24/09/2025. Government Track Circuit. Grade 4.5. Trampers. Leaders: John Gardiner and Carolyn Pridham
The Government Track was originally built in 1860 to provide horse and dray access to the Waipori Goldfields.
On a beautiful sunny morning 16 trampers heading off up the steep but short, slightly muddy switchback track. The track then proceeds to sidle around the valley with a relentless but gradual climb through native bush with the occasional bellbird, kereru and piwakawaka.
Just to keep us on our toes the track has quite a few fallen trees to be navigated, bringing to mind the Bear Hunt book -can’t go round it, can’t go over it, have to go under it! The highlight of the obstacles was a very large and beautiful old Matai tree, which provided a perfect photo opportunity.
After crossing a stile, we continued on through an open paddock area, before going back into the bush.
This part of the track saw us snaking our way around gullies, continuing the gradual climb to the top. The zigzag track challenged us with 12 creek crossings which varied in depth and difficulty.
We were all pleased to see the bush change to manuka and finally arrive at the pylons for a late lunch stop in the sun.
Re-energised by food and a break we all headed off up the forestry roads
and were treated to the magnificent views of the Three Kings, the Taieri Plains, Saddle Hill and the ocean.
A steep descent took us to a hut for a quick break before making our way up a short hill
to walk down a ‘pig rutted’ paddock leading back to the stile and the last leg down the Government to the cars.
A special thanks to Lyn Keene for coming on the Recce and helping us navigate the track back to the stile.
An enjoyable day with great weather, company and varied terrain.
16.5 km and approximately 5.00 hours walking time
Carolyn Pridham and John Gardiner
Link to background information and earlier tramps and hikes in the same area.