“MAKING TRACKS
with Scroggin”,
September 2026
Whanganui River City Press

Observe wood etiquette

Whanganui Tramping Club member Mike Cole in sawing mode with the help of
Marie O’Leary at Totora Flats Hut in Tararua Forest Park.

Wood in huts is an important issue and defines the difference between a DOC standard (no wood) hut and serviced (wood supplied) hut. With the wood comes an unwritten firewood etiquette that, fortunately, a majority of users observe.
Rule one is use wood sparingly. DOC providing wood is not an invitation to go wild. Rule two is if you’ve used the fire, leave the ash inside the stove as it may still be warm. Taking it out could create a fire hazard. Rule three is leave plenty of wood ready for the next person.

A wood stove is a source of warmth and cheer and can dry wet clothes for the next day of tramping. It’s especially wonderful if you arrive on a chilly afternoon to find a pile of dry wood stacked next to the fireplace.

The Whanganui Tramping Club’s weekend programme for September is:

6-8 Sun-Tues, Waiaua Gorge Hut, leaders Terry and Dave
12 or 13 Sat or Sun, Hemi Matenga Scenic Reserve, leader Kathy
19 Sat, Whanganui River Walk, leader Dave
19 or 20 Sat or Sun Mt Tongariro Circuit, leaders Trish and Sally
26 or 27 Sat or Sun, Lupton Hut and Falls, leaders Viv and Denise

For more information email inquiries@whanganuitramping.org.nz

The midweekers have a full programme of interesting trips every Wednesday. Those who get out on Thursday are in two groups, with a longer walks on 10 and 24 September for the TT1 group and shorter ones for the TT2 group on
3 and 17 September.

To join weekend trips call the leader by the previous Tuesday at the latest. Call by the night before for day trips. As some trips have limited numbers, leaders have the final say about who to take as they are responsible for the safety and well-being of everyone on their trips. For further information visit our website https://www.wanganuitrampingclub.net/trips

Next Club Meeting: 7pm, Tuesday 6 October 2026, Veandercross Lounge, Whanganui Racecourse
Cherry and Johnny will give a presentation on walking
the Camino Portugues in May and June 2026.

All welcome.

Coming up:

November 3rd Club Meeting – Suzanne and Robert will give a presentation on their visit to the Galapagos Islands.

December 1st Club Meeting – Christmas BBQ and Dutch Auction to raise funds for the Grassroots Trust Rescue Helicopters in Palmerston North and Taranaki Rescue Helicopter Trust.