” would be more appropriate for this group. So, everyone joined the sunbathers, Sharon was made leader down, Bernice was climbing down like a pro, the uphill had presented a bit of a challenge, but it set a good steady pace for us all. We took in the great views of Kapuni Lodge, the Giant’s Armchair, the Red Rocks at the head of Kapuni Stream, the driest Lindsay had seen their colour, our majestic mountain peeping tantalizingly through the wafting clouds, with Graeme Taylor and John Fisher helping those on the descending track where erosion had made the travel a bit trickier. (Lindsay himself even did a close ground inspection of the carpet of moss, ‘Biological plant identification’ is the words he chooses to refer to those situations. LOL!) Down to the Stratford Mountain House where Peter the proprietor and his team, were able to cater happily with iced coffees and decadent beverages to replace all the calories lost. What a pleasant day Lindsay shared with these mountain adventurers - John Depree, Graeme and Lyn Taylor, Noel Moir, Bernice McKellar, Sharon Sait, Lesley Parsons, Janet Rivers, Sue Wood, John Fisher, June Cripps, Heather Alldridge, John Simmons, Ngaire Riley, Anita Maindonald and Lindsay, her husband, who she refers to also as a ‘Mountain goat’. Thank you everyone. Pleasant memories of a great day had by all. Well done. ~ Lindsay Maindonald
Sun 16 Jan 2022 Group 2: H Moki – Rerekapa Circuit The Hard Team, Mike & Olly Guthrie, Janet Rivers, Keith Coughtrey, Derryn MacDonald, Rob Grant and myself, were dropped off a little after 8am on the 33km trek from Moki Road basically following the Waitara River through to Kiwi Road. The track was on hard papa stone bulldozed tracks, some farmland and lovely meanders through tall punga ferns. There was a lot of evidence of pigs in the area, so one needed to concentrate in order to look after ankles. We stopped briefly for morning tea after two hours. We had only just got up and started when a medium-sized Billy goat was seen down the track. He came trit-trotting up the track to get a closer look at us until about 10 metres out decided we weren’t really worth looking at, so round he turned and went about his business. We also came across a couple of little kids scampering around. We arrived at a hut just after midday (It is not on my Topo 50 map so don’t know its name) but decided to go on to the air strip for lunch. The day was getting very hot at this stage, shade was essential so by 1pm we were greedily tucking into lunch under the shade of a big pine tree about 100m up the road. We finally met up with Kev’s crew about 2.30pm feeling like this would be a great place to finish…. unfortunately, we still had two and half hours to go. The heat was unrelenting, so every piece of shady track was appreciated. We all stopped to replenish water at another hut being grateful that we could do so and the sun shone down. It was soon after this we got into the shade and onto the Boys Brigade hut where once again water was gratefully topped up. Was good to meet up with the remainder of the group and push on home to the vehicles. Some of us had very sore feet and have made a note to self – “do not do this again”. Thanks to all the crew who were very supportive and encouraging. ~ Claire Chamberlain
Sun 16 Jan 2022 Group 1: FE Moki - Rerekapa Circuit After dropping the group doing the long trip at the Moki end, the rest of us drove around to the start of the Rerekapa. This FE group began their walk across the farmland at 8.40am. It was lovely walking through the healthy bush, so cool and although slightly uphill it was not too taxing. We arrived at the Boys Brigade Hut in 1½ hours. The hut has been taken over by a local trust and is now in very good order. Morning tea, then on towards the waterfall and the site of the old homestead, hardly anything remains now. We had a chat to see who wished to carry on to meet the party doing the long trip. Megan Vink, Libby O Conner and Martin Jones joined me and continued on, leaving Ngaire Reilly, Daryl Chudleigh, Sophie Collins, Karen Hamer, Victoria Borric and Karen Curd at the waterfall. Apparently, Daryl was the only one to take a swim. My team continued on to greet the others. It was very hot and on reaching the road we walked a short distance before finding a nice spot under a tree for a rest and lunch. We keep thinking about the Mike Guthrie team who had to endure nearly three hours out in full sun. After some concern they finally arrived, looking a little haggard but still in good spirits. All of us then walked through to the Boys Brigade hut where we joined the others. Everyone was back at the vehicles just before 5pm. The FE team congratulate those doing the long one. Special thanks to Mike Guthrie for his help and leading this group. ~ Kevin Curd
Sat 15 Jan 2022 York Rd – Curtis Falls Return: Mike, Me and the Manganui Gorge I felt a little nervous as I pulled up at Sander’s Park and realised that I was the only taker for this walk and knowing that I was much slower than Mike (Donaldson). But Mike was the perfect host. We started with a cool wander up the York Track, beyond the end of the loop, and on to meet the Curtis Track. This route is an easy stroll. It was clearly dug out in the quarrying days and slopes gently. Mike told me about a silent flying bird that he had seen on his reccy, swooping in front of him up the track, and then we saw it, twice. On the way back it also appeared, and we decided it had to be a ruru/morepork. What a wonderful stealth flyer. We stopped for morning tea near the old Waipuku Hut which is now just a clearing in amongst lush, two-metre koromiko stands. It was then a wander across a few small gullies and down into the Manganui Gorge. I was relieved to see that the river was an easy jump to cross as I remembered its full flow last year in early spring when we walked to the Curtis Falls from Stratford Mountain House. Heading up the river, the left side is the easier one to traverse. At the second fall we climbed up the right-hand side and enjoyed the view from the great lava slab that stopped and set there. The sides of the Manganui Gorge are incredibly high and the ability of the trees and foliage to grip the almost sheer sides is spectacular. After lunch we traced our way back and completed a most enjoyable 15km walk. Thanks Mike, for a delightful day. Mike has walked the four waterfalls up the Maunganui and I would be keen to do this – one way! ~ Ngaire Riley
Curtis Falls, Mike Donaldson and Ngaire Riley
Sat 8 Jan 2022 Kirihau Peak – Kaitake Range In the summer heat, it was somewhat of a relief to have planned a tramp that mostly involved walking under the cover of native bush. From Carrington Road, in the outer Pukeiti area, we set off down the Saxton track, branching off at the rimu trees, to follow one of the old hauler lines. With predator control throughout the Kaitake Range creating a network of trails, care must be taken to ensure the right track is followed. Turning left at a key intersection, we headed along the gently undulating Kaitake Flats to the far-western side of the bush. After crossing a pretty stream, where we rested for morning tea, the strenuous climb began. Up, up, up – stopping on the way for me to catch my breath, wipe the sweat, and admire the predator control traps and cameras en route. Eventually we reached the Davies Track. From here, we turned right, sidling below Pioke Peak, to meet the Kirihau Track junction. By now, the day was really heating up, but we decided to push on to Kirihau Peak for lunch with a view. Fortunately, on Kirihau there was some shade from a small bank and a gentle breeze offered relief from the heat to those sitting in the sun. A perfect summer day to sit and admire the view. After lunch a steep descent followed, and then onwards down to cross the Pirongia Stream – where the brave had a refreshing dip to cool off. Another climb followed and soon we were back at the junction and on to the Saxton Track. Thank you to those who accompanied me for a most enjoyable day out: Michael Donaldson, Justine Lee, Anne Kivell, Robin Grant, John Sutton, Mike Guthrie, Carolien van Reekum, Carol Stewart, Denis Goodwin, Dave Hadley, Keith Coughtrey, Allison Wilkins, Derek Andrews, Janet Rivers and Derryn McDonald. ~ Julia Collins
Wed 5 Jan 2022 Walk Discover Mangorei On a hot summer’s day, 41 trampers were eager to start the new year with a good walk. We met at Merrilands Hall on Mangorei Road and spent the next 3½ hours exploring three private properties and some bush on our loop route. First stop was Shirley Butt’s exquisite urban garden in Kinross Drive. Shirley and her husband have transformed a regular rectangular back yard into a series of ‘rooms’, bordered by elegant, curved gardens and architectural features. Even in the midst of a summer drought, the flowers were in splendid bloom. After we had all gasped with pleasure at the beauty of this garden, we moved on to our next destination. This was the Davey’s steep three-acre property, where we dropped down to an orchard, passing the chooks and heifers who barely stopped eating to notice the invasion. Then through some wetland bush and down to the Waiwhakaiho River, across land owned by hospitable neighbours. It was too hot to sit in the sun by the river, so we retreated up the hill, past the waterlily pond with its Japanese bridges, to sit under a huge walnut tree for morning tea. After a loo stop and a brief inspection of Brian Davey’s hydroponic glasshouse, we marched on to Highlands Park, where we were tempted by President Barry’s suggestion of a cool one at his outdoor bar but carried on to Alan Morris’s impressive Pukemara garden on Tyne Place. This garden is a blaze of flowers around the house, with a large area of leafy hillside behind the house, featuring rhododendrons, azaleas, viburnums, hostas and hydrangeas, under a canopy of mature trees. Alan gave us a short history of the garden’s development, from a blackberry and gorse-covered slope to the glorious landscape today. Being such a large group today, Alan divided us in half to guide 20 people in turn down the hill. Mary Marshall, to whom Alan credits the weedless flower gardens, hosted the other half in the house garden. Because such a large group inevitably takes longer to move, nine people opted to cut their walk short today, returning to our parked cars directly via Heta, Branch and Mangorei Roads. The other 32 of us continued, via a few ‘shortcut’ walking paths, to Frank Frethey Place, where we joyfully entered the cool shade of Frank Frethey Reserve. This is a haven of native bush amidst suburbia, typical of New Plymouth, as a fortunate result of the dozens of streams which flow through the city. Instead of exiting the bush at the bottom of Karina Road, we took a left turn to walk past the back of houses and into the Miritatana Reserve which exits onto the bottom of Heta Road. From here we faced the last hill, up the zigzag track which cuts through to the end of Truby King Street, thence back to our cars via Smith Road. Thank you all for your enthusiastic start to the year, with special gratitude to Shirley and Alan for sharing their gardens, and thanks to Alan Chapman for the head counts! ~ Sarah Davey
The walnut tree gave welcome shade for morning tea on our first walk of the year.
Sat 18 Dec 2021 Fanthams Peak / Panitahi Meeting up at the Dawson Falls carpark, the forecast for strong winds seemed accurate. A pre-tramp discussion, utilising the information centre shelter to provide cover from the buffeting wind, determined the group wanted to continue with the original plan of climbing Fanthams Peak, despite the forecast and evident conditions. We set off ready to reassess en route as we climbed. Sheltered by the vegetation, we could hear the howling wind as we climbed up the stairs, past Hooker Shelter, to Kapuni Lodge track junction, where we found Lindsay Maindonald having a wee kip. Previously indicating he may meet us at the carpark; Lindsay had obviously decided to get a head start and joined the group from this point on. Continuing to climb, the upper staircase section is more exposed and we were getting pushed around; so at the top of the stairs we regrouped and reassessed, before continuing. Occasional drizzle seemed ominous, but the forecast was for light, passing showers with the wind to be our main obstacle. Damp scoria makes for easier climbing and we were somewhat sheltered from the full strength of the wind in this next section. Meeting up at the rim of the top it was crunch time. Here it was obvious the wind was screaming across the Fanthams Peak plateau, en route to Syme Hut – our refuge. Paired up to ensure everyone was supported and accounted for to reach Syme Hut, the piercing wind was head-on and freezing on the face. With relief, we reached the hut and fell inside to enjoy respite from the wild conditions outside. A quick check to ensure all were warm, additional layers put on, and a well-earned lunch eaten to maintain energy. Being a week out from Christmas, it was time to share some festive cheer and out came the tinsel to decorate the hut and occupants, as well as the good old box of Favourites chocolates – one way to beat the wild weather that raged outside. Before the chill set in, we readied and set off to again brave the conditions. However, this time the wind was on our tail and seemed to be easing, so the descent was well paced and easier than what we had braced for. As we descended, it was noticeably warming up, and by the time we reached the Kapuni Lodge track junction conditions were hot and sunny, with everyone stripping off the layers so essential higher up. At Hooker Shelter, the summit peak appeared and by the time we reached the carpark, the Maunga was in full view. Full appreciation to the adventurers that joined me on this trip: Janet Rivers, Denis Goodwin, Carol Stewart, Allison Wilkins, Derek Andrews, Basil Cook, John Simmons, Miyuki Edwards, Keith Coughtrey, Mike Donaldson and Justine Lee. ~ Julia Collins
Fri 10 – Sun 12 Dec 2021 Aotuhia Weekender The long two hour drive to the Aotuhia Shearer’s Quarters, especially the last half hour, reminded us how difficult it must have been to live out in these areas back in the early 1920s. It is only in recent times that a bridge has been erected to allow vehicle access for the final few kilometres. Our van arrived just after 7pm on Friday, with Joanne Mowat and Alan Nokes in their car a short time later. That evening we discussed whether we should do the planned trip or take the opportunity to visit the Whangamomona Falls. Last time we were here several of us went looking for them to no avail. Alan Doy and Barbie Hepburn knew where to go so eventually a unanimous decision was made to visit the falls instead of the proposed trip. We had a couple of steep bits but the walk was not overly difficult, arriving at our destination in around three hours. Everyone was very impressed with the setting, carved out thousands of years ago, pock-marked limestone was our early lunch spot, but not before half the team enjoyed a refreshing swim in the river above the falls. The sun shone down strongly so by the time we arrived back the cold drinks were downed with gusto. As per usual the pot luck evening meal was enough to feed twice the number present. After eating there was what some would call a “sing along “, not impeccable but a great deal of fun. We were up early on Sunday morning, after breakfast, cleaning up and packing up the vehicles. Those walking through were dropped at the start of the “Whanga” road. I, with Lindsay Green, then drove the van around to the “Whanga Pub”. We had several hours to wait, finding it hard drinking hot chocolates instead of other more desirable beverages. The team arrived in dribs and drabs in the rain, with the slower group getting a ride for the last kilometre or so. We all enjoyed a wonderful meal before heading home in the vehicles, back in New Plymouth around 4pm. Others not already named in the group were Karen C, Julia C, Anne K, Sharon S, Claire C and Carolien VR. ~ Kevin Curd
Thurs 9 Dec 2021 Club Night: Christmas Celebration A lovely way to end the year, with some bright and happy Christmas cheer. The festive scene was set with decorations and trees throughout the hall, and it was wonderful to see so many dressed in the Christmas spirit. After a catch up over wine and cheese, members were seated to enjoy some light entertainment and a good laugh. Those who had more than one glass of wine may have laughed more, and cringed less, at the inglorious performance that followed. First up, a coordinated act, demonstrating a distinct lack of coordination; followed by a back-blocks Taranaki parody, with a coincidentally well-placed rendition of Elton John’s Can You Feel the Love Tonight, sung by Mike Winsborough; and to wrap it all up, a good-hearted sing along to the idiomatic Fred Dagg Gumboots song. The biggest thank you to Kevin Curd for wrangling the crew and coordinating rehearsals (a task far more challenging than coordinating any club trip). We only hope the audience enjoyed the intent and suffered no long-term ill effect. ~ Julia Collins
Wed 1 Dec 2021 Beach Walk to Waiongana River Mouth It rained on Tuesday and again on Thursday but our day was beautiful. 16 met at Ellesmere Avenue in Bell Block for a 10.00am start which may seem late but we had to work in with the low tide at 1.58pm. Headed off on the Coastal Walkway and had a late morning tea at the end of Mangati Road. Velda paid us a visit and the cleaners were there getting the toilets in pristine condition for our use. Watched the tide recede before going to the end of Wills Road and making our way down to the beach. Had a short walk on sand before engaging in about 15 minutes of rock hopping at the end of which we had sand all the way to the river mouth. Arrived at 12.10 and left at 12.50pm. With the lower tide on the return trip the path through the rocky area was much easier. Some of the party continued along the beach to Mangati Road while others got off the rocks and walked along Wanaka Place. Followed the coastal track around to the stock underpass before returning to the cars. Nice to have Murray Naylor join us today. Hope you liked what you experienced Murray and will come along again. What I thought would be a pretty ordinary tramp turned out to be something most enjoyable contributed to by the enthusiasm of the participants and the weather. Thanks to my contact and to John Fisher for being the Back Marker. ~ John Depree
Sun 28 Nov 2021 TAKT York Road Loop What a fun day, lots of exploring with many pipes and ruins to clamber around as we made our way up the track. Interesting history to read about with the quarry, crusher and train track, set up to provide rock for our first roads in Taranaki and rocks for the port. 200 men worked and lived here and there are still remnants of where they lived. The kids had fun exploring it all and finding fungi and freshwater shrimp. Hanging out on the swing bridge at lunchtime and enjoying hot chocolate and toasted marshmallows, thanks to Bernie! Was a bit of a drag on the homeward stretch but even little Maggie made it. Well done kids! Six adults, two of whom were potential new members, and three children (5yrs, 6yrs & 7yrs) attended. ~ Jo-anne Mowat
So much fun for kids on the York Road Loop
Wed 24 Nov 2021 Stratford Plateau to Tahurangi Lodge We departed at 8.30 and after a lengthy detour (because of road works on SH3 Ed.) arrived at the Stratford Plateau about 9.40. 24 of us were on our way just before 10 and had morning tea at the Manganui Public Shelter. It was a beautiful day with hardly a cloud in the sky and virtually no wind. Graeme Taylor led the accelerate group to Tahurangi and I took the steady group to a point about 35 minutes from the Lodge where we had lunch. Contractors were working on the track from the Plateau to Dawson Falls and Graeme and his team encountered another contractor working on the Taranaki Crossing close to Tahurangi. It will be an even better walk when the suspension bridge across the ravine by the ski field is in place. We had an uneventful tramp back to the Plateau. The steady group had a head start for the return and got to the cars first, followed by the main group about 20 minutes later. Timed it right for the road opening at Tariki (timed thoroughfare was due to road works Ed.) and arrived back at 4.20pm. Thanks to all who came along for the day and a big thank you to Graeme Taylor for essentially taking over what should have been my job. ~ John Depree
A spectacular November day for our tramp from Stratford Plateau to Tahurangi Hut and back.
Wed 17 Nov 2021 FE Hocken Farm Walk, Tarata Had a good response to this tramp – a total of 34 participants. 28 departed from Sanders Park, four joined at Inglewood with a further two meeting us at the farm. There had been some logging on Toetoe Road and because of concern about the state of the road we took an alternative (cross country) route to the start point at the woolshed. The designated leaders were somewhat incapacitated so I was grateful to have leadership offered by Doug Walsh. We headed towards a hay barn for morning tea but before that important event we took a side trip through a beautiful stand of totara with some having multiple trunks. I guess that is how they escaped the bushman’s axe. After morning tea we climbed to a hut which is almost completed and had lunch there taking in the wonderful panorama we were presented with. Continued on along the boundary with the Jordan farm where we tramped earlier in the year before a steep descent to the river flats and our eventual return to the start point. A most enjoyable day and thanks to Doug for taking on the leadership at short notice. Thank you to Bryan and Helen Hocken and Jarred and Sarah Coogan for allowing us access to their farm. We do look forward to returning for another tramp sometime in the future. ~ John Depree
Sun 14 Nov 2021 Lake Dive Circuit The forecast said showers in the morning, clearing with sunshine in the afternoon. As we drove up to Dawson’s Falls the mountain was in full sunshine. We meet Janet Rivers at the Visitor Centre and with John Sutton as tail, seven of us began the climb. After a great deal of huffing and puffing we took a spell at the Kapuni Hut junction for morning tea. Up the last set of steps to the Syme Hut, RMT turnoff by 10.15 am. At times the wind gusts were so strong we had to crouch down and hold on to the tussock. ~ Kevin Curd
Wed 13 Nov 2022 Whanganui walkway: The Three Bridges Four of us intrepid travellers did the easy drive to Whanganui. We walked the banks of the river which was running very high after heavy rain. The escalator to the tower was closed due to Covid, but the echoes from our voices down the tunnel were videoed by Sharryn. We took the staircase up and found the tower was also closed, but we still got great views from the base. Made of shell rock, it was dedicated to the over 500 World War I men from the Whanganui District who did not return. Then we headed across the bridge to the Visitor Centre. The metre-high red line on the wall inside shows where the river reached in the last flood. Then we walked to the Museum through the back streets. It was great to see the restoration work on the early buildings as it is a heritage town. The Lindauer paintings of the early Maori were impressive. Thanks to Sharryn for sharing the driving. ~ Christine Feigler
Thurs 11 Nov 2021 Club Night: A Lesson Learnt and Lena River to Tiksi With some questioning and a last-minute change to the keynote speaker for the evening, it was uncertain how the club night would pan out. This is when the essence of the club comes to the fore. We were fortunate, as always, to have two stalwarts of the club step up and offer their service. ~ Julia Collins
Map of Peter Winter's journey in Siberia
Wed 10 Nov 2021 Purangi Kiwi Project 32 of us met Mr Schumacher at the Project. The walk is no longer through the Purangi Centre in Inglewood, but is still being kept open for the public courtesy of the Schumachers, phone 7568064. It costs $10 each as a lot of work and expense has gone into putting the track through and it would be a pity to let it go. The walk through the Hidden Valley is a delight. It is almost a canyon with a stream at the bottom. After morning tea we tackled the big hill. We are easy walkers and had lots of breaks which some of us needed. Lunch was at the top looking over to Ruapehu, Ngauruhoe and Tongariro. We descended to the stream. I found it stifling and was glad to reach the top of the hill where there was a breeze. Some people complained it was hard. We have done it twice before but the heat and humidity can sap your energy so don’t hesitate to call out if you need more rests in the shade. ~ Christine Feigler
Wed 3 Nov 2021 Holly Hut – detoured to Maketawa Hut The tramping gods deserted us today and offered up gale force winds! Still, 18 hearty souls turned up hoping to tramp towards Holly Hut. This trip was planned to have two groups, a faster group going to the hut and a slower group going as far as lunch time before returning. We all set off from North Egmont with great gusto but we were all puffing pretty hard by the time we got to the seat at the lookout a little further up the track from the Veronica Loop junction. The faster group headed off with some trepidation unsure of whether we would get to the hut with the existing wind conditions. When we got to the exposed ridge just below the now-closed section of the Razorback, a couple of the more experienced members of the group proceeded to check out the wind conditions on the ridge. It’s fair to say the wind was fierce and very very gusty and it was decided that it was unsafe to continue. - Graeme Taylor
At the Lookout: Claire C, Derek A, John S and Elijah Higginson
Morning tea at the Camphouse mid-detour to Maketawa Hut
Sun 31 Oct 2021 Pete’s Garden Tours – Hawera Well, despite my trepidations this turned out to be a real fun day. The Norwegian weather gurus (www.yr.no Ed.) got everything dead right yet again and we arrived at our King Edward Park rendezvous on time for morning tea. It was lovely to wander through the park eating the pie I bought from what used to be Finlay’s Dairy, now owned by an old school friend of my son. I have fond memories of the park, having spent much time playing when ~ Peter Winter
Joyous garden cyclists
Sat 30 Oct 2021 Manganui Gorge Circuit A single, keen tramper signed up to ascend the Manganui Gorge and climb those four cataracts. As Ray Dench and I drove along a SH3 under extensive repair I dreaded the curse of the rain striking again for October. Yet at the Plateau we found ourselves with clear skies and sunshine! ~ Mike Donaldson Ray Dench above the fourth cataract in the Manganui Gorge
Wed 27 Oct 2021 Inglewood’s New Walkway A hint of showers did not deter 32 members coming to check out the new Trimble Walkway at Inglewood. There is plenty of parking at the railway yard area, from where we walked to the top of the hill, and found seating and very good views back to Taranaki Mounga and the ranges. Plenty of history is written up on boards by the railway tracks. The cemetery has many war graves and is well maintained. We walked on to a second lookout with seating but no views (pest trees haven’t been cleared). We passed the new mini-golf course, which will be fun for local families. ~ Trina Stanley
Sun 24 Oct 2021 Henry Peak and Ridge to Holly Hut Track This tramp was postponed due to bad weather last weekend. Rain came on this Sunday too but the tramp was going ahead regardless. Keith Coughley and I started off from Kaiauai Car Park in full wet weather gear and within an hour and a half we were at Kaiauai Shelter for a brief respite from the steady rain which stayed with us all day. ~ Mike Donaldson
Wed 20 Oct 2021 Waiaua Gorge Hut We knew we were never going to get to the hut because a weather incident in August washed out the track about 10 minutes from the hut. And the alternative was not an option as it was marked with tape only and not suitable for a FE tramp. Thankfully the sun shone and temperatures were pleasant as 26 of us headed up the grassy lane to the start of the DOC track which was CLOSED past the Oaonui track junction. Shortly after we left the cars at 9.30am, the leader announced that morning tea would not be till 10.15am. Some audible gasps were heard but ignored. ~ Claire Chamberlain
Sun 17 Oct 2021 Combined trip to the County Whare at Moeroa with EAC and STC Met at Mangorei School at 7.50 am and had a no show, and a sleep in, so two down, but John Barrell, John Sutton, Sue Wood, Joanne Edwards and Barry Greenbrook headed south without the two missing persons. Thanks JB for taking your vehicle! The weather was overcast, windy and drizzling so our expectations were not high en route. Taking the bypass, it took an hour to get to the meeting spot at the Rawhitiroa School. There were two members of Stratford Tramping Club (STC) and eight from the Egmont Alpine Club (EAC). ~ Barry Greenbrook
Barry Greenbrook looking a tad windswept
Lunch at the County Whare, Moeroa
Thurs 14 Oct 2021 Club Night: A Walk on La Gomera It was refreshing to be able to meet again in a relaxed manner, despite the current turmoil Covid-19 is creating around us. Friendly, familiar faces; a cup of tea and a biscuit; and an opportunity to be transported to another part of the world, even just for a moment, is very welcome at this present time. It seems we must make the most of these opportunities, given the uncertainty faced on a daily basis, and who knows what will have changed by the time this goes to print. Prior to the meeting, trip convenors and leaders met with Graham Bocock to discuss the Outdoors Safety Management Guide and responsibilities on a trip. It was an opportunity to share ideas, ask questions and know there is support from others in the club. After all, everyone’s aim is to run successful, safe trips enjoyed by all. ~ Julia Collins
Sun 10 Oct 2021 Rahiri, Waiwhakaiho, Alfred Loop Because we had a small amount of rain before the tramp, Rex Wright and I went ahead of the team to check the water level on the Waiwhakaiho. We felt it was going to be okay to cross towards the end of the tramp. The concern was if we had come down the Alfred at the end of the tramp and found the river level too high, we would then have to return the way we had just traveled, adding several hours on the trip. We came back and met the team at the turnoff up to the Waiwhakaiho, with the decision to stay with the original plan. ~ Kevin Curd
Waiwhakaiho River crossing
Sat 9 Oct 2021 Kapoaiaia Circuit Three of us started off from Kahui Road end, squelching along the track with the deserved title of the wettest track in south-west Taranaki. At the “circuit” left turn into the bush, we descended to the first Kapoaiaia Stream crossing. Much to our delight, gone were the pools of slosh as we walked on a cleared track with shafts of sunlight piercing through every now and again. Both Ray and I noted that there was a new track cutting to the stream from the other direction, to make the way through to the Kahui Track readily obvious. We used it and found the crossing stones there quite slippery compared with the other indirect route we'd used before. ~ Mike Donaldson
Wed 6 Oct 2021 Dawson Falls with Mr Grumpy This report should probably be titled ‘Tramping with Mr. Grumpy’. ~ Lindsay Maindonald
Where do I get in? Yumi Iwasaki at Dawson Falls
Misty mountain. We returned to thick fog on the Stratford Plateau
Sun 3 Oct 2021 TAKT Pukeiti Kids Treehouse Trail and Summit Julie and her grandson Oliver joined me exploring at Pukeiti. Oliver had heaps of energy and took us on some new pathways we hadn’t previously explored and we ticked off five of the six treehouses in the gardens. The track up to the summit was a bit muddy and slippery after all the rain but the skies stayed clear for us. Oliver led the way and we were happy to rest and enjoy our lunch at the top. The view is great if you climb up on the old seating structure which Oliver and I managed. I presume before the surrounding bush grew up there would have been an amazing view without the climbing. ~ Jo-anne Mowat
Oliver and Julie on the Pukeiti summit
Sat 2 – Sun 3 Oct 2021 Koane Track to Trains Hut It is funny how a particular spot, though seemingly unimposing, can hook you in and become somewhere you’re drawn to. The Koane is one of those places for me. Thus, it was my pleasure to lead Carolien van Reekum and Mark Robbins along the Koane to Trains Hut. The trip description, “This track is unmaintained and requires navigation where markers are sparse,” is definitely fair comment. At times it took all of our focus to keep to the often faint trail, especially where the ridgeline became less defined, or deceptive side ridges branched off. It was on two occasions we found ourselves no longer following the random orange markers that guided us most of the way. A quick check on the GPS confirmed we were off track, and a short retrace took us back to where we went wrong, and the orange markers heading off in the ‘right’ direction. ~ Julia Collins Tall Tale of the Trains Trail
Finish! Mark Robbins, Julia Collins and Carolien van Reekum
1 - 2 Oct 2021 Waihohonu Hut – Tongariro National Park Friday ~ Lee McCracken
Graeme Taylor, Graham Pease and Wendy McMillan admire Mt Ngauruhoe
Sun 26 Sept 2021 Awakau Caves The promo for this trip told participants to be ready for a rough and tumble adventure with a chance to get wet and muddy. We kept our promise. It was raining slightly when we did the big drop off the side of the road, down to where the terrain levels off. Nearly everyone found sliding down on their bum was the easiest way to go. Although you follow up the stream for most of this trip, the markers we had placed on our last visit helped our progress. Even with this help we struggled to find the correct spot where we drop into the stream. Because of the many subsidences into the stream we took the wrong option on two occasions before finally finding the correct one. ~ Co Leaders, Martin Jones, Libby O’Connor, Kevin Curd
How deep does it get?
Into the bowels of the earth
Wed 22 Sept 2021 FE Toro Road Fish and Game Farm On an overcast day 15 walkers drove towards Tarata to travel to the end of Toro Road where our tramp would begin. This farm used to belong to the Fish and Game organisation, but they have sold it to a private buyer. We started our tramp by climbing up to the highest point of a ridge which we followed. The ridge went around in a circle with a lot of ups and downs which a few found rather taxing. We found a nice place for morning tea out of the cool breeze. We were in the bush for the whole tramp with some good views of the ponds which were used for attracting ducks. They had planted some trees with nuts for attracting the ducks to the area for the duck shooting season. Towards the end of the ridge we found a nice place for lunch. After lunch it started to rain which made the track heading down a bit wet and slippery to the bottom, where we found the track up to the ponds. After looking around we headed back towards our cars and back home. Everyone enjoyed the walk but not so much the big hills. Thanks to the owner who allowed us on her farm. ~ John Simmons
Shetland ponies were curious as we passed them in the light rain on the way back
Sat 18 – Sun 19 Sept 2021 Ruahine Range - Ngamoko Hut In July 2013 five of us attempted to tramp from Limestone Road carpark, up and across the Ruahine tops and down to Ngamoko Hut on the Pohangina River. We were unsuccessful. Now, eight years later we were going back to try it again. Graham Pease, Mark Robbins, Julia Collins, Alan Taylor and I set off in Mark’s van at 3.00 am Saturday morning. Up at 4.45 am we were all dreading the climb to the top. Out the door at 6.00 am and two and a half hours later we were back on top with stunning views of Ruapehu and Ngauruhoe. But with gale force winds there was no hanging around today. The going was hard and frustrating, constantly getting blown over into deep snow. Stamina and perseverance prevailed. ~ Mike Guthrie
Ruahine snow in September
Ngamoko Hut
"Posers"
Sun 15 Aug Taramoukou Trig, Tarata 17 met at Wallace Place and we picked up Jo-Anne Mowat at Tikorangi. We were to meet Carol Stewart and Alison Wilkins out there, but because of a navigation problem they finally made it ten minutes after we started. Graeme Taylor returned to make sure they knew where to go. Thanks G T. We all met up for morning tea on the farmland just as we were to enter the bush. Sitting there having roast beef sandwiches, looking over great farmland all the way to our magnificent mountain. What else could be better? John and Maureen Simmons assisted me at the front looking for the correct track - many different tracks made this difficult at times. After many ups and a few downs we reached the trig at 11.20am. The view is not as grand as it was, with many trees beginning to reduce the once outstanding outlook. More roast beef sandwiches, then at 12 noon the walk back. With Karen C and G T at the rear with the club radios and Mark Robbins up the front with the other radio, we could spread out a little. The front group made many stops to gather all the party together. We had another sit down when we reached the farmland, once again appreciating the wonderful view. Finally back at the cars at 2.15pm. The other VIPs on this trip were C Van Reekum, A Kivell, B Hepburn, A Doy, B Rollo, J Depree, B Dravitski, E Higginson, C Smith, N Riley, and D Chudleigh. ~ Co-Leader Kevin Curd
Sat 14 Aug Kahui Hut ?Expecting light rain for the morning, with heavier rain in the afternoon – not the most promising of outlooks. It was with optimism Ray Dench, Mike Donaldson, Barry Rollo and I set off from Kahui Road end on the direct track to the hut, in low cloud (no rain yet). Having not walked the full track for 20+ years, it was of personal interest to me to return; and it seemed we all had our reasons for joining in, some to look at alternate track routes for future trips, and some for special memories and reflection. A gentle grade the majority of the way, with no large climbs, makes this a good tramp for most abilities. It was only the mud and wet overhanging vegetation we had to negotiate through and around – no problem. Thanks to Barry we had the opportunity to view one of the Kahui Holes, something I had been apprehensive about. On finding you could see the bottom, it was then less ominous. Having a hut to sit in for an early lunch was very welcome. We even had a view across the farmland and out to the coast from the hut clearing. One shower of rain on the way up and one on the return didn’t dampen spirits and the occasional shafts of golden light on the sodden foliage added to the beauty of the trip. ~ Julia Collins
Wed 4 Aug 2021 Pukeiti 31 of us came to walk the outside tracks to Piwakawaka, the new family hut in Pukeiti, on the planned bike trail. It was a clear sunny day, the only one in a week of rain. The bush was beautiful. The muddy track was a little challenging after a lot of rain, so it was a slow uphill tramp to the hut for lunch. Then we followed the old Haulers Track where the great rimu were taken out many years ago. There was one more long slow climb and then downhill to the road back to the car park. ~ Christine Feigler
Sat 31 July Hunters and Kaitake Tracks, Kaitake Range ?Looking forward to a sunny day out in the middle of winter, 20 eager trampers set off for a hearty outing. From Wairau Rd end there is a magnificent array of lesser-known tracks to choose from, catering for a variety of trip lengths and challenges. We quickly turned off the main Wairau Rd track, dropped down to a stream and started the grunt up onto the Hunters Track ridge. Recently cut back in aid of predator control, this track is now more of a highway compared to its former overgrown state. Also recently tidied was Frank’s Café, a compulsory visit, some for the umpteenth time and others the first. It was on and up to Patua Peak for a decent break in welcome sunshine and surprising shelter from the stiff breeze. From here we joined the Davies track for a short distance until branching off to climb Kaitaki Peak. Here the real track adventure started, as we wound around tree falls and similar obstacles until reaching the semi-open top for another rest and snack in the open air. “Watch for the steep descent”, I advised while demonstrating how one could slip on the slippery tree roots. Proceeding with caution and appreciating the thick vegetation to brace our feet and hands on, we headed down from Kaitake towards Wairau Rd. Again, clearing for predator control made what I used to find a tricky section to navigate around open farmland much more straightforward. Taking the opportunity for a photo shoot while regrouping in sheltered sunshine, I attempted to cross an electric fence, unsure if it was on. CRACK – “It’s working,” I screeched as the entertained onlookers roared with laughter. I’m still deciding if the photo was worth it. Back on track, the journey was nearly over with a small stream crossing that led us on to the Wairau track, close to the road end. A delightful day with delightful company, thank you to Ngaire Riley, Mike Winsborough, Kevin Harvey, Derek Andrews, Ray Dench, Mike Donaldson, Carol Stewart, Barb Hepburn, Alan Doy, Karen Curd, Kevin Curd, Barry Rollo, Janet Rivers, Claire Chamberlain, Justine Lee, Lindsay Maindonald, Allison Wilkins and Rex Wright. Julia Collins
Sat 24 July Puniho to Kahui Hut This trip was originally planned as Puniho to Bell Falls but was altered after a recce a few days prior due to possible river levels and daylight issues. So our trip was now planned to go from Puniho to Kahui Hut, then return via the Kahui Track, turn right into the Kapoaiaia Track back to the Puniho Track. We entered the bush at Puniho roadhead at 8.30am. The sun was still low in the sky, so it was a little dark in the bush. As we progressed up the track it got lighter, and we briefly emerged from the bush into sunshine by the Maero Stream with splendid views both up and down the mountain. There was a decent covering of snow higher up. Back into the bush, we carried on up the Puniho Track to the top where it turns right then heads down to Kahui Hut where we again emerged into the sunshine. I noticed some heavy frost in the shaded spots. It was 11am and we decided on early lunch in the sun rather than later in the bush. ver lunch there was some discussion about the rough state of the Kapoaiaia Track; those who knew it recommended we consider using the Waiweranui Track which can be accessed from the Kapoaiaia, to get back to the Puniho Track. Two of our party who knew the track agreed that the Kapoaiaia was considerably more difficult and would take a lot longer. We text messaged our contact person of the change of route. The Waiweranui Track is no longer a regularly used track, and unless you knew its whereabouts, it would be difficult to find. However, it turned out to be a pleasant and moderately easy track back to the Puniho Track. We arrived back at the car at 4pm. All agreed that it had been a very good day on the mountain. It had been challenging in parts without being too difficult, some new territory for some, great views, along with good company on the trip. Thanks to Ray D, Ali J, Barry R, Mike D, and Rex W for joining us. ~ Graham Bocock
Wed 14 July Kamahi Farm Walk, Inglewood Driving through Inglewood the temperature sign read 1.5 degs. It was a cold but sunny morning. We arrived at Gavin’s farm in convoy but because the driveway is so well hidden, Jorja had the important job of making sure that no cars went past. We found that there was a frost everywhere but the mountain was out to welcome us, plus no wind. Wow. It was going to be a lovely day. A great day to show everyone my brother’s farm. He was there to meet us but unfortunately too busy to join the tramp. Thirty-two, including my granddaughter Jorja, decided to come along on this walk. With Graham T taking the lead and Lynn T as Tail-end Charlie, we headed for the back of the farm. Along the way we could see the Toi Toi oil field and the Waitara River in the distance. Passing through a few gates we arrived on the banks of the river where we had morning tea, right on 10 o’clock, just for John D. It was a shame about the noise from the McKee oil field though, as it’s such a lovely peaceful place. We continued along the flat for a little while and then made our way uphill. Slightly different to the recce and didn’t feel as steep. The views of all the mountains were amazing when we got to the highest hill on the farm with hardly a cloud to be seen. We could see Tarata and beyond to the left and also a little of the tramp we had done just a few weeks before. After walking along the edge of a crop of kale, we climbed the fence into Instones’ farm and a bit further on into the Hockins’ farm. Ten of the group then decided not to venture to the trig but sit in the sun while the rest of us trudged down, along and then up to the highest point. We had lunch on the track a little below as the wind and clouds had decided to join us as well. After lunch we then joined the others and made our way back to the house, following another track, arriving about 2.00 pm. The first spits of rain hit the car when leaving Inglewood on the way home. We were so lucky. A huge thanks to Graham, Lynn and Jorga for all their help and to everyone who joined me on the day. ~ Lorraine Eldershaw
Sun 11 July York Road Adventure We promoted this trip via an email only and this proved successful with 18 trampers turning up. The history of this site is well documented with many information boards along the track. The condition in which these early pioneers worked always amazes me. We began walking at 8.15. The temperature was three degrees so everyone was well rugged up. As we were in thick bush the cold was an ongoing feature. There were several new members out for the day and climbing down some of the steep banks certainly proved a test for them. Special thanks to Alan Doy for his expert assistance with this. With a large number in the party and the varying pace, it was tempting to split the group into a faster and slower team. Because I had only done this track once before and knew that there were several other hunters’ tracks heading in different directions, it was common sense to keep the party together. After visiting several places of interest we set out to find a little bit of sunshine to have our lunch. It was not easy with so much dense bush, finally settling on a spot just before 1 pm. After a break, the gentle climb continued up towards the Curtis Falls Track. We deviated off to the right and came out on the main York Road Track. An easy stroll down to the cars, arriving at 3.15pm. With a large group, it can be a trying day for the Tail End Charlie, so we thank Peter Winter for covering this role. ~ Kevin Curd
Saturday 10 July 2021 Maketawa Hut Plus The forecast was for showers but it was actually sleeting quite heavily on arrival at Egmont Visitor Centre, so it was straight in to wet weather gear, right from the start. Sleet turned into snow as we gained altitude, though it didn’t feel too cold, and we stopped to remove some of the inner layers we were wearing. As we got near to Jacobs Ladder, the virgin snow on the ground was quite deep and the wind was bitterly cold at times though the sun was also fighting to show itself on occasion. We headed up Jacobs Ladder and into the deeper snow of the Round the Mountain Track. Below us was some very menacing looking black clouds which thankfully stayed out of our way, and we had a very enjoyable traverse of the track. As the snow was deep and fresh, there was no difficulty navigating the gorge just before getting to Tahurangi Lodge where we warmed up in the shelter before our descent of the ridge track. This track, starting behind the transmitter tower, was very steep in places but the initial descent was made a lot easier by the deep snow which allowed for a good foothold. Further down, the snow was not so deep and this resulted in a few less than graceful slips and slides. A lot of birds in this area and all in full song, very pleasant indeed! After the steep climb down to the Curtis Falls track, we headed up to Maketawa Hut for a late lunch. It was now dry and fairly warm as we took the lower track back to North Egmont VC, arriving back around 7.5 hours after setting off. We had a great adventure today, scenery was fantastic, some of the tramper’s enjoyed their first tramp in snow, we had bad weather interspersed with fine and overall, a really good day out in the snow. Thanks to Sarah Antartica for joining us today as my guest and a big thank you to Tracy, Carol, Keith, Ray, Mike and Barry for making it a special day. Colin Smith
Setting off from the "Lookout"
Top of the Razorback Track
'Winter Wonderland'
Thurs 8 July Club Night: Rocky Mountain Highs NPTC Life Member, Ian Gregory, treated us to a slide show of his 2001 trip with Federated Mountain Clubs (FMC) Travel Club to the Western Pacific USA. In his relaxed, witty style, Ian took us on a journey from Mt Rainier to Yosemite National Park (approximately twice the distance of Cape Reinga to Bluff). Scaling 4,392m, Mt Rainier epitomised the drama and beauty of the Rockies. At special request, a side journey to Mt St Helens was included. There the desolate destruction was still apparent, 21 years after the eruption caused a pyroclastic blast and the side of the volcanic rim slumped leaving a 1.6km wide crater. Beauty was again found in the alpine meadows (to 2,500m), with spring blooms en masse. Additional features of interest included Mt Shasta at 4,321m, Diamond Lake, Castle Peak, and the impressive Nevada Falls at 181m on the Merced River in Yosemite National Park. Ian has been on five trips with the FMC Travel Club including Tasmania, Alaska and the United Kingdom. ~ Julia Collins
Wed 7 July Stratford Walkways Threatening rain but still 20 of us set off, the weather improving as we went. From Malone’s Gate we crossed the busy main road to do the Eastern Loop following the Patea River. There was debris on the track from the strong winds the day and night before. The river was well up after heavy rain. We had lovely views of the snow-capped mountain for our stop for morning tea. I was a bit worried about a low part of the track with the high water level but that was fine; it was the big gum tree across the track that halted us! With good teamwork most of us scrambled over and under many branches. A group of four went through the bush to find a stile, crossed a paddock and came out by the High School. Good to know this for the future! After lunch at Malone’s Gate we did the Western Loop and finished as rain clouds gathered. Thanks you to all that came. It was a lovely day and thankyou to Malcolm Smart for being my contact. ~ Heather Alldridge
Sat 3 July East West Crossing of Kaitake Range It was different at Lucy’s Gully in the dark today, leaving cars for the shuttle. Everyone thought they were at the wrong place, with the gum trees gone and new fences up. It was calm but a bit cool as the ten of us dived into the bush. We missed the first notable feature – the tunnel. It sounded like the indicator for it had been removed. The shallow gravel from last year in the Oakura River must have moved along, leaving some deeper pools, between some slippery rocks, to negotiate. With the new predator tracks in play, the section from here to the Pirongia Stream has become a bit of a Snakes and Ladders Track. The conversation at the front doesn’t need to be that engaging now, to have you go astray. The climb up to Kirihau Peak was easy to follow – just a bit harder to do. There isn’t much sitting room up top here now. Can’t have been getting the regular tramping club visits of days gone by. Met up with another group of four tramping club strays at the junction of Davies Track and the turnoff to the trig. There was plenty of room to spread out and relax at Patuha Trig but the mountain clouded over as we finished. Descending to Lucy’s Gully was pretty straightforward, (with some ups and downs) for Allison Wilkins, Carol Stewart, Julia Collins, Penny McComb, Ali Jordan, Zuzka Erdossyova, Ray Dench, Mark Robbins and Derek Andrews. A neat group, getting along nicely on a great day. ~ Denis Goodwin
Wed 30 June Sausages at Maketawa Despite concern about the road conditions towards the Visitor Centre, all vehicles managed to negotiate the trip albeit with a few wheel spins towards the top. There was a bit of ice in the carpark which required caution but once we started walking on the Maketawa Track we were in soft powder snow all the way to the hut. Occasionally we experienced a pool of water that had frozen. Had morning tea in the stream bed at the halfway point before continuing on to the hut where we arrived at 11.30am. It took us longer to get there as there were frequent stops for photos in the winter wonderland. What a wonderful job the advance party had done! The hut was nice and warm, the mulled wine was sitting atop the fire at an ideal temperature and the onions were there ready for when the sausages were cooked. There was so much positive interaction at the hut – certainly the noise level indicated this. It was suggested that we return to North Egmont via the Translator Track. By consensus it was agreed we return that way and although it was stated that it was 10 minutes from the hut to the track it would be fair to say the time was multiples of that. Thanks to the advance party, those who carried the catering requirements and to the cooks. Thank you all for making the day such a success. I thought this activity had run its course but it will appear in the programme again next year. Welcome to the new members and I hope your experience on your first tramp will encourage you to come on more. We were joined by Ian McAlpine at the hut bringing our party number to 39. ~ John Depree
Wed 23 June Waitotara Beach walk Twelve of us enjoyed beautiful weather on our walk along the beach to the Waitotara River mouth and lagoon. Just sky and sea. Water bubbled up through vents in the sand. Sharon put her walking stick down one. It went right up to the handle. The shell rock was carved out by wind and sea into beautiful shapes. As we walked along the edge of the lagoon we saw oystercatchers, big groups of seagulls and ducks. A dotterel scurried back and forth. Sinister wild cat paw marks followed the water’s edge, but no spoonbills. Maybe they have flown north for warmth. We saw the remains of the drowned Totora Forest. Trina and Sharon produced large bags to fill with plastic waste on the walk back. We finished the day at the Waitotara Pub. Edward Mountbatten had signed his signature on the wall by the fridge. The publican produced a photo album and there was his Royal Highness. Thanks to our drivers, Graham, Kay and Kathryn. ~ Christine Feigler
Sun 13 June Moki Track The land owner asked us to postpone the Auroa Track to Lake Dive trip due to stock management. Because of this I decided to replace this with the Moki trip we had to cancel back on 9 May. The email to members was quite successful, with 16 turning up at Wallace Place. Apologies to those who did not get the email, please check with our club captain Peter Winter to correct this. Four cars traveled to Uruti Road where we met another two keen to do this tramp, total 18. We started walking the paper road just after 8.30am, having to negotiate several very muddy areas. That papa certainly sticks to your boots. We reached the first swing bridge around 10.15am and enjoyed our morning tea. This is where you enter the Moki Forest. Alan Doy located the spot taking us to the now defunct Spotswood College Hut. The hut is in a very run down condition, disappointing to see this in such a state. The track is over easy terrain and in reasonable condition. One of our groups decided they would have their lunch after a three hour walk, while the rest carried on for another 15 minutes to a lovely clearing for theirs. We gathered together on the way back only to encounter several bulls standing steadfast on the track. This caused some concern. The long way around was taken. We felt it was better to be wise than sorry. All back at the cars by 3.30pm, a little earlier than I had planned. Caroline Van Reekum invited us back to Cafe 487 (x Mikes Ale) where she shouted us hot chips. We had a lot of laughs. Arrived back in New Plymouth at 4.30pm A good happy tramp, thanks to all involved. ~ Kevin Curd
Saturday 12 June 2021 Col's Secret Track adventures #4 A very mild and sunny day today, perfect weather for a Winter tramp. We parked the cars at Kaiauai Car Park (plenty of free spaces today) and headed down to then up the Kokowai Track. 10 minutes from the top, and to the relief of the group, we stopped climbing and instead, headed into the bush on the new track. Just before this, we had the opportunity to see flocks of Kereru flying around, their large wings glinting in the sun. There must have been at least several dozens of them. The new track, though heading generally down, also follows the contours so there were plenty of steep gullies to get down and back up again! This area, sandwiched between Henry Peak and the Round the Mountain Track, offered spectacular clear views of the Pouakai Ranges and is also fairly dense with Bush Lawyer! At the track crossroads, and after stopping here for lunch, we took the right hand track down towards the old Kaiauai Hut site. This track is very easy going and offered some relief after the previous tracks! At the old hut site, we bumped into Derek who was out exploring and collecting glass, ribbon, old markers & rubbish etc! From here, it was an easy stroll back to the cars and although the sun had now been replaced with clouds, the weather remained fine for the rest of the tramp. Tramp time today was just over 6 hours. Thanks to Jeanne, Carol, Claire, Alison (and Derek) for joining me today, awesome company and a great day out. Colin Smith
Thurs 10 June Club Night: Experience P?rangi The tireless work of conservation and predator control continues throughout the region, with a marvellous example highlighted at the June club night. Rebecca Somerfield, General Manager, and Kat Strang, Conservation Manger, of Experience P?rangi shared the background, challenges, highlights and future for this community conservation and pest control organisation. Situated east of Inglewood, the project began in 2004, initiated by Bob and Karen Schumacher. Now the area under management spans farmland, DOC and iwi land, and native and exotic forest across 38 individual landowners. Currently the organisation manages 13,000 hectares under pest control, with plans to expand to 18,000 hectares. In unmanaged areas, 1 in 30 kiwi chicks will live to adulthood; currently P?rangi is home to over 4,000 western brown kiwi with over 880 breeding pairs. A sustainable population of k?kako is also establishing within the project area. Exciting future plans include a Native Bird Rehabilitation and Interpretive Centre in Inglewood. Engaging the community, spreading the conservation message and education sets the scene for the valuable work of Experience P?rangi to continue well into the future. ~ Julia Collins
Wed 9 June Urenui River and Village 31 came along to join our local guide, John Hill, complete with much historical data, as he and others were responsible for many printed boards around the town. The swing bridge one crosses from the beach and golf course has been replaced several times. The old one riddled with shipworm can still be seen sticking out of the mud. One such partial collapse happened in 1911 when a wire broke resulting in 30 or 40 men and boys who were watching water polo fall in. All survived. The most important pa site, Pohokura, was the largest and can be seen looking from the golf course towards tall pine trees at the top. This was deserted after many attacks but Ngati Mutunga returned from Chatham Islands when a redoubt was built and gave protection. Sir Rangi Hiroa (Peter Buck) was born near here and a cairn marks this. A highlight, many said, was the very first fire engine for the district, a 1934 Ford V8 fire engine, faithfully restored, driven out of the station and parked by Fire Chief Donald Moratti, all shining brass light cases and square wooden-framed front windscreen. Luckily this engine was spotted lying derelict in a Levin paddock and brought back for restoration by many dedicated hands. The Urenui cemetery throws a few clues as to the early settlers, as one was Noel Nairn who was asked to develop a bush walkway to keep him busy when he retired for a more peaceful community. He did an excellent job with many gullies to clear and plant, with a waterfall to admire to boot! Morning tea resulted in an impromptu “brain/body” exercise led by one of our members with mixed/mixed up results!! Footnote: The Green Shed proprietor was called to help with catering with a local funeral in the town so our scheduled visit did not happen. Thank you Malcolm Smart for being our contact. ~ Trina Stanley
Sat 5 – Mon 7 June M Overnighter at Annabelle Lodge, Moeawatea Valley Although the weather at first looked dire, constant monitoring on the very accurate Norwegian site yrno showed that it would not be raining at the times we would be walking, and that the weather would be clearing. Consequently, we set off in the mid-winter dark to head up to Moeroa at the end of the Rawhitiroa Rd, about 90 minutes driving. Fortunately, we ran into Chris Bergman on the way, who told us to access their property to park, cutting off a good portion of walk to Buckmans Lodge. We met his brother Derek at their homestead, who told us where we could park, and also of a mysterious tunnel which would remove one of the rope climbs from the journey. The two hours walk to the Lodge for lunch was good, the heavy rain not having produced much mud. On the way we passed the turn off to the Koane Track. The Lodge itself is magnificently appointed and would be worth an overnight visit sometime in the future. The old road leads off down the Moeawatea past the sheep dip under the scrub and over the bridge. There are several quite spectacular waterfalls on the river, which was now on our left. The old road petered out into a narrow track along the bluffs, scarily offering a sheer drop into the water. After about an hour we came to the first of the ropes dropping vertically down a ravine to where a stream met the river – not for the fainthearted. At the bottom we searched fruitlessly for a tunnel (I’m sure it exists, Alan) before Julia led us up a near vertical bank covered in bush lawyer to a paddock above, where she kindly helped me stop the blood flow. We again found the track and followed it to a cutting which led to another gut, and a much scarier rope. But at the bottom we did find an s-shaped tunnel which led to another scramble up to the trail and relatively open country. This area had obviously been cleared and farmed once and there was still evidence of cattle and sheep. Finally, we met a formed farm track which led past an old whare and Ernie Matthew’s grave, before crossing a ford, passing Ernie’s old woolshed (with most of the gear still intact) and cabin and reaching our goal, Annabell (Opaku) lodge. The Annabell family was brought up here, and Ernie Matthews lived here for a time after his cabin had burned. Sadly, the lodge was in a deplorable state as the previous occupants had left a lot of food and rubbish around and had it been infested by rats, leaving droppings everywhere, and a pervasive smell. Only the bathroom (where Julia later had bath!) was unaffected. We managed to clean it up as best we could and with the woodstove going it became liveable and almost cosy. On the second night I had fight with a possum in the toilet at 3am which I only managed to persuade to leave after a couple of vicious pokes with an eel-spear I found in the washhouse. The next day Alan, Julia and I headed out up the newly bulldozed track in search of a route to Kapara Flat and possibly a mysterious track to link up with the Koane, while Mike and Graham stayed behind to do some more housework and explore the area around the cottage. We reached Kapara Trig and found a ridge which looked promising, but apart from finding a red spot on a tree, found no sign of a track, although I think Julia would still be searching if we hadn’t dragged her out. We had lunch in a paddock off to the left of the track heading to Kapara Flat, and realised the track we were looking for probably started at the end of the track we had followed to get there, but we had exhausted the time available. The next day we returned the way we had come, reaching the truck in about six hours without incident, apart from the discovery of a great natural vine swing. On the way out we met and chewed the fat with the legendary Merle Sorenson, heading the other way on her quad. My thanks to the Bergman brothers and Melody Wallace for allowing access to their properties, and my dogged fellows, Alan Taylor, Julia Collins, Mike Guthrie and Graham Pease. There’s more to do in this area and I shall return! ~ Peter Winter
Wed 3 June FE Jonas Farm Walk This was a replacement tramp due to the unavailability of the advertised tramp to Purangi being cancelled due to logging occurring on the George and Hale farms. The Jonas' very kindly offered their property at short notice. 37 enthusiastic trampers headed out to Inglewood, then travelled 26km along Tarata Road to the property. The weather was brilliant and Anne led off on the first part of the tramp over the farm where we climbed steadily and had our morning tea break. The views from here were magnificent and one could see virtually for miles and miles. Following the break we set off over the farm walking through paddocks enjoying the peace and tranquillity. A walk along a metal road led us to a lovely area where we enjoyed lunch at the old Pukeho Domain area where seating and a flush toilet were available. After lunch we headed over the road to the second part of the property where a slightly challenging hill was encountered. With much fun and hilarity, we bush bashed through native bush and walked along a ridge line, led by Jono. We finally came out into the sunshine again and after a small break, headed down to the track which we followed back to the cars. An area of interest on our way back, was walking through a cutting on the property carved out during the “depression days” with the use of shovels and wheelbarrows. We have much to thank our early settlers for. Huge thanks to Anne and Jono for filling in at such short notice. A wonderful day out and one which we look forward to again, especially after sampling Anne’s delicious fruit cake at lunch time. My thanks to John Depree for organising the book and drivers’ at Saunders Ave. ~ Connie Matheson
Thurs 13 May 2021 Club Night: Wildlife Photography To start the evening, Graham Bocock presented a brief overview of the Safety Management Plan recently shared with club members. The focus being to ensure club member enjoyment in all activities and supporting trip leaders as required. Any questions or comments on the document, please feel free to discuss with Graham. Combining photographic skills with his work in the Taranaki Mounga, He Kawa Ora - Back to Life, Robin Block, Pat Murphy presented a picturesque and informative presentation. The majority of the photos had been taken in the Robin Block and on the lower flanks of the National Park. As the photos were viewed, Pat commented on their qualities and imperfections (many of which were not obviously apparent to my undiscerning eye). It seems the biggest challenge in the bush is the lack of light, with background light and strong contrasts in light levels also being particularly challenging. Ideal lighting is a bright, overcast day and morning or evening light. To take photos emphasising the movement in water a low shutter speed (½ second) is required. ~ Julia Collins
Wed 12 May Coastal Walk The Aotuhia to Whanganui River trip was cancelled because of a long period of rain. Instead, eight easy walkers turned up at the Te Wera Wera Bridge for a walk to Bell Block Beach for lunch and then along the lower track for a beach clean-up of plastic where the dotterels are now nesting over the summer near the river mouth. We filled a council bag but didn’t get to the river mouth as we were running out of energy. Surprisingly the plastic wasn’t too bad, but was a lot worse opposite the children’s playground by Te Henui where I filled another council bag. On behalf of the dotterels and the tramping club a big thank you to these members. ~ Christine Feigler
Sat 8 May 2021 Rotokare Scenic Reserve A success story Taranaki can be proud of. In 2004 the Rotokare Scenic Reserve Trust was formed to improve the declining state of the 230ha forested hill-country catchment surrounding a 17.8ha natural lake and wetland area. Since then the trust and reserve haven’t looked back, especially with the establishment of an 8.2km pest-proof fence. This fence, along with extensive trapping, has allowed the successful introduction and breeding of many native rare and endangered fauna. The birds at Rotokare do not disappoint and they were in fine form on the day of our visit. Getting the hard work over with first, we started by climbing from the lake up the myriad of stairs to the outer perimeter of the reserve, where the pest-proof fence borders the catchment. Walking the perimeter provides an overall perspective of the reserve and lake. Views of Mt Taranaki are an additional bonus on a fine day and we were lucky to catch glimpses between the building clouds. In no time it seemed, we were dropping back down to lake level, and once in the forest the prolific birdlife became even more pronounced. Highlights for me were the whitehead / p??pokatea, saddleback / t??eke, and stitchbird / hihi. While North Island robin / toutouwai, tui, and fantail / p??wakawaka were abundant throughout the day. Thank you to Christine Feigler, Lindsay Maindonald, Guy Petersen, Russell Christensen, Barry Rollo, David Hadley, Ken Gotts, Anne Kivell, Mike Winsborough and Derek Andrews for making it an enjoyable day. ~ Julia Collins
North Island Robin / Toutouwai
Fenced in – walking the perimeter pest-proof fence at Lake Rotokare Scenic Reserve
Wed 5 May 2021 Jeremy Thomson's Te Popo Farm The early indications were that this was going to be a popular walk.... by Tuesday night we had 20 registrations from people who wanted to do the walk but didn't want to meet at Wallace Place. Wednesday dawned beautifully fine with little wind and this brought the trampers out in force. Another 30 people arrived at Wallace Place. All up that was 50 people and 13 cars. WOW!!!!! We all met at Tariki and travelled in convoy to Jeremy's farm on Croydon Road. After a brief introduction, Jeremy led the hordes off at a leisurely pace in lovely walking conditions, sunny with not much cloud or wind. Jeremy is very passionate about agroforestry as well as conservation. Agroforestry is using land that is difficult or unprofitable to farm for forestry, while using the rest for conventional farming activities such as growing grass and fattening stock. As we wandered around the farm he gave us a very informative history of his time on this particular farm, and why and how he has turned this land into a very beautiful farm with its rolling green hills, stands of bush and areas of millable timber. Our timing for this walk was perfect as the autumn colours were at their very best and the scenery was absolutely stunning. We arrived back at the homestead for lunch and the day was finished off with a half hour stroll through the garden and over the road to Jeremy's daughter’s garden. It was a wonderful day enjoyed by us all and our heartfelt thanks go to Jeremy and Georgie for giving up a day in their busy lives for us. Thanks to Bruce D for being our contact. ~ Graeme Taylor
There’ll always be a straggly line with 50 people on a tramp!
Awesome Autumn ambiance on the Te Popo tramp
Sun 2 May 2021 TAKT York Road Once again unfortunately no kids, but happily another four enthusiastic adults joined Kev and me for the day. We went up the left hand side of the loop track and were at the top turnaround grassy area for a late morning tea/early lunch just before eleven. Three other walkers came up the other path and had a break there too. As we were all leaving, Des, a volunteer trap checker came up and asked if we would like to join him for a bit and see some other sites of interest in the area. We were all up for an adventure and keen to find out if it would prove to be suitable for a club tramp. It was indeed an unexpected and interesting walk and very suitable for a Fit Easy (look for it in the next programme). Without giving away the details, we basically headed up the river, then across the old Hunter’s track and down the York till we came back to our lunch spot about 2.15pm. A quick break and then back to the cars just after three. Great to meet new members Dirk and Marie and spend the day with them and Anne and Margaret. ~ Karen Curd
Saturday 1 May 2021 Col's Secret Track adventures #2 We started from the Kaiauai Car Park and headed down the Ram Track for a short while before taking the track that goes straight down to the Waiwhakaiho River. There hadnt been too much recent rain so the river crossing at the "tree bridge" didnt produce any wet feet! We followed the track up the river then the Kokowai Stream where we got fairly close to the local whio (Blue Duck). After crossing the stream, we headed up the ridge track. This went up and up and up a bit more, offering us spectacular views of The Causway cliffs, the Kokowai ridge and the mountain. Clear blue sunny skies really helped today. After joining the Holly Hut Track and after lunch, we headed back down the track, past Jacobs Ladder then took the Tahurangi ridge track back down to the Waiwhakaiho River and Ram Stream junction. After two more river crossings and lots of wet feet this time around, we made our way back to the Ram Track then back to the cars. We covered some challenging terrain today, had great weather, saw some great views and enjoyed fantastic company. A great day out! Many thanks to Jade, Carol, Derryn, Ali, Alan, Ken, and Derek for joining me today. Colin Smith
Sun 18 April 2021 Kopac Lodge - Ventura Plane Wreck Great to see a good turnout for a weekend tramp, nineteen was the final number. We parked at the road end and walked up through farmland to Kopac Lodge. Light rain fell for the first hour of the walk. We had to take a wide berth around an injured cow on the farmland leading to the national park. Morning tea at the turnoff, then lunch at the crash site. With Anzac Day the following week, both Anne Kivell and myself laid poppies to commemorate the site where five airmen lost their lives in 1944. Their ages varied between 19 and 25. We completed this trip in good time considering we had such a large group who all helped make for a great day out in our beautiful country. ~ Kevin Curd
Thurs 8 April 2021 Club Night: DOC Presentation It was to a full house that Department of Conservation (DOC) Senior Ranger, Dave Rogers, presented. With guests from associated tramping and alpine clubs and a good member turnout, it was obvious what DOC has to say about our local National Park is of high interest. Dave provided a thorough overview of DOC’s focus and future management of the National Park, along with current challenges and successes. An explanation of future park governance, management, name change to Te Papakura o Taranaki, and the change (reinstatement) of 18 landmark names on the Maunga started the presentation. Ultimately, operational management remains under DOC. It was encouraging to hear about the predator control successes, allowing recent reintroduction of fauna to the National Park. Much of this relies on volunteer work, which many of our club members are involved with – appreciation to you all. ~ Julia Collins
Tues 6 – Thurs 8 April 2021 Kirikau Adventure We were that magical number of twelve, as we cheerfully set out in a van for Mangaohutu Station, deep in rugged hills north east of Whangamomona, between Highway 43 and Highway 4. Our drive up the Forgotten Highway took us to the historic Whanga pub for a hearty lunch, the grave of Joshua Morgan, the surveyor who plotted the road between Stratford and Taumarunui and died and is buried at Tangarakau, two years before it was completed, and afternoon tea at the most attractive Lauren’s Lavender Farm at Auokopae. Then we turned right over the Whanganui River, just 10km south of Taumarunui and drove south for almost another hour. We caught glimpses of the Ohura falls and the historic niu, ceremonial poles, erected by Hau Hau in 1864. Finally, we arrived at the end of the road and Mangaohutu Station, which is owned by Lorraine Eldershaw’s brother Gavin. It is a long way! Our “shearers’ accommodation” was a new, cheerful block with hot and cold water, electricity, wifi and lovely comfy bunks! We had been asked to bring a plate for dinner and this turned into a feast for both nights. Gavin and his son’s partner Amy and their neighbours, Marion and Lance, joined us in the evenings and shared details of farming and living in this remote area. The weather was pleasantly sunny and warm for our two-day tramp up, down and over papa bulldozed tracks. This contrasted with the reconnoitre trip last December where Lorraine, Graeme and Kevin walked in rainy, slippery conditions to plan the route for us. Razor sharp hills and deep valleys dominate this area, and we were grateful for gentle gradients as we tramped past sheep wandering in lines, groups of goats, and on the first morning, 17 deer, only glimpsed when they moved. The first day we walked in a 16km circle, mainly following the Waipahihi stream valley. Our lunch stop was at the top of our highest hill where we could see Ruapehu to our left, Taranaki far to the right and ridge upon ridge upon ridge of hills between, except for the big green slash nearby that indicated the Whanganui River. We were back at our comfortable quarters by 3pm so there was plenty of time to shower, chat and eat, again. At dawn the next morning lots of sheep dogs, caged near us the night before, were moving sheep into the wool shed and we were also up and off by 7am so we could keep our lunch date at the Blue Duck Café; about an 18km walk. The first hour was a pleasant wander along a long valley; bush on our left and pasture to our right. We also caught the trills of North Island robins that Graeme identified for us. Then it was up a long hill and along a ridge line until we played eenie-meenie-miney-mo with two gates, guessing which way to go. A little further on Kevin was delighted to reacquaint himself with a sign on a gate that was carved with ‘Kev’s Gate’, confirming that Graeme had chosen the right track. Later Carol got waylaid chatting to a man on a bulldozer smoothing the track and found that he was Richard Steele, owner of the 1400ha Retaruke Station that we were walking through. He has planted thousands of trees including the poplars beside us which gave us a carpet of golden leaves to walk on as we walked to Lacy’s suspension bridge. The previous day Graeme had pointed out the terrace above the stream at our morning tea stop as the location of Lacy’s house, an early settler. The highlight of lunch was Barry trying to pay with his AA Card! While we were at the Blue Duck Cafe a truck arrived with a ton of honey in small boxes, so we lent a hand to off load it. Dan, the Steeles’ son, arrived to comment, ‘I thought they were going to drip feed it to me as I needed it, not send it all at once’! There have been three Country Calendar episodes on Dan and his tourism and conservation enterprises. We then split into two groups and were whizzed in a very muddy side-by-side to a Steele sister’s wonderful garden, which is near the site of the Berryman’s house, to hear about and see the remnants of the bridge where a beekeeper plunged to his death in 1994. Most of us will remember the legal battles that ensued about culpability. Our final highlight was whizzing up the Whanganui River in a jet boat to liaise with our van again. Grateful thanks to Kevin and Graeme for their hours of safe driving which brought us back to New Plymouth at 10pm. And most sincere thanks to Lorraine and Graeme for their excellent organisation and leadership of a trip into another world full of interest, history, and of course exercise and friendship. It is a real honour to be given the opportunity to wander on private land and to meet the people who farm and care for it. Our group are most grateful for this opportunity. ~ Ngaire Riley
Kirikau Adventure group
Sun 21 March Lime Kiln Walk, Awakino 18 of us gathered at 412 Awakau Road to have a cuppa before walking across farmland to the lime kiln. Joining us was Adrian Hoffman, a farmer on the Awakau Road who kindly volunteered to take Rosalind Andrews by quad bike most of the way. Her father was Colin Sage who lived across the road in the 1940s. We walked down towards the Mokau River and followed this upstream through the scenic reserve and then came out to the site of the lime mine and another farming block known as Hakari. I have since seen some information sent to the Mokau Museum regarding the family that lived there. Eileen Cartwright and her husband lived there from 1936 to 1942, they had no horse or tractor and woke at 4am every morning to hand milk 15 cows, then separated the milk and had the cream cans by the riverbank for collection by 8am, which was taken to the Mokau Dairy Factory to make butter. The dairy factory was run on coal mined from further up the Mokau River. There is nothing left of the house; however, I am going to try and find the path that her husband is so proudly standing on and the lime mine area is clearly in the background of the photo. The lime mine went broke because of the freight costs. The hills had been cleared at this stage and in 1940 after a deluge of rain, much of the hillside came down engulfing the animals and resulting in a huge flood. It was the financial pressure and damage after this flood that eventually saw the family leave the area two years later. We then followed the farmland to the next scenic reserve and a 30-minute walk through the bush which is an unmarked fairly rough track and with few muddy spots, making it to the lime kiln for lunch. The kiln was built in 1895, it turned out 10 tons of lime a day. We had a lovely group photo and chat before heading back to our cars. I am very grateful to the tramping club supporting our summer events program and look forward to hosting another walk in the future. ~ Maxine Lovell
Sun 21 March 2021 TAKT Matapeka Falls As for our last tramp, we had several who had expressed interest pulling out at the last minute. It was a lovely day with no wind and there were five of us out to enjoy the day. The landowner had said the water level in the river could still be high after recent rain and this proved to be the case. On the way in we spent more time next to the river, climbing into the bush when the going was a bit more difficult, however this meant a wee bit of scrambling up and down. On the return journey we went into the bush fairly early and found a track higher up that took us almost back to where we dropped into the river on the way in and this made life much easier. The Falls as usual provided a great backdrop for lunch. None of us felt the urge to plunge into the pool and swim across and risk being attacked by the eels. Kev did an amazing face plant in the river on the way back, towards the weir, that kept him cool for a while. It was a hot walk out, especially along the road, so we took easy. Anne, Helen and Zalena were our companions on the day. ~ Karen Curd
Sat 20 March 2021 5 Peaks Challenge It was an early start for Carol Stewart to do her collecting run and get the three of us to Dawson Falls. Had warmed up by the first seat, so did the normal stop there. Continued past Hooker Shelter. The wooden steps above the Kapuni Lodge turnoff were glistening in the torchlight, so treated them with respect. Continued up the poled route to Fanthams where Julia took the detour to the summit of it. The next section had well-used tracks most of the way, making things safer. Can often have a dicey part that is a bit like marbles on concrete. Carol had climbed to Fanthams with us and must have done some insect watching with a great pair of eyes – could see us till about a quarter of the way from the crater rim. A cool south-easterly was in play at the top, with clear views but we weren’t taking time to admire them. It was a bit tricky going around the summit to the Turtle – rotten rock, loose and steep. Went hard against the top of the Turtle but the soft stuff of years before, that would have been good for going down, must have washed away. Had to go careful till just above the Hammer. Must have had the only light cloud of the day down in the tussock - couldn’t see a pole, one part of it. Tried out the new, raised boardwalk either side of the swamp bridge – wide enough for mountain bikes? Were meant to be meeting up with club members in this area. Allison Wilkins was tramping through to Holly Hut. Derek Andrews had climbed Tatangi. Just caught them at the Holly Hut/Pouakai Trig junction. Great to see them. DOC Hunter Zane was brush-cutting the track here. It was calm at Pouakai Trig – unlike the summit. Took the Kiri Peak to Pukeiti Track and the branch off track to the gravel dump. Julia’s flatmates Jennifer, Alex and dad Stuart, were here with water/food for the next part. Did a short road walk to Saxton Track, hoping the easy going would allow the fresh supplies time to kick in. Darkness was creeping in on the climb up to Patuha Trig. Had lights on as soon as we dropped down into the bush. Met up with Yumi Iwasaki near the top of Wairau Road. Had been dropped off here, leaving her car at Paritutu, and was planning to meet us at the Kaitake Trig. Had started back down with things getting dark. Someone fresh and bubbly in the torchlight. Met up with our support crew again at Corbett Park. Made a fresh start again on the beach, but pretty oddly encountered a strong head wind in places. Could feel sand hitting our legs lightly. (Was back to a south-easterly at Paritutu). Progress was slowed by the rocky lava-flow-type patches, with balance not so flash in the dark at the end of a long day. Saw some pretty big crabs – some scurrying off in the torchlight. We were back onto steep rock, climbing Paritutu but the steps were good without the loose stones of the mountain. Were back down off it at 1.10am Sunday. A Taranaki version of The Longest Day with the capable Julia Collins. She had done estimated times for the day and we were just under the fast one with the south side summit of 3 hrs 54 mins, but ended 10 minutes over the slow finish time. Doing the disrupted, long buildup tramps, may have helped the old one? Other times were:
A special thanks to the meet up and support people for making it a special day. ~ Denis Goodwin
Sun 14 March 2021 Pouakai Summit Trig With three other trips being held over the same weekend, numbers were expected to be few, and so it proved to be. Just three of us set off from the Mangorei Road carpark and headed for the Pouakai Summit. Blue skies and almost no breeze made a stark contrast to the two previous attempts at this trip, where we had to abandon the trip at the hut due to gales and driving rain. The upgraded boardwalk, particularly over the rocky sections on the upper Mangorei Track, made for an easy climb. There is also considerable boardwalk upgrade from the hut to the top of the range. The track from the hut across to the summit was wet and overgrown in places, but the final ascent to the trig had been recently cleared and slightly re-routed making for a much easier climb. With calm blue skies, the 360-degree views were as good as I’ve seen from the trig. It is a pretty nice place to have lunch on a sunny afternoon, especially when you’re eating chocolate. We had Barry D with us, who hadn’t been to the trig in over fifty years; he was pleased to have been able to come with us. We hope to see you again Barry. The return trip was straight forward and included a 20-minute stop at the hut for refreshment. I have long ago lost count of the number of times I have been on Pouakai, but it is one place I never get tired of visiting, no matter what the weather. Thanks to Barry D and Ray D for joining me on the trip. ~ Graham Bocock
Sun 14 March 2021 Te Rerepahupahu Falls By the Tuesday book-in date, only six trampers were keen to take on this trip. Thanks to Bernie W for quickly getting an email out to members, so that by Saturday night we had twelve in the van and five in Margaret Bunyan’s car. After one and a half hours, we were at the road end raring to go. The farm has now been planted out in pine trees so there is no stock to be concerned about. Because we had six swing bridges to cross, we tried to spread out so we would not have long delays going over them. This worked out well and the entire team arrived at the hut in very good time. The group with Margaret B spent a relaxed hour or so at the hut, before taking their time ambling back to the car arriving around five. The other team continued on to the falls arriving at 12.40pm. These are quite magnificent falls, tumbling down some sixty metres into a circular pool. Helen Reilly shamed all the men as she dived in, swam over to the falls, climbed up and walked around behind the waterfall and swam back. The leader had to keep the PLB dry so could not participate. Lunch, then the big climb back up to the ridge, certainly a big effort was required. Once over the many ups and downs we set a good pace back to the road end arriving twenty past five. Many of the group were very happy to finally be back at the van. Thanks to all those involved who all helped out the day. ~ Kevin Curd
Sat 13 March 2021 Combined tramp with EAC and STC: Mangaoraka to Durham This tramp was the first of three tramps that each of the three clubs will organise on an annual basis. Each club organised its own car pooling and transfers from the start at Mangaoraka car park on Egmont Road and the finish on the farm exit point at Durham Road. Clear skies, but a cold start and 24 trampers were keen to get going. There were eight from Egmont Alpine Club (EAC) and 13 from Stratford Tramping Club (STC). Sadly, on the first of such combined tramps, only three came from NPTC. With the able Jim Finer from EAC as tail-ender and leader Barry G, we headed east. There were some robins and tomtits escorting our way, with kereru waking high in the canopy. The screams of the long-tailed cuckoo could also be heard. Numerous ups and downs en route, with one group erring up a wrong track. This was quickly resolved with the use of the club’s new radios that functioned exceptionally well in the deep stream-bed gullies. This showed the need to ensure that everyone keeps in visual contact, especially around track junctions. With Maureen getting a little agitated that we had not stopped for morning tea we decided to stop at the next stream-bed and have a cuppa. Fortunately, the sun was filtering through the canopy and the stop was both warm and peaceful. After crossing Little Maketawa Stream, it was decided that the majority would continue to the hut, while those who wished to observe the setting of the new ferret traps would stay behind with the trip leader. The trapping group arrived at the hut some 20 minutes later, to find everyone happily spread out having their lunch break in the sunshine. A great amount of conversation was had as members of all clubs interacted. All but the three from NPTC moved off first, under the leadership of Jim Finer. The three remaining trampers continued setting the new DOX 250 ferret traps. On arrival at Durham Road, there was still a group of trampers awaiting the return of the cars from the Mangaoraka car park. It was a great day. Special thanks to the EAC and STC members who made the day the success it was, with no injuries among the 24 trampers. EAC: Ray and Weitze, Cathy and Graham, Jim, Alan, Michelle and Andrew. STC: John, Maureen, Evan, Mary, Sheryll, Denise, Jenny, Lois, Cliff, Christine, John, Kathryn and Paddy. NPTC: Barry, John and Lee. ~ Barry Greenwood
Thurs 11 March 2021 Club’s 47th Birthday and Photo Competition 50 members attended the Club’s 47th birthday which started with drinks and nibbles. The meeting was then opened by the Club President Barry Greenbrook who welcomed everyone present and especially thanked those club members who helped him at the previous meeting during his medical emergency. The meeting then proceeded with the Biennial Photo Competition. 137 photos were entered in the competition and were on display around the walls of the hall. Following the completion of the voting by all of the club members present Harry Cast of the New Plymouth Camera Club gave an interesting talk about the photos on display. He was particularly pleased with the increase in entries since the last competition and also improvement in the standard of the photos both in the quality of the photo and their display. Harry made various recommendations, including: cropping the photo so as to remove excess background or shadows in order to enhance the subject of the photo; how to locate the subject of the photo on “3rd lines”; making use of diagonal lines – especially those that occur naturally such as ridge slopes. The Club being a group who obviously enjoy the company of other people is reflective of the inclusion of other trampers in a photo. Harry’s comments were well received by those present and the President then thanked Harry for his input and made him a presentation. The winners of each category were then announced as follows: Overseas Travel 1st Mike Guthrie 2nd Barry Greenbrook 3rd Sarah Davey Human Interest 1st Julia Collins 2nd Darrel Chudleigh 3rd Sarah Davey Natural History 1st Graham Bocock 2nd Barry Greenbrook 3rd Alasdair Nicoll NPTC Event 1st Anne Kivell 2nd Julia Collins 3rd Barry Greenbrook Landscape 1st Mike Guthrie 2nd Mike Guthrie 3rd Ross Hoffmann Best Overall Photo 1st Mike Guthrie 2nd Anne Kivell 3rd Julia Collins The winners of each category were presented with a Hunting and Fishing voucher and Mike Guthrie was presented with the Mike Jackson Memorial Trophy for the Best Overall Photo. Ian Gregory then gave a short presentation of the events surrounding the formation of the club. This was followed by supper and the cutting of the 47th birthday cake by foundation members Ian Gregory and Alasdair Nicoll. ~ Lester Barnes
Thurs 11 March 2021 Club Night: BBQ and AGM Good grub – the best way to start an AGM. A delicious selection of sausages, salads, cheese and wine greeted members. All of which set the scene for a hearty catch-up. Content, official business proceeded. While not the most inspiring of events, AGMs allow an opportunity for ‘background’ club business to come to the foreground, and for members to learn of the Committee’s work and intentions enabling progress and improvement of club operations. The club Constitution (rules) were updated, in support of becoming a more operationally friendly document as well as looking to meet the future needs of the club. Perhaps the most enjoyable item on the annual agenda is the presentation of awards. Congratulations to the following members:
An additional celebration was the recognition of Kevin Curd’s commitment to the club with the bestowal of Life Membership. Thank you John Depree and Alan Morris for proposing and seconding the motion. Congratulations Kevin – a well-deserved recognition and honour! ~ Julia Collins
Wed 10 March 2021 Austrian Tree farm to No 3 Railway Tunnel, Whangamomona 16 of us travelled out to the base of the last saddle before Whangamomona. We walked through the Harris farm and onto the Austrian Forest, originally a stock farm bought in 2013 and now a forest of redwoods and manuka. Deciduous trees, which should look lovely in autumn, line the road into Whangamomona. The growth of the trees was amazing since we were here last time, with the track in some parts being crowded by manuka. There was one steep climb up to the ridges. The top-dressing plane was working between the razorbacks. We reached the transmission line which took the power to the main trunk line, but we couldn’t see Ruapehu or Taranaki due to the low cloud. The redwoods had recently been pruned. We walked down to a wetland area and a flock of paradise ducks flew in, splashing down, noisily quacking. We walked the railway line to the tunnel built in 1910. It was long and dark. We couldn’t see any light without our torches. We got back to our cars and headed for the Toko Pub. The coffee there was nice and hot. ~ Christine Feigler
Sun 7 March 2021 DOC Farm walk I had made contact with Sam, the DOC farm manager, and asked permission to walk over the top of the farm to Port Jackson, and after breakfast Mark and I duly headed out, the others opting not to come, having decided to explore the surrounding countryside by car. Again, the climb was made up the cycle trail (with of course another visit to the shepherds’ hut – I’ve learned how to open the door now) until we came the point where the trail heads to Stony Bay where we climbed the fence and set our sights on the trig at 574 metres, reaching there for morning tea. On the way we noticed a mysterious track off to our left, obviously once well used. To the Mysterious Mountain perhaps. At the trig there were magnificent views, especially of Cuvier Island, where I spent a month in1973, helping a friend with his fantail thesis. From here we travelled downhill along the fence line at the bush edge, into a strong westerly, really exhilarating and certainly helped the breathing. After passing through a scrubby part of the trail we could see our way down to the Pahi Road head, across a stream and where the others were waiting. On the way we picked a feed of the most gorgeous field mushrooms which supplemented our dinner. After meeting the others, we had lunch at old Port Jackson wharf and marvelled at the beautiful beach expanse before Graham dropped us off to walk the Muriwai walkway past the aptly named Bum Bay before picking us up again and returning to the camp. At dinner Mark’s camp stool finally collapsed (Alan’s never made it past day 1) and he looked like he had won the Game of Thrones. The weather was breaking up as we packed up on Monday to head home, via an excursion up the track from Fantail Bay. Leads to the Mysterious Mountain perhaps? Thanks to Graham Bocock, Mark Robbins and Alan Taylor for their company, banter, food, wine and beer in this magnificent part of New Zealand. A regular Anniversary Day pilgrimage, I think. ~ Peter Winter
Alan Taylor and Mark Robbins climbing up to the top of the range above Fletcher Bay.
Sat 6 March 2021 Coromandel Walkway Loop The coastal walk between Fletcher Bay and Stony Bay crosses farmland and goes through coastal forest with views of the Pinnacles, Great Barrier Island to the north and Cuvier Island (Repanga Island) in the east. The track follows an easy gradient with a short steep section into and out of Poley Bay. It is part of an old bridle path formed by early pioneers to link the two bays. Alternatively, you can take the more challenging mountain bike track (Grade 5) which follows a stock route across farmland and regenerating forest, and rewards walkers with spectacular views of the ranges and islands of the Hauraki Gulf from the top of the track. For mountain bikers, this is a steep traverse, often slippery and challenging and only suitable for advanced riders and people with a good level of fitness. The round trip is 20km, taking about seven hours. We set out from the Fletcher Bay campground about 8.30am, deciding to head from Fletcher Bay up the mountain bike track. The climb is steady but not too difficult for trampers. We visited the historic shepherds’ hut, then followed the fence line up to the highest point on the track before descending the slippery clay track down to Stony Bay. As the name implies, the beach is very rocky, and has a certain remoteness about it. At Stony Bay we stopped for lunch on the banks of the small river (name unknown) before starting back to Fletcher Bay along the lower walkway. En route we did a short side trip to a lookout high above the sea, with spectacular views of the coastline. We also stopped in briefly at Poley Bay. Heading back to the campground, we spotted Peter out in his kayak catching dinner for us; a couple of nice snapper, which we fried for entrée. This was a very enjoyable day on one of the most beautiful coastlines in the country. ~ Graham Bocock
Fri 5 – Mon 8 March 2021 Fletcher Bay, Taranaki Anniversary Weekend We arrived safely on the Friday, despite being somewhat perturbed by the tsunami warnings for the area, to find Graham had only just arrived before us. We found a great place to camp in zone 6, apart from the intrusive ducks and a determined orange kitten. Only a couple of other campers were there. Setting up, Mark discovered he had brought the wrong tent, his one person, but he did have a great gazebo which became our kitchen and lounge, although it suffered a bit from the wind on the last day. Dinner was the traditional onion, tomato and meat stew of which we ate various versions (depending upon who was cooking) all weekend. Tasted great though. Graham and I renewed our can of tomatoes war, which periodically erupts! The next day I prepared my fishing gear, whilst Mark, Graham and Alan set out on the loop walk below. After spending an inordinate amount of time untangling everything (it had been a while since I’d been out), and being harangued by the local racist yokel, I finally got on the water. I had a new sounder and was interested to test it out. At 30 metres (my anchor cable limit) after the longest paddle I’d had since my shoulder op (another tramping disaster – ask John Fisher) I got my lines out and in no time had two good snapper, plus a number of small ones which I threw back. You could have caught fish with a bent safety-pin out there. I was accompanied by a couple of black petrels scoffing bait morsels, and looking north I could see their breeding ground on Great Barrier, where Graham and I had been in summer. Paddling back via the rocky shoreline I spotted the others coming down the hill after their jaunt to Stony Bay. ~ Peter Winter
Wed 24 Feb 2021 Marvellous Mokau After looking out on these hills for many years and wondering what it would be like to walk over them, I discussed the possibility with farmer and landowner Russell Gorrie. He suggested we (NPTC) walk from his farm through Praat’s pine plantation and on towards Awakino and the pub (he doesn’t drink). As this would require a car shuttle I was not so keen, but thought more about it. I discussed the possibility of a loop with John D, trip convenor. So myself, Graeme T (G.T.) and John-Paul Praat (J.P.) proceeded to do a reccee. It was really nice to have some direction from a local as this tramp involved four separate properties. The weather was perfect on the day of the 24th, partly cloudy and a slight nor-west breeze. Thirteen people left Wallace Place and we picked up seven on the way. After a comfort stop at the Mokau metropolis we parked our cars on Te Mahoe road opposite Russell (Sculley’s) driveway and walked up around his house and started up the first hill. Time for tea and a couple of trivial facts about the river. After tea and admiring the view we entered the pine plantation and a gradual climb past an ancient Maori pa site to a small plateau, from where we were treated to a beautiful view of the river mouth and down the coast toward Taranaki Maunga. Unfortunately for Helen Walsh a sharp stick found her forearm and she received medical attention from one husband, one close friend, one club captain, one retired vet and a trip leader all giving advice. Thanks to Lorraine for the new first-aid kits. We walked along the undulating plateau 30mins or so and found a nice, shaded area under big old puriri trees for a lunch stop and sea view. More trivia regarding local flora was heard. After a leisurely break we continued on through David and Jo Black’s farm and then up to Pahaoa trig at 258 metres overlooking the Awakino valley. From there we arced around toward the sea and past two small lakes (puddles) that feed the Mokau township water supply. A large wild pig was spotted by some of us, on the other side of the lake. With a little difficulty and a slight detour we found our way to the service road for the reservoir. This road took us down past the escarpment facing the coast to SH3 and Seaview motor camp. One hour along the scorching black sand and up to the Whitebait Inn for a cold drink, coffee and or ice cream, and nice cool rest courtesy of our club member Mary Marshall’s daughter, Jodi, proprietor of the establishment. Phew!.... didn’t know till after that the temperature was 28 degrees. I think most of us recovered enough to walk the last kilometre. We all crossed the main road and made our way to Te Kauri walkway, a bit of shade and the boat ramp. From there, it was under the Mokau Bridge and back to the cars on Te Mahoe road, time roughly 4pm. None of this walk was rushed, the weather was perfect, views magnificent. I hope it was enjoyed by all 20. Thanks to G.T. for his enduring reccee participation and mostly successful navigation, thanks to the property owners for their welcoming accommodation, to Malcolm Smart for acting as contact person and thanks to the good keen women and men who supported myself and G.T. by coming on this tramp. ~ John Fisher
Spectacular coastal view from the top of the ridge above Awakino, on our descent
Fri 12 – Sat 13 Feb 2021 Piwakawaka Hut, Pukeiti From the moment I heard that TRC had built a hut in Pukeiti and it was just waiting for final consent, I knew I would be booking it. I was excited to take my grandson of 4 yrs on his first overnight tramp to a hut. We’ve explored Barrett Lagoon, Ratapihipihi Reserve, Lake Mangamahoe and other reserves together and I was just waiting for the opportunity to share a hut experience with him. Wow, lots of others were thinking the same as me. When I went on-line to book, the Saturday nights were booked out for six months in advance. I booked for a Friday night and hoped some other grandparents in the club would like to bring grandchildren also and join Jasper and me. Maybe the Friday night was an issue, or maybe my excitement wasn’t shared. Anyway, one club member and his daughter aged 4 yrs did join us, along with some friends and family with their children also. So, in total we had six children (ages 4 – 8 yrs) and six adults. The hut is a one-hour walk from Pukeiti park gates. It’s an easy walk for young children and if you have children who like to turn over rocks and logs then plan for a longer than an hour walk. Two children, along with their parent and grandparents, were first to reach the hut. The excitement of those boys was electric. They climbed up and down the bunk ladders, working out where they were going to sleep and ran about the place with energy we adults dream of, or remember, having. The adults relaxed on the deck with a cuppa and chatted until the sun set. In due course, the other four children arrived and it was a pleasure to see how they all just joined in together and amused themselves. The hut is up on poles so underneath are piles of firewood. There were all sorts of dinosaur battles, hiding, tricks and antics to be had by them all. There was some quiet time too with some books being read and a couple of the older boys had Pokemon cards which they played with. Even though it was a beautiful evening, after dinner we lit a small fire in the wood stove and toasted marshmallows and made smores. Even the big kids enjoyed them. Gary had set up a night line with various sections for the children and once it was dark they were all keen to try this. Firstly, with no torches, they walked along a trail holding a rope which was meandering through the bush. Next they turned on their torches and spot-lighted reflector tags along another track, following the correct number sequence. Then they used their torches to follow a track back to the hut. After a couple of stories, they hit the bunks and not a peep was heard until morning. Morning dawned, breakfast consumed, packs reloaded and we headed out. While walking for an hour was not new to the majority of children, the overnight experience sleeping in a tree hut was. They all had a great time and who knows, they could well be NPTC members in a few years. I certainly hope my grandson will be and then he can take his nana out for a tramp and carry the heavier load to repay the favour from this trip. Thanks to Graham and Lydia Pease, Joshua and Asher Flinn, Jess, Mark and Toby, Jorja and Josh, for joining Gary, Jasper and myself on this awesome overnighter. ~ Lee McCracken
Enjoying a night at the brand-new lodge were Josh, Toby, Jorja, Lydia, Jasper and Asher.
Thurs 11 Feb 2021 Club Night: 21 Tunnels of Taranaki Our first club night for 2021 featured a variety of useful and interesting topics; starting with Lorraine Taylor who explained the recently updated contents of our club first aid kits. In total four kits are available for club trips, at Hunting and Fishing New Plymouth. They each weigh 480g and cater for 1-10 people. Members are encouraged to take out the kits, and should items be used, please contact John Fisher who will arrange replacement (John’s contact details can be found on the last page of Footprints). Kathleen Weston and Margaret Leake, Stratford Tramping Club members, gave an inspiring presentation on walking 21 tunnels in Taranaki. This epic effort was completed by five women, aged 64-78, between 3rd and 21st February 2020. In total 1 rail, 10 road (or former road), and 10 stock tunnels were visited, with travel across 40 properties (land access approved). Not doing it all tough, the five had planned their journey to allow for comfortable accommodation, regular showers, a good support crew and pre-made meals. Inspired for something slightly different? Here’s the list of the tunnels they visited: Otoaroa, Tarata Road, Kiore, Tangahoe Valley, Huinga, Makahu, Mt Humphries Stock, Whangamomona (x2), McCluggage, Pohokura, Whangamomona Saddle Railway, Mangare, Marangai, Hobbit Hole, Murunui Stock, Uruti / Putts, Moki, Kiwi, Okai Road, and Te Horo. Finally, while having a cup of tea, we were also treated to a screen display of the photos from the FMC 2020 photo competition. ~ Julia Collins
The coach going through the Mt Messenger Tunnel in 1915, when the tunnel was opened. Photo supplied by Alasdair Nicoll, whose great-grandfather is in the bowler hat.
Tues 9 – Thurs 11 Feb 2021 Ruapehu Ramble The weather forecast was not the best but in the final analysis it turned out perfect for the group of seven that left early on Tuesday morning for the 12 km peg on the Ohakune Mountain Road and the RMT of Mt Ruapehu.
Sun 7 Feb 2021 Waipuku Track Ascent Nine of us started off from the Mountain House on the Curtis Track, crossing several streams (including the Manganui) and climbing a few sets of ladders to boot. It was a good warm up for the task ahead. The site of the old Waipuku Hut (at the head of the York Road Track) was the obvious stop for tea and chat. The idea was to pace ourselves for a tramp which eventually had us climbing a total of 800m in elevation for the day.
Wed 3 Feb 2021 No one went to town: East Taranaki Twelve of us travelled out in Dave Digby’s mini bus followed by Kay’s husband, Ray, with three extras in his car. The farmer came out to meet us and kindly let us use his bathroom. He maintains the track up to the top of the hill. We crossed a stream. There was a rock with scallop fossil shells in it. We had lunch on an old house site. Now only macrocarpa trees remain. Dave went back to drive in a big circle to pick us up on the other side and we began the easy descent in the heat. Only it wasn’t easy. Global warming and torrential rain had taken its toll on the old road. Instead of an amble down, around the corner was a new washout. Graham was very helpful in negotiating the way. Finally, we went down to the valley floor and followed the sheep tracks back to the woolshed. Dave picked us up and took us to the site where the Tarrant family lived. We finished the day at the Toko Pub. ~ Christine Feigler
Sat 30 Jan 2021 TAKT Little Maketawa Hut from Durham Road We had five rather aged kids tramping on the day, since all the youngsters that had expressed an interest in coming pulled out. As expected, there was a very strong, cool wind going across the farm before heading into the bush, hats needing to be firmly attached. It was much more pleasant under cover. Our river crossing was uneventful, no one fell in this time. Kevin and Barry D managed to rock hop and keep their feet dry on the way there and back, while Anne K, Joy H and I preferred the safer option of walking through the water to avoid mishaps.
Sat 30 Jan 2021 Loop Tramp from top of Alfred Road It seemed a bit out of the way getting to the start with gates to open and close, to park the cars away from the farm animals. The seven of us were into the bush and out of the wind after crossing some pretty remote farmland.
Wed 27 Jan 2021 Priests Fingers Sounds very ‘clergical’ doesn’t it! Someone asked how it got its name. Well, the leader has no idea but that didn’t deter 21 others to join him on the hottest day Stratford had. 22 of us set off out of the ‘pea-soup’ low cloud we had all travelled to the Plateau in. Brilliant sunshine immediately starts the strength sapping, so much so that John calls out at 10.10am, when we started, do you know what time it is? Yes, we will climb up to some shade for a cuppa Lindsay informs them. “It’s alpine-style climbing today, little rests and snacks, interspersed with the usual coffee and lunch break.” He needed them himself of course, to get them to the objective.
Sat 23 - Sun 24 Jan 2021 Train’s Hut overnighter, Waitotara Barry Rollo and Peter Winter joined Karen and me for the 2.5 hour drive to the road end. We were quite happy that there were no other cars there, knowing that the hut was only a six bed and previously had encountered another large group when we had been there.
Fri 15 - Sun 17 Jan 2021 Ruahine Forest Park Sparrowhawk Bivvy You've been on the road for five hours, then tramping uphill for nearly four hours in the hot morning sun. Now you're tramping along the top of the main Ruahine Range through knee-high tussock. It's hard work as the faint walking track disappears often. There are no markers or waratahs up here to guide you. The sun is blazing down and there's hardly a breeze. Now you're heading down to the river and the hut, it's steep and your feet are hurting. You're getting tired, you stop often and your water is running low. You wish you were on the couch at home - funny, when you're at home you wish you were tramping.
Sat 9 Jan 2021 Pouakai Crossing It was a keen, diverse group of members – both new to the club and experienced – who joined forces to complete the classic Pouakai Crossing. Scheduled as a repeat entry of the popular track by special request from Yumi, who missed out on being able to join in a few months earlier, I wasn’t quite expecting the interest received. On the day, 25 enthusiasts divided into two groups – a team of 13 walked from North Egmont to Mangorei Road end, with Colin Smith capably leading; while the other 12 hiked with me in the reverse direction. This allowed a key swap of three cars at each track end and a smooth transition of logistics.
Wed 6 Jan 2021 Kaupokonui Bivvy and Murphy’s Lake Nine trampers arrived at the sign-in site and we were all on the road at 8am. Ross a returning tramper to the club and Jeanne a young Irish vet who now resides in Taranaki were both having their first tramps with the club. We met at the entrance to the Park to make arrangements where to park up the road. It gave Jeanne the opportunity to don her boots and as she pulled the last lace Kevin arrived. The latter was deemed an associate member for the day!
Sat 2 – Mon 4 Jan 2021 Ruahine Range, Kylie Bivvy The forecast was for thunderstorms, rain and wind for two days. On Saturday morning I actually cancelled the trip, but Carolien hadn’t checked her email and at the arranged time turned up at my place. Hence the trip was on again. At the end of Mangleton Road, packs were on, then the rain started, quickly followed by thunderstorms all around us. The track turned into a fast-flowing water race. On we trudged past Sentry Box hut and up to Parks Peaks hut (1390m) taking about 2 hours. We lit a fire to dry out and wondered when the storm would pass.
Sun 13 Dec 2020 Mt Messenger White Cliffs
Thurs 10 Dec 2020 Club Night: Christmas Party Themed quiz, cheese and wine, beer tasting and legendary chocolate cake – quite the way to celebrate the last club night for 2020. The annual Christmas Party allowed members to get-together and share in an evening of festivities and celebration. Graham Bocock and Peter Winter ran a top-notch tramping-themed quiz. In my opinion, there’s nothing like a good quiz, though liking them doesn’t make me any good at them, and I put down being in the winning team to my capable teammates. This night was actually an amalgamation of events unable to be run earlier in the year due to Covid-19 disruptions. I would like to take this opportunity to thank Peter Winter for admirably working through the challenges faced and continuing to organise and present an estimable array of club night entertainment. Acknowledgements to Mark Robbins who shared a choice drop of his home brew beer; Graham Bocock as Quiz Master and chocolate cake extraordinaire; and Peter Winter for making club nights happen.
Wed 2 Dec 2020 Kahui hut After several days of wet, showery and windy weather, the day dawned fine and clear with a light breeze, just what we wanted after a couple of Wednesday cancellations. We left Wallace Place at 8.35am. Four cars and 16 people arrived at Kahui Rd end at roughly 9.30am. Horrors! One car and four people missing already. Navigation on Taranaki roads must be more difficult than in the bush! Not to worry, between the four on board they eventually got it right.
Saturday 28th November 2020 Plane Wreck>Waterfall>Tarns and new track across the Mangorei Stream: There had been a lot of rain recently but today turned out to be perfect. Not cold, not too hot but plenty of Spring sunshine. 10 of us left Carol's house at 0845, headed up the Mangorei track a short way before cutting into the bush and heading towards the plane wreck. 5 minutes later we made our way to the nearby waterfall. The rain over the previous few days meant the waterfall was looking quite spectacular in the sunlight and made a great spot for "morning tea".
Carol admiring the view:
As expected, the next leg was tough going as we headed straight up the new waterfall track to the tarns. The track was still wet and muddy near the top and the supplied ropes came in very handy. Next stop was at the tarns and after struggling to find a seat through the crowds, we ate lunch while looking at the stunning mountain reflected in the water.
Heading back down the Waterfall track for 20 minutes, we came to the new “Mangorei Stream” Track which cuts across towards the steps. There was a fair bit of trepidation in the group as they had heard a lot about how difficult this track was! An hour and 20 minutes later we crashed out on to the Mangorei steps and the consensus was, yes, the track was tough, but enjoyable, not as bad as expected and certainly beautiful with stunning scenery and views.
After the usual trudge down the steps, we arrived back at Carol’s place after 6 hours and 45 minutes. A reasonably tough day but certainly great fun!
Many thanks to Alison, Carol, Lyndsey, Rex, Justine, Keith, Ken, Yumi and Eifion for joining me today. Thanks Bernie for being my contact again. Colin Smith
Sat 21 Nov 2020 Loop Tramp from Mangorei Road Things were looking good when the six of us headed off and it wasn’t long before we were on the new, high, dry and wide boardwalk. There were a few little streams to cross as we headed cross country but the Mangorei Stream was well set up for a dry-feet crossing with a nicely integrated set of logs and rocks.
Sunday 15th November 2020 Carrington Rd/Kiri Peak/Poukai Trig then back via Plymouth and Goodwin Tracks. The forecast was for fine weather but with the occasional shower so we were optimistic as we set out from Carrington Rd gravel dump 9 of us headed up the track to Kiri Peak and this was pretty steep and tough going in places. When we got to the top of Kiri Peak, we were rewarded with thick cloud and low temperatures. Moving swiftly on, we headed up to Pouakai Trig with a hope of better weather and hopefully a view. Looks like it was going to be one of those days as this too was cloud bound. Heading over to Pouakai hut was uneventful and we had the occasional glimpse of some of the peaks, however, just before the hut, the rain started coming down. This must be the occasional shower I thought! We waited in the hut but as the rain didn’t let up, we headed on down the Mangorei steps with most people kitted out with rain jackets. The shower lasted about an hour but all the foliage was soaked so the Plymouth Track and the track to the Kiri stream was wet going. We all got across the stream safely with no wet feet or embarrassing slips. 5 minutes up the Kiri track we picked up the Goodwin track which was well marked and a first for most of today’s trampers. 75 minutes down this track saw us arrive back at the cars, all worn out, still wet but all in good spirits. A challenging but fun tramp today and a big thank you to Alison, Mike, David, Andy, Danny, Ken, Keith and Julia for joining me today. Also thanks Bernie for being my contact today. Colin Smith
Sun 15 Nov 2020 Atene-Skyline Walkway, Whanganui After packing up from a wonderful night’s entertainment and stayover at Lakeland’s Holiday Park, a group of us headed up the Whanganui River Road to tramp the Atene-Skyline Walkway. On the way, those hanging out for coffee were rewarded when Trina managed to talk the hitherto closed café at Upokongaro to open early just for us! And what a lovely café it is, with lots of outside tables and great coffee. Worth a visit since you can now cycle there on the cycleway on the north side of the Whanganui River and over the new cycle bridge. We continued up River Road until we caught up with Graeme T and his group at the parking spot. The fearless leader made a mistake here as I should have organised for Graeme to leave his vehicle at the exit point. Oh well. The track then winds around the edge of sandstone bluffs to reach Taupiri Trig before descending steeply back to the River Road. The focus throughout the walk is Puketapu hill. Many hundreds of years ago the hill stood at the end of a long, narrow-necked peninsula. The river once flowed in an almost complete circle around Puketapu but after years of erosion the river broke through the neck, forcing a more direct route to the sea and cutting off the meander. This was a beautiful walk to do at this time of year, with lots of spring growth in evidence, especially of ferns and fungus (my favourite f words!). It took us about 7 hrs or so to get round the loop so it was a bit disheartening to read the runners times of 2.5 to 3 hours in their record book at the trail end. However, I bet they didn’t see as much, nor enjoy a nice lunch at the half-way point. My thanks to those who joined me on this trip: Martha, Lindsay, Graeme T (especially for sprinting ahead to arrange the transport shuttle), Lyn, and their grandson, Lorraine, Trina, Simon and Graham B. ~ Peter Winter
Sat 14 Nov 2020 Waitahinga Trails, Whanganui
Thurs 12 Nov 2020 Club Night: Cycling the Pamir Highway It seems adventure is a magnet for New Plymouth couple, Rhys Masters and Diana Wynyard. In 2016, they cycled the Pamir Highway, stretching 1,252 km through Afghanistan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan in Central Asia; and this is just one of the many remote cycling adventures they have undertaken. Every year approximately 500 hardy souls cycle this road, built by the Russians in the 1930s. Not for the faint hearted, the highest pass reaches 4655m, days can top 35°C, with nights dropping to -20°C, and this is in summer! In winter the road is unpassable due to snow. From hot, arid plateaus to lush river valleys, the landscape was as diverse as the climate and people. Rhys and Diana provided a comical presentation with photos that captured the drama, atmosphere and essence of a truly unique part of our world. Julia Collins
Sat 7 Nov and Wed 11 Nov 2020 Flower Power, Puniho / Turehu Stream On a recce last year, while coming down the Turehu Stream we were very impressed with the mass white flowering covering one of the cliffs. We felt this would be interesting for a larger group of members so decided to offer both Wed and weekend the opportunity to visit this spot. The forecast on Sat was for rain so only six made the trip. The rain started just as we reached the Turehu Stream. It was quite heavy rain but it was not cold. We did not stop for lunch and arrived back at the cars around 1.30 pm. Wednesday had much better weather for bringing 24 members out to view the mass white flowering. We stopped at the old washout for morning tea, a lovely spot made even better with bright sunshine. Up to Round the Mountain Track and over to the Turehu. A cold wind made it hard to find a good place for lunch, but we did. Although some found the rock hopping difficult, for a large team we tramped at a reasonably good pace. There were three or four crashes during the day, but no broken bones. Back at the cars just before 3 pm. Oh, by the way, the huge mass of white flowers? For some reason the display was nowhere as impressive as we had seen it the year before. Maybe too early, too late, not sunny enough? Kevin Curd
Sat 7 Nov 2020 Road Ride Loop from Toko School Isolated showers were predicted but with one of the crew unavailable the following weekend we decided to take the chance. We got off to a pleasant start with flattish contours and easy up and overs. Any sprinkle was light, with a good interval to dry out. Passing the golf course getting close to Huiroa we were getting wet with persistent drizzle so made a right turn into Douglas Road. The cloud ahead of us didn’t look welcoming. Had a large hill or saddlette to climb initially but this descended into a broad, flat valley. We seemed to be crossing a lot of rail lines but this was obviously the same one making use of the friendly terrain. The ride back from Douglas was fairly flat and cruisy and the drizzle had eased off, but by then we had the unmistakable feel of water damaged clothes. Thinking it would be a nice ride on a fine day were: Anne Brough and Julia Collins. Denis Goodwin
Sat 31 Oct 2020 Wilkies Pools – Kahui Stream Wanganui Tramping Club were to join us on this trip but because the forecast was for extended periods of rain they decided to stay at home. Though the weather was not good we still had seven keen takers head off to Dawson Falls. When we arrived at the visitor centre it was raining, so after a chat we decided to go over to Waingongoro Hut instead. It rained as we left and it rained right through until we finished back at the cars. The amount of water running down the steps was really impressive, like twenty mini waterfalls coming down the steps. At the hut we got a fire going to dry some of our clothes. It was great, particularly for the ones who hogged the fire. Although we were all a little damp, we felt the experience was all good fun. Joining Karen and myself were Justine Lee, Claire Chamberlain, Ken Gotts and two first timers Jamie Kemp and Nick Kearns. We will have to see if we have put them off tramping for ever. Kevin Curd
Sat 24 Oct 2020 Stony River Hunters Track The conditions being forecast weren’t great but with things looking worse for the following weekend we decided to give it a go. There seemed to be a new residence near the top of the farm as we walked along the park boundary. The river had a very different look from when we were there a couple of years before – could be connected to being downstream from the big slips off the end of the Pouakai Range. A variety of methods and places were used to cross – all of them successful. The wider, slower-flowing-looking part, utilized by Allison and Julia, had deep parts but also stones in them to make things a bit shallower. The drizzle got a bit more deliberate as we got higher and it became clear the view wasn’t going to be when we got into the open. There were quite a few little peaks to go over or around as we got nearer the top – similar to the Dover, but a couple had fairly narrow ledges to shuffle along. Crossing the top towards the trig there were poles most of the way, but with poor visibility it was nice to connect with the track from the Holly Hut turnoff. It was a bit breezy, cool and damp at the trig, so we didn’t stay long. As expected, things were a bit slippery going down the Dover. But this didn’t slow the group – for a while. Along today were: Allison Wilkins, Carol Stewart, Julia Collins, John Guinness, Keith Coughtrey, Robin Grant, Mike Donaldson and Derek Andrews. Denis Goodwin
Wed 21 Oct 2020 Rahiri to Mangaoraka Carpark
Wed 14 Oct 2020 The Matau Experience Thirty trampers left New Plymouth under a grey sky for a tramp over Jack Rawlinson’s farm at Matau, picking up Christine F., Velda F. and Lindsay M. along the way. The weather was fine when we reached Matau so we enjoyed an early morning tea under the veranda off the local hall, before setting off down the road to the woolshed. There we were met by Jack and after introductions all round we watched Lorraine Eldershaw’s nephew logging pines on the steep hillside in the adjacent paddock. Then we set off towards the back of the farm to Jack’s Whare. Following a farm track, it made for pleasant walking, taking in the wonderful back country views along the way. A very pleasant lunch break was taken at the Whare, which only had the bare necessities but did include a flush toilet and running water! Our return to the cars was through the neighbour’s farm and we had a short workout following a track through the pines to the top of the ridge. In the open again we had views from Purangi across to the Pohukura saddle. The descent from the ridge to the valley floor was very steep and slippery but great care was taken by all and it wasn't long before we were back at the cars. A very welcome ‘post tramp debrief’ was held at the Toko Tavern. Another great tramp over the Matau hills which was enjoyed by all.
Alan Morris
Saturday 10 October Henry Peak and Ridge to Holly Hut track The forecast for the Saturday was "nice and Sunny" so I was disappointed when it started pouring down on Friday. Luckily the rain cleared and Saturday was dry all day but the low cloud hung around and it was a fairly cool day. Arriving at Kaiauai car park, we had the usual trouble and had to park the cars in the road as the car park was already full. 7 of us set out today on what was for everyone except me, a brand new tramp on a track that people had seen from a distance but never explored. We set off towards the shelter and the ground wasn’t any wetter or muddier than it had been recently, despite the overnight rain. We crossed the suspension bridge and I do not think Alison appreciated Carolien bouncing it up and down! After a quick break at the shelter, we set off for climb up to Henry Peak. At this point, for reasons unexplained, Derek decided to count all the steps on the way up! I have been up this way several times now and it doesn’t get any easier! We found the track entrance that leads down the spur and this is 5 minutes from the top of Henry Peak. Derek will need to return one day to count the remaining steps. This track was new territory for almost all and it proved to be fairly tough but exciting all the same. There are hidden gulleys, steep climbs, steep descents and a few places where sliding down on your bum definitely helps. It certainly gives you a great view of the swamp that the normal tracks never give you. Reaching the bottom of the spur and looking up, you get a great view of the daunting task ahead to reach the Holly Hut Track in the distance. The terrain and vegetation on this part of the track is quite different and has an Australian feel to it apparently!! (This was never explained either). The track does have an abundance of Bush Lawyer in this area and it looks like it is more than happy to invade the empty space of the open track. We were all relieved when we eventually reached the HH track as this signified the end of the "Up" and we could look forward to a bit of "Down". Just 10 minutes round the HH track we came to the Kokowai track. We headed down this and arrived back at the carpark 7 Hours and 55 minutes after we left. We had a great walk today, the weather held out and we all got to explore a new area of the ranges. Many thanks to Carolien, Alison, Carol, Robin, Derek and my special guest Greg, who had joined us from Wanganui. Colin Smith
Sun 4 Oct 2020 TAKT Waingongoro Hut from Plateau Unfortunately the tramp was cancelled at the last minute when the leader became ill. With my grandson all hyped and ready to go we decided to go anyway. We chose to leave from the Plateau car park and take the top route to Waingongoro Hut. Getting out of the car at the Plateau we were reminded immediately of why we carry extra layers of clothing, as the wind hit us and we scrambled to layer up. Once we dropped over the edge of the ridge the extra layers were quickly discarded and put in our packs to carry all day. Been a while since I’ve been to the Plateau and was impressed by the new viewing platform there and it was a magnificent day for views. We enjoyed them along the easy downward route towards Wilkies Pools and with the snow melting there were plenty of waterfalls on route. We turned off down the ridge to Waingongoro Hut just before Wilkies Pools and again the mainly downward track was easy for kids and interesting with the bush full of bird life spotting bell bird, tui, kereru, fantail and robins. After an hour of walking we hit the hut in time for lunch in the sun. Popular spot for lunch, meeting three other members including one also bringing along a grandchild for the TAKT. They had all come along the lower route which they were returning by. After lunch we climbed up the ridge to the turn off to Dawson Falls, dropping over the side of the ridge and down to the Wilkies Pools Loop Track. We followed this up to Wilkies Pools spending a lot of time at all the small waterfalls on route. Certainly made the climb up much more interesting than the ridge would have been for a child. This took another hour and then a bit of time exploring Wilkies Pools, before heading off up the gradual incline to the Plateau which was a relaxing 45 minutes. Perfect day out with my grandson and totally recommend this tramp for children.
Jo-anne Mowat
Thurs 8 Oct 2020 Club Night: Old Ghost Road No ghosts, just plenty of spectacular views on The Old Ghost Road. Graham Bocock shared his adventure on the wild West Coast track, steeped in gold mining history. The long-forgotten gold miners’ road, from Lyell in the Upper Buller Gorge to Seddonville on the North-west Coast, has been revived as a shared mountain biking and tramping trail. Stretching 85km, the track encompasses gorges, mountain ranges and valleys. The entire trail is a live, historic record of the bygone mining era, featuring relics, artifacts and aptly named features such as The Hanging Judge, Suicide Slips, Heavens Door and The Boneyard. A striking, impressive landscape was beautifully depicted in the photographs Graham shared. Julia Collins
Fri 2 – Sun 4 Oct 2020 The Timber Trail Ten of us from the Tramping Club plus a few hangers-on met at The Forge, Blackfern Lodge, on the Friday night, for a meal which as far I could see consisted of reheated leftovers (pretty good leftovers though) and an early night. Some of the early arrivals had however, taken time to have had a look round some of the trails that surround the Lodge. I tried and failed to complete the Biggles book I had started to read when I was there last, but I did find the mug I had left behind. An earlyish start and breakfast next morning saw us off on the shuttle to Pureora via Bennydale (hub of the universe) and the start of the trail. I was surprised that only Lorraine and myself were riding e-bikes, the rest relying on man/woman power. The first part of the trail is easy riding through bush. A number of the group stopped to have a look at the old bulldozer before continuing on the journey to Piropiro Flats and Blackfern Lodge. I was riding with my sister Julia at that stage and she was able to identify the various bird calls we could hear (she’s a volunteer at Zealandia) kaka, kakariki, riroriro (grey warbler), korimako (bell bird), tui (of course) and once a long-tailed cuckoo. Tomtits (piropiro) were in abundance, as were Kereru. The Trail is also dotted with signage describing the various trees and shrubs along the route. The trail was in good condition apart from a couple of muddy sections. After the long grunt up to the summit, the rest is mostly downhill to the Lodge turn-off. I was congratulating myself for not falling off on the fast-downhill corners like last time when I hit some mud on a flat section and piled into the bank. Nothing damaged but pride. Highlights of the ride included the first 115m long suspension bridge and the stump house with its amusing tale. Evidently two brothers and a cousin were living in a small cabin, and working splitting totara posts. One day one of the brothers went off to the nearest settlement for supplies, and when he returned, he not only had their supplies but a wife as well! So, the others were evicted from the cabin and had to sleep in wooden bunks set into a hollow totara stump out the back. The cabin has gone but the stump and its bunks are still there. I raced Dave (I admit I was on my turbo setting) to be first back at the Forge to wait for the others to trickle in. Unsurprisingly, an early night after some banter and feasting on Rachael’s (from the Forge) superb hotpot We were up early the next morning for the slower riders to take the first shuttle up the hill, the second group catching them at the Ongarue Tramway terminus. The first part of the ride is over a forestry road, and a slightly uphill forest trail and over the Maramataha Suspension Bridge (141m long and 53m high). The latter part follows the old tramway, easy riding and excellently signed with descriptions of life in the forest camps, and the forestry lokeys. These were specialised narrow gauge Heisler and Climax locomotives, able to pull heavy loads on a narrow track. The highlight was the spiral where the track crosses a bridge and then curves around through a tunnel to pass under the same bridge. And so, we finished the ride and caught our shuttle back to the Forge for our vehicles and the trip home. A magnificent ride in great company which included Club Members Lorraine Taylor, Graham Bocock, Anne Brough, Sandy Morris, Dave Hadley, Simon Busby and Julie Hollway, plus hangers-on Julia Bracegirdle and the Coulsens.
Wed 30 Sept 2020 Photographic Peak The phone was running hot on the Tuesday evening with trampers booking in to meet us at the Mangorei Rd car park. Eleven of the 21 trampers made up their own carloads and met the rest of us at the new very large carpark. No more trying to squeeze into gaps lining both sides of the road. We were putting on raincoats as well as boots unfortunately but once into the bush and up a few steps it was safe to remove some wet weather gear. Morning tea was held at the Plymouth Junction which was a welcome relief for some. The first of the snow started to show as we popped out of the bush and accompanied us all the rest of the way. The cloud was moving a lot as I pointed out the back of Photographic Peak; some got to see it, others didn’t. The snow on the steps got thicker and the beauty of our surroundings was much appreciated. As the group was quite spread out, the front runners were getting cold waiting at the turn off so it was decided to go to the hut, as the peak was barely visible. By the time we all got to the hut it was all clear, so back out we went. Eight of us ventured up the peak and we were not disappointed. Thankfully Mike Donaldson knew the way, as no track was visible. Up the top it was fresh, to say the least. The wind nearly toppled us over but the fleeting views were great. Another wow was the fresh kiwi prints in the snow. That gave me a great buzz. By the time we got back to the hut some were ready for the return journey, so they set off and we followed after a bit of food. It was lovely day out thanks to all who came, including Graeme and Lynn for sharing their grand-daughter and her two friends with us and even though they had wet cold feet it had not put them off. My thanks to Anne Kivell for being my contact and Kevin Curd for being the back marker.
Claire Chamberlain
Sat 19 Sept 2020 Colliers Forest and Bird Hut, Mangamingi, East Eltham Great to see that all nine trampers arrived at the meeting site ahead of time so once the PLB/First Aid checks were done, we were off at 7.45am in two vehicles thanks to Kevin and Barry. Stopping at the Eltham library to regroup, the temperature drop and chill factor was very evident, so much so that almost the entire team headed to the loos for shelter and other matters. Turning off the main route onto Aorere Road, climbing through the unmetalled dusty farm road, along the ridge then dropping into the valley of the Collier’s homestead, we came across the farm owner, Sarah Collier, leaving the farm with her horse float – a quick ‘thank you’ to her for farm access and parking at the woolshed.
Wed 16 Sept 2020 Bell Block beach walk On a cold blustery morning 16 trampers met at Ellesmere Avenue, Bell Block, for what should have been a walk on the beach in spring sunshine. I decided to change the advertised route due to the very rocky foreshore between Wills Road and Waiongana river mouth. The winter storms had stripped the sand along this part of the beach and walking over the rocks would have been slow and treacherous. Instead we walked to the Te Rewa Rewa bridge and return. We started with a short walk to the Bell Block Velodrome where we met Velda and had morning tea out of the wind. Then we carried on to Bell Block beach and as the tide hadn't receded enough, we took the track which led us through the sand hills and back to the Coastal Walkway. Our lunch stop was at the bridge where we found a sunny spot in the lee of the wind. Then out on to the sand and a very enjoyable walk back to the cars. My thanks to Mary M., Heather A., Velda F., Alan C., Karen H., Lyn T., Kevin S., Claire G., Sarah D., Jenny G., John D., Athol C., Lorraine E., who accompanied me.
Alan Morris
Sat 12 – Sun 13 Sept Omaru Hut, Mt Humphries, and the Daffy Patch This has always been on my bucket list, ever since I looked at the DOC sign near the turnoff to the Daffy patch almost 20 years ago. I remember the sign, an old fence line, a trough, and a collapsed cabin (homestead?) under some huge macrocarpas. The sign pointed off into the bush, with the enticing words “Omaru Hut” and a number of hours which I have forgotten. Anyhow, Graham, Mark, Alan and I headed off early (well not too early) on a Saturday morning to the Kohi Saddle and the Matemateonga Track entrance, and made our way to the idyllic Omaru Hut for an early lunch, with some panoramic views of the central mountains to be seen on the way. Graham and I, who had elected to tent it, put up our abodes on the lawn and then we headed off with Mark toward Mt Humphries, whilst Alan decided to explore a track off to an unknown ridge. It was a long haul to where the track to the summit turned off, and with darkness coming on, Graham and I decided to turn back to the hut while miracle man Mark (he seemed to have managed to turn his water into wine and wished he hadn’t) made a dash to the summit. On the way back we met Alan whose new trail had petered out, and we were soon joined by Mark, the new holder of the Mt Humphries ascent record. Back to the hut for a fire, dinner and bonhomie. An early start had us to the Puniwhakau track junction in good time, and the link to Whaka Road (formed probably in the 1970s during the marginal lands development) where we left our gear unnecessary for the day’s walk ahead. We then crossed the road and headed off into unknown territory. And unknown it was! A vestige of an overgrown trail, with intermittent markers supplemented by bits of tape tied by Alan on a previous journey. One part of it went across a papa cliff face and was about 400mm wide. With Alan’s memory, GPS and marker searching we finally struck an old fence line and a clearing, with the macrocarpas of the turnoff in sight. A little further on we reached the old road which led to the Daffy Patch. There was no remnant I could find of the derelict cabin under the macs, or the trough, but the fence posts remained, sans fence. The road was still in pretty good shape, apart from a few windfalls, and a bit muddy at this time of year, but we reached the old gateposts in good time. Here the original road builders have run a tunnel under the road to divert a sizable creek. This area also seemed to be Bell Bird Central. Around the corner you can see some large gums, incongruous amongst the natives, and a scramble across a creek brings you to the Daffy Patch, a magic place in the bush. A large meadow is revealed, with the site of an old cabin, various exotic trees and at this time of year large patches of daffodils, jonquils and snow drops around the cabin site. The daffodils are old varieties, some with narrow flutes, some with broad, and some with crumpled. The old road goes on to the other end of the meadow, vanishing into the bush on its way to the stock tunnel, which unfortunately, we didn’t have time to visit on this trip. There is a history of the area posted in the ‘Stories of Interest” section of the NPTC website. And so for the trudge back up the old hand-dug road to the track junction, and back the way we had come. There seemed to be more markers in evidence on the return, plus the tape we had put up on the way in but we still missed the trail in a couple of places. Alan led us back via a shortcut on the Whaka Rd, but it had still been 9.5 hrs by the time we reached the van. Thanks to Miracle Man Mark Robbins, Alan ‘GPS’ Taylor, and Graham Bocock (whose boots failed the WOF tread test) for accompanying me in achieving this goal. And as for putting this trip on a bucket list, make it the last thing you do - as it very well may be.
Peter Winter
Club Night - Thursday 10 September Despite the Lockdown Level 2 Restrictions, the Club Meeting was well attended. New Club President Barry Greenbrook introduced himself to the membership and described his goals for the Club. New Secretary Mary Gordon-Tasker was also introduced. Our guest speaker, Greg Ryan, TRC Regional Gardens Manager, presented an overview of the three premier heritage properties managed by the TRC: T??pare, Hollard Gardens and Pukeiti. He provided insight into their origins, development to date, and plans for the future. Pukeiti has undergone huge transformation in the last 10 years and this progress is starting to come to fruition in the main gardens and surrounding rainforest. Activities and 'cool' features such as tree lookouts are located throughout to celebrate the unique environment, its inhabitants and ensure community engagement. Of particular interest was the planned shared-use tramping/biking track, from Pukeiti to Oakura, which will include a suspension bridge (proposed to become New Zealand's longest). A 12-bunk family hut will be open soon for bookings and biking/hiking tracks are planned for all grades and abilities. The evening ended with John Depree being awarded the Maindonald family trophy for Leadership - fittingly presented by Lindsay Maindonald. Peter Winter and Julia Collins
Wed 9 Sep 2020 Lake Rotokare Thirty trampers and only two of them men today! We had morning tea on the new walkway over the lake. The forest, the undergrowth and the bird life just keep on getting better with predator control and the walkway round the lake is a pleasure. The little robins came up to eat insects when we kicked the leaf litter. We saw saddlebacks and tom tits. Up in the canopy we could hear the tuis and wood pigeons. Under the bridge, we saw five large whitebait fish shoot out of the mud with a little encouragement from Trina. With no outlet, the fish have been trapped here and cannot get out to the sea, but they have adapted and now breed here. At the Eltham Cheese shop only two were allowed in at a time, but there was lots to buy. Only one car visited the Historic Eltham Pub. Well done Eddie, Murray, Cecelia and Therese. Some of us visited the café and the Art Gallery in Fenton St where they also produce gin as well as good coffee. Some of us visited the portrait paintings in Stratford’s Percy Thomson Art Gallery, which made for interesting observations.
Christine Feigler
Wed 2 Sept 2020 Waingongoro Loop Tramp 21 enthusiastic trampers registered for the tramp despite a week of fairly dodgy weather, however the leader was pretty confident that it would be okay on the day. Sure enough, the day dawned with not a cloud in the sky and a great day in prospect. The group were keen as, and when the leader got there early to fill out "the book", two were there before him and Kay poked her head out from under the pillows and exclaimed, can't you buggers sleep!. In fact they were so keen to get going, the blue ute (not Captain’s) took off down the road with "the book" still on the bonnet! Once it was retrieved and safely stored, it was masks on and off we go. The leader’s carload wanted to go to the bank and get some extra cash out! The leader wasn't so keen......... The mountain was at its magnificent best when we arrived at the Plateau Carpark but quite a few were taken by surprise at how cold it was and scrambled to get warmer layers on. The gentle breeze had a nasty bite to it, so it was a brief toolbox meeting then on to the RTM track and out of the chill. A short stroll through the thawing snow saw us at Wilkies Pools for morning tea in the sun. We retraced our steps to the Ridge Track Junction and then headed off down to the Waingongoro Hut for an early lunch. Cloud was starting to gather so when we were all fed and refreshed we headed back to the swing bridge, crossed it, and headed to the Enchanted Track. After some debate and a little encouragement all headed up the track towards the cars. The first half was a good old grunt but at about halfway white stuff started to fall from the sky which would have taken our breath away only we didn't have any left! Once back at the cars it was boots off and down to the mountain house for a hot coffee and, as it turned out, a long debrief! 17 coffees do take a while to make. It is a beautiful tramp and the snow falling capped off another magic day on the mountain. My thanks to all of you who joined me for this tramp, and I was rapt that Paula, a new member and first time tramper, got to enjoy tramping at its best. Also thanks to Kevin for being my lead, to Malcolm for being my contact and Noel, John F and Ray who came for a stroll along the same route in the snow, a few days before.
Graeme Taylor
Wed 26 Aug 2020 Pukekura Park Once again, the planned tramp at Hawera didn’t go ahead. After some discussion, Kay and I decided that the Covid 19 restrictions would mean some of those wanting to do the tramp would miss out. We decided instead to do a tramp around the park and save Hawera till the summer when the situation will have improved. With a smaller group than usual we set off from the Victoria Rd carpark and headed down through the Japanese Gate. A circuit of the playground took us for a close look at the water wheel and a stop at the fenced-off area, to read about how the silt clearing operation was being done, before we headed up Cannon Hill. Coming back down we passed the crumbling whale bones set into the side of the hill many years ago. Only one is still visible. From there we went to the king fern gully where one of the large pine trees has recently been felled. After completing the circuit, we climbed up the steps to the top of the cricket field terraces and walked along the top track to the Stainton Dell. From there we went up to the lookout hill where we were able to have morning tea in the sun. Setting off again we passed another two felled pine trees and again followed the top track that brought us out by the rhododendrons and Brooklands Bowl. From here it was up to the lookout platform by the racecourse where, for once, we had a view of the mountain. Dropping back down to the Bowl we followed the track that took us to the Maranui Gully. After walking both sides of the gully we took the steps up to Brooklands Park where some of us went off to the zoo for a quick look at the animals while others took the track that runs parallel to Kaimata Street and comes out at the kauri grove. Our visit to the zoo took a bit longer than anticipated as we had to sign in and social distance ourselves from families and groups of kindergarten children while we waited for a turn to view the animals. We eventually met the others near the azalea garden and from there headed back to the cars. Thanks to those who came along and a special thanks to Kay for taking care of the e-mails and notices and for coordinating the phone calls. Judith Stanners
Sun 16 Aug 2020 Waitara to Te Rewa Rewa Bridge We had seven trampers who rang and booked in for this trip. Congratulations, obviously they had all either read the Footprints or taken notice of the club’s email. Ken Gotts, Barb Hepburn and Helen Chitty travelled in our vehicle with Kevin Smith’s wife dropping him, Claire Glasgow, Fiona Hermanus and Naomi Butler out to Waitara.
An uneventful stroll to the Waiongana River with a short stop for morning tea on the way. I could not convince the party to cross the river though it was quite low. Several years have gone by since I last did this trip so I missed the correct way to the road end. Not a major problem and we commenced the walk towards the bridge then back to the coast. On the way we met a man out walking his dog. We chatted as we walked and he asked us if we would like to visit his home and view his collection of vintage cars. What a visit! The vehicles were all immaculate, beautifully presented; we were extremely impressed. We then discovered this man was Ashley Smith, one of New Zealand’s Outstanding Veteran long distance runners. His collection of medals and memorabilia was mind boggling. Ken, an occasional marathon runner himself said Ashley’s accomplishments made him feel he had somewhat underachieved.
30 minutes later we started off again, over the bridge and back to the coast. Finding a beautiful spot beside the river mouth we lay back in the sun and enjoyed our lunch. The walk back was much easier this time because of the amount of sand covering the rocks. Only the last 25 minutes were over rocks. We decided to go up and finish the trip along the Coastal Walkway. On arriving back at the cars, the leader could not work out why his key remote would not open his car. It then dawned on him that his car was, of course, in Waitara. The rest of the team promised they would not remind him of this ever! Kevin Curd
Wed 5 Aug Kahui – Puniho Circuit The thought processes for this tramp had begun well before the 5th of August. Logistics is not my strong point and with a car shuttle involved I began discussing the finer points with my fellow walkers on unofficial tramps, of the conveyancing of trampers from point A to point B. There were various suggestions put forward, one in particular that I could not get my head around but didn’t want to appear too dopey so it wasn’t till a few days later that I had to say well I really don’t see how that will work. It was spelt out in very minute detail and finally I got it. But that was before the closing date for registration. When I had my numbers, I texted said advisor and said I have 30 coming - get your head round that! Enter John Fisher with a little bit of paper: “Ready Reckoner for tramps requiring a car shuttle”. Thank you, John. My thanks also to Kevin Curd for offering to do an up-and-back to Kahui then drive round to shuttle drivers, also Gavin Glassgow for offering to go straight to Puniho Road where Kevin would take him and passengers to the start. Claire Chamberlain
Sun 2 Aug Mangakotukutuku Falls Four children and fourteen adults made up the group. Young Otto settled in once we got
Wed 22 – Sun 26 July Winter in the Kaweka Range In 1859 the Government bought 20,000 ha of the central part of the Kaweka Range from the Maori owners. They purchased a further 6,800 ha of the Mangatainoka Block in 1875. Most of the land was leased to two sheep stations which ran large numbers of merino sheep over the whole range. In 1900, 11,000 ha to the west of the Range was gazetted as State Forest. Fires frequently swept the southern portion of the range in the late 19th century. Most were lit to clear forest or scrub. Rabbits appeared about 1890. From 1905, attempts were made to muster all the sheep from the range. Wild sheep persisted until the late 1950s. In 1974, the existing State Forest of 60,828 ha was gazetted as a State Forest Park. Mike Guthrie
Sun 19 July Mt Damper Falls to Hut We had 23 trampers keen to do the trip to the Te Rerepahupahu Falls but because of a slip Coordinator, CurdCurd
Sat 4 July East West Crossing of Kaitake Range The gravel dump was nearly full of gravel – not much room for parking today, but conditions were good as the eight of us set off. We must have been looking instead of talking at the front – noticed the cross marking the tunnel and paid that a visit. Denis Goodwin
Wed 1 July Waitara Beach Walk South 27 Trampers arrived at the river mouth. We firstly walked over the wetlands area, admiring the work the Council has put in with excellent signage and walkway. Christine Feigler
Wed 24 June Holly Hut With a little trepidation, having not tramped since March 18, I ventured to Sanders Ave expecting to find 10 or 12 trampers but much to my surprise we finished up with 29. Set out from North Egmont at 8.50 am and had a good workout going up the steps – certainly slowed down a few of us. Upon reaching the seat at the lookout, the group split into an accelerate and a steady group. John Depree
Sun 21 June Boar s Head Mine New Plymouth had a cool strong southeasterly breeze so the Kaitake Range proved to be
Wed 10 June Maketawa Hut Loop A beautiful day was asked for and received as fourteen trampers warmed muscles and lungs heading up the Translator Track from North Egmont Visitor Centre, with Alan M leading. Ice in the dips of the track provided some whimsical pleasure to crack. We were greeted with stunning views of Ruapehu, Ngauruhoe and Tongariro hovering above the cloudline in the distance, our majestic Taranaki crisp and clear. Encounters with tomtit/miromiro and old friends enabled some of us to catch our breath, along with morning tea half way up. Brionne Ferrier
Sun 7 June Puniho Road to Bells Falls Following lockdown there would no doubt be many members feeling a little short on fitness, resulting in just four keen to visit the Falls. 50 minutes up to the turnoff then down onto the Stony. Once again we are in awe of the huge amount of debris from the slips some two years ago. Approximately 250 metres long, 80 metres wide and around 30 metres deep, worthwhile seeing. Kevin Curd
Wed 3 June Tikorangi Redoubt and Te Awa Te Take Pa Ian Gregory
Sat 30 May Pukeiti – Timaru Track Loop Denis Goodwin
Sat 21 March 2020 Puniho Loop This was my first organized club tramp of the year due to "dodgy knees" and i was leader for the day. Only Kevin Reilly turned up so there was no problem deciding who would be Back Marker! It was a mild Autumn day and perfect for a good days tramping. 20 minutes up the Puniho Track, we turned right, under the "Goal Posts" and followed the track through the bush that leads on to the Kahui Track. Normal club practice is to head East in the vicinity of the Kapoaiaia Stream but this time, we continued South to complete this track. the last 90 minutes or so are gnarly to say the least with poor marking, lots of tree falls, overgrown bush and some tricky stream crossings to navigate. 5 minutes up the Kahui Track, we turned North on to the more familiar territory of the Kapoaiaia Track which follows the RMT to the the Puniho Track cross roads. From there, it was a nice gentle downhill treck back to the car. All in, this was 7 hours of walking with around 4 hours to do the shorter Southbound track which is definitely difficult in places and only 3 hours to do the much longer homebound leg. My knees were able to cope ok and we had a really enjoyable day out. Many thank to Kevin for joining me today. Colin Smith
Wed 18 Mar 2020 Marvellous Mokau After having postponed this trip, planned for Wed 7 Mar last year we were fortunate to have a perfect day. Our trip required a car shuttle so we left one car with enough seats to accommodate six drivers and all continued on to Ladies Mile with a convenient stop at Mokau on the way. After parking the cars by the old cowshed on Ladies Mile 21 trampers walked up the valley on the opposite side of the road towards the hills, only to be stopped in our tracks by a raging bull. We didn’t argue with him. I thought it might be a good time to have a cup of tea and let him settle down. After tea GT went to scout out a way around the bull’s paddock. By that time, he had settled down and we managed to partially skirt his territory and head up the hill. Part way up we stopped for a small quiz to identify a photo of a common bird which is often seen in this area (redpoll). Murray Duke won the prize. A little further on up the hill a beautiful view back down the valley towards Awakino and the sea became apparent. Continuing on up the hill we encountered a patch of gorse and a steep ascent to a ridge boundary between Russell Gorrie’s own farm and his leased land from Ladies Mile. A bit of a scramble to the top but what a magnificent place to stop for lunch, big country, big views even to Mt Ruapehu. After lunch and a good rest, it was down the hill through more gorse behind GT with his loppers, thanks mate! At the bottom we crossed a small stream (one which Peter Winter will remember from a previous trip) and up another hill to a great view of the Mokau estuary then back to the shuttle car by the river. Very enjoyable day, great views, great company. Thanks to Graeme Tayler and Noel Moir for their part in the trai-blazing recce, for John Depree as back marker and Malcolm Smart as contact. Sorry Noel couldn’t be there on the day. Also thanks to farmer Russell who was presented with a gift earlier. John Fisher
Sun 15 March TAKT Plymouth Road to Kiri Stream After a tramp up Plymouth Track a few weeks ago I decided the track was too overgrown ~Karen Curd
Wed 11 March Maori Canoe, Kohuratahi Mariliese Hutchinson met us at her house and we drove down to the Gower Stockyards. Mariliese’s plans for the day were more ambitious than mine, which was to follow the farm track to the canoe. Instead it was slowly up and up to the top of the range, where the views were stunning. On that rugged farm I could not see a piece of flat land. Amazing to think it is farmed today, let alone 1890. ~ Christine Feigler
Fri 6 - Sun 8 March Rockslide Bivvy You'd have to be slightly mad to want to visit every hut in the Ruahine Forest Park, but it helps because there are about sixty of them. Boiling the billy and resting on a bunk were the first priorities. And what was right next to the bivvy? The well-marked trapline! We were saved! Dinner at 7pm and bed. There were no intruders during the night, just the sound of Apia Stream and moreporks. ~ Mike Guthrie
Wed 4 March E/Alt 5th Anniversary Walk 28 walkers met at Corbett Park and enjoyed a three-hour circuit of Oakura walkways in beautiful weather. The significance of the date and location was the fact that exactly five years earlier, over morning tea, Janet Durdle floated the idea of having an option for those who find the Wednesday Fit Easy tramps too strenuous. By limiting the walk to three hours, it would also cater to those who needed to pick up school children or have afternoon appointments. There was keen interest, so a meeting at Janet’s home soon after began planning and she sought approval from the Club committee. ~ Liz Winters
Sun 1 March Summit via Crater Valley It was raining at North Egmont on the designated date – was meant to clear during the morning so we flagged it. (The mountain cleared about 1.00 pm). The forecast for the following Sunday had been similar but improved a little a couple of days before. The same group returned to a beautiful day. The car parks were nearly full. ~ Denis Goodwin
Sat 29 Feb Sun 1 March Round t he Mountain in Two Days At 7.15 am eight keen or silly trampers began the walk up the Puniho to the Finally it was all downhill. However, Yumi was finding her knees very painful with any Day 2. Five of us began the second day at about 8.30 am We felt we needed a lie in. It Glad l will not have to do this ever again. ~Kevin Curd
Wed 26 Feb Kiwi Sanctuary, Purangi The bach and toilets at the sanctuary are immaculate. We had morning tea and set off up the hill. It felt a lot steeper than when we were last here and it was very hot. At the top we had beautiful views to Ruapehu and Mount Taranaki. Peter Winter spotted a rat trap where the brainy rat had eaten though the metal top to get at the bait to avoid being caught. We had lunch by the stream in the cool. Purangi Trust now has a green shop in Inglewood next to the petrol station, promoting the sanctuary and other walks, where we dropped off the $120 donation from the twelve of us.
Sun 23 Feb Lake Dive Circuit The forecast was for heavyish showers, improving during the day. However, I woke at 6 to When we stopped at Hooker Shelter for morning tea it was not raining but another heavy Karen Curd
Wed 19 Feb Farm Walk at Toko ~ John Simmons
Sun 16 Feb 2020 Awakau Caves We had a request from the locals at Mokau to take them on a trip to the Awakau Caves. Several of them had tried to find the caves but had no luck. Eight members from our club travelled to Awakau Road and met up with 11 locals keen to find the elusive caves. After a very steep drop of the road and a walk through some swampy ground we found the stream that would eventually lead us to the entrance to the cave. After a brief talk about how we would safely complete the cave walk and informing them how deep some of the pools in the stream would be, we commenced our adventure. As usual the deepest pools are just before you enter the cave, most of us getting our undies wet, and yes it was cold. Once inside the cave we all turned our lights off and marvelled at the mass of glow worms on display. This in itself was the highlight of our day, worthwhile making the special trip. While most of the group followed Peter Winter to the end of the cave the rest of us climbed up to the exit tunnel only to find the small hole we climb out of had got even smaller. Martin Jones struggled to get through and advised us to return the way we had come. Once out we had lunch and discussed our options. We could proceed up and over the ridge, find the exit hole then proceed out to the pipeline, our original plan, or return the way we came. Everyone seemed to be keen to stay with our original plan. We found the exit hole and one of the younger locals managed to squeeze down into the tunnel, not easy. From here up a long steep climb to a ridge and a difficult tramp through the bush to find the pipeline. With many markers going in different directions we relied on Martin’s GPS to stay on track. Once on the pipeline it was a simple walk through to the cars. This a difficult trip to be tail-end Charlie and l thank Claire Chamberlain for her perseverance, a job well done. Thank also to Peter Winter and Martin Jones who made sure we found our way out to the pipeline. It was great to have a wide range of locals join us on this trip and we thank Maxine Lovell for organising those who came with us on the day. Our members not already mentioned were Brionne Ferrier, Carrie Smith, Sue Rollo and Mark Garner. One of the leaders, Kevin Curd
Sat 15 Feb 2020 Syme Hut from Dawson Falls The mountain looked nice and clear and in the Stratford area Fanthams Peak was showing up cloud-free. With a later start, the four of us were in the warmer part of the day and didn’t ignore the break points on the way up. At the turnoff to Kapuni Lodge, a family of four were making their way up to Syme Hut. Leaving the steps for The Round the Mountain Track was a pleasant change. Sixteen minutes after leaving the steps we were hopeful we’d found the right lava flow. At this time cloud had formed up at the Fanthams Peak level but found it wasn’t very dense as we made our way up through it. Had good grip all the way. There were quite a few people at Syme Hut and we had just got ourselves a place at the table when Anne, who had wanted to do the direct, (poled route) at her own pace, arrived in. An Auckland University group were getting ready to head to the summit. The wind had got up and cloud was swirling around at that time. It was a little tricky getting off Fanthams with the footing like walking on marbles but finding little tracks of scoria had us more in the comfort zone. Seemed to be a popular place when we got back to the car. Along today were Anne Brough, Yumi Iwasaki-Schroder and Graeme Taylor. Yumi sounded interested in Dawson Falls but we had been told there wasn’t much water in the river and weren’t sure it would be worth seeing Dawson Drip. Denis Goodwin
Sat 8 Feb 2020 Summit from Dawson Falls There was very low cloud to drive through on Manaia Road but at Dawson Falls proper the mountain was clear. It was fairly cool when the seven of us set off, but we had warmed up before exiting the bush. At Hooker Shelter the countryside was cloudy but the top of Ruapehu was just protruding from it.
Closing in on Fanthams Peak we were trying different routes in search of the best traction. Across the gully from Fanthams and a bit higher up, river runs seemed to offer the best grip. A fit looking runner type had caught us by this stage but with the stronger wind and tricky scoria being the only real option he seemed to decide he’d had enough. We were treated to shelter in places and regrouped before going over the crater rim. There was still a lot of ice in the crater but had a hint of a snow cushion in places and everyone seemed OK on it. It was open climb day with a lot of people on top.
With a clear view down to Fanthams it was it was an easy choice to return the same way. The scoria was better for the descent than on the northern side and the chatter and expressions riding the sound waves seemed to confirm this. There was cloud to go through departing Fanthams but it wasn’t that dense and with poles to follow didn’t present a problem. Were under the cloud by the top of the steps.
It had been a good group, helping each other through the tricky spots. Derek’s zest for picking up glass had been contagious with the group contributing to his tally for the day of 100 pieces. Along today were, Carolien van Reekum, Julia Collins, Allison Wilkins, Martin Jones, Mark Robbins and Derek Andrews. Denis Goodwin
Wed 5 Feb 2020 Awakau Quarry and Lime Kiln This was a new tramp for us. The farm owners had spoken to me about this walk earlier in the year and Maxine offered to lead us to the site of the old disused quarry and kiln. When we arrived at the house Maxine had made a beautiful morning tea of pikelets and cream with tea and coffee. So, after enjoying that and meeting some of her local friends we set off. The majority of the way we followed the Mokau River along farm tracks. We stopped to look at the site of the quarry where the limestone was extracted and loaded onto a railway which transported it to a barge on the river and was taken upstream to the kiln. At the boundary fence we entered the bush which is DOC land and walked for approx 45 min to the kiln. The kiln is impressive. Built against a high bank, it is constructed of rock, squared and mortared together. Unfortunately, someone has removed the oven but other than that it is in good repair. We had a pleasant lunch in the grass clearing, before retracing our steps back to the cars, where once again our host made tea and coffee. An enjoyable and interesting day was spent in the Awakau Valley, tramping the upper reaches of the Mokau river and learning some of its history. Maybe another tramp to Mangatoi Station, where more local history abounds or some caves that Maxine has discovered in the hills is something we can do sometime. Watch this space! Our thanks to Maxine and Bruce Lovell for allowing us onto their farm. Our group of 19 NPTC members and 8 locals appreciated it and had a wonderful day! My thanks also to Barbara and Ian Gregory for being my contact. Alan Morris
Sun 2 Feb 2020 Stratford Plateau, Priest Fingers Just five merry souls were keen for this tramp. As we commenced our walk, a young woman jogged past, obviously in a great deal of hurry. Arriving at Wilkies Pools we again met this lass as she emerged from one of the pools. Robin Grant, on his first tramp with the club commented, if we were to find mermaids like this on all trips, we would have a great deal of blokes turning up. The rock-hopping up to the Armchair was handled reasonably and it was there we had our morning tea. Julia Collins was up front trying to find the best and easiest way up and over the landslide. This was much harder than when we did this last time. Leatherwood and vigorously growing “toot” (tutu plant) made the going hard. We were pleased to finally leave the undergrowth and begin another climb towards Priest Fingers, this time trying to avoid the scree. Sue Rollo and Karen Curd were apologising for slowing us down, but l was grateful they were giving me time to get some oxygen. The forecast for strong winds on the mountain was correct but we found a sheltered spot beneath Priest Fingers for a well-earned rest and lunch. We had certainly done some climbing and now after admiring the wonderful views set off to locate Curtis Track. The track has been recently cut and we made good time, arriving back at the Plateau at 2.30pm. Kevin Curd
Sat 25 Jan 2020 Loop Summit from North Egmont The mist we drove through on Egmont Road was a major false alarm. We were out of it before the park boundary and a sharp and clear mountain was on display. Car parks were real scarce and we pretty much nabbed the last of them. It was calm as, on the Translator Track and didn’t take long to start cooking up. Had a chat with Wendy McMillan, who wasn’t going to the summit, at Tahurangi. Traversing around to the Surrey Road Track was fairly cruisy – a minor discrepancy for the day. There is a steep little rim to clamber up shortly after turning towards the top, but the views were great - no sign of cloud building on the mountain. The cloud cover on the northern countryside was real low, struggling to make it to the park boundary. On top of the first bluff we were into a cool refreshing breeze and could see people well up on East Ridge. The ice patches we passed seemed to be into serious melt with little rivers descending from them. Met up with a little Egmont Alpine group at the Chimney opening – Helen was just short of 1,200 summits. It was fairly cool on the Shark’s Tooth so didn’t stay long. Things were similar at the summit but found a sheltered spot for lunch just down from the summer entrance. Three girls from Spain were waiting at Tahurangi for the rest of their group to return from the summit. They had made it to 2,000 meters but had found it getting scary. Cloud had built around the top when we were back at the car park, but climbing and descending conditions had been great for Allison Wilkins, Jonea Mounsey, Martin Jones, Kevin Reilly and Derek Andrews. Denis Goodwin
Wed 22 Jan 2020 Lake Dive Junction We left New Plymouth under a cloudy sky but arriving at Dawson Falls we were welcomed by a beautiful warm day with clear skies overhead. We met Derryn there who made the number up to nine. Leaving the car park at 9.30 am, we attacked the endless steps at what I thought was a good pace. However, at the monument Derryn decided to leave us and do the Lake Dive circuit instead. We had morning tea at the Hooker Shelter and by then the sun was getting hotter and the steps higher! However, it was on to the staircases and into the tussock, where the temperature was a little cooler. The RWT has a slight downhill gradient to the Junction and this was very welcome. We met John Depree’s party who had overnighted at Kapuni Lodge and climbed Fanthams Peak the day before, and we spent 20 mins talking to them. Then it was off to the Junction where we had lunch relaxing in the grass and admiring the views. The walk back to the staircases was slightly up hill but it wasn’t long before we were at the staircases, and then it was down the 3000 or more steps to the cars. A long hot day, but enjoyable. Thank you to my group of John, Mark, Murray, Martha, Carrie, Lesley and Eifion, and to Barbara and Ian Gregory for being my contact. Alan Morris
Tues 21 – Wed 22 Jan 2020 Kapuni Lodge and Beyond Five trampers met at Sanders Park and were joined by Lindsay Maindonald at Dawson Falls. We headed off at 9.20am for Kapuni Lodge. Had morning tea at Hooker Shelter and arrived at the Lodge at 11.30am. Those going up Fanthams Peak left at 11.50am after reorganising their packs for the climb to Syme. Had lunch a little bit beyond the wooden steps. It was hot so we were drinking plenty to ward off dehydration. I found the climb quite demanding and was grateful for the support from Lindsay who also lent me his two walking poles. As late as 2005 I remember going to Syme Hut with school groups and then continuing to the summit. Age clearly has something to do with it. Returned to the Lodge just after 4pm, had a refreshing cold wash and got changed ready for Happy Hour. We shared the hut with a member of the Manukau Tramping Club who was with a fellow tramper from Iran. Wednesday dawned beautiful. We were above the cloud but could see the tops of Ruapehu, Ngauruhoe and Tongariro protruding through. Had breakfast at 8.40am, then started on our walk to the Lake Dive Junction. Had a long morning tea there. A lovely part of the mountain with the grasses, alpine plants and the views that one is afforded. Met Derrin McDonald on the way back – she was doing the complete Lake Dive circuit. Just before midday we met the NPTC group who were on a one day walk to the junction. The overnighters went back to Kapuni Lodge for lunch, packed up and walked down to Dawson Falls. Kapuni Lodge was lovely – nice beds, solar power, gas cookers, crockery, cutlery and cooking utensils. Thanks to Claire, Anne, Lorraine, Graeme and Lindsay for their contribution to making the trip so enjoyable. John Depree
Sun 19 Jan 2020 Curtis Falls Adventure We had a really good cross-section of trampers on this adventure up the Curtis Stream. A total of 12 made this day out an exciting but enjoyable one. With the stream changing so much with erosion we had to evaluate each of the waterfalls as we came to them. Most handled the rock hopping okay but found some of the climbs a genuine challenge. A great deal of satisfaction was felt by the team as we arrived at the track leading to the Manganui Ski field. In the shade of the Ski Lodge we enjoyed our lunch looking up at our magnificent mountain, trying to spot climbers doing the summit. At the Plateau we met Mike Hutson who had parked his car there and then spent the morning taking wonderful photos. Mike was available to take the car drivers back to their cars parked at the Stratford Mountain House. As we had made good time up the stream and were ahead of our schedule, the group decided to walk the Enchanted Track back to the vehicles. Carol Stewart and Derryn Mc Donald left the group at the Plateau so just 10 of us made the descent to the cars arriving around 2.30 pm. Making up the rest of our team were Kevin Smith, Maureen and John Simmons, Eifion Williams, Julia Collins and recently joined members Jenny Minogue, Jonea Mounsey and Christine Wright. Thanks to our reliable tail Rex Wright and to Mike Hutson our, if needed, driver transfer. Kevin Curd
Wed 15 Jan 2020 Aotuhia It was abeautiful day in Aotuhia when nine of us set off on this 20 kms return walk, taking the paper road past the woolshed that leads to Kohurati. We had morning tea at the abandoned farmhouse. Once 30 families lived in the valley, now there is only the station. Exotic trees marked the sites of long abandoned farms. Bee trucks kept passing us. There were bees everywhere. I got stung once. When we arrived at the Waitara Lodge for lunch, it was occupied by bee guys. They made us welcome and were an interesting group of Maori, Filipino and South American, all working for a large bee company owned by Ngai Tahu. The helicopter was also working. There is never a dull day in the back country. It was a 20 kms return walk to the cars. We stopped at the Toko Pub, now nicely restored, for what felt like well-earned refreshments. Many thanks to our drivers, Geoff and Eamon. Christine Feigler
Sun 12 Jan 2020 Mangarakau to Rahiri DOC’s recently introduced limited access to North Egmont over summer, due to parking congestion, had me concerned that we might arrive at the gates to find a queue of cars ahead of us. With this in mind I decided to change the planned trip and go instead to Waingongoro Hut from Stratford Mountain House. This was a longer trip than advertised but the one child coming was up to the challenge. Seven-year-old Ella led the way, checking stoat boxes as she went. We had four adults ten times her age and some of them found her pace a little too quick, so in order for all of us to enjoy the day we spilt into two groups. Kevin went ahead with Ella and Peter to the hut after showing us the mine. Bryan, Carole, Jean and I proceeded at a more leisurely pace and stopped for lunch about 11.45 then returned to the cars. We had almost an hour’s wait in the sunshine at the Mountain House for the others. They were held up with Kev imparting his knowledge to those he met. Karen Curd
Thurs 9 – Sun 12 January 2020 Ruahine Range; Rangiwahia, Triangle, Iron Gate Thursday Chris, Mike, Alan and I left NP in two vehicles and drove to Petersons Road where we left one vehicle for our car shuttle at the end of the tramp. We carried on to Renfrew Road carpark, arriving at 3pm. The weather was sunny and we started tramping at 3.30pm. We arrived at Rangiwahia Hut at 5.30pm. The benched track starts in bush from the carpark and climbs all the way, with quite a lot of zig zags above an active slip before crossing a deep ravine of the Mangahuia Stream across the awesome arched wooden bridge. It was nice to be in bush (predominantly red beech) most of the way as it was very hot. There were good views at places along the way and once we reached the hut. Rangiwahia is a 12-bunk hut and there were only two other trampers for the night. The fire was going when we arrived (unbelievably the two trampers who spent the day in the hut felt it was cold) and it was very hot overnight because of that. The Rangiwahia Hut area is renowned for its skiing history. Enthusiasts were drawn to the broad snow-covered slopes and at one stage the Rangiwahia Ski Club installed a rope tow to pull skiers up the slope. Friday We woke to a very misty day. The wind was cold and we were thankful of our jackets, gloves and beanies. We left the hut at 8.10am and after climbing for 1hr 15min we reached the junction to head for Triangle Hut. There was a cold wind on the tops. The mist was still lingering as we started our descent so unfortunately no views for us today. The descent was steep, through tussock and shortly before reaching the bushline the track changed to being rutted, stony and slippery. After 45mins we reached the bushline, and the mist was just starting to lift. The bush was lovely to walk through for the next couple of hours, steep in places but mostly rambling along on beech lined track, lovely mossy growth and sunlight now coming through the trees as the mist had cleared. We arrived at the hut at 12.10pm after four hours. The six-bunk Triangle Hut is nicely situated on a clearing up from the river, with a beautiful outlook down to the river from the deck which was now drenched in sun. We spent the afternoon relaxing and reading on the deck. Saturday We left at 8.00am and spent an hour walking down the river before reaching the exit point to climb over the saddle. Thanks to Chris for determining an exit-right for us. It was cool to start with, being no sun in the valley, but clear skies showed promise of another lovely sunny day to come. The river level was low and crossings were straightforward. The climb from the river was very steep and took half an hour, followed by a descent of another half an hour. However, the descent was nowhere near as steep and it was very pleasant walking, with lots of flattish track, mossy patches and easy descents. After a further half an hour sidling two waterfalls and crossing the river, we reached Iron Gate Hut at 11.00am. Iron Gate is a new hut, only finished the previous month, construction in partnership with the NZ Defence Force. It is a 10-bunk hut, typical of the new DOC huts now being constructed. It has a table and chair set outside which is great for relaxing and dining al fresco. Another afternoon spent relaxing on a sunny deck. Six more trampers arrived so could have been a full house inside but two chose to sleep on the deck. Chris took his rod down to check for trout but although one was spotted, it managed to evade the frying pan this trip. Sunday An early start at 6am to walk to Alice Nash Memorial Lodge and out to our car waiting at the carpark. The track is up and down all the way, with a few steep climbs and descents. There were some tree falls in places but easy enough to push through as plenty of trampers had previously made a track. We reached Alice Nash after 3 ¼ hours and then a further climb of 40mins to our car. We returned to Renfrew road to pick up the other vehicle and drove home. Thanks to Alan Taylor, Chris Thame and Mike Guthrie for their company on this relaxed tramping end to my holiday. Lee McCracken
Wed 11 Dec 2019 Christmas Tramp Our ‘End of Year Shared Lunch’ was at Hollard Gardens this year, and 27 trampers from the three Wednesday groups left Sanders Park on a beautiful sunny morning and travelled to Stratford. We reassembled at the Malone Gates for our walk through King Edward Park and the Carrington walkway. Janet Durdle led our party for the first section of the walk which was through the Rhododendron Dell, and I can only imagine how beautiful this must be in the Spring. We crossed the bridge over Patea River and commenced the ‘Western Loop’. Walking through the native bush alongside the river was so serene and picturesque. It was then across the fields with great views of Mt Taranaki and back to the cars for a leisurely morning tea amongst the trees by the park gates. Liz Winters led us on the second half of the walk, which was a loop down the Patea river to Swansea Rd and return via the streets. Next, we drove to Hollard Gardens and walked down to the new pavilion for lunch. A wonderful assortment of food was presented and enjoyed by all. This was followed by a few words from our President, Kevin Curd. Hollard Gardens manager Shannon Boden completed the day by giving us a guided tour, including the history of this beautiful garden created by Bernie and Rose Hollard. Thank you to all those who made this day so enjoyable. Alan Morris
Fri 6 – Sun 8 Dec 2019 Aotuhia Weekender Mark Robbins picked up Lindsay Green, Mike Guthrie and Graham Pease. Caroline Van Reekum came to our place, then we collected Helen Chitty and arrived at Barry and Sue Rollo’s for the rest of the team. That included Justine Lee, Claire Chamberlain, Anne Kivell, Barry Dravitzki and Martha Gutierrez. It is a two-hour drive to Aotuhia Station and we arrived around 8 pm in bright sunshine. On Saturday morning we all walked to the Landing at the confluence of the Tangarakau and Whanganui Rivers. Much of this walk is on the Bill Marion Boulevard, a track dedicated to the late Bill Marion in recognition of the planning and work he put in to re-establish the old roadway used by the early settlers. We arrived at the Landing after a reasonably easy walk, taking around two and a half hours. Just as we started to head back a group of five kayaks paddled by. Mark lead a team of eight who wished to take a harder track home, while the rest returned the way we had come. They arrived back at the shearer’s quarters only 30 odd minutes after us, a very good effort. An evening of great food, a few drinks, mixed with much merrymaking saw us in bed by 9ish. The thunder and lightning began around midnight and continued to until about 6 am. We still had six trampers keen to walk the Whanga road on Sunday morning even though a great deal of mud would make the going tough. The rest drove around to the Whangamomona pub and a group of us walked in to meet the trampers. We had only walked in for 20 minutes when we met them coming through. Apparently, a bulldozer had been through a few weeks earlier, making for a much easier trip. They had made very good time, just over three hours. Together back at the pub we all enjoyed good food and a celebration drink. Back in the city around 3.30 pm on Sunday. Kevin Curd
Tues 26 – Thurs 28 Nov 2019 Wellington Trip 24 trampers met at Wallace Place early Tuesday morning ready for a 7.00am departure to Paekakariki. We had a brief stop in Waverley before continuing non-stop to Levin for a fuel stop. It was now 11.15am which was well past morning tea time. The suggestion was made that we have a stop at a park at the southern end of the town. It was a lovely spot. It was then on to Paekakariki where we arrived at 12.30pm. We donned our day packs and started on the Escarpment Walk. Stopped for lunch when we were sufficient distance from the incessant road noise. Could still hear the trains but we (I) did not mind that. Dave and Liz Winter joined us for the walk. They were on their way home from the South Island. We had the wind behind us as we made our way to the highest point. At this stage I was going to return to Paekakariki, but no other member of the party wished to do that, so we all continued to Pukerua Bay. The faster ones got an earlier train and had the opportunity for liquid refreshment prior to the return of the later group. Booked into the Lodge, showered and had a brief Happy Hour before going to Finns Restaurant for dinner. Had a nice meal and upon returning to our accommodation all retired for the night by 9.30pm. An alarm was not necessary this morning as we were all out of bed a little after 6.00am. Today’s activity was the Remutaka Rail Trail (note that the i has been replaced with an e). One group started at the Kaitoke end while the other went over to Cross Creek. I was with the latter and our walk from the carpark started at 9.00am. After following the access track for two kms we came to the site of Cross Creek settlement where the “Fell” locomotives were attached to the trains going to Wellington. There were three “Fell” railways in the world and this one operated for 77 years while the other two had a lifespan of about five years. The opening of the Rimutaka (spelling hasn’t changed; Ed.) Tunnel in 1955 made the incline redundant. We spent time reading the information panels before starting the walk up the incline. This area is notorious for wind and we got a sample today. It was hard work going up the incline with the fickle wind that was mainly in our face and the tunnels provided little respite. A passenger train was blown off the line in 1880 and a Railcar in 1936. After walking through Prices and Siberia Tunnels we met the party who began at Kaitoke just after they had exited the Summit Tunnel which at 584m is the longest on the trail. There was a little bit of banter followed by the ceremonial key transfer!! It was pleasant on the western side – very little wind and much warmer. Spent time at the Summit before going down the track two kms for lunch. Continued on to the truss bridge over the Pakuratahi River, the ventilation shaft for the 8.798km tunnel 116m below and the last tunnel on the trail. From here we counted marker pegs until we got to 0km and the van. Drove back to Paekakariki and had a leisurely Happy Hour where we were able to celebrate two birthdays. A Happy Birthday to Lyn and Velda. It was then back to Finns Restaurant for dinner. Had some more birthday celebrations on our return to the Lodge before retiring for the night. Once again most of us were on deck just after 6.00am and I guess were looking forward to a less demanding day. After breakfast a group of eager volunteers quickly cleaned up the Lodge and we were on our way to the Railway Station by 7.30am where we caught an early train which had us in Wellington and at the ferry wharf with over an hour before the ferry departed. Got our tickets and went to a nearby café for a coffee and in most cases some extra sustenance. It appeared that a lot of Wellingtonians go out for breakfast before starting the working day. We had a pleasant ferry trip to Matiu / Somes Island and after disembarking spent a short time in the Kiore House where our bags were inspected and the soles of our shoes had to be cleaned. This is to ensure that no rodents or noxious weeds are introduced to the island. We had a leisurely walk around the island with most of the party having lunch at the highest point where five gun-emplacements are located. The guns have long since been removed and apparently never fired a shot in anger. On our way around the island we saw birdlife, reptiles and weta. There is a lighthouse which still operates although administered by the Greater Wellington Regional Council rather than Maritime N.Z. The coastline is rather scenic and home to many black-backed gulls that were nesting. Berthed at Aotea Quay was the liner “Ruby Princess” and from various vantage points we saw Cook Strait ferries making their way to and from Picton. Boarded the 1pm sailing back to Wellington and the 1.53pm train to Paekakariki. It did depart at exactly that time. It was then into the vans to begin the journey home. I struggled to keep up with the leading van, but we did meet at Virginia Lake and travelled together from there to New Plymouth. Thanks to Ian and Barbara Gregory who accompanied my wife and I on the recce. They also did that for the Ohakune trip the previous year. I enjoyed the trip and I thank every member of the group for their participation and support. John Depree
Sun 24 Nov 2019 Durham Road to Little Maketawa Hunter’s Hut This was a Take a Kid trip but once again there were more adults than kids. Young Lochie was our only kid and he certainly put in a great effort for such a young lad. His Nan helped him along and on such a warm afternoon, did well herself to piggyback him most of the way back over the farmland. Only one of us got wet crossing the stream on the way to the hut, clumsily losing her footing and managing to get shorts as well as boots rather damp. We had a relaxing lunch in the sun at the hut before heading back out. As Simon and Kevin had come in a car with Mike, we suggested that they may wish to stretch their legs and return home before the rest of us. Christine, Sue, Kevin and I were content to take it easy with Bernie and Lochie and appreciate the lovely weather. Karen Curd
Sat 23 Nov 2019 Loop Tramp from Gravel Dump It was a nice day anyway, but it soon received an extra boost. The track linking the Kaitake and Pouakai Ranges (Rawson Track – Kiri Track) had been marked officially. Probably more for hunting and predator-free purposes, but it makes Three Peaks without using roads or private property a goer. Climbing Kiri Track gave the usual serious warmup and we emerged from the bush to good views. A good breeze was in play but felt warmer rather than icy. It got stronger in places as we crossed the top and became moderately fierce as we climbed Kiri Peak. We were rewarded with a sunny, sheltered spot to take a break on the down side. After taking the turnoff to the Gravel Dump we had a fairly prolonged steep down section, but the ground was dry and the risk of initiating body skittles seemed low. After this flattened out, we crossed a couple of little streams, suggesting we were heading cross country to the gravel dump. Scaling a man-made kind of bank confirmed our arrival. Enjoying a loop with a good variety in it today were; Allison Wilkins, Julia Collins, Kevin Smith and Derek Andrews. Kevin thanked us for wearing him out. Denis Goodwin
Wed 13 Nov 2019 Alfred Track to Mahood – Lowe Reserve This 133-hectare wetland forest at the top of Alfred Road has recently become part of The Native Forest Restoration Trust's portfolio. Derek Andrews has committed to this process in no small manner. I suspect it was with great pride that he devised this tramp from Kaiauai Car Park crossing the Waiwhakaiho River bridge to eventually turn right and head down the Alfred Track to the Reserve at the end of Alfred Road. Twenty of us left Wallace Place after feverish last-minute arrangements to get us all there and back with a car shuttle. I think it was Noel Moir who made the best suggestion to leave enough vehicles at the Reserve to get the drivers back to the Kaiauai Car Park and collect their passengers at the Reserve. Even then there were too few parks at Kaiauai and one vehicle had to settle for Mangaoraka parking. So, it was a relief to get all this behind us and enjoy the walk down Alfred Track with its magnificent rimu specimens. Yes, there was a total tramp descent of 466m versus a total ascent of 95m with some challenging tree falls and diversions on the way. After a lunch in the sunshine near Waiwhakaiho River, we walked an extra 200m or so and crossed a newly installed stock fence on to private land which adjoins the Reserve. We followed a pink tape trail laid by Derek through bush on the margins which gave way to some heavily worked-over land. Presently Derek led us by a shed with an ancient tractor and an adjacent lot of cannibalised cars, all more modern than his own vehicle. We slipped by a herd of curious steers and made a beeline for another wire fence. At last we stepped over into the Reserve proper having crossed the stock farm and its unappealing features. Another passage through mature bush and then into a long narrow glade with some blackberry encroaching on the edges. This was once a cow paddock but now it's reverting to nature. Wheeling through 180 degrees we went through another arm of the cow paddock and stopped at the bush line where Anne Kivell found a delicate orchid specimen. It was time to go and we walked out through a third arm to the information board at the entrance to the Reserve. The progress of this Reserve will be interesting to observe as the fourteen bird species mentioned by the Trust start to make it their home and the old cow paddocks fill with native tree species. The logistics of car shuttles took a bizarre twist with some stranded passengers at Alfred Road. A driver from Whaler's Gate area compromised a few souls when he failed to pick them up. We can only hope the emergency arrangements put in place to collect them came to fruition. We will joke about this in the New Year after the next edition of Footprints rolls off the press. Overall, we walked 9.3 km on this day - Rex had earlier estimated 8.5 km but that was without knowledge of Derek's big meander in the Reserve. A day to remember, Derek. We appreciate the effort you made and the insight we had into this project in the making. ~ Mike Donaldson Further information about Mahood – Lowe Reserve by Mike Watson, Taranaki Daily News, 23 March 2019, on the Opening Day of the Reserve: An endangered forest wetland in Taranaki, saved from farmland development by a public fundraising drive was opened on the 23rd of March. The 133-hectare Mahood-Lowe reserve at the end of Alfred Road, included rare kamahi, northern rata, tawa and totara as well as lichens and mosses. There is also burgeoning populations of kiwi, whio and falcons. The key site bordered Egmont National Park and had been under threat of farm expansion before the Native Forest Restoration Trust organised crowd funding in late 2017 to raise $500,000 and purchase the block from landowner, Ray Lowe, who donated half of the required funds. If it had not been protected, the land would have been drained and farmed. It is now rated as a regionally significant wetland, and key native ecosystem by the Taranaki Regional Council, and a significant natural area by the New Plymouth District Council to prevent it from being drained. After being logged in the past it was now fenced off from stock to allow regeneration. As a result, the forest canopy now measured up to 20 metres high. The Native Forest Restoration Trust is based in Auckland, the trust had helped save more than 7,000ha of native bush reserves since it was formed in 1980. The trust originally sprang to prominence fighting to stop native logging in Pureora Forest.
Sun 3 Nov 2019 Taramoukou Trig It took nearly two months to find then make contact with the landowner of the farm we needed to cross to enter the Taramoukou Forest. I was thankful the landowner contacted me on the Thursday night before the trip. Several years ago, I joined Ian Gregory and Derek Andrews on this track. We had spent a great deal of time looking for markers and following animal tracks, going the wrong way. It was a hot and frustrating day and because of so much walking around looking for markers, we did not get to the trig. We did see the trig but because time was against us we turned back. With this in mind, l warned the eight trampers who turned up that this trip may not be a successful one. After 30 minutes on farmland we entered the bush. Within a few minutes we were easily finding markers and the track looked reasonably well-used. We also found several freshly plucked possum bodies. We did have some discussion about the direction the track was taking us, but we decided to stay with the markers. About 40 minutes from the trig, we met a hunter heading back on his trap line. He confirmed we were on the correct track and told us a group had walked the track just six weeks ago and re-marked it. He told us he had trapped 128 possums in the four days he had been in the bush. Finally at the trig, we had lunch in the sun with outstanding views, particularly of Mt Taranaki. We took three hours to get there and two and a half hours back to the cars. Halfway back we came across a large container full of chilled water with a sign to help ourselves, from the hunter. We could see his bivvy some 100 metres in the bush. The tramp was quite taxing with many, many up and downs, but we were all satisfied to have knocked the bugger off. Joining Karen and myself were Kevin Smith, Brionne Ferrier, Sue Rollo, Gavin Glasgow, Alan Taylor, Julia Collins and new member, Christine Wright. ~ Kevin Curd
Sat 2 Nov 2019 Pouakai Trig via Dover and Plymouth Tracks The long-range weather forecast correctly predicted fine weather, so this was a good day to be on the tops. Ten club members felt the same way and turned up for the walk. It was decided to walk as one group from Dover Rd to Plymouth Rd rather than two groups starting from either end (with a car key swap halfway) as advertised in Footprints. It meant some car shuttling between the Dover Track start and the Plymouth Track end, but this was easily arranged. It took us three hours of steady climbing up the Dover Track (960m height gained) to reach Pouakai Trig. The wind was light and the weather fine, although light cloud alternately veiled then revealed the main mountain. The Trig made for an ideal location to stop for lunch. It was very pleasant to spend some time there relaxing and taking in the great views. After lunch we walked at an easy pace along the tops to Pouakai Hut, admiring the 360 degree unobstructed views of the national park and the farmland and coastline beyond as we went. We stopped for a short break at the hut before continuing down the Mangorei Track. As expected, we passed a steady flow of day-trippers on the Track – all ages and variety of nationalities. Carol left the group when we reached the Plymouth Track turnoff so she could return directly home down the Mangorei Track. The rest of us descended on the Plymouth Track to Carrington Rd and back to the cars. The walk (stops included) took just under 8 hours. It was a most enjoyable day’s walk! My thanks to the happy group - Colin (track leader), Claire, Graeme, Anne, Graham, Mike, Julia, Carol and Derryn for your company. Thanks too to Malcolm Smart for being the contact. Comment on the Dover and Plymouth Tracks:
~ John Sutton
Fri – Sun 1 – 3 Nov 2019 Kelly Knight & Pourangaki Huts, Ruahine Ranges Friday Mike Guthrie, Chris Thame and I left New Plymouth at 11.45am and drove to Kohunui Station, in the upper Kawhatau Valley. On reaching the car parking area we saw three other utes. OK, we thought, potentially another 12 people already in our 8-berth hut! Mike had the foresight to bring a sleeping mat so that was quickly added to his pack. Access to the Ruahine park boundary is a 30 min walk across privately-owned farmland, in warm and sunny conditions. The track sidles above the Pourangaki River to reach a swingbridge across to Kelly Knight Hut. The hut sleeps 8 and is in very tidy condition. The track was very much up and down with a few stream crossings and several slips along the way, one particularly bad one involved scrambling up a muddy track while hanging onto tree roots and a waratah. A chain would have been most useful but sadly not on DOC’s “to do list”. We could see the hut for 30 mins before we reached it. The smoke coming from the chimney only increased our concern, giving us visions of a restless night’s sleep on a hard floor. At this point Chris dashed off ahead, possibly thinking of bagging the last mattress? After crossing the river, we needed to negotiate the side of a cliff, with the aid of a chain. The technique here was face to the cliff, two hands on the chain and side steps with toes on the narrow ledge. Not for the faint-hearted. Mike commented later to DOC staff, “Don’t upgrade the track, it keeps the riff raff out.” We were elated to find one hunter at the hut, his two mates out hunting. So, the fear of a hard floor never eventuated – at least for this our first night. During the night, the other two hunters returned with a deer each. We learned that they were from New Plymouth also and had left at 1am, arrived at the Station at 5am and walked into the hut. They shot one deer at 3pm and one at 7pm. A sure sign that there are plenty of bush-destroying deer out there for the hunting fraternity. Saturday When we rose the hut was clagged in, which was disappointing as we were heading for the tops. We left the hut at 8.30am, heading straight into a very steep climb on a pretty rough track. After three hours of much puffing, blowing, grunting and rest stops, we emerged from the bush. There had been the odd clearing of cloud along the way to give us glimpses of the farmland far beyond. We were greeted by a cold wind and so donned beanies and coats before following the waratahs along the tussock and alpine plant top for half an hour to reach the sign to drop down the ridge to Pourangaki Hut. We walked past patches of ice and there was snow on the tops of ridges close by. The clouds had cleared by now and the sun was shining as we dropped off the tops and spent 45 mins picking our way through tussock down the ridge to the bushline, stopping for lunch before the bush. The bush track was the usual steep Ruahine decline but the one hour through lovely beech forest with the sun shining and birds singing was very pleasant and I would have enjoyed spending another hour or two in it. On arriving at the hut at 2pm there were two tents outside. Perhaps this was the hut which would be overflowing with trampers tonight, we wondered? But no, there were large DOC bins littering the hut and one worker returned to inform us that the group would be picked up by helicopter at 4pm, leaving us with the 8-berth hut to ourselves. That explained the remaining two utes back at the farm. Pourangaki Hut is a lovely back country hut situated in a very sheltered sunny spot. We lazed in the sun, reading and resting until the sun dropped below the bushline at 5.30pm. Chris and Mike saw to a roaring fire to keep us toasty as the hut cooled off. Sunday What a great guy Mike is to have on your tramp. He got up at 4am to stoke up the fire so Chris and I could snooze on till 5.30am. We left the hut at 6.30am and, after a quick descent on a muddy track down to the river, embarked on what was reported to be a two-hour trip back to the swingbridge at Kelly Knight Hut. Our plan was to climb up the bank at this point and return down the track to the farm and waiting car. Mike had “waterproof socks” so we were interested in just how waterproof his socks could be while crossing a river multiple times over a couple of hours. As it turned out, not that waterproof at all. Save your money folks. We were met with a few challenging crossings, with waist deep water - athough I guess that is relative to one’s height. Some people may have only been wet to their thighs? But the three of us are all 5 foot and a few inches. Once the sun was high enough to shine on us it was very hot. We could feel the heat reflecting back up from the stones. After three hours we were wondering why we hadn’t yet got to the swingbridge. Could we be slow? We didn’t think so. Perhaps it took longer than people had stated. We persevered down the river, stopping after four hours and checking the GPS. Yes, we were very close now, only three sidestreams to go to the hut. OK, great, we counted them off, still no swingbridge. At midday we rounded a corner and all decided things were definitely not as expected. The river was no longer a gorge, it was wide and the hills were lower on either side, one tapering down. We checked out GPS for our location and plotted on the map. What we discovered had us slapping our heads in disbelief. We had walked under the swingbridge, not seen by three of us! We were now actually in the river below the farm where the car was parked. We found a well-worn, slippery deer track up through the bush, followed this steep climb and popped out on the farm, negotiated a couple of electric fences and were at the car. We all chuckled, perplexed at how all of us had missed the swingbridge, putting it down to the wearing of wide brimmed hats and concentrating on not falling in the river! Some parties do in fact return this way by choice, but we did so by an oversight. A good lesson learnt about the benefit of using a waypoint in the GPS and keeping a closer eye on it. Thanks to my tramping buddies for their good company over the weekend. ~ Lee McCracken
Mon 28 Oct 2019 Bushy Park bush walks and homestead tour On arrival, we were met by Dale, our gracious and very knowledgeable host, and Esther, our equally charming and wise guide for the bush walks. Esther started by showing us ruru (morepork) poop on the front doorstep and demonstrating a tracking tunnel, a NZ invention. She followed with a quick history of the fully predator-fenced 100-hectare bush remnant before we set off into the bush. As soon as we entered the forest, we were delighted by the background chorus of bird calls and watched our first tieke’s (saddleback) high-octane flight paths. Armed with long-handled nets and aquatic animal guide sheets, we morphed into an intrepid band of scientists and investigated life in the lake, identifying backswimmers, water boatmen (and women!), dragonfly larvae, vivid red spiders, bloodworms, damsel flies, varying moults and tadpoles. Because the lake has no connection to the sea, there were no eels. We took the Zigzag Track to the hihi (stitchbird) feeding stations and watched a number of these enchanting birds fly around before they hopped inside the feeding station for a quick drink of sugar solution. By 1880, hihi had been reduced to just one population on Hauturu (Little Barrier Island) so it’s a real credit to the conservation organisations that these delightful yellow and black birds have been reintroduced to four North Island and two offshore island sites. We followed the Twin Ponga Loop and Ratanui Track before cutting off via the less-used #6 trail to the Gully Track, passing scented Alseuosmia plants with tiny flowers on the way. We continued until we reached the path of a massive slip which had wiped out an entire stream. Everywhere we went, we were impressed by the prolific bird life, including kereru and more stitchbirds and saddlebacks. We returned to the magnificent homestead in time for a delicious lunch, beautifully presented on fine china with silver tea service. It was followed by moist carrot cake to celebrate Martin and Anne’s birthdays. Dale provided a fascinating presentation on the history of the house and surroundings. We followed this with independent tours of the beautifully restored 22-room Edwardian mansion with its stunning stained-glass windows and the informative mini-museum and education centre. A huge thank you to Kevin for arranging the van and driving it both ways. Great company on the walk were: Lorraine Taylor, Anne Kivell, Barry Dravitzki, Sue Rollo, Julie Hollway, Jenny Johansen, Kevin and Karen Curd, Malcolm and Marilyn Smart, Graeme and Lyn Taylor, John and Caroline Fisher. ~ Martin Jones and Libby O’Connor
Bushy Park Oct 2019 Aquatics researchers at work
Sat 26 Oct 2019 Loop Tramp from Mangorei Road Conditions were good when the five of us set off and it didn’t take long to start warming up. We got across the Mangorei Stream without too much trouble and after the plane crash site there were a few ups and downs. Doing the second, main, stream-crossing of the day put us on a ridge that took us through to the base of Maude Peak. The track was easy to follow and staying on the same ridge helps in this department. It was a fairly steady up with some steeper parts and from a fairly high point we usually do a left turn that takes us down, down and down to an exit point at the turnoff to the falls on Maude track. Not today however, with a new track to explore going straight ahead. The bush quickly began to get lower and it wasn’t long before we were out in the open with a chance to look around. The breeze in the open wasn’t that strong but had a good old Jack Frost bite to it. There were quite a few people occupying the woodwork at the Tarn, admiring the views, but we headed north from here in search of the end of another new track to explore. It took a little while to find – the ground is certainly soggy and we did see another puddle after the Tarn. It was an interesting track to follow with a couple of steeper sections. The lower one in the vicinity of the Mangorei Falls was slippery as well. If the tail ender slipped here, it could have created a people fall, not far from a waterfall. Found a warm spot just down from here to have a snack, before hooking back around to the main track back out to Mangorei Track. It had been new territory for Derrin McDonald and some new territory for Carol Stewart. Thanks to Allison Wilkins and Derek Andrews for the recce work. The top of Mangorei looked a popular place on our return, with cars parked on the side of the road. Was the new car park overflowing already? ~ Denis Goodwin
Sun 20 Oct 2019 Waiaua. Hut and Plane Wreck The Wanganui Tramping club were to join us on this trip but because of lack of numbers they decided to cancel. We had seven keen trampers at Wallace Place, with Derry MacDonald coming from Kaponga and meeting us at the Ihaia road end. Forecast said clearing early in the day with sunny skies later. We began walking just after 9am with a light drizzle, so on with our wet weather gear. The track was extremely muddy so although the team moved at a strong pace the amount of mud slowed our progress just a little. Morning tea was at the old hut site at 10.30am. The light rain had passed over, making it quite pleasant. Over to the plane wreck, about 10 minutes there, then back and up to the hut, reaching it at noon. Every now and then the clouds parted for a quick photo of our magnificent mountain. A few visited and climbed the ladder just to say they had done it. At 12.30pm we headed down. Reached the old hut site at 1pm and the cars at 2.40pm. All agreed we’d had enough of the mud. Good to see Alan Taylor out again after major back surgery. Barry and Sue Rollo, Karen Curd, and Carrie Smith, with first time tramper Claire Carrol, made up the party. ~ Kevin Curd
Sat 12 Oct 2019 Kahui Holes The sun shone as our select group set off into the bush up the Kahui Track. Luckily for us, the forecast showers stayed away. We soon stopped to admire native orchids by the side of the track; first Corybas iridescens with its thick, glossy leaf and its flowers (large for this genus) standing tall above the leaf, with their long lateral sepals arching well above and to the sides (hence the common name of Spider Orchid); then Corybas acuminatum with its thin, triangular leaf, and similar-sized, translucent flowers with long, pointed dorsal sepals and spider-like lateral sepals. We stopped for morning tea at the track junction, where we saw the bush daphne, Alseuosmia macrophylla, in flower, then on to the hole we’d found in September 2018. The sidetrack to this is well marked with flagging tape and the hole is maybe 20 metres off the main track. I personally find it a bit scary to look into, steep-sided and deep. We had directions from an ex-KOPAC president on how to find a second hole and our off-track efforts were rewarded with success. This hole was even deeper and angled away from the surface. The opening was an irregular rectangle. After the excitement of the find, we headed up to the hut and had lunch in the sun on the grass, with views down to the coast and up to the mountain, which was partly visible. On the way back we looked for and found an old track off to the left towards the Okahu Gorge in the hope of a view of Maru Pa, but that wasn’t to be as there was no viewpoint before the sketchy track headed steeply downhill. More botanical delights were seen on the way down, including Hymenophyllum scabrum, a filmy fern, with prominent ginger sporangia at the tips of the fronds, flowers from clematis vines high in the canopy, and a giant rata we could walk through. Kereru were frequently seen, and the sound of korimako once we were back at the car was a delight. Thanks to Libby for her pre-trip research, Sharon Adamson for her directions, Libby, Martin and Anne for coming along; and Bruce Durdle for being contact person. ~ Barbara Hammonds
Hymenophyllum scabrum, a filmy fern, with prominent ginger sporangia at the tips of the frond
Corybas acuminatum group
Martin, Libby, Anne under giant rata
Sat 12 Oct 2019 Maude Peak via Maude Track and a newly cut variation Ten of us set off on the Maude Track having “run the bulls” in the approach paddock to the start of the track. In the Mangakotukutuku Falls vicinity we took a west turn into sunlit, open bush leading steeply down to a small stream crossing and then over to the significant Mangawarawara Stream (though to certain folk it is referred to as the Mangawerawera). Soon we were hearing talk of when morning tea was to be held and not long after climbing out of the Manga, a place was indeed found. Alan had “retired hurt” at the first stream crossing. His recovery from the back op was not quite as advanced as he had hoped. So far, we were still on old track and now climbing to meet the start of the newly-cut predator track. Forty minutes later we reached it and turned to follow its line up the ridge. In contrast to the Maude, we were enjoying an openness with views over to the west as we traversed the leatherwood. At the intersection with the Maude Track we met Sue Rollo and Karen Curd who were waiting to meet us. Meeting done, we pushed on to Maude Peak and had lunch at the top in a beautiful, sheltered spot. The Maude Track descent was not such an exciting prospect and the damp, slippery and heavily rutted top end of the Maude kept us all on our toes, so to speak. Derek had hinted at a “surprise” on the return! As we neared the Falls he revealed the secret, leading us on a track he had made to the pools at the top of the Falls. His “just five minutes“ did stretch to ten or so and did test the tired bodies of the party. Nevertheless, Derek was awarded a general approval for his thoughtful add-on before the return to the cars. People on full tramp: Derek, Kevin Curd, Claire Chamberlain, Justine Lee, Julia Collins, Allison Wilkins, Rex Wright, Alan Taylor, Barry Rollo and Mike D. On part tramp: Sue Rollo, Karen Curd. ~Mike Donaldson
Sun 6 Oct 2019 TAKT Veronica Circuit Once again the kids were scarce. Mike convinced his son Nick and grandson Henry to come along. There was mention of a bribe; beers for son and chocolates for grandson. Young Henry kept a steady pace - Margaret and I struggled to keep up with the 4-year-old. He’s going to be like his grandfather when he’s older, racing off up the hills. A lovely walk. ~ Karen Curd
Sun 29 Sept 2019 Mangorei / Plymouth / Kiri Rex Wright, Kevin Smith and I left our cars at the Kiri Road end, with Karen C driving us to the start at Mike Hutson’s, our faithful contact. Mike Donaldson looked after the book at Wallace Place then brought Phil Holland and Justine Lee up to join us. Sue Rollo, Reeve Pring and Derryn McDonald met the rest of us at Mangorei Road, a total of 10 keen trampers willing to test the weather. 8.20am, up the track to the turnoff taking us over to the Plymouth. Very slippery with many of us spending time on our bums. Up the Plymouth to find the turnoff to take us over to the Kiri. We came to a set of markers but questioned if this was the correct turnoff. Things did not seem right and after walking in for a few minutes we determined the track was far too overgrown so returned to the Plymouth. These markers had not been seen before, hence nearly taking the wrong call. Rex double-checked his GPS and we followed him up another 15 minutes to the correct junction, still marked with a blue G-string. Karen, Sue and Reeve left us here and continued up the Plymouth, returning down the Mangorei. They arrived at their cars around 1pm. The other 7 in the party continued over to the Kiri Stream where after discussion our bossy ladies in the team said we should have lunch in the stream. It is no doubt a very picturesque spot but as soon as we got comfortable a heavy fall of rain arrived. While most of us sought shelter under trees, both Mike and Rex ignored the deluge and sat peacefully in the middle of the river eating their sandwiches. A sight to behold! Not much time was spent on lunch then it was up the last hill of the day to introduce some of our members to the Kiri man. He is beginning to look a little haggard and one wonders how long he can last in this tough environment. Down to the cars around 2pm, all a little damp but still in good spirits. ~ Kevin Curd
Fri 27 – Sun 29 Sept 2019 Whirinaki Forest Park In 1987 Whirinaki Forest Park was created, now known as Whirinaki Te Pua-a-Tane Conservation Park. This three-day circuit offers a superb introduction to the 84,000-hectare park which lies adjacent to Te Urewera. Fifteen years had passed by since I was last in this stunning part of Aotearoa. We set off at 4am Friday: Chris Thame (driver), Julia Collins, Mark Robins and myself. We stopped at the BP in Rotorua for coffee and pies then drove through Murupara to Minginui, once a thriving mill town. Bellbirds greeted us at the backpackers, where we boarded our shuttle. Ahead of schedule we crossed Te Whati Nui A Toi Canyon, grateful for the bridge. Very cool temperatures and light drizzle made for a pleasant start. The signpost said 4½ hours to Central Whirinaki Hut, but with a detour to a waterfall, lunch, spotting trout and looking at the 800+ year old trees, it was considerably longer before we arrived. Data from Mark’s TomTom: 17.5 kms, 5 hrs 15 mins. Average pace 18 mins 6 secs/km. Central Whirinaki Hut is big, with 25 bunks. We had the place to ourselves. Exploring, collecting firewood and testing bunks whiled away the afternoon. Day two was only 10 kms, so no rush. The track, still well-benched and maintained, ascended from the back of the hut to overlook the river, providing spectacular views of beautiful bush intermingled with beech trees. All good things must come to an end… and it did. At a very well-built bridge we turned left up a side river. The flash track disappeared, replaced by mud and overgrown vegetation. We were soon criss-crossing the river every minute. My new waterproof socks were still in the pack. Ho-hum. Data from Mark’s TomTom: 10 kms, 3 hrs 45 mins. Average pace 23 mins 5 secs/km. We arrived at Mangamate Hut at 11am. So… cup of tea, firewood and an afternoon nap. Tramping at its best. And then a teenager popped out of the clearing, followed by 14 more and three adults, all doing their Duke of Edinburgh Award. (Chris thought his bunk was gone but they had tents and were kept out of the hut.) Day 3: We were up early at 5.30am. With headlights on, we were off downhill to 60 river crossings. (I had my waterproof socks on today.) The stream was a hop, skip, and a jump to start with, but by the end it was up to our knees and a lot wider. (Verdict on the socks: Great until the water comes over the top of your gaiters.) TomTom data: 11.40 kms, 3 hrs 40 mins. Average pace: 19 mins 22 secs/km. We had an hour to wait for the shuttle then back on the road and home by 4pm. A great tramp, good company and the next one in Whirinaki is in the planning stages already. ~ Mike Guthrie
Wed 25 Sept 2019 Oanui Beach It was pouring with rain in New Plymouth but five of us headed off to Oanui Beach where the rain stopped and the wind blew. We walked down through the reserve, which is trapped, to the beach. We saw dotterel sea birds scurrying away from where they were nesting, black oyster catchers and herons. We headed up into the sand dunes, then back up the beach to the baches. The naturally rare native herb, crassula mania, was plentiful here. It is food for the native moth, Notoreus Taranaki. Back in New Plymouth it was still raining. ~ Christine Feigler
Sat 21 September Pouakai Crossing Thirteen of us took advantage of lovely fine weather to walk the classic Pouakai Crossing. The route chosen for the Crossing was Mangorei Track to Kaiauai carpark via Henry Peak. We divided into two groups to make transport arrangements easier. One group started at Mangorei Road and the other at Egmont Road (Kaiauai carpark). We swapped car keys when we met halfway - which happened to be at lunch time on Henry Peak. We were treated to great views in all directions - from Ruapehu to the west coast of Taranaki. Henry Peak was an ideal spot for us all to have lunch and admire the views. Both groups started walking at 8am and reached the cars at 3pm. Good track, good company, good fun. Perfect!
Thanks to Carrie, Colin, Justine, Anne, Claire, Lesley, Barry, Julia, Mike, Sue and Julie, and to Graham Bocock (who led one of the groups) for your company. Thanks too to Lester and June Barnes for being the contact. -John Sutton
Wed 18 Sept 2019 Lake Rotokare The weather in the previous days had been very wet and the forecast for later in the week was for more rain. However, the weather gods smiled kindly on us and 14 trampers left New Plymouth for Lake Rotokare under blue skies. We re-grouped in Eltham for a 10 mins stretch then headed out to our destination. There we were met by Lindsay Maindonald who joined us for the tramp, which was to follow the Predator Fence around the perimeter of the reserve.
We arrived about 9.45am and it was boots and packs on and up the 1220 steps to the top of the ridge. We had morning tea at the wooden bench seat at the top and admired the fabulous views over the East Taranaki hill country. Following the fence was very pleasant in the sunshine and at one point we stopped and talked to a volunteer who was checking the trap line on the outside of the fence. She told us that she had cleared two rats from the traps that morning. We returned to the lake via the track that once was a road into the reserve. The bush is thick and lush due to the trapping programme. What a difference it makes when there are no deer, goats and opossums etc. Once we arrived at the lake edge, it was an easy walk around to the pontoon where we sat in the sunshine and had our lunch. Then it was a leisurely stroll back to the cars. This is a lovely walk on a fine day and perhaps next time we will do it in reverse so that we come down the 1220 steps!
Some interesting facts given to me by one of the Park Rangers were: The reserve opened with 36 introduced kiwi: Now there are 150 at last count, and they are about to start exporting some out of the reserve. 60 saddlebacks were brought in and now there are too many to count. 60 stitchbirds were released in 2017 and now they are no longer nesting in the boxes that were placed in the reserve but nesting naturally in the bush. So, some great work done by the staff and volunteers at Lake Rotokare.
My thanks to the 14 people who accompanied me, Claire G., Mary M., John F., Kevin S., Claire C., Lyn T., Lesley P., Anne K., Sue R., Barry D., Derek A., John D., and Lindsay M. Also, thank you to my contacts Ian/Barbara Gregory. ~ Alan Morris
Sat 14 Sept 2019 DOC’s Legends of Conservation Adventure at Pukeiti Teams in this wonderful annual event raced around Pukeiti, learning from people carrying out key conservation work in Taranaki. After a race briefing, participants were given maps with questions to ask the conservation ‘legends’ at each station. Groups studied their maps and made decisions on where they’d go to earn maximum points in the time allowed. Most were out for a day of fun and education rather than to race. Team members interviewed conservation legends from the Taranaki Kiwi trust, the Herpetological Society (the lizard people), Forest and Bird, DOC Trappers, Rotokare Scenic Reserve, Experience Purangi, N.P. Tramping Club, Taranaki Mounga Project and more. Kevin Curd had set out his tramping pack (minus water or a PLB) and participants had to work out what was missing from his pack. Kevin munched on his lunch throughout the morning, nearly fooling a few racers who thought he’d come out without any food. At other stations, racers saw the stuffed possums killed about 50 times and listened to bird calls to identify who’d made them. After two hours of running and meeting legends, everyone headed back for a welcome sausage sizzle, followed by a spot prize ceremony. Almost everyone was awarded a prize, ranging from outdoor gear to predator traps to kid’s books with conservation themes. A fabulous morning and a credit to DOC who organised it all. ~Libby O’Connor and Martin Jones
Wed 11 Sept 2019 Omoana Watere 16 of us left New Plymouth and wound our way over bush and scrub-covered hills until we reached the white mailbox. We had morning tea overlooking the deep valleys and hills. The clematis were in flower. The road led us through a pine forest until eventually we could see the old farmhouse site up the slope overlooking Tututawa and the road down below. This was once a dairy farm and cream went to the factory at Tututawa. The land girls drove the cattle through here during World War II. The miniature buxus hedging were two metre giants and snowdrops and daffodils were flowering. We had lunch and remembered those early pioneers. ~ Christine Feigler
Wed 4 Sept 2019 Mangaotuku Stream, lower city side 15 members were interested to see where the “mouth” of this stream is. They duly saw the out-take dam that takes excess water to the port via tunnels under the road on St Aubyn Street, appearing at the breakwater car/boat park. On walking past Chaddy’s Charters shop and museum, we were invited to take a complimentary seal trip, to which most members raised their hand on a vote. Two of the group were happy to walk back to their cars. Our very own “mutiny of the bounty” member took to the high seas with the courage and determination we know she possesses! A pleasant extra for this tramp, with seals and vocal history while aboard. Trina Stanley
Sun 1 Sept 2019 TAKT Find some snow
The snow was not to be found at a suitable level for the youngsters who had expressed interest, so we decided to make the trip from the Mountain House to Waingongoro Hut. We had a beautiful sunny day but no kids. Mike, Kevin, Anne and I enjoyed a leisurely walk and morning tea/lunch in the sun. ~ Karen Curd
Sat 24th Aug East End Beach to Waiongana Stream I did a recce on the Monday before to check things out since last doing this trip. Two of us did the recce leaving 2 hours after high tide but leaving from Wills Rd. This took 1hour there and 50 minutes back including 30 minutes rock hopping each way. On the day of the tramp a party of 8 undertook the walk beginning from East End beach. Morning tea at Bell Block Beach then onto the beach for 20 minutes before the rock hopping began. Another 30 minutes and considering the level of the tide we felt there may not be enough time to get to the stream and return without getting wet. We all gathered again at Bell Block picnic area for lunch and an easy stroll back to the cars. Sue Rollo, Carol Stewart, Mike Hutson, Graham & Lyn Taylor, Colin Smith and Carrie Smith joined me on the day. Lesson noted. Tides vary a great deal, Cheek the variance of the tide as well as the low and high tide. -Kevin Curd
Sun 11 Aug 2019 White Cliffs from Pukearuhe Rd TAKT The blurb in Footprints had promised us “plenty of stops to enjoy the views” and declared “the return walk along the beach is a pleasant stroll after the earlier exertion”. Yeah Right. Kevin, Julia, Marcia and I left Sanders Park on a grey, overcast day planning to meet Julie and daughter Gemma at Pukearuhe Road end. There they were and we started up the steep road, climbing and going through the farm gate and then climbing up to the shoulder where we stopped for morning tea. Crossing the shoulder, we slithered down the track which was completed churned over by feral pigs. Unbelievable damage. Those of us with boots kept upright, but sneakers and soft shoe wearers had trouble not sliding. Halfway down, the heavy rain started and we put on jackets. It stayed that way for the rest of the trip. At the bottom of the steps we found a pig's head. At least someone was trying to control these destructive creatures. We turned left (west) into the teeth of the nor’wester and the rain kept coming as we walked alongside the Wai Pingao Stream to the coast. After a brief discussion we voted for the return along the beach at the base of the cliffs. Marcia is eleven years old and was loving sliding in the mud and being with her “aunty” Julia. Gemma was the silent, confident teenager and reckoned she was up for the walk. Also, we didn't particularly want to retrace our steps along that steep, muddy track. Within about 200 metres it was obvious no-one would get back without a severe saltwater washing. It was only 40 minutes away from low tide at 12.42pm but the waves were banked up by the stiff northwest wind. Whenever a wave broke it came right up to the base of the cliffs. We pressed on, climbing over the soft papa rock boulders at the cliff base. Torrents of water came down from the cliff tops and at one point a huge slip had come right over our path. We were forced to navigate a sticky mud and papa rock mixture and pull our feet out with each step. Twice, within sight of Pukearuhe, the waves were hitting us at waist height. Wow, oh wow, but no panic! We had to time our dashes between waves to the sand of the cove where a local was watching us with some concern. She said the low tide was a 1.2 metre one. I think she meant that the Mimi low tide was 0.2 metre higher than the one for Port Taranaki but even that couldn't account for the huge height of the waves. The conditions of the day were amazing. Had there been five-year-olds with us, we would not have attempted much beyond the first shoulder and our tea stop. It turned out to be a great, adventurous finale for us, but a long drive back, soaked from the waist down (and more for Marcia who was the smallest of the crew). Compliments to Julia for her great care of Marcia on the wild beach. The crew were: Kevin Curd, Julie and Gemma Hollway, Julia Collins and bestie's daughter Marcia, along with Mike Donaldson. ~ Mike Donaldson
Sat 27 July
Kiri>Plymouth>Mangorei circuit:
A gorgeous sunny winter's day to welcome Marjorie on her first tramp with the club.
The tracks had mostly dried out and the streams are a lot lower than just a week ago when everything was in full flood.
We walked up the Kiri track for a short while then cut across to the Kiri Stream for our first crossing which we all managed safely.
Shortly after picking up the Plymouth track, we took the track that intersects the lower Mangorei track. This is 90 minutes of muddy, slippy gullies to navigate, 23 by Derek's count! After climbing the Mangorei steps for a while, it was a relief to stop and have lunch before heading back down the Plymouth Track to the Kiri Stream.
At this point, I have to say a big thank you to Kevin and Rex for demonstrating to Marjorie the incorrect way to cross a stream or stand on wet slippy rocks!!
After picking up the Kiri Track again, it was an hours easy stroll back to the cars to round off a very pleasant day.
Thanks to Kevin, Rex, Mike, Derek, Marjorie and Claire for making my first tramp as a leader such as a good day out.
~ Colin Smith
Wed 24 July Kaiauai Shelter The preceding days of inclement weather did not augur well for this tramp. What a pleasant surprise to awake to a rather nice day, just ideal for a tramp. 12 trampers met at the new point of assembly and it was encouraging to have two new people along for this activity. I hope that both Richard and Claudia enjoyed the day sufficiently that they will want to come again. The walk was pretty ordinary, but enjoyable nonetheless. The track was muddy and eroded in places and the boardwalk was slippery which saw one or two have a fall. The mountain did look magnificent when viewed from the site of the old Hunters’ Hut. We had a nice lunch break at the shelter before the return trip which saw us arrive to the cars at 2.30pm. Along today for the winter warm up we had Athol, Lyn, June, Lorraine, Anne F, Richard, John F, John S, Therese, Claudia and Margaret B. ~John Depree
Sat 6 July 2019 East to West crossing of Kaitake Range The weather conditions were good when the seven of us set off. The Saxton Track in Pukeiti was an exception to this and looked to have had a bit of a hammering from vehicle traffic. We had to be a bit picky about choosing our lines to avoid the muddiest spots. In the bush the track appeared to have been getting a workout also. A lot of predator traps seemed to have been set in place atop timber set between the ground and the trees at about 45 degrees. A bit further in there was a pile of them waiting to be set in place. We didn’t see them as being that threatening with only us being pests. A new track going off to the right had a marker pointing to Kirihau Road on it. Our group inexplicably decided this would take us to the peak from within the bush! When it comes to new tracks, we do have people with overpowering explorative tendencies. It was reassuring to arrive at the finger of ground between the Oakura River and Pirongia Stream, knowing we were where we should be. After crossing Pirongia the climb up to Kirihau Peak proper began. Getting a bit higher up another new track called the Scrambler Track showed up. It is likely this hooks around into the more historic track that goes between Kirihau Road and Kirihau Peak. At the top the sitting and standing room appeared to be shrinking - like the Tramping Club hasn’t been visiting in recent times. Good views were on offer here. The track through to Davies Track was easy to follow with new markers at the junction – one pointing to a Stegosaurus, something we weren’t familiar with and didn’t notice on our way through. Good views were also on offer at the trig and a group of young people arrived and departed while we were there. The descent to Lucy’s Gully was pretty uneventful. We didn’t see any sign of the swing at the head of the Redwood plantation. It didn’t seem very likely Health and Safety would have been sent in by ACC to remove it. Along today were: Derrin McDonald, Julia Collins, Carol Stewart, Mike Donaldson, Colin Smith and Derek Andrews. ~ Denis Goodwin.
Fri 26 – Sun 28 July 2019 Ruahine Ramble Turning on our headlamps, we set off from the carpark at 7.30pm along the well-graded benched track through beech forest. Despite the cool night, a steady climb around the large slip saw us ‘feeling the heat’. After crossing the arched bridge, a steep but well-maintained track followed until just before the hut, making for smooth progress. Arriving at Rangiwahia Hut at 9pm we were greeted by two fellow trampers and a cosy fire.
Sunrise from Rangi was not to be missed on a frosty, clear morning. By 8.30am we were headed up and along the gentle ridgeline. A poled route led us east to the marked junction, then north before turning east-southeast again along the ridge that dropped steeply into the heart of the Oroua River. After four hours (total), Triangle Hut appeared perfectly positioned across the river. The ‘brash’ raced across to keep their boots dry, while the ‘brave’ walked carefully across, boots in hand. Nothing left to do, the afternoon was spent resting and stocking firewood for the night ahead, until Mark brought out the mulled wine. A cosy hut, mulled wine, toasty fire and good company – not a bad way to spend a Saturday night.
After plenty of rest we set out at 6.30am to cross the icy river and begin the steep ascent back to the ridge tops. As was agreed, often the climb up can be easier than down, although it was a welcome relief when we were back in the tussock. A second perfect day provided stunning 360° views. The route back was over Mangahuia (1583m) and along Deadman’s Track (the ridgeline south of Rangiwahia Hut). The uneven ground proved somewhat of a challenge along the tops, but a well-made and maintained track allowed for smooth progress once below the bushline. A steep descent in the beech brought us to the carpark at 1pm. Mark Robbins, Graham Pease and Julia Collins joined Mike Guthrie on this Ruahine Ramble. ~ Julia Collins
14 – 16 June 2019 Te Iringa Track, Kaimanawa Forest Park 2pm Friday and Mike and I were off, heading north in Mike’s trusty ute and over to Taupo for KFC. Good trip so far: now for the Napier – Taupo highway and to find the Taharua Road turn-off in the dark. Destination for the night is the Sika Lodge, a rather tired but tidy refuge for local hunters over the years. The bunk rooms are very basic, but there’s a great kitchen-lounge area with a lovely fire going, and nearly all to ourselves. But no lounging around here drinking whisky and wine – it’s early to bed and rise for a big day Saturday. From Sika Lodge it’s a short trip to the Te Iringa camp and car park, from where our real journey begins. Packs on and we are off by 7.30am, with clear signs to show that this is a shared MTB track. Rather them than me, as it turns out! A good track with a steady climb up to a clearing which was once the Te Iringa Hut – shame that it is gone (burnt down), as it would have been a good location for doing other tracks in the area. The next section is a little tricky in places as it’s higher and with more exposed rock, but also the most interesting section of the track, skirting around the top of Te Iringa peak. After that is a really neat benched track (this has got to be a new “favourite track”) which eventually leads down to the Tiki Tiki Stream, and then the junction with the Kaipo River with its swing bridge. There is a small camping area here, and the junction of the Kaipo Track which heads west up the Kaipo River and eventually reaches Cascade Hut. Now that’s a track I’m keen to do but it’ll have to wait for next summer as it has a fairly difficult rating with numerous log jams and river crossings. It would be a long day from Te Iringa car park! The track from here follows the Kaipo River south to the junction with the Oamaru River and the hut of the same name, our destination for the night. It’s about 6km of fairly easy walking, if a bit muddy, much of it ideal for the MTBs. We were getting a bit bored towards the end of it, and quite glad to eventually find Oamaru Hut. The good news was that we had the place to ourselves – the bad that the hut was a bit run-down and not well looked after, even though it’s a reasonably modern DOC-built hut. We arrived about 2.30pm with plenty of time to kill, so while Mike had a snooze, I did a bit of exploring and gathered some firewood (hut is not serviced). Fire was duly lit, gourmet meals (!) prepared and eaten, and an early night was had - and a very long night at that! We were both awake before 5.30am so decided to make an early start and were on our way by 6.20am – headlights for the first ¾ hr or so. Being a good, fast track, we made great progress up to the bridge. Being quite cold also helped, as we were both still trying to warm up – the sun was shining but not down into our valley! Interesting to note 100+ recently installed Good Nature traps along this route. Back over the bridge and on up the big hill, the sun played hide-and-seek between the clouds and the trees. On to our favourite benched track again - unfortunately no real summit, and very few views, but lovely beech forest most of the way. We made the old Te Iringa hut site in time for an early lunch in the warm sun, before the last leg down the hill and back to the car park. The other vehicles that had been there were gone, so we actually didn’t see or hear a soul since talking to a young hunter and his girlfriend at the Sika Lodge on Friday night. So much for NZ being over-run with tourists. From here it was straight back to Whakamaru, via the Taupo by-pass, for a hot pie and coffee, and then home by about 7pm. We both really enjoyed this tramp, ticking many of the boxes for the “ideal winter tramp” (no river crossings, no exposed “tops” – although still very muddy in places with numerous small streams to cross) – and I think Mike has already “pencilled it in” for a return trip next winter. I’ll be back. ~ Mark Robbins
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