Recent Trip Reports

Otaki River mouth: Sat 3 Jan 2026. Leader/scribe, Margaret Wright

Twenty twotrampers decided to kick the New Year off with a gentle stroll along the Otaki River from the river mouth to Chrystalls Bend Lagoon. (12km return)

The weather was kind although no one took a plunge into the river. Views were clear toward the Tararua Range. The landscape from the River Mouth to a large quarry under the old SH1 road bridge was mostly farm and urban but in the 2km between the bridge and the lagoon there is substantial community driven regenerating tree plantings. Chrystalls Bend Lagoon was a great place for lunch and to explore development of the walkways and planting. The drive in and out passes an estuary by the river mouth with some short boardwalks. Although this looked interesting, we decided to leave it for another day.

 Overnighter at Bushy Park: 2 Feb 2026. Leader, Esther Williams/scribe, Ann Hatherly

Esther led a group of seven women on a small overnight

adventure, staying in the bunk room at Bushy Park. We arrived in the early evening and ate dinner on the deck as the sun set,

before donning head torches and heading out along the tracks in search of plants and critters. The evening mist cloaking the wetlands was an unexpected bonus, creating an atmosphere straight out of Lord of the Rings.

Under Esther’s guidance we found native orchids, a variety of moths, and one wētā. The next morning we woke to a glorious dawn chorus of tūī, robins, and, a little later, tīeke. We also visited the hihi feeding station, where some of us were lucky enough to catch a hihi breakfasting.

 Stanfield Hut: Sun-Tue 1-3 Feb 2026. Leaders Terry Kennedy Dave Scoullar (& scribe)

On trip: Terry Kennedy, Dave Scoullar, Denise Gordon, Adrian Pike and Jill Burton.

Day 1: A leisurely start with coffee in Woodville. The car park is full which makes us wonder if the 8-bunk Stanfield will be full. After going a bit off-track at the start, we wander up the west branch of the Tamaki River to reach the hut in mid-afternoon to find we are sharing it with just one other, Daniel, a hunter with an old dog. The weather is fine and sunny. Daniel goes out for a shoot and returns with meat.

Day 2: Overcast as we tramp on to Cattle Creek hut in just under 3 hours. Lunch there and return in 2hr 35min. No one has been at the hut for 2 weeks and it is thought to be the WTC’s first visit there for many years. No one else around and we have Stanfield to ourselves tonight during which we amuse ourselves with a quiz.

Day 3: Low cloud and light rain as we depart at 7.30am. Travel back via Holmes Ridge in 2hr 30min. Rain is setting in as we return to our favourite coffee shop in Woodville and thence on to reach Whanganui by early afternoon to complete a pleasant 3 day trip.

 Waitarere Beach: Sat 7 Feb 2026. Leader/scribe, Dave Scoullar

Fourteen trampers signed on for a beach day that began under overcast skies with a fairly strong wind—fortunately at our backs as we left Waitarere Beach settlement and headed along the sand toward Hokio Beach.

Morning tea was taken at the site of the Hydrabad, wrecked in 1878. A tall post marks the spot, though little of the ship remains visible now, buried beneath the sand.

Reaching Hokio Beach by late morning, we turned back and soon picked up a track into Waitarere Forest. Following a forestry road, we paused for lunch before completing the loop, returning to the vans in about three and a half hours. A few swimmers were spotted, though none from our group were tempted.

With time to spare, we detoured to Foxton to visit the refurbished community centre and enjoy short walks exploring local history and flax.

 Pouakai Circuit: 8 Feb 2026. Leader/scribe, Kathy O’Donnell

Only four of us decided to head out on this three-day, two-night trip.

We were blessed with fine weather and left at a leisurely 8am. Fearing for a car park on the last full day of Waitangi weekend, we were delighted to secure a spot at the lower car park. This meant we could head up the Kokowai Track and on to Holly Hut for our first night. Knowing we had a shorter second day, we started with a side trip down to Bells Falls and were delighted with the views. We then returned to Holly Hut for morning tea before continuing on the beautiful track down and across the Ahukawakawa Swamp, and then up to the new Pouakai Hut.

The tarn near the hut was a real highlight, and we were rewarded with spectacular dusk and dawn photos.

On our final day we headed out over Henry and back to the car park, enjoying more lovely bush walking and continuing fine weather.

  A thoroughly enjoyable trip, which I would highly recommend, especially for newer trampers. On Day 2 we met a number of groups doing the Pouakai Crossing as a

one-day option, using a shuttle between the Mangorei Road end and the Egmont Visitor Centre.

 Fishers Road Walk from the Waimarino Tupapakurua Car Park: Sat 14 Feb 2026. Leader Peter W, scribe Peter P

At 9:00 am, after a night of heavy rain, we set off in light drizzle on the well-formed road. The road had a gradual descent, passing through native bush. By our 10:00 am morning tea stop, the drizzle had cleared. Continuing on, we enjoyed views across to misty hills of regenerating bush. A side track with faded warning notices and a distinctive "Public Road" sign on a white pole ensured we stayed on the paper road. At 11:30 am, we arrived at a high point offering a 180-degree view looking down the valley. We set a steady pace walking back up the road, passing the time with mixed conversations and laughter. By the time we arrived back at the car park at 2:00 pm, having covered 14 km, we were ready to give our boots a rest. This walk was a great choice for the weather conditions and was enjoyed by everyone.

 Werawereonga road, Waitotara: 18 Feb 2026. Leaders Rozy Rawlinson/

Paul Takanangi-Gavaghan, scribe, Paul Takanangi-Gavaghan

After what had been a dreadful weekend of horrific weather the planned Hauhungatahi track was canned and Plan B opted for. This turned out to be a gentle out and back, starting from the gate at the end of the Werawereonga road, Waitotara.

Fourteen happy trampers meandered up the track which was very clear and generally dry except for the occasional muddy section, but everyone coped. The group enjoyed a leisurely early lunch under the trees at a camp before strolling back down the track.

Some hardy trampers upped the pace on the return as the track gave the opportunity for some decent leg stretching. Sorry, but no ice-cream stops on this route.

 Waitahinga Track Maintenance:Friday, 27 Feb 2026. Leader/scribe, Cherry

Six WTC members signed on for the Waitahinga Trails cleanup and track maintenance working bee. We split into two teams of three. Each team included a “chainsaw expert.” Chainsaws, secateurs, small handsaws, and loppers were fully employed and the sounds of toil echoed through Waitahinga! An enormous windfall on the Rimu Walk had obliterated the track and the Hug Tree sign. Graham B and his chainsaw made a path through the mess. A tree across the Harry's Ridge track was too big to cut through so we cleared an access path around it. Chicken Run had countless obstacles, which were swiftly cleared thanks to John M and his battery-powered chainsaw. Sadly, very little birdsong was heard, although a Bellbird did greet us on Harry's Ridge. We also spotted two grazing goats. The Waitahinga Trails are now accessible for the public to enjoy.

Team: Denise Gordon, Vivienne Dawson, John Mellsop, Graham Beaven, Bruce Thomas, and Cherry. You are legends!

Crossover Tukino to Waihohonu Desert Rd:Wed Mar 4 2026.

Leaders Terry/Denise, scribe, Denise

Leaving town at 7 am, two vans of happy trampers headed off to the mountain.

The team starting at Tukino had a very chilly start, with strong wind and snow on the ground… no one told the weather gods it’s summer!!!!

Meanwhile, those starting at the Desert Rd end had perfect tramping conditions.

Terry’s team stopped at the spring but neither stopped at the old hut, having done this several times already. We met up for lunch. Those heading on the uphill section back to Tukino were slower getting through and later returning to town.

A very enjoyable day on an old favourite.

 Remutaka Rail Trail: Wed 11 Mar 2026. Leader/scribe Dave Scoullar

The stars aligned for the 18km crossover on the Remutaka Rail Trail, the first time this trip has been run for several years. The weather was excellent, the trail surface was dry and well-groomed and there weren’t many cyclists around.

Two teams of seven each enjoyed the outing, with a 6am start proving worthwhile considering the long drives to the Kaitoke and Cross Creek trail heads. They also enjoyed the excellent signage of the historic route and going through the tunnels, The Kaitoke team stopped frequently to forage the numerous ripe blackberries growing beside the trail.

By a coincidence both teams arrived at Summit, the trail high point and lunch stop, at the same time. Hopefully it won’t be years before this trip is repeated. The Kaitoke team took 5hr 10min and the Cross Creek team were slightly quicker.

 Waitarere Beach to Hokio Beach: 12 Mar 2026.Leader/scribe, Suzanne Roberts
Bruce Thomas – a wonderful driver, though not so great at finding the forest!

A beautiful day greeted us, with distant views of Ruapehu and Taranaki—though these required a bit of squinting and imagination. Morning tea was taken at the remains of the Hydrabad.

Lunch was enjoyed on the beach after a somewhat futile wander along the wrong four-wheel-drive track. Two trampers chose to return via the beach, while the rest followed Hannah and Suzanne, who eventually found the forest.

What a difference a couple of weeks—and a big storm—can make. The lilies and blackberries seen by an earlier Saturday group had disappeared, replaced by numerous windfall trees, some blocking the path.10 trampers (most enjoyed a swim or paddle)

A great day, nicely finished off with honey ice creams.

 Tangarakau Weekend: Fri 13 to Mon 16 Mar 2026. Leader Dorothy, scribe Cherry

Fri 13 March
Eight trampers departed Whanganui at 3pm, stopping for dinner at the Whangamomona Hotel on the Forgotten World Highway. The pub was buzzing, with locals gathering to welcome the new owners and farewell the old. Despite the rush, we were warmly welcomed and enjoyed excellent meals in record time.

We arrived at Tangarakau Bushlands Motor Camp in steady rain, receiving another warm welcome from Peter Panton and members of the Taumarunui Tramping Club—our weekend hosts.

  Sat 14 March
A sunny day allowed a leisurely start for the climb to Pouatu Trig, a five-hour tramp to a 381m high local landmark. A gentler option was offered: a half-day tunnel walk and a half-day farm walk. That evening, Dorothy prepared a gourmet meal for WTC members and Peter P. A German couple were amazed at the feast, especially the pavlova and strawberries. They spoke of a restaurant back home featuring dishes from around the world, including pavlova—but declared Dorothy’s version far superior. Dorothy, you are a legend!

 Sun 15 March
An 8:30am start saw 10 trampers head to Red Hut, perched on a bush-clad hill with expansive views to Mt Taranaki, Mt Ngauruhoe, and Mt Ruapehu. A stunning spot, complete with a friendly resident “caretaker,” Nigel.

 Mon 16 March
A shorter 3km walk followed a well-formed farm track along the Tangarakau River to the canyon—a natural amphitheatre known for its summer music festivals.

A superb weekend for all who attended- including the lucky German couple!

Whakapapa – Scoria Flat Crossover, Tongariro National Park: 18 Mar 2026.

Leaders Cherry and Johnny, scribe, Cherry

Led by Cherry and Johnny, 17 trampers split into two teams—one starting at Whakapapa, the other at Scoria Flat. Team Johnny, climbing from Whakapapa, claimed the highlight: a Whio perched on a moss-covered rock in the Whakapapaiti Stream, unfazed by swirling water—great spotting team Johnny.

From Scoria Flat, Team Cherry descended steadily toward Whakapapaiti Hut, taking in expansive views.

After negotiating several stream crossings, we met Team Johnny on the marshland and continued to the swing bridge for a more pleasant lunch spot. Sadly, no whio sightings for team Cherry. Homeward bound, both vans regrouped at the

vege kiosk north of Raetihi, where smiling faces reflected a thoroughly enjoyable, stunning day in TNP.

Rangipo Hut: Sat 21 Mar 2026. Leaders Cherry /Johnny, scribe Cherry

Rangipo Hut is the highest hut on the Round the Mountain Track in Tongariro National Park. It was advertised in the Whanganui Tramper magazine by our esteemed weekend trips co-ordinator, Dave Scoullar, as a “wander through Martian-like landscape with amazing views of the Rangipo Desert”.

We did indeed “marvel at the dramatic lahar valley in which the Whangaehu River runs”. Led by Cherry and Johnny on a stunning day the ever popular tramp from TukinoSkifield to Rangipo Hut did not disappoint the six trampers who enjoyed an excellent walk.

 Tararua Circuit Tramp :22–25 Mar 2026. Leader: John Mellsop,

Scribe: Peter McDowall

Just two of us set out, enjoying empty huts and very few encounters with others.

Beyond Waiopehu Hut it felt like true wilderness.

With perfect weather throughout, we were exceptionally lucky. The off-track sections from Waiopehu to Oriwa along Oriwa Ridge, followed by a 700m descent, provided a constant navigational challenge, even for an experienced orienteer.

When the bush became too dense or the terrain too steep, instinct signalled we were off course. NZ Topomap allowed quick position fixes, helping us realign before errors became consequential. Occasional tree markers offered reassurance. The two river sections were quite different in character but equally beautiful. The huts each had their own appeal, with Mid-Otaki Bivvy—remote and set in an idyllic spot—a particular highlight. Birdsong was limited, though 13 species were noted by trip’s end, with Whitehead most commonly heard.

Flora varied markedly with altitude. Highlights included the cool, shady “goblin forest” of Oriwa Ridge with abundant Prince of Wales Fern, along with sightings of Easter Orchid, Scarlet Rata Vine in flower, and Kanono heavy with red fruit along the South Ohau River. This is not a circuit for the unfit. The descent from Oriwa is demanding, especially the lower section with uneven ground and thick beech litter.

The climb from the Otaki Valley is direct, while the poorly maintained Yeates Track—with frequent treefalls and steepening gradient—takes its toll.

Low river levels are likely essential for the South Ohau crossing, though an alternative via Butchers Creek and Gable End Ridge is noted at South Ohau Hut.

A challenging, scenic and deeply rewarding four-day trip.

Mount Tihia: Sat 28 Mar 2026. Leaders: Viv Dawson/Denise Gordon,

scribe, Terry Kennedy

Eight WTC members set off at 6.30am for the long drive to the Mount Tihia track near Tokaanu, where we were joined by three trampers from the Taumaranui Club. The track entrance was easy to miss—a small gap in the bush marked only by a slight widening of the road. We began in damp bush on a reasonably clear track, climbing steadily to a flat spot for morning tea. Higher up, the track became rutted and scrubby, occasionally opening to glimpses of the surrounding landscape.

The final ascent through tussock and overgrown scrub made route-finding tricky at times. At just over 1100 metres, we lunched on the summit, enjoying views of Lake Rotoaira, Mt Pihanga, Lake Taupo and Lake Rotopounamu.

We returned the same way, collecting a few scratches but rounding off a thoroughly enjoyable day.

 Pukerua Bay to Plimmerton: Wed 1 Apr 2026. Leader, Adrian Pike

Scribe, Andra Beck

Eight keen tramperstook the train from Paekākāriki to Pukerua Bay. After a quick dash to beat cyclists to the conveniences, we set off along the rugged coastline.

The walk offered stunning views of Kapiti Island and Mana Island under clear skies, with plenty of enviable seaside homes along the way. We finished at Plimmerton and returned by train, enjoying conversations with locals about walks and cycling trips around Aotearoa.

Retrieving the van from the station carpark proved unexpectedly tricky, requiring several attempts and help from a kind driver, otherwise we may have stayed the night.

Two trampers slipped on the rocks, escaping with only minor injuries.

Too late for the honey ice cream shop, but Bulls dairy came to the rescue.

A memorable day with thanks to Bruce Thomas for his ever-watchful support.

  Awapikopiko Reserve: Mon 6 April 2026.Leader/Scribe, Dave Scoullar

Six from our club joined four from the Rangitikei Tramping Club on Easter Monday for a visit to Awapikopiko Reserve at Kumeroa, about 17km from Woodville. The 28ha block of bush was gifted by the Druce family to the QEII National Trust in 1966.

There are two tracks, and we chose the longer option, though it still took less than two hours to complete. The track was at times steep, winding through impressive stands of native bush including northern rātā, kahikatea, tawa, kanuka and hīnau.

Afterwards, we travelled to the Woodville end of the Manawatū Gorge. Following lunch, four of our party completed a loop walk from beside the Manawatū River across to the Ballance end of the gorge track.

 Branch Road Walkway: Sat 11 Apr 2026. Leader Pam Phease, scribe, Dave Scoullar

This 6km walkway follows the route of an abandoned county road linking Pohangina village with Ridge Road. Pam set off with eight from Pohangina and we wandered steadily upward (285m) through pine plantations, native bush, and then open farmland to Ridge Road for lunch. The climb, steady but gentle, took about two hours, and we shaved 15 minutes off on the return.

Branch Road closed in the 1960s and has an interesting history. Missionary/explorer William Colenso, accompanied by two Māori guides, followed this route in 1848 on a trek from Hawke’s Bay to Lake Taupō.

After the road was closed, locals took it upon themselves to maintain it as a walkway. The track passes through some private land and is narrow in places with drop-offs, but overall it is an easy and enjoyable walk, with great views of the Ruahine Range.

 Middle Road Reserve:Thu 9 Apr 2026.Leaders Sue Timpany/Terry Kennedy,
scribe, Chris Rothman

Eighteen of us left Whanganui on a sunny, windless day, with fine weather continuing as we arrived at Middle Road, Erua Forest, off State Highway 4. We drove about 3 km to the reserve.

The first couple of hours followed a well-graded track, though several large puddles kept us on our toes before lunch. Along the way we enjoyed a first-class view of Ruapehu, with little snow and Ngauruhoe peeping through in the background.

After lunch we entered the bush, where sections of track were overgrown with ferns and shrubs. Near the end, birdsong—absent earlier—added to the atmosphere. We soon reached a junction and returned along the track to the van.

 Red Crater, Tongariro: Fri2 Apr 2026. Leader/scribe, Esther

Before moonrise, Rozi, Peter McD and Esther left Mangatepopo car park under misty skies. Steam from Ngauruhoe drifted across the tops, while patches of green life stood out among the blackened vegetation. A faint track appeared on Pukekaikiore’s flank descending toward Mangatepopo.

On South Crater, soft pink hues in the mist deepened into a vivid orange glow. Twilight revealed striking rock faces, while the full moon briefly emerged between passing clouds.

Conditions were warm, windless and peaceful. At Red Crater, we paused by the fissure to warm up and have dinner before beginning the four-hour descent by starlight. We encountered no one on the return—only a lone hare.