Mangaturuturu Hut

Wed 30 Dec 2020. Scribe: Dave Scoullar

A fantastic day for our stroll into Mangaturuturu Hut which attracted 20 people, including 8 children. We skirted the Cascades and wandered down the adjoining valley. Two tables were taken outside and we had a shared meal with a fabulously clear mountain backdrop.

Later most people wandered through to the start of the Horopito track and returned on a loop beside the stream. We were prepared to spruce up the hut but this wasn’t necessary as it was amazingly clean.

There were too may on the trip to name them all, just the kids: Annabelle, Jayden, Ethan, Noah, Darcy, Cooper, Molly and Olivia.

Café Trip

Sun 20 Dec 2020. Leader/Scribe – Sandra Rogers

Eight headed off for the Palmerston North Esplanade. A lovely day to enjoy the beautiful roses, see over both the old and new bird aviaries, walk over the two river bridges, take a train ride, have lunch at the café and an ice cream. We finished off with a visit to the wonderful Christmas Barn at Awahuri.

Orongorongo Weekend

Sat-Mon 12-14 Dec 2020. Scribe: Dave Scoullar

Tucked away over the hill from the Hutt Valley, Remutaka Forest Park is a hidden gem and our three rainless days in the Catchpool/Orongorongo area were a delight.

Day 1: The carpark was buzzing with adults and children but we left them behind as we trudged up the steep Butcher track and lunched at a sunny lookout with fantastic views of Wellington and harbour. Then it was on to the Cattle Ridge track, eventually dropping to the Orongorongo River with its wide river bed and many beautiful flowering rata. Finding our booked accommodation, Jan’s Hut, was a bit tricky but we got there eventually. 11km in just under 6hr.

Day 2: Along the Orongorono and Big Bend tracks, looking at baches and DOC huts on the way. Then up Matthews Stream to the steep track up to Mt Matthews, at 941m the highest peak in the Remutaka Range. At the bottom the sign said 3hr 30m but we got there in 2hr 45m. Unfortunately, low cloud meant only brief views of the coast. We wandered down the river most of the way back visiting more baches. 13.5km in 8hr.

Day 3: Walked down the river and visited more baches and DOC huts and then climbed up the steep Brown track which linked with the Orongorongo track. Diverted down the Catchpool track with its lush bush and ample birdlife back to the carpark. There were only three of us which was a shame, as it was great weekend and we had six vacant bunks in our fully-equipped hut. 6km in 3hr 45m.

On trip: Mike Cole (leader), Vee Geens and Dee Ess.

Taumarunui Weekend

Sat-Sun 5-6 Dec 2020. Scribe: Dave Scoullar

On Saturday five Taumarunui TC members joined our five to climb Mt Hikurangi, near Taumarunui. This 771m mountain is a landmark and in spite of its shape is not a volcano but still an interesting and steep climb. We began on a farm track and towards the top passed through bush to emerge at a trig. It was a bit cloudy but the views were still amazing and we were impressed by the many totara trees. The return trip took 5.5hrs.

That evening at the Manunui camp ground we enjoyed a Christmas BBQ with the TTC and provided a cake marking the 10th year we have had combined tramps with them.

On Sunday ten TTC club members took us to the Motutara Scenic Bush Reserve near the town for an 8km off-track walk. We started in pine forest and once we got into the bush dominated by tawa it was mainly downhill to the start of an old milling tram track and stream that took us out to farmland and the Forgotten Highway. This walk took 6.5hrs. Another terrific visit to Taumarunui.

On trip: Helen Atkinson, Esther Williams, Dorothy Symes, Peter Finucane and Dee Ess.

Tupapakurua Falls

Wed 2 Dec 2020. Leader/scribe: Bruce Thomas

A fine Wednesday after two weeks cancelled due to crook weather. The track to Tupapakurua Falls is off Fishers Road behind National Park. The first half hour is very good: flat to undulating to a lookout facing west, then descending to the falls. Buckets of gravel were parked beside the track to encourage passers-by to carry one down to recent track work - buckets of wet gravel are heavy!!

The track down through bush is good to the falls lookout but rough to the bottom of the falls. Half our group went right down and back to the lookout for lunch, with a steady climb out.

An extra for the day was a stop at Upokongaro to walk across the new bridge opened earlier in the day, then home to prepare for the club barbecue at 6pm. A good day with 17 people on the trip.

Pouakai Circuit

Sat 21 Nov 2020. Scribe: Dave Scoullar

Thirteen from our club joined eight from Stratford Tramping Club at the flash new Mangorei Rd car park for a romp around the Pouakai Range. Just 12 minutes up the board walk towards Pouakai Hut we turned off onto a ‘conservation’ track marked with blue discs and then sidled around the landscape, up and down over numerous small streams until we reached the remains of a WW2 plane crash site.

Four airmen died when their Oxford crashed on a training mission. The plane remained undiscovered for 32 years.

Eventually the track led us to join the Maude Track and from there we connected to the track which led past the tarns to Pouakai Hut and then down the seemingly endless board walk back to our vans. A thoroughly enjoyable seven-hour circuit in which we covered some 14km. Thanks to STC for their hospitality and particularly to their president John Simmons for guiding us.

Sky Waka

Sat 14 Nov 2020. Leader/scribe: Esther Williams

X Sky Waka (ski season over, open December) / X The Knoll / X Silica Springs (closed for maintenance) - but a big tick for Tama Lakes!!

Interesting plants, scenic lunch spot, lovely country with a clear Ruapehu, wonderful company and no pine trees. Those diverted for the alpine day: Esther, Sharron P, Beverly B, Pam P, Ross M, Adi G and Stan.

Mangaone Walkway

Wed 11 Nov 2020. Scribe, Cherry Channon

Snow, sleet and heavy rain was forecast on Mt Ruapehu, our first choice destination for today. Taranaki weather was similar so the best option was to head south. The Mangaone Walkway follows an old bush tramway track in low hill country through Kaitawa Scenic Reserve, east of Waikanae on the foothills of the Tararua Ranges. It is a peaceful trail through native bush with a few small stream crossings and abundant bird life. The original podocarp forest is now regenerating and many species of tree ferns, ground ferns and delicate ferns on tree trunks accompany the track and beyond.

At the southern end we lunched beside the picturesque Waikanae River. The area has been extensively developed with native planting and an easy access pathway from the carpark to the river. Nine trampers enjoyed perfect weather so the Mangaone Walkway proved to be an excellent choice today.

Stock Tunnel

Sat-Sun 7-8 Nov 2020. Leader/scribe: Shane Mcculloch

Eight trampers set out after a three-hour drive, and two hours later we came to the mail box carved into the papa - used by long-ago settlers for their mail. After a left turn onto the old Matemateaonga track and a quick lunch at the old house site, we headed for the valley below. The track was in good condition but with some mud. The valley still had large areas of grass with easy walking, but the creeks were a mission - not that they were deep, it was the steep banks that were difficult.

We found the tunnel hidden away in the bush and sloshed to the other side but could find no good camp sites, so returned - with one nameless tramper slipping face-first into the mud. We found an old house site, judging by the trees and daffodils. It even had a fresh water spring. After a wet night we headed back the same way.

Waitotara to Waverley Beach

Wed 28 Oct 2020. Leader/scribe Graham Ellett

The farmer greeted us at Hawken Road - she recognised some faces and wished us an enjoyable day. On down the DOC track alongside the river, where whitebaiters were getting wet in the creek but not catching much. We crossed the creek using a plank to stay dry (George is not a good swimmer), and continued to Waitotara river mouth. We noticed about 15 seagull nests, most with three eggs. Seagulls normally nest in sand hills – maybe these were fully booked.

Large totara stumps were seen buried in the sand, before we scrambled up a second creek to the cliff tops, then over a rough paddock with electric fences. Waverley beach buildings and the new windmills were visible.

We returned to the beach for lunch and continued inland over sand dunes past Tapuarau lagoon. We followed pink ribbons across the swamp, the eight trampers arriving back surprisingly dry. Some discussed how far they walked, others said “what a great day - and for all just six dollars.”

Ruahine Circuit

Sat-Sun 24-25 Oct 2020. Scribe: Dave Scoullar

A late withdrawal saw the Labour Weekend trip down to just two eager trampers who headed off in a private car, destination Rangi car park in Ruahine Forest Park. Up the Deadman’s Track in low cloud, we lunched just beyond Mangahuia (1583m), eying the roof of our destination, Triangle Hut, far below.

Soon we were away again along the Whanahuia Range and dropping 800m down a long ridge to the Oroua River and the hut which was empty: 12.2km in 6 hours. An hour later a single male tramper arrived. With six bunks available, there was no overcrowding as was being experienced in other huts that holiday weekend.

Next day it was a grunt back up the ridge in low cloud and light winds. By the time we reached Rangi Hut for a late lunch it was sunny and very pleasant. There were a number of family groups at the hut, some on day trips and others overnighting. As we hadn’t booked a bed and the hut was full, the decision was made to carry on and return home that night. Day 2 was also completed in six hours.

On trip: Mark Sutherland and Dee Ess.

New Waiinu Road

Thur 22 Oct 2020. Leader/scribe Graham Ellett

“Will it ever happen?” Seventeen met at Waiinu beach and walked along to the high viewpoint before dropping down to the beach. A stop at earthquake point showed the fault line where tectonic plates have moved, lifting up many fossils and ancient stones. Down past the marae site that sadly burned just before Christmas 2019. Snapper Rock (Nukumaru Rock) was empty of fishermen, being low tide. Heading inland, we were amused to find a burnt-out car that had been lifted up on a low pine tree – I’m sure farm worker Gavin may still be laughing.

Then down a race past a new shell rock quarry to the railway for lunch. It’s here the new road will begin, through the old Nukumaru station railway land, past Lake Waikato and many more kilometres down Pearse’s boundary to Waiinu beach. We all enjoyed a warm and interesting day.

Mana Island

Sat 17 Oct 2020. Scribe, Esther Williams

Damp drizzle draped the Kapiti-Plimmerton coast and off-shore islands. More moisture awaited on Mana Island's grassy tracks. We were warmly welcomed by the rangers and their young son.

Health and Safety and dead mice. Mana has the record for the most mice caught in a night in a water trap: over 200. We enjoyed the escarpment seeing geckos large and small under the corrugated shelters. On the top, starry white clematis draped bushes, large white linus flowers brightened the grass. Muehlenbeckia lined the route. Wonderful to witness the astounding growth after many volunteering winter weekends in the ‘90s planting seedlings and flaxes. Birds seen and heard: tui, kawau/shag, fantail, pukeko, kakariki and finally, near the shore, a pair of takahē. We had seen sign - some of the 6m poo they eject daily. A bouncy vessel crossing back to Mana Marina, a coffee at Mana Shopping Centre and we happily headed home.

(Note: Takahē mostly eat plants, and they have a very fibrous diet. They can produce 7–9 metres of poo each day. A row of takahē droppings is called a latrine. From Science Learning Hub – Ed)

Tutuwai Hut circuit

Sat-Sun 10-11 October 2020. Scribe: Dave Scoullar

This circuit trip in the eastern Tararua began at Walls Whare, near Carterton. We crossed the long swing bridge over the Waiohine River and ascended a steep spur, climbing some 500m before the track flattened out, and then dropped to historic Cone Hut by the Tauherenikau River.

Wandering along the riverbank, we reached the 20-bunk Tutuwai Hut in four hours and were pleased to find ourselves the first residents. However, it soon filled with a total of 24 for the night. Helen remarked on the amount of flowering clematis we had seen.

Day two began with a steep climb over Reeves peak (899m) past the plaque marking the centre of NZ and then dropping down to the Waiohine River and the carpark in 4.5hrs. We lunched at Coal Stream, just before the long swing bridge.

Apart from a cold wind over Reeves, it was good weather all weekend and we were surprised at how dry the tracks were — good enough for sandal-wearers though none had the foresight to wear them. The eight Tararua trekkers were: MarkS, ShaneW, CherryC, TraceyH, MauraS, HelenA, AlanT and DaveS.

Puketawa Track

Sat 3 Oct 2020. Leader/scribe: Bruce Thomas

Seven Taumarunui club members met our ten at Raetihi, before continuing to Pakihi Rd and another 2km to Dillons Road. Although open to the public, the track is on private property with a box for koha. The track is well-formed and very well marked, being a loop uphill through bush to the open top giving great 360deg views. Then back down through bush to a clearing with tables, drinking water, toilet. After lunch there we zig-zagged back to the gate.

Later, Chris Jones of Raetihi led us on a guided walk behind the Raetihi swimming pool, starting just north of the garage. We followed the river under the road bridge and continued through the cemetery. This track is a work in progress and will keep getting better. Not a hard day, but a good one.

Sledge Track

Wed 30 Sept 2020. Leader/scribe: Dave Scoullar

The Wednesday Wanderers’ first visit to the Sledge Track for 14 months coincided with a lovely spring day. The track was reasonably dry. The Toe Toe Loop was completed in 6.5hrs with half our group also taking in the Platinum Mines Loop. The absence of wind was appreciated.

On the trek in beside the Kahuterawa Stream we came across a distressed duckling but no sign of mum. There wasn’t anything we could do for it and it was nowhere to be seen on our return.

On trip: BruceT, GrahamS, AlanL, SallyG, HelenA, GaryM, SuzanneR, DickM, InaD, GeorgeN, JulietK and DaveS.

Castle Rock

Sat 26 Sept 2020. Scribe: Fred Verschoor

Castle Rock turnoff is situated on SH1 north-east of Waiouru. We had fine weather but a very strong wind. A steady climb took us up the four-wheel drive track. Both mountains Ngauruhoe and Ruapehu were gleaming in full splendour, covered in snow with breaktaking views. We descended into beech forest which was flickering like glitter in the sunlight. The distinctive forest aroma was great, but we saw no evidence of bird life.

A steady climb through a good forest track brought us to Castle Rock, 1050m above sea level and appropriately named with its resemblance to a castle. But the wind was so strong that we sought a sheltered spot for lunch, before heading back the same way.

I would recommend this trek: the views are fantastic and the countryside different to anything I have ever seen before. A good day for the 12 trampers, led by Adrian P.

Sutherland’s Reserve

Thur 24 Sept 2020. Leader/scribe: Dorothy Symes

Fifteen trampers were undeterred by threatening rain. Up Durie Hill and into Turakina Valley, destination Sutherland’s bush reserve. There are three tracks within the 60 hectares. We took the outer trail, easy walking but with care over slippery tree roots. The tracks and the short inner trails are maintained by Forest & Bird volunteers. Maori kumara storage pits are a feature.

Lunch was followed with a 3km drive to a second reserve where we craned necks looking up at very tall, straight totara trees. Two very pleasant walks, and we were back by 3pm and didn’t get wet.

Powell/Holdsworth Trig

Sun-Mon 20-21 Sept 2020. Leader/scribe: Dave Scoullar

This unscheduled overnighter in the Tararua attracted seven. The trip was moved forward a day because of the forecast and caught the wave beautifully with back to back sunny days. It took 4hr 15min to reach Powell hut from the Mt Holdsworth car park which was ominously packed with cars. However, the new 32-bunk hut wasn’t overtaxed which was just as well as we’d taken a punt and hadn’t booked beds.

After a rest break we headed through patches of snow to the large steel trig on top of Mt Holdsworth (1470m) in uncharacteristically almost calm conditions, for panoramic views of the tops. Next day was clear but windy and we headed down at 7am, reaching the van in 3hr 15min. For the record, the stretch from the hut to Mountain House Shelter has 70 flights of stairs and 530 steps — tiring to climb but fast descending.

Four of the seven hadn’t been this way before so it was an excellent introduction to the range. On trip: CherryC, TerryK, TraceyH, SueG, InaD, MarilynM and DaveS.

Six Discs Track

Wed 16 Sept 2020. Leader/scribe: Dick Mitchell

The weather was fine for the 15 trampers on this trip. Even though the initial walk across the open paddocks was muddy, in the bush the track was good. Up the first section of the Waiopehu Ridge at a comfortable pace which included a morning tea break, then off to the left and on to the Six Discs Track leading to the South Ohau.

Muddy sections were negotiated with no problems then a pleasant lunch on the banks of the Ohau. We were joined briefly by a young trio heading up river to the South Ohau Hut. Walked out along the lower track which follows the river and back to the vans. On the way home Dave Scoullar tried to find the liquorice shop in Levin but we were frustrated by various road closures. However ice creams at the Honey Shop were excellent.

Mangawhio/Kaimanuka Crossover

Wed 9 Sep 2020. Scribe: Kathy O’Donnell

This crossover tramp through the Waitotara valley, starting from L Mangawhio and the Kaumanuka Track, was a popular one with 27 booking in. The logistics were tricky for leader Adrian Pike, and an extra car was needed. The car travellers walked to the crossover meeting point and then returned with the group.

Some were familiar with the track and with a bit of bush-bashing found the path to an old homestead. One group reached the lunch point well before the other, and headed off to the old homestead and the track back to the valley. We experienced a variety of terrain, from easy farm tracks to muddy forestry paths, as well as forestry track. With the large numbers a lot of comradeship - and map work - was the order of the day.

Tree Huggers

Wed 2 Sept 2020. Leader/scribe: Sandra Rogers

Pryce’s Rahui Reserve, Bruce Park Loop tracks and Mangaweka Scenic Reserve were well worth the trip, with a variety of very large trees. Pryce’s Rahui Reserve could do with a tidy up, but the other two were fine. Light rain in the morning turned to sun in the afternoon. We had twelve trampers – and thanks to John Baxter for driving.

Gourmet Meal Trip

Sat-Sun 29-30 Aug 2020. Leader/scribe: Dave Scoullar

Our annual gourmet meal trip returned to Maketawa Hut in Egmont National Park, a short walk from the North Egmont Visitor Centre. We began with a wander up the Puffer Track in drizzly weather, then down to the hut with only one other resident, Taranaki man John. DS went for a 90 minute wander up a gully but the others were happy to hunker down by the fire.

The dinner, with a Mad Hatter’s theme, was scrumptious, as always. This is what you stay-at-homers missed … Nuts, chippies, prawn cocktails, dhal chicken with rice, Asian salad, broccoli, ambrosia and pineapple lump fudge.

By Sunday morning the rain was replaced by sun and the mountain was clear. We opted to return the same way, enjoying the magnificent mountain vista. Reaching North Egmont early, there was time for a walk around the Ngatoro Loop Track, with fine specimens of pahautea (mountain cedar), before proceeding to Stratford for lunch. Homeward bound, a diversion in Hawera took in the amazing Elvis Presley Museum.

The happy diners were: JulietK, EstherW, SandraR, JohnB, JulieK, JennieA, DorothyS and DaveS.

Waverley/Patea

Thur 27 Aug 2020 . Leader/scribe: Sandra Rogers

The expected low tide turned out to be higher than usual. We walked along Waverley Beach and had a look at the caves on the right. The tide was too high to get around the headland and the alternative way down to ’Long Beach’ was too slippery - but a pleasant walk along the clifftop and back through the village.

Off to Patea Beach for another enjoyable walk, this time along the beach for about 1 km, until once again we couldn’t get around a headland. Our final walk was along the Patea River with its interesting information panels, then off to the shop for enormous ice-creams. One van and one car were used for the 13 trampers.

North Egmont

Sun 23 Aug 2020. Leader/scribe: Bruce Thomas

In rather damp Egmont weather, eleven set off from the Kaiauai carpark on Egmont Road and up the Ram Track - pretty rough to start and big pools of water to negotiate. After some steep climbs, it levelled out and became easier going until the Veronica loop track intersection. A change of plan towards the visitor centre: our arrival coincided with a heavy downpour making early lunch a good idea.

After lunch it was off up the steps past the Camp-house and Ambury Monument to the Veronica track turnoff, doing the whole loop. Due to the diverse conditions we took the road back to van. It would be worth doing this trip in clear weather for the views we missed this time - but a good day regardless.

Atene Skyline

Wed 19 Aug 2020. Leader/scribe: Dave Scoullar

A wet day forecast, a challenging track and Covid Level 2 — maybe it was no mystery that only seven signed up. As it turned out, we only had a brief bit of drizzle and the track was in good shape, if a little greasy for the walk from the northern end of the Atene to the shelter for lunch. We returned the same way. A 15km, 6hr 40min leg stretch enjoyed by all.

Tongariro Alpine Crossing

Sun 16 Aug 2020. Leader/scribe: Esther Williams

The 17 trampers were asked at Station Park Station café afterwards, “What surprised you?"

"I googled crampons. I had no idea. Even after putting them on backwards, I worked it all out with some great instructions. Furthermore there are left and right feet, and packs have a loop for carrying an ice axe."

Perfectly clear vistas including Taranaki. Clear, calm conditions surprised the Scottish contingent. The NZ winter trip proved better than the summer day months ago.

"We saw a special place made more so by a blanket of snow."

"I'd forgotten how hard the steps down from Ketetahi are at the end of a long day."

One tramper carried sustaining coconut-rice drink. Aching leg muscles surfaced a day later. Five handfuls of epsom salts in a hot bath cured the condition.

"Third time doing the Crossing. It's great in all weathers but today was stunning."

Scotts Ferry Landing

Thur 13 Aug 2020. Leader/scribe: Errol Christiansen.

Twelve set off for Scotts Ferry Landing, 20 km west of Bulls - in our own vehicles due to 'alert level 2'. A chilly and hazy start but calm - no wind. We threaded our way from Parewanui Rd through the dunes to the coast, observing some terns on the way.

The smell and the colour of the sea and a perfect winter’s day made this a most enjoyable outing. We walked north along the beach, with a welcome lunch stop after 6 km, plenty of large driftwood trunks providing seating. The salty air was fresh and exhilarating, the sea quiet and untroubled. We were alone, crunching over endless shells - pipi, cockle, tuatua - on low-tide firm sand.

Returning in small groups, we noticed horse riders and a surf-caster. Satisfied with 12.5km done, we found give-away ‘reject’ pumpkins at a roadside bin, and ended with a stop at Mothered Goose.

Harakeke Forest, Whitiau Reserve

Wed 12 Aug 2020. Leader/Scribe: Rozy Rawlinson

A morning dampened with drizzle and uncertainty of Covid rearing its ugly head again. Started with a short foray into Pauri mountainbike park with views of the tranquil bush-fringed private lake and elegant black swans. Next, the main walk starting at Pritchard farm boundary of Harakeke Forest, following twisting bike trails through soft pine needles underfoot, enveloped in a yellow glow of pollen dust. White basket fungi, deer spoor and golden acacia blossom led the way to an expansive viewpoint of Whangaehu river mouth and beyond to waves breaking on the distant shore. Wind-sculpted sand-dunes were traversed and the sun broke through into a glorious day, lighting up golden wiwi and sedges in a vast landscape of waving ripples and shifting sandhills. Winding on through a narrow gravel pit and skirting along steep cliff tops to the off-roaders’ playground - the "mud-bath", then plunging back into cool, dark pine forest to complete an 18km circuit.

An excellent day for sixteen.

Back Track/Te Araroa Trail

Wed 5 Aug 2020. Leader/scribe: Graham Sutcliffe

From the Kahuterawa Recreation Area it’s a short walk to Black Bridge where Back Track starts. This was a former road closed in the 1960s. It’s a steady climb, mainly through native bush but with some open farmland allowing good views over the Manawatu. The track eventually leads to Burtton’s Track using a series of metalled forestry roads.

On Back Track we passed the halfway sign for the Te Araroa Trail, (1500km – quite impressive) and for lunch we stopped at a purpose-built shelter for TAT walkers, Motorimu. This has sleeping platforms, on-site picnic table, rubbish bin and superloo by a freshwater stream. This was a good day out, enjoyed by 24 trampers.

Old Coach Road

Sun 19 Jul 2020. Leader/scribe: Adrian Pike

This tramp is a favourite and for 20 trampers and four from Taumarunui club, an opportunity for a crossover. In beautiful weather the Ohakune and Horopito groups set off. Pristine native forest provided a thick canopy and the distinctive cobbled road and Taonui Viaduct offered the perfect spot for ‘smoko’. Our groups crossed between the Rochfort sign and High Points before continuing on to Hapuawhenua Heritage Viaduct for lunch in glorious sun. Crossing this high curved steel structure is always exhilarating, with views of the new Hapuawhenua Viaduct. This trail is also popular with mountain bikers.

We explored the old Hapuawhenua tunnel, particularly the workers’ recesses in the tunnel walls, and admired sweeping views of the Otiranui Range from the Dilemma footpath sign. Five and half happy hours and 13.75km later, by popular demand and in the interests of passenger wellbeing, the Ohakune chocolate éclair shop was invaded. A memorable day, enjoyed by all.

Ngarino Road

Thur 16 Jul 2020. Leader/scribe: Don Gordon

Following weather-enforced cancellations of two Thursday tramps in a row, we all looked forward to a good day out at Ngarino Road. Located 19 km north from Wanganui on SH3, the Ford farm is an easy/moderate tramp on flat country. The conditions were south-west wind and forecast afternoon rain.

The tramp takes you over the rail line on to Handley road then on to the coast north of Kai Iwi. We sheltered behind boxthorn for both morning tea and lunch. The rain caught up with us on the way back to the vans but failed to spoil a good day out for 19 happy trampers.

Alice Nash Memorial Heritage Hut

Wed 8 July 2020
Scribe: Adrian Pike
Table Flat Road / Petersons Road – Ruahine Forest Park
With questionable weather conditions and rainfall predicted to exceed 30mm for Levin and the Tararua Ranges, the tramp to the Kohitere Forest was rescheduled to the Alice Nash Memorial Hut in the Ruahine Forest Park, where only 8mm of rain was expected. In cool, damp, misty and drizzly conditions we set off for the hut from the car park at the end of Petersons Road. The track, which is a former logging road, is in good condition and goes through beech forest and over a very attractive timber arched bridge constructed in 1961. It took about 45 minutes to reach the hut where we had smoko and enjoyed views of the Oroua Forest. Following smoko we walked the track to the Tunupo Trig for an hour before turning back to the hut for lunch. Snow patches on the forest floor created a most picturesque and fairy-tale scene. Even though the weather conditions were not ideal, it was a most enjoyable day for us all, particularly those who had never done this tramp before. The intrepid trampers were – George Neil, Esther Williams, Barbara Francis, Margie Campbell, Bruce Thomas, Terry Kennedy, Dave Scoullar, Maralyn Ruby, Allison Suter, Mike Cole and Adrian Pike.

Mt Taranaki Loop

Wed 24 June 2020
Scribe: Dave Scoullar
Midwinter, early start, a dull day forecast — so few will turn up for the 13km loop walk in Egmont National Park, right? Wrong! Twenty-three people voted with their boots and were treated to a neat day out.
The tramp began at Stratford Mountain House and proceeded along the track towards Dawson Falls, diverted up the Enchanted Walk to the plateau and then down to Waingongoro Hut for lunch. Then it was back along the track to the vans, with a diversion by about half the troops along the Patea Loop Walk. We encountered low cloud and mist, surprisingly mud-free tracks and it wasn’t too cold with no need for raincoats.
The day ended in a very civilised fashion with hot drinks at the Stratford Mountain House. Cheers!

Whakapapa – Wairere Stream

Sat 20 Jun 2020
Scribe: Bruce Thomas
We arrived at the near-empty car park at 9am to meet Peter Panton and his group from Taumarunui and Peter Finucane from Ohakune.
We were soon on our way up the Ridge Track and then beyond into very colourful alpine growth. A spot sheltered from the cold breeze, with clear views out to the west, provided a welcome stop for morning tea. We then followed a low bluff-type formation, veering left all the way and down into a gully with a small stream crossing. Up and over to the next gully with a fairly steep downhill to cross the fast flowing Wairere Stream. There were some wet feet this time but it landed us at the perfect lunch spot. After lunch we followed the stream down to Taranaki Falls and out via the lower track to complete a really good day.
Our group was – Bruce T, Dorothy S, Margaret C, Rozy R, Brigitte H, Stuart K, Anne-marie H, Margie C, Kim W, Shane W, Margret M, and visitors Mathilde Gaudez and Maralyn Ruby.

Manawatu Gorge

Wed 17 Jun 2020
Scribe: Bruce Thomas
The plan was a crossover on the gorge track but some last-minute information that maintenance work was being done and a section of the track was closed threw a large spanner in the works. With two full vans plus one car we went anyway. One group to each end, both to go as far as possible, have lunch and then turn round.
The Ballance Rd end group were keen to get started, some had not been to that end before and others had forgotten how much uphill there was. The idea was to go to the intersection where an alternative track heads out to the gorge road. This was much further than we thought which was good on this day and was where we met the work party. After a brief friendly discussion we carried on out to the road and back around to the van in light drizzle. To finish the day was a walk round the loop track with a detour to the huge totara. A short day but still a good one for all participants.

Tararua Plane Crash

Sun 14 June 2020
Scribe: Dave Scoullar
The visit to a plane crash site and grave near Kaipororo trig in the northern Tararua attracted a big turnout — 16 from our club and 10 from Hutt Valley Tramping Club. First task was to cross the Makakahi River which resulted in wet feet for many. Then steeply up a logging track onto a marked track through beech forest and uncut bush, eventually breaking out onto the flat tussock-covered summit of Mt Kaiparoro (808m).
After lunch there at the trig and enjoying the views of the main range on this clear, sunny day, we doubled back for about 300m and then headed south down a gloomy but well-marked spur to the wreckage of an Airspeed Oxford NZ2124 which crashed while flying from Masterton to Ohakea on 5 July 1952.
A massive search failed to find the plane until deerstalkers stumbled on it more than a year later, on 24 July 1953. The body of the pilot and only occupant, RNZAF Flying officer David Leary, aged 27, and an experienced pilot, is buried at the site with a small marker.
The return was uneventful, completing a round trip of five hours and another enjoyable combined trip with a fellow tramping club
Footnote: The site is 633m south and 116m west of the trig. This was the last of the six Oxford aircraft to go missing in New Zealand. Like three others before it, NZ2124 crashed in the Tararua.

Ahoroa Ridge via "Top of the Moe"

Wed 10 Jun 2020
Scribe: Tracey Hooper
Twenty-three trampers: Being such a large group to travel along a narrow bony slippery ridge, we decided to try and halve the group by suggesting an alternative, to walk further out the Mataimoana Road, where more pleasant walking conditions and views could be enjoyed. Nine folk took this option, leaving 14 to take the more adventurous tramp that had been advertised. Basil led the group straight down a ridge, which steadily took us down to the Tawhiti Stream, then plummeted even further when we reached the expected "end of the world". Sitting having lunch a dog then hunter came along, an elderly man who loved the area and had just hung a sheep in a tree that he had shot. Basil had heard about this fellow and they caught up with bush gossip. We reached the stream then started the climb up to reach the Moe road. The man and his friendly dog had already caught up with us, the sheep on his back. We met the other group who had kindly moved the vans to meet us so we did not have to walk the road – five hours including lunch. Leaders: Basil and Tracey Hooper

Marton Sash & Door Trail

Sat 6 Jun 2020
Scribe: Dorothy Symes
We did it again, the Marton Sash & Door trail, popular with our day-tripping weekenders. We set off at 7.30 am on a slightly overcast day with only a brief sprinkle of rain, ideal for the 22km track in a lovely part of Central North Island on the edge of Tongariro National Park. It is accessed from SH4 on to Erua Road, with parking for two vans 500 metres from the main road. We had 22 takers and divided into two groups, heading in opposite directions from the carpark. Van group number one was co-led by Bruce and myself, the second group led by Dick.
The track is named for the joinery company that manufactured window sashes and doors from the timbers milled there. An easy to moderate walk, but it’s easy to go off-track if not watching out! The track is maintained by volunteers and is in good condition, apart from the signage which could do with some attention.
Group Two headed north-west through the forest, past an old forestry hut and following the main trunk rail. It’s easy to miss the signs there, same green as the foliage and hardly legible. Both groups had good maps. The second group crossed the bridge on Erua Road, veered down to the left and walked up alongside the gravel road to a wide track with views out over the Waimarino Stream. At the top of this track it was a right turn out and on to the gravel road. Another right turn and down to the first left and up about 500 metres, brought us to the entrance to MS&D trail. Soon we were into picturesque native bush, passing a toilet and through an old tramway with remains of sleepers and rails. It’s worthwhile to stop at the interpretation boards and learn of the area’s fascinating history.
Eventually both groups met for lunch together at the railway line, before continuing on their respective ways. Surprisingly, each arrived at the carpark at almost the same time. I felt it was a good and worthwhile experience - thanks to drivers and leaders. A great day !!!

Mangawhio Lakes – Waitotara

Wed 3 Jun 2020
Scribe: Graham Sutcliffe
This is a great walk and on this occasion we accessed from Lakes Road. The track is in good condition and the walk combines forestry roads and bush tracks. Since last visit there have been more forestry roads in places and subsequently more logging which gave the area a different feel. Weather was fine and warm and the 21 out on this excursion had a really good day. Those attending were: Alison Suter, Allan Loader, Bruce Thomas, David Scoullar, Dorothy Symes, Esther Williams, Fred Verschoor, George Neil, Helen Atkinson, Jiri Krivnek, Juliet Kojis, Linda Hart, Malcolm Hutchins, Marilyn McGlone, Mike Miller, Robert Lakeland, Shane Wilson, Suzanne Roberts, Victoria Kay, and leaders Graham Sutcliffe and John Baxter.

Wilkies Pools and Kapuni Track

Sat 30 May 2020
Scribe: Sandra Rogers
Starting off with a clagged-in chilly day, the weather cleared to a cloudy day and not so cold. This is a lovely easy walk through goblin forest. Wilkies Pools are a series of waterfalls. Very pretty. The first half of the track is very civilised, but the return loop is an easy tramping track.
On the trip were Sandra Rogers, John Baxter, Kate Jones, Dorothy Symes, Ben Morris, Paul Lowe, Sharron Prouse, Carolyn Shingleton, Jennie Anton, Linda Johnstone plus her grandson Eli Kuehne.

Mangaturuturu Hut

Wed 27 May 2020
Scribe: Bruce Thomas
Our usual pre-Christmas trip to the hut didn’t happen last year due to lousy weather conditions. Then came lockdown, but we finally made it.
We opted to circumnavigate The Cascades on the way in. Once we found the start of the detour it was an interesting change of scenery down through the bush and then along the adjacent gully to meet the normal track just before the hut. One reason for the trip was a hut clean but the hut was in excellent condition so only a bare minimum was needed.
After lunch in the sun it was a pleasant trip out via the normal route. The weather was perfect, the stream levels about normal but there were a few wet feet, plus Shane’s most unexpected dunking on the way in.
A good day. On the trip were Bruce, Adrian, Esther, Shane W, Dave and Juliet, Barbara F and Suzanne.

Bottles Track Exploration

Sat-Sun 24-25 May 2020
Scribe: Dave Scoullar
With the weekend tramp cancelled, Mark Sutherland suggested we run our own trip, nothing too strenuous. The two of us decided to go to the eastern Tararua, maybe Roaring Stag Hut or Herepai Hut. A large number of cars in the parking area suggested others were also anxious to escape from lockdown. It was such a nice day we opted for Herepai as we would have time to go up onto the open tops.
We got to the hut in just under three hours to find two possum trappers in residence. Conditions were excellent to wander for an hour above the hut onto Herepai (1125m) and we turned around at the lonely cross for Stan Evans (wonder what his story is?). Getting back we found a party of eight from Wellington had arrived and the hut was a lively place.
Next day we opted to return via the Bottles track which begins 15 minutes back down the track from the hut. I had seen a report by Manawatu Tramping and Ski Club and they had provided a map of their route, which was helpful. The track was overgrown and had only a few informal markings so we needed to stop frequently for corrections.
The track led north to an unnamed stream which we followed down to a fork and then up the main stream for a few hundred metres before going off at right angles at the toe of a spur leading to point 655. Again there were occasional ribbons or blazes but also some time looking around. Eventually we started to drop down and came out onto the main track five minutes from the swing bridge just before the car park.
We got back in three and a half hours and enjoyed knocking off a route that I have always been curious about.

Mikimiki Walkway – Eastern Tararua Foothills

Sat 23 May 2020
Scribe: Adrian Pike
Under Covid-19 Level 2 conditions, eight intrepid trampers hopped into the van and departed from the club rooms at 7.00am, with an additional four following in Anne Condon’s car. With a courtesy stop at Eketahuna and a pleasant drive along Mikimiki Road, we arrived at the car park at 10am. In cool cloudy, partly sunny conditions and with no recent rain to speak of, the track conditions were good.
With 7.5km completed through the regenerated native forest and a hill climb of 568 metres we arrived at the Kiriwhakapapa Road campsite. This is a lovely spot with an ablution block and large dining shelter where a big wooden table and bench seats have been securely fixed to the concrete floor. This provided a welcome rest opportunity and it was good to put our packs down for a moment.
After lunch we started the return tramp by taking a small detour through the beautiful and majestic redwood forest before rejoining the old bush tram track again. By 4pm we were all back at the car park, having completed 15.40km or, in Margie Campbell’s case, 32,586 steps. Following a quick change of clothes we were back on the road and returned to the club room some three hours later. A number of trampers had never done this walk before and expressed their appreciation and contentment on completion. A great day was had by trampers Marilyn McGlone, Helen Atkinson, Barbara Francis, Fred Verschoor, Linda Hart, Brigitte Hund, Margie Campbell, Chris Rothman, Anne Condon, Andrea Bunn, Helen Adams and Adrian Pike.

Wairere Stream Circuit

Wed 20 May 2020
Scribe: Dave Scoullar
The first Wednesday trip for two months and it was a joy to get out in brilliant sunshine in Tongariro National Park with very few other people around. Starting at Whakapapa Village, we went up to the end of the Ridge Track and then continued off-track around the flank of the mountain until we spotted the Wairere Stream below.
The team dropped to the stream for lunch and then wandered along the banks, admiring the way the stream has carved its way through the rocks, until reaching the RMT at Taranaki Falls. We went down to the falls and continued along the lower track back to the vans to complete five hours of leisurely tramping. All 14 of us agreed it was so good to be back.
On trip: Juliet, George, Esther, Marilyn, Suzanne, Robert, Bruce, Helen, BarbaraF, Adrian, Diane, Jiri, Cherry and Dave S.

Matemateonga Track

Wed 25 Mar 2020 Scribe: Marilyn McGlone

With an early start (dare I say 5am!) including many yawns we stumbled into the vans. Six of us were going no farther than Omaru Hut while a group of nine were continuing on.
The walk in to Omaru Hut was enjoyable as we meandered through beautiful bush, with lush ferns gently brushing apart as we moved along. I think all appreciated the cooler temperature of 19˚C. We had morning tea at arrival and said our goodbyes and take-cares to those who were tramping on to a five day adventure.
Our small group decided to bush-crash up to a ridge beside the hut which was to offer us a view towards Ruapehu (Baz had mentioned this little side trip to fill our time before lunch). We shared some giggles as we climbed through supplejack and over and under various obstacles. Unfortunately we were not rewarded with much as there was heavy cloud cover, but it was fun to go off track even if it included a slip and graze or two on the steep way down. I wonder who that was?
After lunch, we set a smart pace back to the van ably led by Terry with his long legs--- us gals taking two steps to his one.
Stopped in Stratford for the traditional icecreams and home just after 5pm. A GREAT DAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
On the trip were John Cook, Margret McKinnon, Barbara Francis, Margie Campbell, Marilyn McGlone and Terry Mullins.

Dusky Track

Sun-Tue 22-24 Mar 2020
Scribe: Lyneke Onderwater
The Dusky had been on my list for many years. Packed and ready to go in 2017 the weather forecast changed the plan to an eight-day trip in the Gillespie area. When my work conference was going to be in Invercargill this year, it was time to try again. Partner Adrie is not a super-experienced tramper, but strong and fit, so he came along on this trip.
We started the Dusky Track on Sunday 22 March, a day earlier than planned due to a wet forecast for the planned first day. The packs were heavy with 10 days’ worth of food but we were excited to be on our way. I chatted to some hunters/divers/fishers on the Manapouri boat who were on an all-male-friends trip to Deep Cove (Doubtful Sound). They had chartered a bus just for themselves as they had loads of gear. Some friendly chats, some help and some begging resulted in a ride on the bus to the start of the Dusky.
There had been a lot of rain the day before and the track was very wet, sometimes to the point of needing the orange markers to know where it actually was. I felt that we were in swamp 90% of the time, which probably we weren’t, but very wet it was! A lot of it was jumping from stump to stump holding onto trees, leaning on our poles and hoping that what we decided to land on was strong enough to support us. It wasn’t always; Adrie went in deep once and I slowly fell sideways in the wet mud. The scenery was wild and spectacular. There were many big waterfalls and, in one of the many lakes-with-trees that the track ran through, a whio. We were excited to see the hut, except that the track wasn’t going there! It was frustrating to find out that this ‘hut’ wasn’t the one we were headed for. It was a long and hard day, but spirits were high as we finally did reach Upper Spey Hut, where we were welcomed by a black weka. We slept like babies and felt justified to stay in bed a bit longer when it rained in the morning.

On Day 2 it rained and snowed to the point that it stayed on the ground. Firewood was non-existent, so hot drinks and dancing kept us warm. Four young people arrived around midday. They looked like drowned kittens, but were happy and cheerful. After some hot drinks and food they went on their merry way up to the next hut, through the rain and no doubt snow once they headed up to Centre Pass.
The next day was dry but not that clear. We were slow to get up, but as we were getting ready to eat breakfast, we heard a helicopter. Adrie went outside and put his thumb up to the pilot to say we were all good. To his surprise it turned around and landed. The short story was that the lockdown was announced and the chopper could take us back to Manapouri at a commercial rate. It would be irresponsible to say no to this offer and three hours later we were helicoptered out through rain and mist. And so ended our Dusky 2020. Third time lucky maybe?

Mt Cook Tramping

Sun 15–Wed 25 Mar 2020.
Scribes : Sandra Rogers and John Baxter
15 March. We had a nice uneventful drive to the Petone Top 10 motor camp at Hutt Park for our first night’s adventure.
16 March. A lovely smooth ferry crossing in spite of the wind and predicted adverse weather. This time a night spent at the Rangiora Eco Holiday Campground. An adequate, but average stay.
17 March. A lovely walk along a long, winding, narrow metal road to Ryde Falls, via the Korimako Track, through stunning bush. A beautiful three-tier waterfall at the end. That night we were back at the Rangiora Eco Holiday Campground.
18 March. Off to Mt Cook Village. The flat land on the way seemed to stretch on forever. Stunning blue lakes with mountains in the background and the first covering of snow. Mt Cook looking pristine and sharp without a cloud in sight. Apparently first time in three weeks without a covering of cloud.
19 March. Hooker Valley tramp today. This had been on my bucket list for years. Four hours return on a nice flat walking track to start our Mt Cook adventure. This began from the end of the road and included three swing bridges, which took us to a lovely glacier-fed lake. Again, stunning scenery of mountains and lakes. Mt Cook had an amazing lenticular cloud over it. Clear skies, but cloud rolled in as we returned back to our accommodation. Later we did the Governors Walk, uphill through nice bush.
20 March. We walked the Bowen Walk and the Glenco Walk, both pleasant with good views. In the afternoon five went on the boat trip to the Tasman Glacier, sighting icebergs that had broken off the glacier, some blue and some clear. Three of us others did a lovely walk with lots of steps to a great view of the Tasman Lake and Glacier. Then onto the Blue Lake and a second lake, then onto a 4WD track running parallel to the lake, but with no lake view.
21 March. It rained. Off to do a walk at Twizel with the weather there looking decidedly better. No such luck. A browse around the shops and a coffee. Off to the salmon farm for a yummy chowder soup made from locally farmed salmon. After lunch we drove to the Clay Cliff, an amazing walk among towering shapes of all descriptions, some looking like gothic cathedrals. These reminded me of the Pinnacles near Ngawi.
22 March. Sealy Tarns was next on our list - 2200 steps up. Helen was the only one of our party that made it. We had wonderful valley and mountain views on the way up, then the weather clagged out. Some of us had a nice bush walk back to the village afterwards.
23 March. We kept hearing scary things about the coronavirus. Time to make a run for home, hoping we could change our ferry crossing before we were shut out. We were booked in for Thursday, but Wednesday was the cut-off date. Left Mt Cook at 5.30 am and drove nine hours to Picton. We managed to change our ferry booking to 2.30 am. The ferries had been extended to Friday, this we found out after we had changed our booking, but all we wanted to do was to get home. They came around and gave us a large card to hang off our inside van mirror, saying we needed ‘easy access’ - probably because of our age. (This was a ploy we had used to ‘jump the queue.’) This was bright pink card showing a bent-over figure with a walking stick. They obviously didn’t read the side of the van, saying Wanganui Tramping Club. We all had a good laugh over that, as we were probably the fittest on the boat.
24 March. An uneventful trip home, with no takeaways or coffee. All were closed, with the exception of petrol stations.
A fun trip that was enjoyed by all, with the usual amount of hilarity and banter. Thank you Jacky and Helen for a great trip. On the trip were Jacky Evans, Helen Atkinson, Sandra Rogers, John Baxter, Sandy Gibbard, June Wills, Jeanette Prier and Bev Sinclair.

Old Coach Road Tramp, Ohakune

Wed 18 Mar 2020
Scribe: Adrian Pike
Our walk started in glorious weather at the Marshall Road car park. Over the Dodge Bridge we went and then onto the remains of the cobblestoned Old Coach Road. The original road was built out of stone quarried from local sources nearby, and after a lovely walk, our group of seven soon entered the Hapuawhenua Tunnel which is blocked at one end by a purpose-made galvanised fence.
We turned left when leaving the tunnel and saw an impressive giant rimu on the way to view both the original and replacement Hapuawhenua viaduct structures. Both constructions are a testament to human engineering, particularly the remains of the original old Hapuawhenua Viaduct. This is a steel structure worth looking at. Finished in 1908, it is a testament to the skill of structural engineer Peter Seton Hay. An impressive feat of engineering considering all materials (structural steel etc) were brought in by man and horse and fabricated on site. It is also worth noting that in order to get the original viaduct structure completed in a timely fashion, workers were required to complete night shifts by lamplight! The current ‘new’ viaduct was completed in 1987 and is built from reinforced and pre-stressed concrete, a more resilient alternative to the old steel viaduct. It is a graceful and quite striking piece of engineering.
The track meanders along under a cool canopy of trees with vegetation periodically punctuated by excellent views of the new rail track and Ohakune. In the distance the Raeithi-Ohakune Road can be seen against the flat-topped Otiranui mountain range on the skyline. In glorious sunshine we chatted whilst enjoying our lunch on the track before returning again to the Marshall Road car park. This tramp is worth doing again and again, and is particularly recommended for new trampers or those wanting an easier walk. Raetihi’s Coach Cafe enjoyed the fruits of our customary ice cream stop. Trampers George Neil, Bruce Thomas, Sue Haden, Dick Mitchell, Marilyn McGlone, Esther Williams and Adrian Pike all had a thoroughly good tramp whilst enjoying the magnificent autumn weather.

Paparoa Track

Fri 13 - Wed 18 Mar 2020; Scribe: Margie Campbell

March 13th: Barbara Francis and I left Takaka at 10.30am, arriving Blackball at 4.30pm via Tapawera and Murchison. There’s a good cafe just south of Tapawera at a junction – it’s an older two-storey structure on your left which you can’t miss as you drive a wee way out of this very small town.

14th: We walked around Blackball village and chatted to various locals. Had coffee at Blackball Inn – nice peeps and nice accommodation; slightly cheaper than The Blackball Hilton. Colin Luff, at the Kereru Gallery, was very pleasant and had a Wanganui connection. We drove through to Greymouth, 25km away, to top up our supplies for the trip. There is a ‘Store’ at Blackball BUT not a lot of stuff and wouldn’t rely on it to have what you want. It reminded me of that ‘Store’ in Raetihi actually. I do, however, recommend the Blackball Salami from shop of the same name across the street from ‘The Store’. We bought a pack of slices for $9 – two packs actually but only used one – probably about 24 slices in it I think. Was certainly enough for the two of us with our other food supplies. Anyway the ‘Original’ flavour salami is yummy and will continue to purchase online! Another local product that we enjoyed was Kawatiri coffee, freshly ground and roasted on the West Coast and also available to purchase online. This is served at The Blackball Inn & Cafe.

15th: Departure day! Paparoa Shuttles departed 8.45am from right next door to The Blackball Hilton (the driver also had a Wanganui connection!). It was a half hour drive up to the start of the track, Smoke-ho Car Park. It is a metal, winding road which appears to have been widened, with the top portion still to be done. Mmmmm.... not sure about Tramping Club vans tackling it but, well.....
We were on the track by 9.15am and in perfect tramping conditions. The track climbs steadily to Ces Clark Hut (16 bunks) which is 4-5 hours away; and a total of 10.3km. The track passes through podocarp and beech forest and moss-covered trees, although little birdsong was heard. The first section of the track is the historic Croesus Track. The track varies in condition – rocky in places and smoother on other sections. It follows high above Blackball Creek with several one-person swing bridges to cross. It took us five hours including morning tea and lunch stops plus a side trip to Garden Gully – worth a visit. Leave your pack on the track at the sign. There is a miner’s hut here from the 1930s. This would be a nice spot for lunch/morning tea, or perhaps at the lovely little stream nearby. There is a loo here. You could also visit a sawmill battery in this area but we didn’t.
Arrival at the hut was, of course, a delight! A nice little hut sleeping 16 peeps but only seven of us in the ‘house’ for the night. This is an older hut; originally serving the original Croesus Track. The hut has been upgraded to Great Walks standard so is double-glazed with solar lighting and gas. The solar lighting extended to the front entrance (like a boot room) and scared the living daylights out of me as I quietly tried to get to the ablution block in the middle of the night – opened the door and a sensor light came on – wasn’t expecting that!! A further surprise was the meeting of the biggest possum I’ve ever seen on my way back from ablutions. Have to say it was a beauty, a real Coaster! It was a beautiful rich deep red/brown colour, huge. Wish I had my gun – LOL - reckon I could have got a nice hat and scarf out of it.
Lovely views from the deck and we spent a beautiful afternoon with blue skies and sunshine. As we supped our soup and munched our crackers we looked out over the Grey River Valley and Lake Brunner. We could also see the Alps, Mt Cook, Mt Rolleston and Mt Alexander, whilst wekas moved cheekily around us. The DOC ranger visited during the afternoon (from Moonlight Tops Hut) but no ranger in residence at Ces Clark Hut.

16th: Ces Clark to Moonlight Tops Hut (20 bunks) which in the blurb they say is three hours/9.7km away. Left at 10am in misty conditions - looked very much like we were headed for rain so donned our wet weather gear. We walked through alpine scrub and tussock the whole way so a lovely contrast from bush of the previous day and managed to get glimpses of the Grey River Valley to the east and out to Barrytown and the Tasman Sea to the west. Underfoot loose roughly cut rock but undulating terrain with steady ups and downs, however, not as steep as the previous day. And it didn’t rain; quite cold though.
Arrived Moonlight Tops Hut at 1.30pm so it took us 3.5 hours. But of course it was not a race for us – we had nice food stops and took lots of photos and just enjoyed our surroundings. Unlike Ces Clark, the DOC ranger was in residence – walking around with sanitizer and using it. A helicopter flew in and dropped off some workers and they had to sleep outside on the deck – weren’t even allowed to sleep in the common area. Crikey, there’d be many a person out there that would grumble at those sorts of conditions! Wouldn’t blame them actually - it was 3C the next morning. A group of very rowdy bikers were in residence but all were very pleasant. BUT, my super-powered ear plugs reduced their noise to an undulating hum! Ranger talk at this hut in the evening.

17th: Moonlight Tops Hut to Pororari Hut. Again as per the blurb this is 5-7 hours and 19.1km. Whew, big day! Left the hut at 8.45am in very windy and cold conditions – 3C the workers told us and we believed them! We started the day walking through mountain tussock – undulating terrain. Other than the wind it was fine with clear blue skies so marvellous views. This was ‘escarpment’ day which we were very excited about. And walking the escarpment wasn’t anywhere near as scary as we thought it might have been. Magnificent views from both sides of the escarpment. We also saw evidence of the coal seams in the rock faces along this portion of the track and as I understand it the same as the Pike River coal.
We descended gradually into lower bush. DOC were working on this portion of the track and there was much evidence of the recent storm and slip damage, with safety fences along some of the bluffs. Absolutely essential for bikers! We had a couple of good food stops. Chatted to the workers and a couple of bikers stopped for a chinwag. Lovely bush and more birdlife as we descended. We were pleased to reach our destination – a few character-building ‘ups’ to the Pororari Hut, which is located in the perfect spot for the beautiful sunset we experienced that evening. Stunning!

18th: Woohoo! 16k downhill to the carpark at Punakaiki they say. Four or five hours they say. Yeah well, mostly downhill with a few little ups (of course). We chugged along leaving Pororari at 9.30am and arriving at the carpark at 2.30pm, so yep five hours for us but that of course includes the usual: decent food stops and time of course to take the pics and admire our surroundings. More alpine tussock and then into the bush of beech, rata, matai, rimu etc. We also started to see ferns and orchids and fungi plus moss- covered trees, logs, rocks – very enchanting and quite different to the first day in the bush. A few bridges to cross over rocky rivers/streams and we came across some enormous rocks/boulders and of course as we descended we started to see limestone cliffs etc as we followed the upper Pororari River. A delightful waterfall along the way – sun in just the right place to make it sparkle. We started to notice more birdlife and even saw a black fantail. This is where you’ll see the damage caused by Gita (2018), Ita (2014) and Fehi (2018). And the nikaus made their presence felt. Easy walking but still a long day. The bikers exit on a different track. Walkers exit on the Pororari River Loop Track, which is beautiful.
Now, you’re at the carpark where, if you are using the Paparoa shuttle, is where you will be picked up. And if you’re like us you’ll get there early (shuttle pick up was 4pm for us) and so you’ll have time to go to the Punakaiki Tavern (which I would guesstimate is about 200m from the carpark). Here you can purchase the mandatory ice cream, take a loo stop and perhaps purchase a beer if you’re that way inclined. The lady there was very pleasant and didn’t mind that we were just using the loo and buying an ice cream.
It’s about an hour’s drive back to Blackball (we went via Greymouth to drop off a biker), with only three of us in the shuttle. All in all a fab four days. The diversity of the landscape makes for a very interesting tramp – each day provides its own charm and beauty. And we certainly feel blessed to have been able to do this Great Walk in the three weeks window between opening on 1st March and the closure due to the Corona Virus

Other info/observations re our trip that may be useful:
>Blackball Salami has some container type units at $140 per night (brand new), located at the back of the shop. She indicated to us that perhaps the price was a bit high and that they might reduce.
>The Blackball Inn - $45.00 pp twin. Spoke to the people here and saw the rooms – the rooms are very nice and the owners are very pleasant. Understand they used to own The Formerly Blackball Hilton. Menu looks good with a reasonable choice. We had Bangers (from Blackball Salami shop) & Mash which was very tasty, however, a few too many onions for our taste buds.
>The Formerly Blackball Hilton – we stayed here - found our room a bit small but were able to change. The tariff includes continental breakfast and their evening menu was very good and reasonably priced. We were there on our return and it was Steak Special Night at $15.
There is also a place called Jailhouse B&B. We didn’t go and look at this and don’t know the prices.
>A little shop near the Blackball Salami shop does food (among other things) and does what appear to be nice ‘takeaway’ meals for $10. It’s called ENJOY – find on Facebook.
>On the track: care needs to be taken as you walk. This track is designed for biking too, so given that it was still very new at the time of our trip, one needs to watch the roughly cut rockiness underfoot on a lot of it. It would be easy to roll an ankle or fall if not paying attention to foot placement.
>Watch out for bikers....... and bikers did outnumber trampers whilst we were on the track. It is also two-way traffic. With just the two of us we’d be walking in silence most of the time (believe it or not!) just enjoying the peacefulness and ambience and getting lost in our own thoughts when all of a sudden you’d hear ‘something’ behind you – no call out, no bell. Wasn’t really a big deal except that I’d just about jump out of my skin and that’s not easy with a pack on your back. So just be conscious of this if you’re in a bigger group and there’s lots of chatter. The track itself is narrow so it’s single file really.
>Overall not a difficult tramp – us two old biddies certainly had the strength, stamina and fitness. My only comment would be that due to the terrain being newly formed it is a bit hard on the feet if you’ve got any quirky foot issues. Otherwise ‘almost easy peasy’.

Pukeatua Trig from Otaki Forks

Wed 11 Mar 2020 Scribe: John Baxter

Eight of us left Wanganui on a quite temperamental day heading for Otaki after a little confusion brought about by the new road works. We finally arrived to tramp by 9.15am and headed upwards. The track was quite damp, but with no rain or wind the walk was very enjoyable. The views were superb and the bush was not only beautiful but really interesting. The spot at which we stopped for lunch had a view of large trees entirely covered in lichen and moss, more than I have ever seen. Truly a scene from The Lord of the Rings. We were entertained at lunch by a rendition of poetry by George that was quite an epistle. On the way out some of the track was quite muddy and Marilyn in front lost the bottom end of her walking pole without noticing it at the time, but luckily it was recovered by mid walker Victoria on the way through. We returned to the van about 4.15 p.m. The whole day, weather-wise and enjoyable-wise, was excellent for everyone. On the trip were Graham Sutcliffe, John Baxter, Allan Loader, George Neil, Marilyn McGlone, Laurel Stowell, Cherry Channon and Victoria Kay.

Rangataua Wander

Sat 7 Mar 2020
Scribe: Cherry Channon
If walking in dappled sunlight beneath mature beech, rimu and totara trees is your happy place then you will love this track. Peter Finucane, our Waimarino clubbie, led us on a loop walk that follows two DOC traplines. The understorey of regenerating native bush and ferns was pleasant to walk through with a gurgling mountain stream keeping us company part of the way. As the trail is not a developed track it is overgrown in places and we often needed to clamber over fallen trees. The trapline finishes on a mountain bike track before joining up with the main Rangataua forestry road. The NZ Army have been using the road over recent months and caused considerable damage – ie potholes large enough to swallow a small vehicle! We left the van at a parking area off the main road and Peter shuttled our small group of six to the start of the first trapline in his 4xwheel drive vehicle. This trail is part of the Rotokura Ecological Area at Karioi which is off SH49 south of Ohakune. It is a summer walk as the area gets very muddy and you wouldn't want to be there during the 'Roar' .
We started the day at 7.30am travelled up the Parapara, met Peter at Ohakune, followed him to Karioi then returned to Wanganui at 5.30pm via Fields Track.

WTC - Takaka / Golden Bay Excursion to South Island

Thurs 5 Mar to Fri 13 Mar 2020
Scribe: Adrian Pike
March 5 – Seven trampers (Brian Doughty – trip leader, Bruce Thomas, Shane Wilson, Helen Atkinson, Sue Haden and myself), left the Blind Centre at 12.00 noon and drove to the Waterloo Backpackers in Wellington which is directly opposite the Bluebridge Ferry Terminal. The van was parked in the overnight car park in front of the ferry terminal entrance gates. The rest of the day was spent settling into the Waterloo Backpackers and strolling around Wellington in the cold wind which was not very pleasant. We had dinner at the backpackers and then all headed to bed. There were four of us in our “not bad” backpackers room which had an ensuite bath/shower.
March 6 - After breakfast we headed for the van, joined the long queue of mobile homes and were soon on board. We sailed at 8.00am and had a very pleasant trip across the Cook Strait to Picton Harbour arriving at 11.30am. We had a quick bite to eat in Picton after which Bruce took the wheel and we headed for Havelock, Rai Valley, Nelson, Richmond, Motueka and then turned off onto a metal road at Uruwhenua to Brian Sixtus’s house. Major repairs were underway on the Takaka Hill highway following recent major flood damage. This is a very twisty road, which even without repair work being done, should be driven with extreme care. The view from Harwoods Lookout on a clear day would be spectacular, but unfortunately it was a bit cloudy so we did not stop.
On arrival at Brian Sixtus’s house we met Barbara Francis and Margie Campbell who had arrived the night before. Brian S. has a lovely house on Uruwhenua Road. I was allocated the back room and slept next to the deep freezer. No problems there though – the freezer was very quiet! That night we preloaded the van at Brian’s house before heading to the club at the intersection of Aaron Creek Road and Takaka Hill Highway for dinner. I had a large 20mm thick, juicy steak, potato and veg meal which for $20 was pretty good value. Then we went home and off to bed.
March 7 – We packed the van with all our last minute gear (day packs and overnight packs) and Brian S. drove us to the Cobb Dam House, detailing and describing various features along the journey. On the way we picked up the other trampers - Dave Scouller, Juliet Kojis, Shane Wilson and Sue Haden who were staying at the Navara Motel in Takaka. There are two large houses on site left over from the time the Cobb Dam wall and intake tower were constructed in the early 1950s. We occupied house No 1. We left our gear in the house and drove down the Cobb Dam Road to the car park from where we started the 6 km walk to Asbestos Cottage in the Kahurangi National Park . The track meanders along some beautiful native bush and passes an abandoned asbestos mine site. The remains of broken mining equipment can be seen adjacent to the track. The mine area is open and appears as a grey/white scar on the landscape. The track rises steadily before the final climb to the cottage. The cottage is over 100 years old and was restored by DOC in 1997. A number of books have been written about this interesting cottage. A nearby mountain stream provides the cottage with fresh water. Vestiges of the original vegetable and flower gardens can still be seen dotted around the cottage. We all enjoyed lunch in and around the old gardens. A two and a half hour walk saw us back at the van and back to the Cobb Dam Cottage we went. Upon returning to the cottage Margaret, Helen and Dave decided fairly late in the afternoon to take a fast walk through the beech forest to Sylvester Hut. They were back in under three hours. I decided not to go and busied myself at the house till meal time. We were all in bed by about 9 pm.
March 8 - After a good breakfast, Shane once again packed the van with our overnight packs. In overcast coldish weather and with Brian S. driving once again, we headed off on the unsealed Cobb Reservoir Road for about an hour before arriving at the car park near Trilobite Hut. Trilobite Hut is 60kms from Takaka. Two tracks start from Trilobite Hut, one to Peel Dam, Ballon Hut and Porta Hut and beyond. We took the track which starts at Trilobite Hut and climbs gently through open grass land between the Cobb River and Peel Range. Our first stop was at the restored historic Chaffey Hut. This is a real back woods hut with only three bunks. All materials were hand axed from local timber other than fixing nails, and door hinges etc. To complement this hut there is a nice fast flowing stream nearby. From here we continued our walk until we reached Camp Tent. Camp Tent was built by constructing an A frame pole structure over an existing tent. A tarpaulin is then stretched over the frame and fixed to the supporting structure. The tent below is now protected and permanently waterproof. The tent had an earth floor with the sleeping area slightly raised above ground level. Once again a lovely location with a fast flowing stream close by. There was also a long drop situated close by. A nice site in an open but forested area. After lunch we continued on to Cobb Hut. This four bed hut has recently been refurbished, and is a good solid structure with a large picnic table outside. From here we continued the steady but gentle climb through the beech forest and into an area of alpine rock, ground hugging succulents and small alpine flowering plants which was very pretty. Views from here down the Cobb Valley were spectacular. Tramping this rocky part of the Waingaro Peak Track required care and attention. A short while later we all arrived at Fenella Hut. This beautiful wood panelled 12 bed hut is surrounded by a magnificent beech forest. Bruce Thomas and I slept on the top two bunks. The hut has a very nice Miele gas stove and wood burner inside. There is a helicopter pad nearby for the delivery of gas bottles by DOC. Below the hut is the toilet, a long drop down which to you have to navigate a steep flight of rocky steps. The toilet door is patterned with coloured glass. Most people using this loo do so with the door open (the view is once again spectacular and the open air is much more pleasant!) There is also a makeshift wash hand basin fixed to the rock face with water running into it continuously. No reason not to wash your hands! Behind Fenella Hut is a lovely tarn where Juliet Kojis was brave enough to take a dip. She said it was warmer in the water than out! Brian S. took us for a short walk behind the tarn where we could see Cobb Lake, unfortunately it was overcast but we still had a fantastic view of the Cobb Valley below, surrounding stunning mountain scenery and a close up view of a native kea. Brian D. prepared and presented us with a lovely hot meal of mince and mashed potato for dinner. I think we had cake for dessert. Thankfully I did not snore that night but we did have a slight altercation with two women who arrived late in the afternoon who said “hut etiquette entitled them to 50% of the hut, even though there were only two of them.” Disgruntled, they ended up sleeping next to Shane in the wood store room. Shane did an excellent job of entertaining them with stories of Everest Base Camp.
March 9 - After breakfast and cleaning up Fenella Hut we set off at about 9.00 am for Trilobite Hut car park in drizzly conditions. By the time we reached the car park the weather had improved and we now had visions of a clear blue sky. Into the van we climbed and went back to the Cobb Reservoir House to clean up and get our day packs. On the way back to Brian Sixtus’s house we visited the Cobb Reservoir stone traps and pipe arch. It was very interesting to see how the loose stones carried by the water were collected through the use of stone traps, before the water enters the turbines etc. We also got to view the pipe portal. Once home to Brian S’s, it didn’t take long to fall into a nightly routine: sleeping bag laid out, coffee, shower and bed for us all.
March 10 – We left the Sixtus home and headed for Takaka picking up David, Juliet, Sue, Helen and Shane from Navara Motel and headed for the Kahurangi National Park, passing Collingwood and turning left onto Pakawau Bush road. At the car park we met four trampers from Takaka who joined us for a short time whilst we tramped the old logging road to the clearing on the Kaituna Track where a DOC sign indicated we take a left turn up to Knuckle Hill. It took us about 30 minutes with granite rock under foot to reach the trig point which had a 506m elevation. A very cold wind met us at the top so it was not long before we started to cool down fast. We had lunch there whilst enjoying the excellent views of the Whanganui and Westhaven Inlets, and huge marine estuary below. We could not see Farewell Spit though as it was too hazy. Back to the van we went and continued our journey on a dirt road, crossing several tidal streams before arriving at the picturesque Anatori River mouth. We wandered about this lovely spot with a few of us trying to skim river stones across the flowing water. We passed Knuckle Hill on the return journey stopping for a cup of coffee and meal en route back to Brian S’s house.
March 11 - Located in the Kahurangi National Park, is the Kaituna Track. This is an old packhorse route which starts at the car park end of Carters Road some 15kms from Collingwood on the Collingwood – Bainham Road. The track starts by going over an old foot bridge and into natural native forest and soon passes a track leading to the remains of old gold mining operations. En route there are magnificent specimens of Northern Rata and Nikau palms. We also saw quite a few South Island Robins. Recent flooding has caused considerable damage to the track in a number of places. Brian S. has repaired this track in many places, but there is still a lot of work to be done. The Kaituna Track goes through beautiful natural forest with many stands of Nikau Palms, making things look very tropical. Where the track forks there is a large pond in the river where eels can be seen. With a little coaxing and old chicken bones thrown into the water by Brian S, it was not long before one very large and 2 smaller eels appeared. Eels can smell in water! On the way back to the car park Brian S. stopped at his tea spot and made us all a very nice cup of tea. Nearby was a camp site complete with camp table and chairs, shelves, and wash area. Around the corner from this spot was a toilet also under canvas which had no smell whatsoever. It was all so unexpected! What a strange place - so perfectly set up in the middle of nowhere, and so perfectly suited for ones’ refreshment! It poured on the way back and we were all sodden. Following a very fast change of clothes under the Kaituna sign board shelter we all jumped smartly into the van. After dinner we dropped the others off at Navara Motel and headed for Brian’s home to hang out wet clothes, have a beer, tell tall stories and discuss politics. A good laugh was had by all!!
March 12 - Once again the van was packed very nicely by Shane and sad goodbyes were said. Bruce took the wheel and we departed for Picton at about 12.30pm. A very pleasant journey with plenty of sunshine saw us back in Picton at about 4.30/5.00 ish. We booked into the Fat Cod Backpackers and then went in search of somewhere to have dinner. We finally settled on Oxley’s Restaurant where we had very nice meals and some wonderful refreshments!
March 13 - We were all up by 6.00am, washed, showered and ready to go. We headed for the van and were onto the Ferry by 7.20am. The Bluebridge Ferry was not fully laden. We departed Picton on time at 8.00am. We bought our breakfast on board which was nice but pricey. I took the opportunity and asked a crew member if it was possible to visit the bridge. After a bit of to-ing and fro-ing, I was soon ushered on the bridge. The deputy captain (named Andrew) welcomed me onto the bridge. What a view and how very clean and spacious it is up there! There was plenty of room with 360 degree views. All systems were operating and I learned that the ship has three backup systems in case one fails. We were cruising at 14.3kph. Andrew was busy writing stuff in the log book, checking instruments and on his cell phone. He also knew the name and exact position of all the other ships in the Cook Strait. The sea was as flat as a pancake which made the voyage very enjoyable. They still have radar with large circular screens presenting a lot of information regarding shipping in the area, including the position of the 12 undersea cables running between the North and South Islands. The crew of 38 live on the ferry for two weeks at a time. Everything looks quite different from up there and I certainly enjoyed the opportunity to see things from a unique perspective!
I drove the van off the ferry and we were back at the Deerstalkers by 4.30pm. This was a thoroughly good trip made more enjoyable by the addition of 11 excellent tramping companions. Brian Doughty, Bruce Thomas, Shane Wilson, Helen Atkinson, Sue Haden, Barbara Francis, Margie Campbell, Brian Sixtus. Margret McKinnon, Dave Scoullar and Juliet Kojis. I will certainly do this trip again should the opportunity arise, and I certainly recommend it to all!

Pine Clearing

Sat-Sun 29 Feb-1 Mar 2020
Scribe: Calum Sinclair
We left early on Saturday for the annual trip to clear Pinus contorta from the slopes of Mount Ruapehu. Making good time, the six of us met up with nine from the Hutt Valley Tramping Club and made our way to our campsite, a small patch of native bush not yet claimed for pine planting. We set up camp, then donned hi-vis vests and grabbed hand saws. In hindsight, the hand saws should have been the first warning that the pine trees might not be the little seedlings I expected. A short walk up above the bushline, and we began. This particular area hadn’t been cleared recently, and so we had a very successful first day. We spent roughly seven hours sweeping back and forth, and that first day, pulled a staggering total of 537 pines! Everyone slept well that night.
We set out at 9:00 on Sunday, with much discussion over everything from what the best type of plate or bowl for hiking is, to who had won that week's lottery. The area we covered on Sunday was less inundated with pines, but we still managed to pull 332, bringing our overall total to 869! Unfortunately, Esther suffered an injury, but apart from this, the trip went smoothly. The weather was near perfect, with only some misty showers that stopped as soon as you took out your rain jacket. Overall, an excellent trip, and I look forward to next year.
Our trampers were: Esther Williams, Sue Gibbison, Shane Wilson, Mark Sutherland, Dave Scoullar (leader), and Calum Sinclair.

Three Amigos Go Bush

Fri-Sun 14-16 Feb 2020
Scribe: Dave Scoullar
On trip: Mark Sutherland, Jiri Krivanek and Dave Scoullar. Plus Brent from Otaki Gorge.
Someone murmured the film title “this is no country for old men” — probably the old man of the group — as we bash and crash our way through Tararua Forest Park. But it sums up this three-day trip pretty well considering how much grunty off-track tramping is involved.
Day 1: The Three Amigos drive to Otaki Forks and walk a sweaty two hours to Waiotauru Forks where we lunch. Then it is into the Eastern Waiotauru (Snowy) River which is quite low for a three-hour-plus rock hop to Snowy Hut.
There is a lot of criss-crossing and the highlight is going through a chest-high pool which can’t be sidled. So we strip off and go down the middle. The pool has a sandy bottom and it is a pleasant if unusual experience. The hut (very basic, five mattresses, no toilet), is nearby on a pleasant terrace and we sit out in the sun feeling satisfied to be in a new location.
Day 2: Now the hard work begins. First we have to get onto a ridge which involves bashing directly behind the hut straight up the side for about 50 minutes. It is a relief to get there. This ridge rises steadily up to Renata Ridge over point 666 and is apparently quite well used as a route as it is well-padded and has ribbons all the way. But with the sometimes steep terrain and many windfalls it is slow going.
It takes some five hours to climb the 3.5km to finally pop out on a DOC track about 10 minutes from Elder Hut, a snug four-bunk retreat. We have just settled in when Brent arrives. He has come around the tops from Otaki Forks and pitches his tent nearby.
Day 3: The wind gets up in the night and we wonder what we face. But it isn’t a worry as we head off at 7am down the DOC track for 2km to point 925 where our biggest challenge begins — a 5km route down the ridge to Waiotauru Forks. Brent joins us and our first task is to ensure that we go the right way when the ridge splits in two after 1km.
Ribbons are few and far between and the going is very rough but with the help of a Back Country app we stay on course and proceed on to point 708 for morning tea. Thence to point 687 for lunch.
After that there are many ribbons and the track is well-padded and as we hit old logging roads we make good progress. Our final problem is to get down to the DOC track at the forks as the sides from the ridge are near vertical. After doubling back along a logging track we make a very steep descent to reach the track about 300m from the forks. Ridge travel has taken some 5.5 hours.
After that it is a case of keeping weary legs moving for the two hours back to Otaki Forks to complete a nine-hour-plus day. We all put red lines on our maps and felt satisfied with our loop trip completed in fine weather.

Tongariro Loop Walk

Sat 15 Feb 2020
Scribe: Cherry Channon
It was a perfect day and an early start for 13 Wanganui trampers to enjoy a walk in the Tongariro National Park led by our Ohakune club member Peter Finucane.
We started at the Waitonga Falls carpark and proceeded to Blyth Hut where we stopped for a snack. Peter then led us above the hut into open tussock country then cross-country and down a ridge parallel to the Turoa Mountain Road which took us through some interesting territory. We made a stop at the site of the Old Blyth Hut where a dilapidated sign and some rubble showed where the hut once stood. Apparently it was prone to vandalism due to its proximity to the road so DOC burnt it to the ground! Surely that was the ultimate act of vandalism!!
Scratched, bloodied and bruised after battling through dense foliage we arrived back at the van happy and pleasantly satisfied. It's testament to a great day’s tramping if there is the odd scratch and a bit of blood, isn't that so??

Pohangina Valley

Thur 13 Feb 2020; Scribe: Anne Condon

Two van loads embarked earlier than the usual 9am as we were heading further afield, to Pohangina Valley beyond Ashhurst. Jacky Evans and Don Gordon set us down at the Fern Walk with beautiful native bush and the added bonus of no wind after a couple of very windy weeks. Birdsong, quiet greenery, dry underfoot - what more can a tramper ask for? After an early lunch we completed the Pettifar/Gilchrist Loop tracks – ripe blackberries were another bonus. Returning home, we noticed a plume of smoke a short distance away. Total fire bans were in place, but in no time several fire trucks and water tankers came speeding towards us – a grass fire, and close to native and exotic forest. An ice-cream stop at Ashhurst was refreshing and sustained us for the final leg home. All in all a wonderful day out, with a good leg-stretch and pleasant company. Thank you Jacky and Don for driving and leading.

McIntyres’ Hut

Wed 12 Feb 2020
Scribe: Sue Haden
The plan was for our Wednesday group of nine to meet up with Brian Doughty's group of eight (previously nine, but Dorothy rolled her ankle) coming off the Matemateonga and Mangapurua Tracks after a five day expedition. It was an easy open 2½ hr walk up and 2 hrs down. Sadly, we encountered TRAFFIC on our travels along the road, YES ROAD!! - three big bee truck and trailer units, two quad bikes and trailers and numerous helicopters overhead. However, when we reached the hut the walk was worth it. It was built and is maintained by the McIntyre family on the original site of the family home. They farmed the area in the early 1900s and moved out in the early 1930s. The family still own the land and have built and maintained the gorgeous little hut and garden to a very high standard, to their credit. It is a great must-do destination as it is surrounded by beautiful bush and fauna, and even has a viewing platform with magnificent views out to Ruapehu, Ngauruhoe and Tongariro. Both groups of eight got their well-deserved ice-cream at Raetihi then silence reigned! All asleep on the Parapara and oh the peace! At least in the white van.
Wednesday group of nine: Margret (driver), Sue H (driver with Learner plates) ably assisted by Bruce (pilot), Juliet, Trish S, George, Sue G, Marilyn M and visitor David Johnson from Vancouver (past member of club from the 1950s).

Matemateonga-Mangapurua

Sat-Wed 8-12 Feb 2020
Scribe: Brian Doughty
Day 1: It’s surprising how many trampers don’t mind a 5am start when going bush for five days with a great bunch of like-minded people like Brian Sixtus, Baz Hooper, Grant Adkins, Dorothy Symes, Shane Wilson, Andy Milham, Gary McElwain, Mark Sutherland and Brian Doughty - along with the day trippers. The biggest issue is time taken to get to our starting point, Kohi Saddle, hence the 5am start.
All sorted at the road end we were under way about 8.15 knowing that ahead was a group from Hamilton, so their van told us. What we didn’t know was how many and when they left - this could see us being at our night stop, Pouri Hut, all together. Good time was made to Omaru Hut, our intended lunch stop and where the day trippers left us on their return journey as we took off for Pouri. Good time was made along this section but we did see signs of track deterioration. Arriving at Pouri the lack of firewood was noticeable and no wood shed; seems DOC hadn’t been here for a while.
Day 2: Up early as this was to be one of our longer days, something like 7.5hrs of tramping to cover 22 km and not knowing what track conditions would be like. Well, we found out after reaching the end of the benched section where the track again showed signs of lack of maintenance. When we arrived at Pouri on Saturday the log book had no DOC staff being in the area for about 18 months and then not doing a lot of work. Just prior to our lunch stop the Hamilton puzzle was solved. They were doing a crossover and were a day in front of us. Lunch done, we took off for Puketotara Hut where we were to spend the night. To our surprise again no firewood, with the hut surrounds looking rather untidy and tired. Our long day over we reached Puketotara for a late evening meal then hit the sack just after dark. As luck would have it, we were treated to a full moon and kiwis romping around the bush at night.
Day 3: No pressure today but some up early catching those fresh morning photos. As our boat wasn’t due at the landing until 11-ish, we had time for a leisurely trot downhill. But alas, it wasn’t to be, some 75 metres from the river Dorothy had something of a slip/trip/fall, and (unknown to her at the time) a broken bone in her right foot. After getting her to the river it was decided to send Dorothy to Pipiriki, then home to Whanganui by mail van after the boat had dropped us at the Mangapurua Landing. Bidding farewell to Dorothy we took off to the Bridge to Nowhere for our lunch break, just beating a boatload of tourists. The single boys on the trip were pretty keen to see some real people, especially young females. Arriving at Johnson’s camp for the night we had completed another longish day. As a surprise waiting for us at Johnson’s, per courtesy of Heather and Winston Oliver after their visit, was cake, cider and a beer “well worth the journey”. Thanks you guys.

Day 4: No need for an early start as we had only to get to the McIntyre “Settlers Return” after a leisurely three-hour walk along the original Mangapurua Valley road. Unfortunately there have been major road works for a bike trail like you’ve never seen before. Honestly, in some sections this road is now five to seven metres wide which seems to me to take away the A in adventure wilderness experience for outdoor recreation. What on earth would possess someone to create such havoc in an iconic historical area? Well another rant over, what a pleasure to stay at the “Settlers Return” owned by the McIntyre family from Wanganui: neat and tidy, lawns all cut. All we had to do for rent was to split the firewood and stack in the shed, job done. Thank you, the McIntyres.
Day 5: Again a rather slow start to the day while we waited for the day walkers to arrive with the van. We had anticipated they would reach us by lunch time but some of them turned up around 11am. After putting the pressure on we had lunch with them and all left for the road end, with vans arriving about 2.30. Then off to Raetihi for the usual drink and ice cream, then on home. Thanks to our day trippers/drivers, for without them this trip wouldn’t have been possible. Thanks heaps for those who came on the five day bush walk, without you it would have been boring. And our thoughts go to Dorothy for not being able to complete the trip.

Lake Dive Hut

Mon-Tue 10-11 Feb 2020
Scribe: Dave Scoullar
The hastily-organised overnighter to Egmont National Park struck the jackpot — fine, clear weather, dry tracks and a near-empty Lake Dive Hut. The six-strong team cruised into the hut on the top track in 5hr 30min after frequent stops, admiring the energy of those thrusting on to Fanthams Peak.
The highlight of the evening was singing happy birthday to Graham Sutcliffe. Royce Johnson was particularly pleased with the photo opportunities the location provided. We shared the hut with a Japanese man and a couple from the Netherlands who arrived just before dark.
The bottom track which we remembered as rough and overgrown was in surprisingly good nick for the 4hr stroll back to Dawson Falls where the good coffee at the cafe was appreciated.
On trip: Graham Sutcliffe, Royce Johnson, Diane Harries, Mike Miller, Allan Loader and Dave Scoullar.

Six Disks Track, Tararua

Wed 5 Feb 2020
Scribe: Esther Williams
A night of wild wind, gloomy sky and lowered temperature enticed nine clubbies south to Poad Road, east of Levin. After the driver recognised the turn-off over an antiquated bridge just in time, our van, wider than former ones, left just millimetres to spare at very low speed. At the car park, the map was scrutinised by those new to the area. We met a man with a shovel and clippers. His mission was Waiopehu Hut, formerly one of the coldest in the Tararua. Underfloor insulation has now brought the temperature up. Two paddocks brought us to the punga track and the direction pole which still doesn't advertise the Six Disks as a circular tramp. Moist underfoot, the track passed regenerating forest with giant rimu, pukatea and tawa. Throughout the day we heard fantail, whitehead and long tailed cuckoo. A swim for one and a paddle for another at the picnic place, we returned through boggy patches, clearing the track from nikau leaf debris. Maybe in the future we can arm ourselves with secateurs as did Harry Stimpson to enhance the way.
Esther and Shane W (leaders), Juliet, David S, Jiri, Bruce, George, Adrian, Mike M.

Pouakai Hut Trip

Sat-Sun 1-2 Feb 2020
Scribe: Margie Campbell
Only three takers: Merilea Wainhouse, Barbara Francis and Margie Campbell. With only three punters Merilea drove us in her vehicle. Left town at 8.00am, stopping in Stratford for loo stop and coffee, then onwards to Mangorei Road carpark. Donned our packs and off we went. The track climbs steadily up many steps to the 16-bunk hut. Very pleasant walking up through the bush, but as we neared the top where the tree growth is significantly shorter, we were exposed to the heat of the day but not far to our destination. Quite a large number of day trippers to-ing and fro-ing.
Demolished our lunch on arrival at the hut then set off to explore. Just up beyond the hut enjoyed the view of the mountain and walked in the direction of the trig but a bit late to be heading to the top. Pretty windy up there but enjoyed the expansive views in all directions. Pleased there were only three of us in the group; if any more of you had come you would have been sleeping on the floor!!
Our evening meal was take-a-ways at the tarn washed down with a can of wine (thanks Countdown). Very pleasant with the tarn in the foreground and the mountain backdrop. Watched the sun setting and the lights twinkling in New Plymouth down below us. A very pleasant way to spend an evening and with great company!
The next day started with a leisurely breakfast then it was pack up, do our bit towards the hut clean and head back down the 3,700-odd steps. A coffee stop in Hawera and home. A great trip!

Stanfield Hut

Wed 29 Jan 2020
Scribe: Dave Scoullar
With a dodgy forecast in the west, the Wednesday crew headed over the Saddle Rd to the eastern Ruahine with Stanfield Hut in our sights. The first obstacle, the Tamaki River west branch, was so low we passed over dry shod. Then it was up a brief climb to the Holmes Ridge Track, later descending to the river and crossing over to the hut.
After lunch there it was back along the same route. A good day out and an introduction to an old style Forest Service hut to which some had not been before.
On trip: Juliet Kojis, George Neil, Laurel Stowell, Pam McDonald, Shane Wilson, Helen Atkinson, Graham Sutcliffe, David Howard, Bruce Thomas, David Taylor, Victoria Kay and Dave Scoullar.

Whanganui River Journey

Tues-Fri 28-31 Jan 2020
Scribe: Sue Gibbison
Barrels packed and canoes stacked, we set out for Whakahoro well-briefed by Whanganui River Canoes' safety video. At the riverside we received some final tips, zipped up our lifejackets and we were off!
The shallow Retaruke provided a chance to practise paddle strokes before we glided out onto the wide, smooth flow of the Whanganui. Overcast skies and gentle drizzle added to the ambience as we drifted along to a late lunch and leg-stretch at Mangapapa. A high grassy terrace provided a fine view of the river's 'V', the spot to aim for in the coming section of faster water. Everyone remained upright and a few hours later we were pulling into the eddy at a shingly swimming beach below Ohauora, our first camping spot. Day 2 saw us paddling merrily downstream between the river's green banks for lunch on John Coull's sunny deck. Afternoon rain set in and we called it a day at Mangawaiiti, lugging our barrels up the stairs to the Tolkienesque campsite. We spread ourselves out to camp, blissfully alone but for the occasional morepork and goat.

Day 3 brought us to Mangapurua Landing and the pilgrimage to Bridge to Nowhere. Pinetrees, jet boats and daytrippers reminded us that civilisation was not too far away. After lunch we enjoyed a peaceful paddle through the river's green gorges to Tieke Kainga, closely observed by karearea, the native falcon, soaring overhead. Sunny and relaxed, our final day offered caves and waterfalls, thrilling rapids and a refreshing dip in the awa before our rendezvous with the shuttle at Pipiriki. The Whanganui Journey is a Great Walk and part of Te Araroa Trail. Right on our doorstep, the awa is best experienced by canoe or kayak.

Leader: Esther Williams. Nine paddlers in four double Canadian canoes plus one sit-on kayak

Zekes Hut – Hihitahi Forest Sanctuary

Sun 19 Jan 2020
Scribe: Adrian Pike
In questionable weather eight trampers set off to cross the stream swing bridge in the paddock and up the hill to the forest boundary fence and entry point into the Hihitahi Forest Sanctuary. On entering the forest it soon became apparent that this track sees very little use. The track was very overgrown, difficult to follow in places and the orange track markers were either missing or non-existent for much of the track. This track requires urgent maintenance. Lovely clear fantastic views of Waiouru and Mt Ruapehu provided a perfect backdrop from the trig point (1116m) whilst we enjoyed our smoko.
Down the steep tussock stepped gully we went, following the vague remains of a track, through the last bit of native forest and arrived at Zekes Hut which overlooks the Kaitapu Stream. The hut is modern, the internal walls are panelled, it has four bunk beds and a wood-fired burner. There is also a long drop in close proximity. We were all very surprised by the appointment of this hut. A beautiful spot with panoramic views of the surrounding lush bush.
After lunch a three hour tramp saw us back at the club van by 4pm, having completed an 18 km round trip walk in approximately seven hours. Following a much needed refreshment stop in Taihape we were all back in Wanganui by 6pm.
A lovely day enjoyed by trampers - Linda Hart, Kathy O’Donnell, Mike Cole, Barbara Francis, Veerle Geens, Kim Whyte, Tracy Collins and Adrian Pike.

Mangaehuehu Hut

Sat 11 Jan 2020
Scribe: Bruce Thomas
Eleven of us arrived at the car park on Mountain Rd in chilly but fine weather. At the Blyth Hut intersection we were well warmed up and ready for a morning tea stop. The track was in very good condition and stream crossings were no trouble, some were dry. I think I only saw two puddles all day.
The wind was just a gentle breeze and quite welcome at times. Time taken was about 3½ hrs each way, including stops. Everything was in our favour and it was an excellent day.
On the trip were Bruce Thomas (leader), Dianne Weeks, Chris Rothman, Victoria Kay, Kim Whyte, Barbara Francis, Helen Atkinson, new member Zac Clark, Jiri Krivanek, Dorothy Symes and Heather MacKenzie.

Rewi Alley’s Cottage, Waitotara

Wed 8 Jan 2020
Scribe: Graham Sutcliffe
Rewi Alley is possibly better known in China than in NZ for his endeavours there during a revolution. However this cottage was built by him and Jack Stevens; both had been wounded in World War 1 and then they received a farm grant from the government.
After a slow trip in we parked the vans at the top of Moeawatea Road. We walked down the hill to a ford and then proceeded along the Whenukura Valley Road for about 3 km. This road is closed to traffic from June to October. The valley is farmed by two non-residential farmers and is mainly used for manuka honey production with a smattering of beef cattle and sheep.
This is a good outing and those enjoying (I hope) this day were – Adrian Pike, Allan Loader, Barbara Gordon, Bruce Thomas, David Howard, David Scoullar, David Taylor, Esther Williams, George Neil, Heather Mackenzie, Jenny Williamson, Judy Gerke, Juliet Kojis, Margaret Chainey, Olivia (Juliet’s granddaughter), Rita Hodson, Terry Mullins, Trish Smith with leaders Graham Sutcliffe and John Baxter.

Whangamomona Weekend

Fri-Sun 3-5 Jan 2020
Scribe: Dorothy Symes
Leaders, Garry McEwain and me, along with Peter Panton, Taumarunui TC . Garry grew up in Whangamomona and we were lucky to have his and Peter’s local knowledge. Twelve from Wanganui and 11 from Taumarunui made for a big group. The weekend’s walks were relatively easy and the weather was perfect. We covered some good distances too, near-full days.
Saturday at 6.30am we set off from Te Wera Lodge Forestry Camp, passing by Whangamomona village 23km and then another 36km to Hobbit tunnel and Tangarakau turnoff to Moki Road to meet with the Taumarunui team. From there we drove 7km on a metal road to the start of the Rerekapa Track and were on our way at 8.45am. We followed the river all day, pausing at the lovely Rerekapa Falls at 3.5km. Another 7km to Rerekapa 16-bunk hut, established by Waitara Boys Life Brigade in 1971. We carried on for another hour on a muddy track through native bush and patches of farmland, incidental old buildings and huts. One establishment sported a good bath, shower and a wetback for hot water. After lunch we retraced our steps, encountering a group of horse-trekkers - who did nothing to improve the slippery muddy areas. At 3pm we drove a further 7km to Mangapapa Road for an easy 1km walk to Mt Damper Falls - second-highest in North Island – spectacular and worth the effort.
We arrived early for our dinner date at Whangamomona Hotel, but management were accommodating and brought our time forward. There was time for refreshments and a wander around the village, with history and photos at the hotel. After a beautiful meal, TTC followed us back to Te Wera and, like us, were surprised to see the fantastic facilities there.
Sunday began with an 8am start and 40min drive to the well-defined Whangamomona Track. We had intended to reach the Bridge to Somewhere but had to consider our fuel situation for a pick-up trip. The bridge destination would have been about two hours further, but we hadn’t topped up fuel at Stratford. However, the trip was as just as good, and featured some picturesque gorges. Next stop was the two tunnels and the big Arnold iron bridge over a deep ravine. No horses on this track, but a group of motocross bikers stopped for a natter. So, back to the track end and farewells to TTC members. Wouldn’t mind a repeat attempt at Bridge to Somewhere, with perhaps a start on Matemateonga Track. Te Wera Lodge was certainly a good discovery for accommodation – check their website. There’s no cellphone coverage and a radio would be an advantage. Peter did a sterling job of planning for such a big group and it was wonderful having Taumarunui club with us - and special thanks to our drivers Jacky and Garry.

Whitecliffs Walkway

Wed 1 Jan 2020
Scribe: Dave Scoullar
A lot was crammed into this trip to Whitecliffs Walkway which began at 5.30am and ended exactly 12 hours later. However, it was a stuttering beginning when the white van wouldn’t start. With 20 eager first footers on the trip, whitie was abandoned in favour of the silver van plus two cars.
The team covered the 194km to Pukearuhue near Waitara in time for low tide and walked the 5km along the beach to the Te Horo tunnel in an hour, spotting two horse riders and a fisherman on the way. The 80m long tunnel, built in the 1800s, was used for droving until the 1960s.
Going inland and finding no markers indicating the walkway, we wandered over farm tracks and up a steep hill alongside the Kapuni to Auckland gas pipeline before getting back on the correct path. After a long staircase up another big hill we were rewarded by great sea views before heading down and across farm land and then on a road back to our transport in 5hr 30min. Two brave souls went for a swim and declared it very refreshing.
Distance walked was 14km on an overcast but warm day with little wind — a good workout for the first day of the new decade.