Quarantine/St Martins Island

*Click this Wikipedia entry on Quarantine Island, if you wish.
*Click here for a PDF fact sheet of the original Quarantine Island
*And here is the St Martin Island Community web page. Click the photo at the bottom to see original buildings!
*Click a quarantine-island-botanical-report for a (bit dated) 1987 report on the island’s vegetation, if you like.
30 kms PJP to Back Beach.

Quarantine Island – Information and Trips Library


5.  4/10/2023.  Combined. Quarantine Island. Grade 2, Leaders: Ross and Wyn Davies, Maria MacNee, Jenny Finnerty.

Twenty-eight trampers and hikers enjoyed a great day out with calm and temperate weather, a little cloudy, not the blue skies and sun the forecast promised. Perfect weather though for the crossing to Quarantine Island. Our day had started with a little confusion regarding numbers and meeting places but we all managed to get ourselves to Back Beach carpark safely (Julie and Viv might tell a few tales about their driver though, lol).
We walked off for morning tea in Lady Thorn Dell…

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Morning Tea at Lady Thorn Rhododendron Dell. (photo and caption John)

… where we enjoyed fabulous views of the busy Port Chalmers.

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Panorama – Port Chalmers on a quiet day. (photo and caption John)

Great photos and history on display at the lookout platform. Little remains of the dry dock and ship building industry that once provided for a vibrant community in the 19th and 20th centuries.
From Lady Thorn Dell we enjoy a leisurely meander through the town cemetery which it has to be said seems to hold an unhealthy interest for those of us still in the land of the living? Indicative of the average age of our enclave perhaps…? Nonetheless, interesting history to be gleaned from those old stones and bones.

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Touring the Port Chalmers Cemetery. (photo and caption John)
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Lovely view from Port Chalmers Cemetery (photo and caption Marijke)

Coming back down to the Port we get a stunning glimpse of Carey’s Bay…

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First glimpse of Careys Bay. (photo and caption John)

… before heading back to the wharf and Boiler Point where Captain John welcomes us aboard the island ferry the “Vivienne J”. After John treats us to a grand jaunt around the harbour basin (greatly appreciated by all on board)…

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Beautiful Deborah Bay (photo and caption Ady)
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“Touring” Carey’s Bay. (photo and caption John)

…we “set sail” for the island, not bad value at $20 return! One wag commented that “It was very nice of Bruce to organise a cruise for Jenny on her birthday….”

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Birthday Girl and her “guests” arrive at Quarantine Island (photo and caption Marijke)

Arriving at the jetty on the island, the skeletons of the Waikana…

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“Touring” Carey’s Bay. (photo and caption Pam)

… and the Oreti form a kind of decaying guard of honour as we head up to the Lodge for lunch.

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Lunch (photo and caption Helen)

After lunch we explore the island starting with the restored Married Quarters building in which is housed a beautifully modelled miniature of the Waikana as she was when in service as a harbour ferry.

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Harbour Ferry “Waikana” as she once was. (photo and caption John)

Regenerating native bush rang with the sound of native bird life as we enjoyed an easy 30-minute walk around the island.

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The “Sail” Shaped Chapel. (photo and caption by Pam)
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Inside the Chapel. (photo and caption John)
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Just the same as it was during a previous visit when I did a quick sketch (photo and caption Marijke)
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This drawing was from the same viewpoint (drawing and caption Marijke)
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Remnants from the old Hospital (photo and caption Marijke)
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Panorama – Looking back to Goat Island and Port Chalmers. (photo and caption John)

Our walks included visiting the sad sight of the island’s cemetery where the remains of 72 immigrants lay, half of them children, in unmarked graves. The small mounds are especially evocative. A sobering reminder of the fate of many immigrants who survived the arduous journey from the other side of the world in search of a better future, only to perish of scarletina and other deadly diseases in quarantine before they even set foot on the mainland.

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Waiting on the jetty. (photo and caption Pam)

Heading back across the harbour our day is nicely rounded off by afternoon tea at the Santosha Cafe in the Port.

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Coffee (photo and caption Helen)

A wonderful day out enjoyed by all.
Maria


4. 12/2/2020. Quarantine Island. Leaders Janice and Peter

43 hikers and trampers parked at Back Beach, Port Chalmers and walked along the wharf
edge past the stacks of logs. No cruise ship in port this time. Headed up the hill to our
morning tea spot at the beautifully maintained Lady Thorn Dell.

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Photo and Caption John – “Morning tea at Lady Thorn Dell”

The lookout gave us good views of the container wharf which was busy with a container ship in.

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Photo and Caption Clive _ “Port Chalmers from above.”

Meandered along the road , through the cemetery, and down to the main Aramoana road.

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Photo and Caption John – “Visiting the Cemetary.”

A small detour took us down to the new extended fishing wharf at Boiler Point.

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Photo and Caption Clive – “New wharf boiler point”
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Photo and Caption Clive – “What to see in Port Chalmers”

Carried on to the main street of Port Chalmers and up the hill to the lookout and Ralph Houtere Sculpture Park.

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Photo and Caption Clive – “Ralph Houtere sculptures.”

Back down a bush track to Back Beach. With half an hour to go before the boat was due to arrive
most of us lunched in the car park. Were entertained by a heap of shags and gulls feasting
on some small silver fish. By this time the weather had cleared from a slightly drizzly misty
start to a very pleasant sunny calm day. Perfect for a boat trip.

 

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Photo and Caption John – “On our way.”

Another two hikers arrived, which brought our numbers up to 45. Because of the numbers, the boat did two trips to the island. We were met by a very enthusiastic knowledgeable volunteer who took us to the old married quarters and gave us a very detailed overview of the history of the island.

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Photo and Caption Clive – “Renovation inside married quarters.”
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Photo and Caption John – “Time for a break.”

Quarantine Island chapelres

Photo and Caption Clive -“Quarantine Island chapel”The renovations to this building have now been completed. Following this the majority of the
group did the half hour walk round the point, through the old cemetery, returning to the
wharf to be transported back to the car park.

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Photo and Caption John – “Harbour view”
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Photo and Caption John – “All aboard”

Refreshments (including a yummy Devonshire tea for some of us) were at the historic Careys Bay Hotel – a pleasant end to the day sitting in front of the hotel overlooking the boat harbour.

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Photo and Caption Janice – “the Quarantine Island visitors.”

Jan and Peter


3. 18/3/2015. Quarantine/St Martin Island from Port Chalmers. Leaders: Jan and Peter.

The weather was atrocious. Twenty-four Hikers and Ramblers arrived at the Back Beach car park. The rain fell. The wind blew.  Leaders had told us our ferry to the island wasn’t to leave till 12.30 p.m. The sensible ones of us I believe waited out the morning in the shelter of their vehicles. The sillier ones were immediately into Parkas and gloves. Storm gear.

And off we set. Back the way we had come. Past the never-ending stretch of stacked logs, past the cruise ship, through the main intersection, up and along the road behind the church, across the railway line and on to Lady Thorn Dell. Here we gathered in the most sheltered (??) spot for morning tea. Few sat and even fewer partook. It was wet and cold.

Cuppa

Then surprise, upon the scene came up the two Lions Club members we had met as we entered the Dell, engaged in tidying the place up in preparation of a forthcoming important visit. They welcomed us and told us everything we could wish to know about the Dell’s history, from early quarrying of the rock, which initially was a hill stretching out to the water’s edge and whose stone now graces many of Dunedin’s buildings, notably the Railway Station, on through its life as a rubbish dump and subsequent clearing, to enable the further rhododendron planting and the present day. Wonderful.

Whereas we had earlier briefly entertained the idea of taking hot coffee in the warm embrace of Careys Bay Hotel, more time had now elapsed, so it was back down to the town,…

Local graffiti
Local graffiti. On a shed wall a little way down from the Dell.

…in search of coffee that was more local. But the town was asleep, despite the cruise ship’s presence. No tourists. No cafes.

So we wandered around a bit, eventually sloping off in twos and fours back to the cars. We lunched separately, some in cars, some in other shelter, some exploring, until ferry-time arrived. Jan collected our ten dollar notes for paying the fare, and we boarded.

The VIvienne I
The VIvienne I

A lovely boat. Powerful too. The channel was a bit rough but in the lee of the island, all was smooth. And the sun had appeared and the rain had gone. A brightening-up afternoon. Hurrah.

It was no trouble alighting at the new wharf. The new island warden filled us in on local history, a salient point being that the St Martins Island Group name had very recently given way to the Quarantine Island Group name. Two other groups were there on the day, one of them being a two-day Tokomairio School Group. Our stay was a two-hour one, set to return at 3.00 p.m.

Rammed earth floor
Rammed earth floor. A feature of the Island’s Chapel.

The walk round the top of the island was only half an hour. Lovely bush. The wind was strong on the sou-west side, the one exposed towards Dunedin, but the bush part of the track provided good shelter.

Having walked the main track,…

Track to loop
Track leading to loop track
On the loop track
On the loop track

…some wandered off towards the old graveyard and the Portobello end of the island.

The Cemetery
The Cemetery

The few sheep on the island were sheltered under a small plantation of pines. A brick chimney was all that remained of the old hospital.

Back towards the main buildings, the married quarters, once two-storied but now just a large hall, had been straightened up from an earlier lean, looking good in its fresh coat of paint.

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Restored outside  of Married Quarters Building
Inside old Married Quarters Building
Inside old Married Quarters Building

The ‘wanderers’ joined the others waiting in the sun till ferry-time arrived.

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Waiting in sun for ferry’s arrival.

All went smoothly as we reboarded and ‘sailed’ (?) back to the car park. A significant point, picked up from the crew, was that among them was the boat’s present owner, and the new owner , the one of the Monarch. This boat had apparently had a capacity for 33 passengers.

All agreed it had been a good day, all round. A day with a difference. A day to re-establish connections between Ramblers and old and newer Hikers.

Thanks to Janice and Peter for the day. – Ian.


2. 22/4/1998 St Martin/Quarantine Island Camp

1. 5/3/1997. Martin Island Cruise.

Bannockburn Camp 2023- Hiking, Tramping and Biking

3 -10 March 2023. Bannockburn. Trampers and Hikers and Bikers. Leaders: Anne and Rod Ward.

The club planned a trip to Bannockburn for three days of tramping and three of bike rides. This all started on Friday 3rd of March with accommodation at the old Bannockburn school now run by the Otago Outdoor Education Trust. Accommodation was a mix of the old schoolhouse, an attached cottage and the barracks for boys and girls at the other end. Anne and Rod had a full programme of activities for the six days, including delegating the evening meals to teams for the first four nights, this included providing nibbles, main course, dessert, and home baking for supper.

Friday 3rd March – Day 0
Travelled to Bannockburn and settled into the camp. It was a beautiful hot afternoon/evening under the veranda soaking up the atmosphere. With rooms sorted some had a swim, others happy to watch. Team 1 prepared scrumptious ham, salads, etc as required for the duty team.

Bannockburn day 0 John
First night, settling in. Photo & caption John
Bannockburn Camp Helen Day 0
Bannockburn Camp. Photo Helen

Saturday 4th March – Tramping
Link to Day 1 tramping report: Kanuka Track and Trail to Old Cromwell Town.

Sunday 5th March – Tramping
Link to Day 2 tramping report: Kawarau River Track.

Monday 6th March – Tramping
Link to Day 3 tramping report: Bannockburn sluicings, Stewart Town and Long Gully Loop Track.

Tuesday 7th March – Biking
Link to Day 4 biking report: Bannockburn Camp to Smiths Way and return.

Wednesday 8th March – Biking
Link to Day 5 biking report: Lake Dunstan Trail and Millennium Track to Alexandra.

Thursday 9th March – Biking
Link to Day 6 biking report: Gibston to Arrowtown and Back.

Friday 10th March
All that remained to do for those who stayed overnight was to pack up, tidy up, and head back home.

Thanks to all cooking groups for preparing and organizing meals, that were varied and enjoyable, great menus for the week.

Also to all the drivers for ferrying us to various start and pickup points, your service was invaluable and very much appreciated.

Overall our accommodation was well suited for our tramping group. Bannockburn Outdoor Trust was very obliging to our needs. I’m sure we’ll return for more adventures.

Thanks, Anne

Bannockburn Camp Day 1: Kanuka Track and Trail to Old Cromwell Town.

Saturday 4th March – Tramping
Day 1 – Kanuka Track plus Trail to Old Cromwell Town.
Lunches made, the tramping group (20) travelled to the Bendigo DOC Historic Reserve to complete the Kanuka Loop Track – 14kms from the Cromwell bridge to the turnoff onto Bendigo Loop Road and onto Mines Road to the carpark. The day was overcast with periods of drizzle so required jackets off and on as needed.

Bannockburn Kanuka track they are on their way Phil Day 1
They are on their way. Photo & caption Phil
Bannockburn Kanuka track Day 1 John
Morning tea. Photo & caption John
Bannockburn Kanuka track view of tarras Phil Day 1
Working out where Tarras Airport is? Photo & caption Phil

This track is 10.6km long, with elevation gain of 487vertical metres. It is a rugged trail with steep sections, but the elevation gains give you views from the Old Woman Range to the Saint Bathans. Underfoot it’s a variation of grass, tussock, rocky outcrops, with some good cover from the Kanuka and Manuka bush, Lunch was at the skyline ridge. Moving time for our tramp was just over 4 hours. Once back to the cars we drove up the hill to have a look at the relics of the old goldmining settlement of Welshtown, stone buildings and mineshafts from a bygone area. After much discussion we agreed the track rating would be 4.5.

Bannockburn hikers day 1 Helen
The 3 hikers. Dave, Helen and Raewyn. Photo & caption Helen

The Hikers (3) enjoyed a walk on the track to Old Cromwell Town for coffee and return 5.2km each way.

Bannockburn Camp Raewyns's team dinner Day 1
Team Raewyn’s tea. Photo & caption Phil

Link to next day.

Bannockburn Camp Day 2: Kawarau River Track

<<– Link to previous day

Sunday 5th March – Tramping:
Day 2 –Kawarau River Track.
Due to rain overnight and start of Sunday morning we changed our walk to River Walk from Bannockburn Bridge up Kawarau River track (combined walk). Some walked return and others were given a lift back to camp where we had lunch. (4.5km each way) Very interesting walk which one day will join up with the carpark at the Goldfields Mining Centre.

Bannockburn Day 2 River walk Helen
Beautiful views. Photo & caption Helen
Bannockburn Day 2 River walk John
The long and winding road. Photo & caption John
Bannockburn Day 2 Mist rising John
Morning mist lifts on another day. Photo & caption John

In the afternoon Ross took us to the Quartz Reef Point Track about 6kms up the lake from the Cromwell bridge for a brisk 30 min walk from the carpark to view the formation of diggings in the shape of leaves (herringbone tailings).

Bannockburn Day 2 Northburn John
Hope this is worth it. Photo & caption John
Bannockburn Day 2 No need to go to the gym back in the day Phil
No need to go to the gym back in the day. Photo & caption John

Some travelled back to Cromwell Pool for well-earned spa & swim while others visited Highland Park racetrack.

Bannockburn Day 2 Boys and their toys Helen
Boys and their toys. Photo & caption John
Bannockburn Loos with a view Helen
Photo Helen
Bannockburn This one took Johns fancy Helen
This one took John’s fancy. Photo & caption Helen
Bannockburn Helen laying down the law to her 'boys'! Phil
Helen laying down the law to her ‘boys’. Photo & caption Phil

 

Link to next day –>>

Bannockburn Camp Day 3: Bannockburn Sluicings, Stewart Town, Long Gully Loop Track

<<– Link to previous day.

Monday 6th March – Tramping.
Day 3 – Bannockburn Sluicings, Stewart Town, Long Gully Loop Track

Beautiful weather for start of the day. Lunches made. We left cars at Bannockburn Camp just a short distance from School Camp and headed along Domain Road/Gibson Road to the start of sluicings and up to Stewart Town for morning tea with all of group.

Bannockburn Day 3 High Tea under the trees at Stewart Town Phil
High Tea under the trees at Stewart Town. Photo & caption Phil
Bannockburn Day 3 Heather's photographic skills to the fore John
Heather’s photographic skills to the fore. Photo & caption John
Bannockburn Day 3 Stewart Town Helen
Lovely old house. Photo & caption Helen

Here hikers and trampers parted ways, the hikers walking around through sluicings to Felton Road and back to carpark via coffee stopover.

Bannockburn Day 3 Hikers at lunch Helen
Hikers at lunch at the Black Rabbit cafe in Bannockburn. Photo & caption Helen

The trampers headed further afield to complete Long Gully Loop Track 7kms, a steady uphill climb, where we stopped for lunch at the top and admired magnificent views of Bannockburn, its wineries and further down to Cromwell and Lake Dunstan. We couldn’t have chosen a better day; the scenery was amazing. Lunch over and back down steep incline to complete Loop Track, a tired but very satisfied group on completion of track.

Bannockburn Day 3 Stewart Town tramp Phil
Boundary riders. Photo & caption Phil
Bannockburn Day 3 We did it Phil
We did it. Photo & caption Phil
Bannockburn Day 3 A long way down John
A long way down. Photo & caption John
Bannockburn Day 3 Felton road vineyard Neil
Views of the Felton road vineyard. Photo & caption Neil

Many sore and tired muscles took refuge in the pool back at camp.

Bannockburn Day 3 Wyn savouring Keith's cooking Phil
Wyn savouring Keith’s cooking. Photo & caption Phil

Neil started the evening meal with his version of grace, very apt for our group. Our yummy meal was followed by Neil’s quick wit for ‘News of the Day’ very entertaining thanks Neil. Shona and Keith arrived just in time to assist with meal preparation.

Link to next day –>>

Bannockburn Camp Day 4: Bike from Camp to Smiths Way and Back

<<– Link to previous day

Tuesday 7th March – Biking
Day 4 – Bike to Bannockburn Camp to Smiths Way and return.

This was the start of the biking days so some of the trampers headed home after breakfast. After swapping poles for bikes our (15 bikers) first ride was from Bannockburn camp to Old Cromwell, Pisa Moorings and up to Smiths Way a round trip of about 52kms, on the return we stopped at the coffee shop for mostly our own homemade lunch; jolly decent of them to allow this for just a few cups of coffee. This was a 3-hour trip so we were home early.

Bannockburn Day 4 Cyclists Phil
Tour de Dunstan starters. Photo & caption Phil
Bannockburn Day 4 Crossing Bannockburn Bridge Phil
Crossing Bannockburn Bridge. Photo & caption Phil
Bannockburn Billy getting in the way Phil
Billy plays chicken. Photo & caption Phil
Bannockburn Day 4 Lunch at Pisa Moorings Helen
Lunch at Pisa Moorings. Photo & caption Helen
Bannockburn day 4 census night Phil
The census stumps the brains trust. Photo & caption Phil

Link to next day –>>

Bannockburn Camp Day 5: Lake Dunstan Trail and Millennium Track to Alexandra.

<<– Link to previous day

Wednesday 8th – Biking
Day 5: Biking Lake Dunstan Trail and Millennium Track to Alexandra.
Getting a bit more adventurous, so this was a big day for some. The logistics keep our coordinator on the ball with lots of options offered and only one trailer to pick up bikes.

Bannockburn day 5 starting at Alexandra Phil
Starting at Alexandra. Photo & caption Phil

Some headed off from the camp to the Lake Dunstan Trail and others did the same but went down another 12kms on the Millennium track to Alexandra. Others started at the other end and came back, and a few did only the Millennium track. Everyone met at the Clyde Rowing club for lunch. It was perfect weather.

Bannockburn Sculpture on the trail Phil
Sculpture on the trail. Photo & caption Phil
Bannockburn the bannockburn starters arrive Phil
The Bannockburn starters arrive; the following numbers to weigh in are… Photo & caption Phil
Bannockburn Day 5 Lunch in the sun Helen
Lunch at the rowing club. Photo & caption Helen

Link to next day –>>

Bannockburn Camp Day 6: Biking Gibston to Arrowtown and Back

<<– link to previous day

Thursday 9th – Biking
Day 6: Biking from Gibston to Arrowtown and Back.

Final day, so we loaded the trailer and two cars with 12 bikes and headed to Gibbston Tavern, from there we rode to Arrowtown on the Gibbston River Wine Trail and Arrow River Bridge Trail, via the bungee jump bridge: 22km each way.

Last day Well spotted Phil, congratulations Phil
Well spotted Phil, congratulations. Photo & caption (other) Phil
Last day bridge Phil
Crossing the rubicon? Photo & caption Phil

Lunch at Arrowtown was pretty much a pie for everyone with a coffee or tea to wash it down, the riders returned to the Gibbston Tavern for a cool drink and pizza mid-afternoon, tea that night was light with all the leftovers from the week.

Last day pie Rod Phil
What a pie, definitely not a Jimmy’s. Photo & caption Phil
Last day animals Helen
Friends in the paddock and Dave. Photo & caption Helen
Last day gibbston tavern Helen
Pizza and cool beverage. Photo & caption Helen
Last day lunch Phil
A well earned pizza and ginger (alcoholic) beer at the Tavern. Photo & caption Phil

 

link to back to main page –>>

Camps: Borland Lodge Adventure and Education Trust

Map
Map

4. 12-16 April 2021. Borland Trip.  Leaders: Raewyn and Phil Keene.

Day 1

At last, after a few weeks of planning, and watching weather reports etc. we were underway, and all before 9am on the day!

After 2 hours of driving we emerged through the forest at the Dunsdale reserve, at 1 minute past the estimated time on Raewyn’s manifest; this proving to be an ongoing source of feedback as we completed each part of the day and week. A pretty impressive lineup of cars too, and the groundsman cutting the lawns had to move on until we had departed.

We were walking by 11.30am up the true left side of the Dunsdale stream, to emerge at Forks Flat clearing, before crossing a bridge and returning down the true right side, where there were some impressive matai and other podocarp trees.

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“The Team on Dunsdale loop.” – Photo and Caption Gordon

Back by 12.30pm for lunch at the various picnic tables and away at 1pm, on time!

Some topping up of petrol at Winton was followed by one of those road trips where all roads lead to Clifton Suspension Bridge, except when you have too much chatter in the vehicle, miss a turn off and end up nearly at Mossburn for a venison pie….. with one vehicle down Peter gave an interesting outline, on the Bridge, of the ups and downs of the Manapouri Project. The major down being the adverse effects on the Waiau River and it’s life force and downstream communities. Having communicated with the errant vehicle we moved on up the Southern Scenic Route turning off near Blackmount onto the Lake Monowai Rd and up to Borland Lodge. Black skies into the west were foreboding….. We all settled in quickly and hey presto the first of 4 lovely evening meals was whipped up and devoured, in anticipation of some hard tramping ahead. After searching the web pages of the weather gods, it was decided we would start with the easier of the 4 main walks on the agenda.

Day 2

South-North Borland to Lodge

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“Map of North Borland to the Lodge.” – Photo and Caption Ross

Up up and away on time at 9am, with the bulk of the group opting to do the South ‘n’ North Borland/Rock Bivvy return to the Lodge, whilst Raewyn’s group did Lodge to South Borland return. With help from the smaller group, we ferried everyone to a drop off on the Saddle Rd, and set off across, down and through fields of moss carpets and crown ferns at the base of high limestone cliffs.

Day 1-2 Descending past sandstone bluffs (1920 x 1080)
“Passing by Sandstone bluffs.” – Photo and Caption Ross
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“South Borland Limestone cliffs” – Photo and Caption Gordon

Along the way we were accompanied by tomtits, fantails and the odd Robin or two.

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“A friend on the track!” – Photo and Caption Gordon

We morning tea’d on a high bank overlooking the South Borland stream, with views of Mt Titiroa in the foreground.

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“Morning tea on a bank overlooking the South Borland stream.” – Photo and Caption Helen

From here we turned off, walked across a swing-bridge over the stream, and carried on to what has to be the best rock bivy in the world?

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“The big rock bivy” – Photo and Caption Dave

Along the way we had an interesting chat with Fiordland’s Robin Hood, who was hoping to get a deer with his bow and arrow! We lunched sharpish at the rock bivy, then returned down the North Borland and over the swing-bridge, turning left to follow the track above and alongside the main Borland River back to the Lodge. The babbling brook was quite large in places, and oh those deep pools must be home to some gigantic trout? We returned to the lodge over the swing-bridge on the Pig stream, past lots of emergency shelters, erected by school pupils as part of their outdoor training activities. In parallel, Raewyn’s group (or rather Keith’s harem?) set off from the Lodge just after 10am once the ferrying of hikers and cars was complete. Walking in reverse of the above, they enjoyed their walk through the moss covered forest and Keith too was interested in those trout pools (even to the extent of standing beside a tree to peer into the depths, to later discover it was overhanging the stream with no roots below!). Final destination was the turn-off spot above, and once they discovered that no-one was waiting to return with them, they had lunch back further on the track around a previously used campfire. Sandflies were biting, so the journey back was soon started.

The only first aid required was to Jan’s shoe which lost its sole.

Everyone’s efforts were rewarded by another lovely meal, a great social atmosphere with lots of board and card games underway. But earlyish to bed to ready for the day ahead, this time on the Borland Bivy to Green Lake and return walk, and hopefully on the Mt Burns Alpine tarns walk.

Day 3

Borland Bivy to Green Lake return – Mt Burns Alpine Walk

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“Green and Island lakes walks.” – Photo and Caption Ross

A perfect split of people to vehicles meant Phil’s group was away sharpish at 8.20am, arriving through the mist to a clear Borland Saddle, where some time was taken to take in the views and anticipate the Alpine walk on our return later in the day. Then on down the Grebe Valley side of the Saddle to find ample parking under the pylons near the entrance at the bivy. A slightly wetter forest than on day 2 meant the yellow carpet had given way to a rich green, and we bobbled along through a low saddle, then down and across a large but boggy clearing.

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“Bobbling along on a boggy clearing.” –  Photo and Caption Phil

Bang on 10.00am we had morning tea, either in the edge of the forest or around patches in the sphagnum moss.

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“The sphagnum moss.” – Photo and Caption Pam

On through another low forest saddle, this time with a picturesque tarn surrounded by sharp colours, not unlike a geothermal pool. The bush and tussock tracks were more pronounced than at the time of the recce, thanks no doubt to the pitter patter of hunters feet through the roar period, and no wonder with hearing regular bugles all day long, and a bit later on, some Kea squawking. The next tussock clearing was on another scale, vast wonderful high red tussock, and drier under foot and eventually we entered another short forest walk and came to the junction with the Island Lake track. Everyone was travelling well, so we agreed to stay together and box on. We were immediately met by a good old fashion ‘grunt’, requiring good breathing spots about each third of the way up; it didn’t quite look this steep on the map! Having ascended we travelled along the ridge, but with 3 hours gone and still wanting to do some of the Alpine walk later in the day, the majority of the group opted for lunch. The famous five moved (rumoured to be running?) on to the edge of the Green Lake, descending and ascending the quite steep  ridge.

Day 2-3 Time for a quick lunch beside Green Lake (1920 x 1080)
“The runaway 5 at Green Lake.” – Photo and Caption Ross

The majority returned to the Island Lake track and went down to the outlet, catching up with the famous five an hour and a half later, allowing for a nice group photo with the lake in the background. Island Lake was rumoured to be the most picturesque on the day?

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“A View of Island Lake.” – Photo and Caption Gordon
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“The group who walked in search of the lakes.” – Photo and Caption Gordon

From here we returned at a solid pace back to the cars, visualising the best spot to put our bush hut close to nearby tarns, and guessing where those roaring stags were. An inspection of the bivvy found an entry in the hut book from Raewyn’s group, who had completed part of the walk. Their three cars left later and also stopped at the saddle for a look. Still a little misty, they headed down to the pylon park and walked through the forest to the first clearing on the Green Lake walk to view the valley. Too boggy for morning tea there, they back tracked to find a dryer spot in the forest. Back to the cars, they drove on another 5kms to the Grebe Valley lookout where the mist had cleared for a great view down the valley. Also stopped there were a couple of deer hunters using modern technology to look for deer down below. Discussion developed and soon a few binocular sets were out, deer seen and photos taken. From there they returned to the Saddle for lunch, ventured through the Goblin forest and completed the Alpine Walk up far enough to enjoy the spectacular scenery.

This was the point Phil’s group returned to, and most went above the bush line to enjoy the big picture, which was pretty good!

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“On the ridge looking down to a natural tarn.” – Photo Karen

On down the Saddle road and returned to the Lodge for more, well you know, great food and socialising but noticeably most sneaking off to bed a little earlier than the night before.

Day 4

Mt Eldrig ascent/descent

Lodge to Lake Monowai and return Mt Eldrig:

A close to even split for either walk, with 15 ready and willing at 8.45am to head for Mt Eldrig (an unofficial name, there is a Loch Eldrig in Scotland. Eldrig has become synonymous with deer trapping, named after a 10 th century monk Aelric who dug trenches to lead deer into net traps). With just 3 vehicles the steep ascent and parking arrangements up the pylon road was easily achieved, and off we went through quite an overgrown entrance, but the track settling down to one of steady to steep beech track, some fallen logs and bogs, and large rocks making it a little difficult to navigate; fortunately DOC had placed more numerous -markers on the trees. We morning tea’d right on10.00am where we had some great views but also had to seek some shelter from a strong NW wind. Another 45 minutes saw us emerge above the bush line onto

steep tussock/bog country with the track progressively giving way to poled markers. We followed these for another half hour, where 3 of the group decided to rest, awaiting the return of the main

group. They carried on and up and around to come to a significant white granite outcrop, providing spectacular views into and beyond the Borland valley, as well as to Te Wae Wae Bay,

Lake Monowai and the Takitimus, and up to the forward peak of Eldrig.

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“A significant white outcrop” – Photo and Caption Phil
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“The lunchtime team on Eldric.” – Photo and Caption Phil

We took some group photos, with two folk returning to the other 3 and then on down to a car and back to the Lodge. The remaining 10 had a good lunch break and then over the next hour and half ascended/descended this forward peak, through lovely alpine herb-fields, gentians, with some Edelweiss flowers seeking shelter at the base of rocks; this brought forward the inevitable song from the Sound of Music and we could hear the ‘echo’ albeit at a much higher and tuneful pitch, from Raewyn’s group the day before on the Alpine Walk just over the hill! Finally all 10 ascended to admire the views, and the 1000m vertical drop a few metres behind us.

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“Atop Mt Eldrig into the West.” – Photo and Caption Phil
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‘The first Mexican wave on Eldrig’ – Photo  and Caption Phil

Group photos, into the west, and into the east were taken before we made the steady, steep, slippery descent, with one or two slightly embarrassing moments along the way.

Lodge to Lake Monowai:

With Raewyn overseeing, Esther & Pam led 18 on the track from behind the lodge and over Burnt Ridge. Different forest again, gave way to a couple of boggy areas, then a climb up to the ridge for morning tea. Onward across the ridge and down the other side with a few narrow and/or steep areas to negotiate before coming out on the flat. Following the clear markers, the walk travels through broom etc and then along the pine forest edge to the main Monowai road. A 1km walk along the road comes to the main car park & boat ramp at Lake Monowai.

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“The boat harbour area of Lake Monowai” – Photo and Caption Gordon

The boat harbour area of Lake Monowai – Photo Gordon

Meantime, a few of the team had stayed behind, so they drove two cars round to the same spot to join them for lunch. Lunch was under the beech trees at quite damp picnic tables with the lake below. After lunch, a stroll to the flood gates and group photo with the lake.

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“Group Photo at Lake Monowai.” – Photo and Caption Raewyn
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“Borland lodge to Lake Monowai” – Photo and Caption Raewyn

A few opted to return by car, the rest were led back by Esther & Pam (thanks ladies).

During the evening meal breaks Judge Mellish outlined an extensive list of sins that everyone had committed during the days, except himself of course! He had spies everywhere, resulting in the singing of Happy Birthday to Ross. Helen thanked the leaders and their teams for the great meals, while Esther expressed thanks to Raewyn and Phil for the organisation of the week and made a presentation from the group. To which Raewyn and Phil say thanks again to everyone for making it a successful foray into Fiordland. This part of Fiordland, apart from the power lines and road, is close to what it has always been, and provides a sense of adventure for those who encounter it on it’s terms. Phil encapsulated this by reading Wendell Berry’s lines from “the ancient fear of the unknown”

“Always in the big woods when you leave familiar ground and step off alone into a new place there will be, along with the feelings of curiosity and excitement, a little nagging of dread. It is the ancient fear of the unknown, and it is your first bond with the wilderness you are going into”.

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Day 5

Ah parting is such sweet sorrow – An orderly departure unfolded with the camp being left spick and span; it was heartening to see many follow Raewyn’s final manifest, with many visiting Rakatu Wetlands where we encountered Mark Sutton, the project manager and a board member of the Game Bird Habitat Trust, who had received our blog on the Takitakitoa wetland – small world. Also just like a run on the bank in days of share market collapse, there was a run on Venison pies at Bracken Hall in Mossburn, the quality of the pies passing the test of all who ate, and ate…..

Raewyn and Phil

3. 6/11/2004. Mt Burns. Leader: Ian Fleming. 45 min return
A short track leads from the Borland Saddle car park (the summit of the Borland Road) through the bush to the open tops of Mt Burns. Numerous tarns and superb views make the area particularly attractive.
Borland Saddle. Mt Burns Tops. Pat, Brenda
Borland Saddle. Mt Burns Tops. Pat, Brenda
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Lunch. Wendy, Shirley, Arthur H
Facing climb on way out. Tom? Wendy, Brenda, Bill, Shirley
Facing climb on way out. Tom? Wendy, Brenda, Bill, Shirley
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Steeply down under overhanging cliff. Only Pat recognizable.
Pool. Furtherest upstream we got.
Pool. The furtherest upstream we got.
2.Mt Eldrig Route to Bushline. Mo 7/4/03-Fri 11/4/03 Leaders: Ian Fleming. 4-5 hrs return.
Sign posted off Borland road. Follow the main pylon access road. The track starts at the end of this road. A steep climb for approximately 2 km (1.5 hrs) following a well-marked route to the open tussock tops. Snow poles mark the route onto the slopes of Mt Eldrig.
Brenda. Mt Eldrig
Brenda. Mt Eldrig
Arthur. Mt Eldrig
Arthur. Mt Eldrig
Ian Mount Eldrig summit
Ian Mount Eldrig summit
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Last Day. Brenda, Peter, Bill Ian, Nancy, Tom, Pat, Dorothy, Wendy, Arthur, Shirley

Mo 7/4/03-Fri 11/4/03 Leaders:
1. Friday 27/10/1995 – Monday 30/10/1995. Combined meals. Arranged car passengers. Camp Parents: Bill and Lesley, Dot and Nelson. 33 attended.

Hollyford Camp

12/11/2018. Hollyford Camp. M. Phil.
Trampers: 12-16 Nov: Hollyford Camp. M. Phil.

Hollyford Escapades:  12-16 November 2018

Planning to execution seemed to go very well as everyone was at Waihola early….. this being a trait that continued for every start during the week.

18 intrepid walkers in 6 cars set off and bang on time arrived at Cocoa’s Café at Mandeville airport for a necessary kick start to getting to Te Anau reasonably refreshed.  First stop was at the DOC I-site to get hut tickets and check the weather, then it was food and petrol top-ups plus a visit to the best public loos in the world for most – albeit some of us had to go back to the car to get the entry gold coin!

The clearing weather meant the drive up through Te Anau Downs and the Eglinton Valley was pretty well up to the Mercedes car advert standard, then after a brief stop at Knobs Flat we arrived at The Divide.  With clear tops on the Livingstone Range, it was decided to attack Key Summit,

At the Divide about to head up Key Summit . (Gordon pic and caption.)

initially via the Routeburn/Greenstone track, before branching off on the zig zags to the Summit and, for some, beyond the well known tourist look out.  The group split into 3 as each limit was reached; lovely views of Lake Marian, the Darrans, the Hollyford and also the Greenstone Caples were in view and appreciated.

On Key Summit looking to the Greenstone: McKellar Saddle ( and Caples). (Phil pic and caption.)

We finally descended in good time and once back in the cars, moved into the Hollyford proper.  Turning right into the Lower Hollyford Rd we stopped, read and discussed the memorial to Davey Gunn that celebrated his 56 mile journey over bush tracks from Big Bay to the Milford Rd in 23 hours to raise support for the injured in a plane crash there.  What the books don’t say is Davey had a cuppa then returned to Big Bay to carry on his guided trip… he had also cracked some ribs getting plane passengers from the crash in the surf….

Finally we arrived at Gunn’s Camp and settled in to our ‘little huts on the Prairie’…… followed by good craic and a variety of well cooked dinners.

We were at the Lake Marian track ahead of time on the Tuesday morning, everyone keen to get going.  Crossing the Hollyford River involved the first swing bridge for the week, then some time was taken on the Gantries overlooking the tumbling waters of Marian Creek;

Marian Creek cascading. (Phil pic and caption.)

from there it was a steady 2 hour walk up to the Lake, to be greeted by emerald clear water and towering peaks,

Lake Marian in all her glory. ( Phil pic and caption.)

capped off by some loud avalanches at the top of the valley (they resembled large waterfalls).  We stayed here for a good 40 minutes enjoying a very special environment, before returning.

  It was a sign of the nature of the track that the return time was also 2 hours……

After lunch, having ensured that no-one laid down on their bunk, we travelled up the Upper Hollyford and just before the Homer Tunnel, veered off to park in the Gertrude Valley carpark.  We then rambled a while to the base of the Saddle, enjoying the amphitheatre of surrounding peaks as well as the early celmisias, ourisias and Mt Cook lilies that were smiling back at us.

Gertrude Valley with Saddle behind. (Phil pic and caption.)

  Once back at the cars we returned to Camp, allowing for a short stop at Falls Creek where new carparks and Gantries have ensured another great stop on the Milford Rd.

The Camp was busier on the second night with the Stray Bus arrival, plus some trampers who had arrived from the Demon Trail, telling of tall stories and lots of trees over the track, and loads of hunters and jet boaters in the huts…

Wednesday dawned fine and we travelled to the road end, where we set off to enjoy the Hollyford Walk;

Heading off down the Hollyford Track. (Gordon pic and caption.)

guarded over by towering mountains named mostly after Ngatimamoe and Ngai Tahu chiefs intersprinkled with mountains named after bureaucrats, nieces and mothers;

Mt Karetai. (Phil pic and caption.)

we rambled through forest of Beech, Miro, Matai, Totara, Kamahi and Rimu, finally arriving at Hidden Falls Hut for lunch (having already stopped off at the Hidden Falls to get showered upon).

Lunch at Hidden Falls. (Phil pic and caption.)

  A few green hooded orchids spread throughout the moss and liverwort track edges.

Following lunch, 5 hikers turned right and returned to the road end by 4pm, whilst 13 trampers turned left and after 40 minutes begun the ascent of Little Homer Saddle;  through the forest gaps great views of Mts Madeline and Tutoko were enjoyed and after another 30 minutes we were at the top of the saddle;  whilst not high, the effort was considerable in the heat of the day…… a drop off to the Little Homer Falls

Little Homer Falls. (Gordon pic and caption.)

followed with tree falls along the way becoming a little harder to limbo under….. the Falls drew everyone to them and then after a well earned break we set off for Lake Alabaster through self pruning beech forest.  As we veered in to the Pyke Valley, we were greeted by tall straight Kahikatea.

Finally we emerged into a clearing where the Pyke Lodge of the Guided walk stood and gazed upon the majestic view of Mt. Madeline dominating the Hollyford skyline.

A further 20 minutes of tired tramping followed before we arrived at Lake Alabaster

First views of Lake Alabaster. (Gordon pic and caption.)

– 7.5 hours after we started, and according to GPS estimations some 2 kilometres longer than official publications credit, at just on 23 kilometres for the day!

Progressively the breezes dropped and shadows and mountain and forest reflections dominated the Lake,

The Darran Mountains and Mt Madeline reflections in Alabaster. (Phil pic and caption.)

interspersed with splashes of delight as keen trampers (some) had a ‘swim’ and dried off before the sand-flies could do damage.

A good spread of birdlife was enjoyed along the walks including tui, bellbird, grey warbler, (bush robin at Marian),shining cookoo, ruru (at night!), chaffinch and the melodious Kaka.  Masses of perching orchids (the bamboo – Earina mucronata) adorned tree branches around the shoreline.

We had the company of a small number of other trampers for the first night at Alabaster.

On the Thursday morning, helped by feedback from trampers off the ‘Demon Trail’, 10 decided to follow the dotted lines on the map along side the Lake up the Pyke Valley;  this in effect being a bush bash with the lapping levels of the Lake the easier going.  About half way along we stopped at a large flowing creek…. fishing and fossicking were undertaken, with not a lot of luck, though style was fine.

Returning through thick bush we stumbled upon a small ‘grave site’ and then returning to the hut we had a cuppa and lunch, before crossing the largest swing bridge in Fiordland over the Pyke River, to touch upon the Demon Trail.  A hundred metres of this was enough to convince us that we should save this for another time…..!

Our second night at Alabaster was a very social affair, with jet boaters …

What do jet boat drivers have that fellow walkers don’t? (Phil pic and caption.)

… and pack rafters arriving along with a range of trampers heading up or down the valleys from or to the Coast.  Deer had been shot, trout caught, a jet boat sunk and being expensively recovered with helicopters ….so much to catch up on….. and best of all, no news from the outside world!  Mattresses were spread throughout the common areas to accommodate all.

Notwithstanding the week of walking everyone was up and away at 6.50 am on the last morning, well before the official start time, as a slight rain began to fall…and fall….and fall.  At last we were experiencing a Fiordland shower… becoming so consistent and insistent that when the time came we made a detour to Hidden Falls Hut for an early brunch to recharge, before the last 2 hours trudge to the road end.  We took 1.5 hours off the incoming time, very commendable as we were going uphill all the way!  (but then apparently the GPS said the distance was shorter…) ah we are better off without these new contraptions!

After 6 hours tramping we quickly reorganised before driving to Gunn’s Camp where we checked for final messages from the Hikers, picked up belongings, then drove back to Te Anau and civilisation.  We caught up with the Hikers at a local Café which was being inundated by bus loads of tourists, they were swarming and biting better than sand-flies!

The Hikers meantime, had an enjoyable day trip to Milford Sound on the Thursday.  First stop was the well known Chasm, and then they made a call into the Milford Sound Lodge.  What used to be a backpackers hostel now has several new cabins and areas for motorhomes, all well laid out with the Cleddau River nearby.

Enjoying Milford Sound. (Raewyn pic and caption.)

  The coffee wasn’t bad either apparently!  On the way out they made a stop at the historic bridge over the Tutoko River and a lookout near the tunnel entrance.  Friday for them dawned with heavy rain so the decision was made to stay put, light the fire and relax in the common room awaiting the trampers return. By 1pm they decided to head for Te Anau for lunch and rendezvous there as originally planned.  

Overall

A most enjoyable 5 days of great company, tracks and views to click the camera at.  Four days of sunshine out of five is not a bad record in Fiordland terms. Next stop Martins and Big Bays?

Gunn’s Camp

Everyone felt at home here and the accommodation and facilities most appropriate for a stay.  It is a very good base for exploring northern Fiordland, whether sightseeing, fishing, hunting or walking and would save multiple trips to and from Te Anau – or to just step back in pace or in time.

Aspiring Hut

14/2/2018. Report on Mt Aspiring Hut Trip 12-15th February

Eight keen trampers  signed up for this trip. Wendy and I tramped in to Aspiring Hut early on Monday 12th February to secure bedding in one room for all of us.  Jill, Clare, Janine, Keith, Helen and  Phil arrived late in the afternoon after battling a head on Northwest wind and driving rain. This walk was 9km and approx. 2.5 hours. Aspiring Hut is owned by the NZ alpine club and operated by DOC. It was built in 1949 and its exterior is covered in river schist stones. It  is about to undergo a refurbishment which includes earthquake strengthening and interior lining. There are 39 bunks altogether in two bunk rooms. Gas cookers are supplied during the summer season. We all soon settled and prepared our meals.

The next morning it was partly cloudy. The scenery from the hut was superb without going anywhere!

Group. (Helen pic and caption.)

We decided to go up the valley to Pearl flat (2 hours). The valley walk is very pleasant through beech forest and open grassland surrounded by high mountains with clinging glaciers.

We then decided to go up to the Liverpool hut (10 bunks). (1134m – Helen). This track was steeper than expected but the team coped extremely well. We walked up through beech forest on a steep track with rocks and tree roots.

Half way up to Liverpool Biv. (Phil pic and caption.)

This took 2.5 hours. The views from above the hut were superb – either looking down onto the valley below …

View from the Hut hill.(Helen pic and caption.)

… or glaciers on Mt Barff and Mt Liverpool. We were also looking across to French ridge hut which is used by climbers to climb Mt Aspiring.

We got back to Aspiring Hut after a 9 hour walk knowing we had done it!!

That night of the 13th the hut and camping area had its record number of guests at 84. We felt like very rare Kiwis!!!

The next morning was perfectly fine – however our legs knew they had worked the day before.  Unfortunately Wendy had to leave as she had work early the next day. This time we decided to go up the Cascade saddle track …

Liverpool done, off to the Cascade.(Phil pic and caption.)

… – a pleasant walk through red and beech forest.

Morning tea on way to Cascade Saddle. (Helen pic and caption.)

This finally led up to a lookout after 2.5 hours. (1184m. – Helen). The views of the 2 valleys and mountains all around were amazing, especially looking at Mt Aspiring.

Above the bush line on Cascade Saddle. (Phil pic and caption.)

There were quite a few people heading up to the saddle.

On returning to the hut the ladies enticed the men to go down to the river for a dip. [No pics supplied! – Ed.] This was very, very refreshing especially for those who got under the water!!

Another interesting meal was cooked by all. There were a lot fewer in the hut – the men played poker with hilarity. Someone was heard talking in their sleep!

After breakfast and packing up we headed off down to the car park. The weather deteriorated with the following North west wind very strong – even blowing 2 of us over on the grass. The dust was rising in the river bed. The rain followed and it was quite wet by the time we got to the carpark. Rob Roy glacier was left for another day!  We were then off home having coffee and ice creams on the way.

Thanks to all of the team for making it a fun trip.

Also thanks to Eleanor for suggesting the trip but unfortunately was unable to make it.

Dave

West Coast Bike Trip

Oct, 2017. West Coast Bike Trip.

Nine happy bikers, set off for the Coast.

To do the famous Wilderness trail- not that we will boast.

First to Kaniere, to drop off all our gear.

At a cottage in the bush – and then we had a beer.

A barbecue for dinner (after happy hour)

Then off to bed we all did go – we needed muscle power.

 

The morning dawned quite sunny, so down to Ross we drove.

To climb upon our bicycles, feeling fit, by jove.

The trail was good to start with, but then there came a hitch.

Jill and bike fell off the trail, right into a ditch. (A wet one)

Up she got, and carried on, but oops, what’s happened now?

A conveyor belt was in the way, right across our bow.

The track was closed, or so they said, to build a bridge one day.

We couldn’t let that stop us! We had to find a way.

The brave, strong men took over. They carried all across.

A dangerous operation, we did it without loss.

 

To Hokitika we did come, eventually, at last.

And had some lunch, ‘twas well deserved – we really went quite fast.

That unisex toilet, was a wonder to our eyes,

A mural weird and wonderful, it really took the prize.

 

After lunch we carried on, mostly up-hill now.

At last we reached the cottage, I really don’t know how.

Another night of merriment, more good food and wine,

And in the morning, oh alas, the weather wasn’t fine!

The vehicles taken down the road, Kumara was the goal,

The rain it stopped, the sun came out, and we were on a roll!

 

Up we went, and up – and up.  Judy’s turn to fall –

Right off the trail, it was quite steep, her bike it did a stall.

To Cowboy Paradise we came, I think they’ve got it wrong.

We weren’t even greeted, with rodeo or song.

 

We carried on, and on and on, mostly now it’s down.

But oops, where’s Keith?  He’s lost the trail, what a silly clown!

At last we’re sorted out again – don’t need another stunt.

But what’s this Dave, you silly B, your helmet’s back to front!

 

Kumara was a welcome sight, comfy huts and all.

And yummy dinner in the pub, we really had a ball.

The final day was misty, and cold about the knees,

But we didn’t seem to mind it, as we zipped among the trees.

Easy riding all the way, right beside the road.

And then along beside the beach, the ocean ebbed and flowed.

Into Greymouth at top speed, Jim and Betty first.

Thinking they were at the back, they (almost) boilers burst!

Nine happy bikers, aches and pains galore,

Headed home with smiles, wishing there was more. – Judy.

Camp: Albert Town Lodge – Wanaka

16-19/4/2010. April Camp. Albert Town Lodge. Leaders: Bill and Pat.
Friday. Mount Iron.
Those of us arriving in the early afternoon agreed to tackle Mount Iron. Some drove and arrived early, others of us walked the distance. Here are the ‘walkers’ climbing the zigzag track.
Wanaka from Mount Iron Track. Doug, George, Leonie.

Continue reading “Camp: Albert Town Lodge – Wanaka”

Camps: Alexandra Holiday Park Camp

7. 27-29/4/2007 Alexandra Holiday Park Camp Leader: Ian (New owners, less hospitable regarding lodge)
Day 1. 28 April. Knobbies Tramp.
click to enlarge

Rocks on Knobby Range (Pat pic)
Rocks on Knobby Range (Pat pic)

 

Rock on Knobby Range. (Pat pic)
Rock on Knobby Range. (Pat pic)
Cairn on Knobby Range. (Pat pic)
Cairn on Knobby Range. (Pat pic)

Day 2. 29 April. Lake walk.

Lunch. Dot, Pat, Ria, Doug, Molly, George, Ian (Bill pic)
Rock outcrops above track
Rock outcrops above track (Bill pic)
Lake Roxburgh scene (Bill pic)
Lake Roxburgh scene (Bill pic)
Rock bivvy. Joyce, Pat. (Bill pic)
Pat gives lesson in tying laces. Dorothy, Ria, Joyce, Pat. (Bill pic)
6. 20-24/11/2006. Camp. Alexandra
5. 2001
4. 6/1997
3. Friday 6/11/1992 – Sunday 8/11/1992. Alexandra Holiday Park Camp. Combined meals.
2. 9-12/1990. Leader: Margaret Smith.
Attended by 20 people.
1. 10/3/90. Alexandra.

“10/3/90. Miners’ House with natural roof of rock slab. Bob Heenan, Les Smith, Catherine Tither & Ted Chinside.” (Ian pic, scanned from Peg Chisholm photo collection.)