03/12/2025. Millenium Track from Taieri Mouth to Lookout. Grade 3. Trampers. Leaders: Sandy Webb and Alison Evans.
The weather gods were not on our side, so the planned Silver Peaks tramp was reluctantly shelved for another day. A Plan B had to be generated quickly; we thought we’d try the Millenium track as things looked a bit better to the South.
17 hardy souls arrived at Memorial Park, and after standing around in light rain we set off with high hopes. There were thoughts of mutiny on the road to Taieri Mouth as we drove through a downpour and coffee was looking like a better option….but everyone arrived and we set off with the premise that we could turn around at any stage if things got too wet.
Several spoonbills were spotted happily feeding in the low tide, and Alison found a patch of Green Hood Orchids which was admired along the way.
There were no dry patches anywhere for morning tea, though there seemed to be less rain and a view at the high point and the seat, so that’s where we stopped.
A couple of Doc workers came by, having checked John Bull Gully and agreed it (still) needed repairs. Interesting point that came up in conversation with them: if a Doc sign is coloured red, you really should heed the warning. The track was slippery by this stage, so we called this the turning point and returned to the start.
Here a nearby sleeping sea lion waved her flipper a few times but otherwise continued with her “I can’t see you therefore you can’t see me” approach, and was not concerned by the cars and people eating their lunch now that the rain had finally stopped.
A small group also had an enjoyable coffee at Brighton.
Recorded by Sarah: Distance 5.75km, height gained 212m.
Thanks to everyone who came out cheerfully in less than ideal conditions!
Alison Evans and Sandy Webb
Link to background information and earlier tramps and hikes in the same area.