18/02/2026. Maia to Port Chalmers. Grade 1.5. Hikers. Leaders: Mike Webb & Dave Roberts.
The Mosgiel contingent, townies and a solitary bus passenger from Port met at Maia for a leisurely walk to Port Chalmers on the shared cycle/walkway.
It was a good turnout of 23 members. Dave Roberts led us at a brisk pace to our first stop at Burkes where we stopped for a breather and morning tea.
Burkes was the site of a brewery in the 1880. It is now long gone and the closest place to grab a beer is now The Portsider in Port Chalmers. Highly recommended for its craft beer and excellent meals. Next stop was a short breather at Roseneath where there is a nice information panel depicting some local Maori mythology.
At the entrance to Port Chalmers we stopped by a selection of chains on the cycleway. There was a discussion amongst some as to whether they were for bike repairs or bondage. Take your pick.
It was decided not to tire ourselves any further with any unnecessary tramping up any tracks in Port so we sensibly went to the Port Chalmers Cenotaph for lunch. This is conveniently opposite the public loos.
After lunch we split up into various groups to investigate the various shops in Port and also spend some time in the excellent Maritime Museum.
Debrief and refreshments were had in the Santosha Cafe courtyard before 22 hikers got the bus back to Maia and our solitary Port member walked home.
The weather was kind and it slowly got warmer as we had a pleasant walk of 8kms.
Mike Webb
Link to background information and earlier tramps and hikes in the same area.