09/09/2026. 3 Kings. Grade 3. Hikers. Leaders: Jan Palmer, Wendy Langley.
Fifteen walkers set off in ideal conditions heading up a well-formed farm track and navigating a number of farm gates and muddy areas. Much of the track was through green bush.
As it was a steady uphill climb, we stopped a number of times at cleared areas to enjoy some stunning views over the Taieri plains including views of Lake Waipori, Lake Waihola and Saddle Hill.
After a longer stop for morning tea we set off again turning left off the main track to head up a rougher farm track to the ‘Three Kings’. Here it was more exposed to the wind but we all found sheltered spots to eat lunch, feeling quite pleased with our endeavours.
However, towards the end of lunch during a discussion on what elevation we were at a tramper, who shall remain nameless (Ross) pointed out, after looking at a topographical map on his phone, that we weren’t actually at the Three Kings!
After some discussion we all voted to continue on and did reach the area beside the Three Kings.
Perhaps the rocks we had our lunch at should be named the Three Pretenders. They are still a lovely area to have lunch at.
The journey down was much quicker with only one fall into the mud and we arrived back at the cars around 2 o’clock. We stopped at the 4 square in Outram on our return journey for some well-earned refreshments. Thanks to Michelle for allowing us to do this walk.
Jan
Link to background information and earlier tramps and hikes in the same area.