A Cancelled Tramping Day

2. 12 April 2023 Trampers and Hikers 

Choices for Hikers:  Stay home and knit or brave the elements of mist and drizzle with potential rain but leave the Waihola Wanderings for another time.  11 chose to go for a local walk.

The course was plotted as we left the Peter Johnson carpark, going along the riverside, turning at the helicopter pad and wending our way over to Wingatui Rd and Gladstone Rd North.

It was decided to have morning tea under cover.  Wingatui Station (built in 1875) was a likely possibility.  However, the leader veered off track and we arrived at Neil’s model railway instead.

Morning tea in luxury at Morrisons. Caption and photo Helen
Morning tea in luxury at Morrisons. Caption and photo Helen
View from their house of fog Caption and photo Helen
View from their house of fog Caption and photo Helen

This of course provided shelter as he coped with the unexpected invasion and happily displayed rail/train manoeuvres.

Neil Morrisons trains - amazing Caption and photos Helen
Neil Morrisons trains – amazing Caption and photos Helen

Trains

Dry and refreshed, we passed the evidence of autumn in the yellow, gold and red tree colours, and wended our way back to the carpark after a pleasant 10 kms of Mosgiel Meanderings.

Hikers passing by Caption and photo Carole
Hikers passing by Caption and photo Carole

Eleanore and Carole

The Trampers choice

As a weather alert was given, safety required that we could not go to Rosella Ridge, so it was decided we would meet at Woodhaugh Gardens.  After discussion, we headed towards Bethunes Gully. The rain had eased so we walked beside the Leith with some nice street art on the walls of the Leith.

Street art surviving the students !. Caption and photo Pam
Street art surviving the students !. Caption and photo Pam

We continued past the gardens, into North East Valley, past Dunedin North Intermediate school, then Baldwin Street(no takers),  Dunedin Hospice and Ross Home.  We detoured into Chingford Park, a nice stone home, which catered for weddings.

Chingford Park- Discussing the weather!!! Caption and photo Pam
Chingford Park- Discussing the weather!!! Caption and photo Pam

We stopped at Leith Harrier and Soccer grounds for morning tea.

Morning tea under shelter at Chingford Pavilion. Caption and photo Pam
Morning tea under shelter at Chingford Pavilion. Caption and photo Pam

Moving on we passed some garden plaques on a fence. Into Norwood Street we continued to Forrester Park (bmx bike park) then into Bethunes Gully.  The good 35 minutes of uphill, required some reduction of gear before an uphill climb.  On the way a large tree had fallen and was being removed. We passed a couple of waterfalls,5 bridges over Lyndsay Creek and got to the top at 12.05 – lunchtime.

Soggy sandwiches eaten on Bethunes track. Caption and photo Pam
Soggy sandwiches eaten on Bethunes track. Caption and photo Pam

The return to the bottom took 30 mins, past the Normanby Tavern (now closed), Ross Home, then via a track behind the Hospice, thanks John G.  We continued back onto the main road to NEV shops back to Woodhaugh and the cars. As some had cooled off due to drizzle, it was decided no coffees but a couple of pieces of chocolate fudge sufficed.

Distance 16.18km Elevation 445m actual tramping time 3hrs 6min.

Thanks Graeme S for being TEC. A fun day out.  Phil.


Feburary 2018

Thirteen turned out for coffee. (Judy pic and caption.)

February 2018

Taieri Mouth – Inc Millennium, Moturata Island, Akatore, Alanton Block

No. 78 on old hardcopy list of 113 club tramps. “Knarston Park Sth Coast (Ask Jean Young) Farm”
15. 29/3/2023. Millennium Track, Taieri Mouth.  Leaders Dave and Mike

I seriously questioned my sanity on the drive from sub tropical Port Chalmers to Mosgiel for this weeks walk. The torrential rain and hailstones on the Southern Motorway left me with a sense of foreboding. However, 17 hikers eventually assembled at the meeting place at Knarston Park on Taieri Beach for what turned out to be a really enjoyable walk with the predicted rain showers non-existent.

Morning smoko was held on the verandah at Jay’s river mouth crib where we could admire the house extension at one neighbouring property and the dismantling of a Kauri boat on another.

29 Mar Hikers Millenium Track morning tea Helen
Morning tea at Jay’s crib. Photo & caption Helen

From there it was a pleasant river side walk on the Millennium Track and boardwalks before starting the grunt up the hill to the welcome seats where we had lunch before re-tracing our steps back to the cars.

29 Mar Hikers Millenium Track On the track Mike
Millennium Track. Photo & caption Mike
29 Mar Hikers Millenium Track Taieri view Helen
View from the lunch seat. Photo & caption Helen
29 Mar Hikers Millenium Track Lunch Helen
Lunch. Photo Helen

Consensus of opinion is that the grade should be re-classified as a 3.5 as Sir Edmund Hillary got a Knighthood for climbing hills that steep. The return to the cars was achieved without mishap and tiffin was taken by some at the Brighton Cafe.

Thanks to Dave Roberts for leading at a leisurely pace that made the uphill sections enjoyable. Total distance walked was 9.5km

Mike Webb


14. 14/12/2022. Taieri Mouth. Leader Phil
” Aah numbers seemed a bit down at the meet n greet so there must be a few heading straight to the Hall at Taieri Mouth (Apologies were received from Carole and Neil Morrison who we hope to see back with us in the New Year). And yes sure enough at the Hall people and cars everywhere, added to by contractors working on the hall and yoga underway, although it seemed more like line dancing to me… After dropping off an array of good looking finger food cars were sorted and off 33 went to Knarston Park, and we were joined for the first time by Rowena McSkimming, who had bought finger food (!) on her first outing, well done, and Neil H grandson.
14 Dec At the start point at Taieri Mouth Helen
At the start point at Taieri Mouth. Photo & caption Helen
14 Dec Setting off beside the Taieri river for the beach Pam
Setting off beside the Taieri river for the beach. Photo & caption Pam
We shambled off down past the river to the beach, which on the day seemed like Waikiki; the wind was quite gentle compared with the day before recce, however the driftwood ‘cabbage tree’ needed it’s socks pulled up….it was a cruisy walk along the beach with no flow from the wetlands to cross, ORC were to open the mouth on the Friday. Baby seals playing in the surf the day before had obviously gone home to Mum.
14 Dec The beach art John
The beach art. Photo & caption John
14 Dec Panaroma Taieri Mouth beach art draws its biggest crowd John
Panorama Taieri Mouth beach art draws its biggest crowd. (Click to enlarge). Photo & caption John

We followed the track into Livingstonia Park for morning tea, making use of all the facilities provided.

14 Dec Morning Tea Phil
Morning Tea. Photo Phil

I was so relaxed I nearly forgot to share my bag of goodies…, but finally remembered, I must be getting older…. Quite a lot of interest was shown in the display boards as we left the Park and walked down ‘main street’ to the entrance to the Alan Green Wetland area.

14 Dec Beside the wetland Phil
Beside the wetlands. Photo Phil
14 Dec Livingstone Wetlands Pam
Livingstone Wetlands. Photo & caption Pam

We dawdled and chatted around the wetland, negotiating the Number 8 wire gates….and off through the forest and the dappled light on the forest floor; what was the sweet scent in the air? Not cabbage trees, not Olearia Fragrantissima shrubs……The sun seemed even hotter when we emerged from the bush, to enjoy the panoramic views of the area.

14 Dec View out across the wetlands Pam
View out across the wetlands with Taieri Island/Moturata Island in the background. Photo & caption Pam

On the return, the group spread out to re-group at the third gate, but as our estimated return time to the Hall was slipping, initiative was shown by the ‘Hall’ team to drive to Coutts Gully road and pick us up and return to Knarston Park, and then the Hall.

14 Dec Heading back to the hall for lunch John
Heading back to the hall for lunch. Photo & caption John

Everyone was accounted for and yes more folk had arrived down for lunch which was great.

14 Dec Fantastic food Helen
Fantastic food. Photo & caption Helen

Following a moment’s silence to remember absent friends and family, followed by Ian Fleming’s grace, 55 folk enjoyed a delicious lunch, supplemented by chocolate goodies from Neil S, another with a near Xmas birthday. This was followed by an update from Anne Ward on the planning for the Bannockburn week in March. After lunch was cleared away Grant Shackell provided a generous bracket of Xmas music, with good crowd participation on occasions! Thank you, Grant.

14 Dec Beautiful singing by Grant Helen
Beautiful singing by Grant. Photo & caption Helen

Thanks also to Jay and the team for setting and cleaning up the food and Hall, especially after not getting full access till after 10.30am.

Another very successful Xmas club outing and yes, the first walk for 2023 is the 11 January!

Ho ho

Phil K


13. 07/09/2022. Alanton Block of the Wenita Forests. Grade 2 –  $8. Leaders: Esther & Karen, Alex & Bruce S.

Forty-six Club members set off on the combined tramp in the Allanton Block of the Wenita Forests, 7.13 km south of the Big Rock School at Brighton.

On the forestry road -M2 - Pam
On the forestry road -M2 (photo & caption Pam)

A welcome was extended to Roger and Barbara who are testing the water. We proceeded along Daphne Road passing the D7 sign and turned into Margaret Road.

Regrouping at the Margaret Road intersection - Jenni
Regrouping at the Margaret Road intersection (photo & caption Jenni)

We had morning tea near a log at about 10 am.

Morning Tea stop on side of road - John
Morning Tea stop on side of road (photo & caption John)

We then proceeded up Margaret Road to Big Stone Road and saw some logging trucks, with logs, emerging from Daphne Road.The lunch venue was changed from the planned spot near Margaret Road to near the start of Kathleen Road.

Catching up over lunch - Pam
Catching up over lunch (photo & caption Pam)
Lunch stop out of the wind - John
Lunch stop out of the wind (photo & caption John)

After lunch we proceeded down Kathleen Road and then along Margaret
Road back to the cars.

Happy leaders heading downhill after lunch - Jenni
Happy leaders heading downhill after lunch (photo & caption Jenni)
Heading back to the coast through Farm land - Pam
Heading back to the coast through Farm land (photo & caption Pam)
And still chatting on the road - Pam
And still chatting on the road (photo & caption Pam)

Distance travelled approximately 10 km. Climb 243 m. The weather remained cool but there was no rain. A large group had refreshments at the Brighton Café.

Looking north over forestry to Blackhead quarry -Pam
Looking north over forestry to Blackhead quarry (photo & caption Pam)

Our thanks are due to all the leaders: Karen, Esther, Alex and Bruce S. In addition, we thank Liz for her liaison with the Brighton Café and Wenita Forests for permission to enter the forest.

Bruce Spittle


12. 20 October 2021. Taieri Mouth. Leaders Bob Mitchell and Barbara Shackell

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Bob and Barbara our leaders for the day (caption & photo Clive)

“Twenty (or was it 21?!) folk set out for the Akatore River bridge, where Hike Leader, Bob Mitchell, was to meet us at the anticipated road works traffic lights on the hill climbed at the end of a previous tramp.  There was sufficient off-road parking on the south side of the bridge for all vehicles and we were quickly off, heading downstream to the coast like bits of colourful flotsam, passing as we went a wading spoonbill which took off and flew over us.

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Morning tea Akatore Inlet (caption & photo Clive)

We settled ourselves for morning tea among nesting oystercatchers before tackling the short sharp climb into farmland above the coast.  It was very pleasant strolling south in perfect weather. The forward motion stalled briefly to watch a group of talented surfers riding the regular rollers coming in.

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Watching the surfers (caption & photo Clive)

Unfortunately I was too taken with the conversation with a pleasant land-bound surfer to remember the name she gave the ‘point’.

Clive 20 Oct Scenic Otago coastline
Scenic Otago coastline (caption & photo Clive)

It’s obvious it’s not only trampers that the obliging farmer allows access across his paddocks.  Eventually we set off further south, cross-country, until we dropped down onto a sheltered rocky spot for lunch where a seal kept a benign eye on his human companions.  From the lunch stop the group gradually moved up and inland across lush clover filled paddocks and along farm tracks which brought us out onto the Akatore-Taieri Mouth Road.

Clive 20 Oct Homeward bound
Homeward bound Akatore Conservation Area (caption & photo Clive)

Several kilometres on, we were back at the vehicles with doubts about our ability to reach the Brighton Cafe which was expecting us about 2.15pm.  Unfortunately, when we finally arrived at 2.55pm our fears were realised and we were declined service as they were closing at 3pm.  From that point we made our own way back to Peter Johnstone Park carpark, and from there, home.  Happy, a little sun/windburned, and feeling like we had actually walked the 12 km the fitbits suggested.

Thanks to Bob for his planning, and leading this day.


11. Taieri Mouth Millennium track, Alan Green track. Leaders Jay Devlin, Jan Butcher, Alec and Liz

 On Wednesday the 9th of December approximately 60 members met at the Leitch Memorial Hall at Taieri Mouth for a walk and a shared Christmas Lunch. It was a picture perfect day and showed Taieri Mouth at its best. There were two walks on offer, The Millenium Track and the Alan Green Track.  Most opted for the Alan green Track as it was one that was new to many members. The Alan Green Track is off Moturata Road and is a private conservation track.  It meanders round wetlands and is home to a large variety of bird life which then leads on to a gully with fine examples of podocarps.
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“Our Leaders” – Photo and Caption John
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“Walking past a magnificent flowering rata tree.” – Photo and Caption Helen
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“The picturesque wetland.” – Photo and Caption Gordon

 

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“A peaceful spot.” – Photo and Caption John
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“Time to regroup and take in the view.” – Photo and Caption John

The track is very narrow but well formed and is lovely to walk on. At the top of the gully you get lovely views of Taieri Mouth and surrounding farmland. On the way back Alec led us through a track off Livingstonia park where we had great sea views. We got back to the lunch venue 12.30pm.   Arthur lead his group on the Millenium Track which many of us are familiar with. Thirty six folk enjoyed the walks while the remainder were happy to stay and catch up with those they hadn’t seen in a while. Jill, Jan B and their team of helpers stayed at the hall and set up the tables in a Christmas theme and put out delicious food brought by everyone.

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“An enjoyable lunch with amazing food.” – Photo and Caption Helen
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‘More mature club members.” – Photo and Caption Helen
Faye, Alec and Liz led us in “We Wish You A Merry Christmas”
So to everyone have a safe and Happy Christmas.  Jill Jan B and Jay

10. 21/10/2020. Leaders Noi McCunn and Bob Mitchell

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Photo and Caption Clive – “Knarston Park – the set off point”.

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Photo and Caption Clive – “The road south from Taieri Mouth”.

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Photo and Caption Clive – “The happy team.””.

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Photo and Caption Clive – “View back from the coast.”20201021_114650res

Photo and Caption Clive – “Lunch at the beach.”

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Photo and Caption Clive – “Surfs up”.

9. 24/4/2019. Hikers. Taieri Mouth Area. Leaders: Chris, Dot, Alex and Liz.

I.RouteIMG_3563
Route map, courtesy Ian. 8km limited to the 7 who returned after lunch. (The rest did 4km more not travelled by this Nike app!) The “8km” indicator hides the points on the map where the route started and finished.

About 26 Hikers and Ramblers mustered under a cloudy sky by the Taieri Mouth Bridge to walk through hidden nooks and crannies of the Taieri Mouth area, led by Liz and Alec.

We started off along Riverside Road and cribs that are only a stones throw from the flowing river.   A living history was related by Alec and Liz as we went past the cribs telling us stories of past and present inhabitants.   We eased along a lower part of the Millennium Track to a sheltered glade where we sat down for morning tea. More stories were told of holidays spent along these banks and of income gleaned from whitebait or discarded beer bottles.

C.1) Morning Teac

After morning tea we returned along Riverside Road to Hanning Place.   This is a turn off that is easily passed without discovering Picnic Gully.   Picnic Gully is a walk that used to be frequented by travelers from Dunedin more than a hundred years ago before the bridge was put across the Taieri.

C.3) Picnic Gullyc
Picnic Gully. (Clive pic and caption.)

We didn’t miss it this time and were soon into the thickly covered bush walk

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which ended in a scramble up a bank onto a newly bulldozed track up onto Finlayson Road.   This track was very steep and soon had us all stopping to catch our breath.

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We learnt that this gully walk crossed the land of Alan Gorton who allows us to cross other parts of his land when going to the old sawmill.  We also acknowledge the work done on the track by the children of the nearby Taieri Mouth school.

Down the hill saw us entering Knarston Park and led us onto the beach.   It was now close to low tide and we could see it would have been easy to walk out to Moturata Island, but not today.   We continued along the beach and passed a recently erected old tree and masses of toa toa and pipi shells.   Charlie and Jess had recorded their presence in Toa toa shells which would last only until the next king tide.K.4aIMG_1907c

Lunch was now in sight.   We arrived at Livingstonia Park as the sun broke through.   There was discussion over lunch as to the name for the park be it Livingstone or Livingstonia.   Those in the know confirmed it as Livingstonia and was a living war memorial to returned servicemen and women with amputations and other injuries.

After lunch we headed up Coutts Gully Road to a walk up through bush at Livingstone – Green bush walk and lagoon.   Someone had taken a lot of time and trouble writing notices along the path explaining the history of the bush area.  There was a great view from the top along the beach to North all the way to Saddle Hill.

C.8) The view from the topc
The view from the top. (Clive pic and caption.)

Once down the hill we skirted the lagoon to see geese spoonbills and ducks before heading back to the cars by the Taieri Bridge.   We had walked nearly 12 kilometers in 4 1/2 hours.   Some wished they could have taken longer as there was such a lot to see and enjoy.   Maybe something to do on another day.   Thanks Liz and Alex.

– Clive


8. 5/12/2017. Both. Livingstonia Park. Moturata Island. M. Leaders: Bob and Phil.

Route Map, courtesy Ian. (Ian pic and caption.)

A combined 32 Trampers and Hikers ventured down  through Brighton to Taieri Mouth , certainly not expecting traffic lights at Kuri Bush!  Livingstonia Park was the starting point after being warmly welcomed by Bob and we set off towards Akatore passing a range of new property developments; just prior to moving on up the rise to the highest point of the walk, Bob detoured us onto the lawn, surrounded by sheltering trees, at the old NZ Forest HQ.

Morning tea at Forestry HQ. (Phil pic and caption.)

Some of us pondered the thoughts of this site having a ‘second coming’ with the new governments initiative of a billion trees…….

We then headed south with the breeze at our back, up the gradually increasing rise, enjoying the views of forest and farmland and sea, interrupted regularly by shouts of ‘truck’ and ‘car’. before Bob again turned us off ( clearly a man with great local knowledge and contacts!)   and headed down through farmland to the seaside.  Here we mounted the stile and various scouts attempted to find their way onto the beach.  This was more easily achieved by Bob when his hands were free after helping at the stile!

A mix of short beach walks, interrupted by rocky headland became the norm, requiring some inventiveness to move through the formations,

Into the promise land? (Phil pic and caption.)

as well as some rather intimate team bonding as some larger rocks were mounted!  Well done everyone!

Eventually the main Taieri Beach came into view and on we set following the curve of the surf to the ‘bar’; nothing changes when tramping, initial hesitancy to getting the feet wet to plain old just barge on in or take the boots off.  Rumours of a channel were probably proved correct as a ‘minor river’ was crossed before the main bar being traversed …

Sand bar, not showing heavy-flowing channel needing to be waded. (Ian pic and caption.)

… and we reached the Island at around 12.30pm, to be greeted by large numbers of nesting gulls;

 

Birds nesting on Moturata Island close up. (Ian pic and caption)

apparently the island was used to collect guano in the good old days, and you could understand why.

Colours on the rocks over on the Island. (Helen pic and caption.)

With low tide being over half an hour past, it was decided to return to Knarston Park for lunch, and shelter from the incessant sea breeze.  This was a good decision as the ‘minor river’ had increased in volume, requiring river crossing techniques for some.

The scale of the bar was impressive, being much larger than thought, as were the patterns in the sand and rock formations both at the island and on the rocky headlands.

Following a late lunch, (more so because of the early morning tea!) everyone safely made their way back to the cars and met up with others who had completed a shorter walk.

I am reliably informed  the full walk was 11.4 km and well, we won’t specify the altitude will we….

The day was very satisfyingly repleted at the new Brighton Café, where it seemed we had more than 32 folk chatting away!

New coffee bar in Brighton.(Helen pic and caption.)

( Ice creams from next door more than welcome, as both shops are apparently owned by the same folk).

Ho ho and have a happy festive season. – Phil.


7. 26/6/2013. Hikers. Knarston Park. Moturata Island. Leaders: J Knox, P Clough

Route
GPS of Route

It was a treat of a day. Well, yes, a bit of a cold wind, but – the sandbar!

We parked, morning-tead at Knarston Park on concrete picnic table seats that were not at all warm.

Then out to the sandbar. The tide was super-low, half a metre below sea-level. The bar was broad as broad. And dry. We walked and walked. This writer was overwhelmed with the experience of being on such a wide and long stretch of sand so under the waves at other times.  Eventually we reached the island.

There
At Moturata Island

We sauntered round. The tide was so-o-o low we were assured of plenty of time before heading back. We headed to the rocks the north end of the islands and scrambled over them to see the surf breaking on the seaward side of the island.

Rock
Rock at northern end of island.

And then we sauntered back. Marvellous, as John Campbell would say.

The wind was still a bit sharp however, so we went back to the cars and on round the road past the fishing boats. A couple of fisherfolk said they had already noticed us and it was good to hear that locals keep a sharp eye out for the sandbar trekkers. Then on further to the start of the John Bull for lunch. (5km marker on GPS route map).

Lunch
Lunch at terminus of John Bull track.

Back down and across the bridge to walk round the beach on the river’s true left. Yes, back to the cold wind, but it was behind us. We observed the cliffs below the houses until we thought it best to get off the beach.  We climbed a set of steep large steps and up through a property and a wire fence to reach the highway at the top. (7km on map)

Onto road
Onto road

We took the road back, crossed the bridge and reached our cars at near the 10km mark. Thanks to Judy and Pam carefully checking out our chances the day before and their leadership on the day.

A most satisfying day. – Ian


6. 5/9/2012. Both. Knarston Park. Moturata Island – NOT! Leaders: Ian, Margaret.

Click to get full photo.
Morning tea time – when we were still optimistic of a successful outcome!
Tide, wind and flood were all against us.
Tide – Even though we had got the low tide time exactly as we had wanted, we failed to take in consideration that minimum low tide was still o.9 metros. Must aim for nearer 0.0 next time!
Wind – Although a boisterous wind was from off the land, whipping up sand and breaker spray, the waves were still coming in stronger than we had expected.
Flood – The Taieri River was in quite flood mode, breaking two channels across the sand-bar we had hoped to traverse.
S-o-o-o-o-o. We had morning tea. We walked down the beach to where the rocky part begins and back. We waited. And waited. Some more hopeful than others. Some more resigned to failure. We early lunched. Then walked down the beach again, aiming for a round trip through Livingstonia Park and back along the road, but short-cutted through a bit before that.
And then behold. KB contractors drilling a pipe-line for fibre-optic (we think) alongside the road with a wonderful machine. Complete with GPS guidance showing on a screen to the operator, it automatically screwed and push-drilled successive pipes through alongside the road and  under the ground, with a clever drill-head (we learnt on asking) that could tilt the pipe’s direction left and right, and up and down on the operator’s bidding. Marvellous! (To the technically-minded anyway.)
We were now close to the cars again. The day had been wind, but grew warmer as it progressed. Everyone was philosophical about the way the day had turned out.
Perhaps, as was suggested, a low-tide day late summer or autumn, when the Taieri is NOT in flood would be a much wiser day to tackle the Island next time.

5. 7/8/2011. Both. Taieri Mouth. Knarston Park. Beach Walk. Easy. Leaders: Lex, Graham.

There was a full tide around 11.30 a.m., which we cunningly exploited by negotiating the narrow beach parts before and after its peak.
The beach walk down river however, was rather constrained by the rising tide at one brief point, splitting the ‘(Fool(?)-Hardy Paddlers’ from the ‘Off-Beach-Detourers’ before we could make it to the large beach seen on the next pic.
The Taieri Mouth in the distance behind us.
Inevitably, we had to come to the rocky outcrops and were forced to make our way up a rope-lined track to paddocks.
A careful steep climb.
The track climbed. (Elaine pic.)
A view from the paddocks. (Elaine pic)
Further on, we were able to descend to another beach.
At one point, we were treated to a swimming seal lumbering its way out of the water to sun itself on a rock
Then it was time for lunch before retracing out steps back to our cars.
While we were seated, our President read out a text sent to us by Leslie S from hospital, saying she was feeling better and sitting up. (Today’s trip was a replacement for the scheduled trip to Waipori with Leslie and Bill as leaders.)
The lunch stop.

4. 30/6/2010. Hikers. Taieri Mouth. Beach Walk. Easy. Leaders: Lesley G, Neil.

A bitterly cold wind to start with. – Bill.
Taieri Beach, well wrapped up. Early lunch lunch stop. (Bill pic and caption)

Guess whose knees. (Members only.) (Bill pic and caption)
A necessary warm-up coffee stop. (Bill pic and caption)

3. 17/1/2007. Hikers. Taieri Mouth Easy. Leaders: Chris, Ray.

2. 14/6/2000 Taieri Mouth – Beach Walk. Leaders:Dot B, Joan H, Pam H

1, 8/2/1989. Moturata Island.

Moturata Island. Peg Chisholm, Molly Vaughan.

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 –>>

Outram Glen Track to Lee Stream

No. 89 on old hardcopy list of 113 club tramps. “Outram Glen – Lee Stream Year Round”

Outram, Allanton, Floodbanks, Lee Stream, Traquair, Whare Creek – Information and Trips Library


15. 25/01/23 Hikers Outram Glen to Confluence. Grade 2 Leaders: Eleanore and Judy

On a clear still day at 9:15am, 23 of us met at the start of track carpark ready to hike the river track to the meeting of the waters where Lee Stream flows into the Taieri.
For some this was a new hike and a revisit for others.

We live in an amazing part of the country Caption and photo Mike
We live in an amazing part of the country Caption and photo Mike

After a pleasant half hour walk we arrived at the river beach for smoko, knowing we had a solid climb up through the well placed rock steps for quarter of an hour.

Some flat Caption and photo Helen
Some flat Caption and photo Helen

Some parts of track were damaged a few years ago by washout flood damage therefore, maintained as a route standard only with care required.  After we climbed the well-placed rock/wood steps, it was then a long traverse above the Taieri River for just over an hour and a half—often stopping for a breather. It was good to see the unusual crop of potatoes amongst the grass knowing we had arrived at the Confluence.

At the confluence Caption and photo Helen
At the confluence Caption and photo Helen
Lunch on the Lee Stream Caption and photo Mike
Lunch at the Lee Stream Caption and photo Mike
Lunch in the long grass for some Caption and photo Chris
Lunch in the long grass for some Caption and photo Chris

After a leisurely 40-minute lunch and toilet stop, we returned down the track, also stopping often to walk as a group.  Trip back was 15 minutes quicker than trip up. We walked 9km altogether.

On the way down Caption and photo Helen
On the way down Caption and photo Helen

Coffee and cake were shared at Topiary (Wal’s) Cafe by most of us, Trampers arriving back to join in after their Hope Hill outing.

Outram Glen is a great bush walk, close to home.  Care needed after rain.  Today track very dry with blue sky and about 23 degrees.  Thanks to Judy D. for her caring role as my Tail Ender.  Hopefully, you all enjoyed the day as much as I did.
Eleanore


14. 01/12/21 Trampers. Outram Glen to Lee Stream. Leaders: Sarah McCormack and Pam Cocks

After a change of tramp due to drizzly conditions forecast for the day at Swampy, 8 trampers set out from Outram Glen Scenic Reserve following the Taieri River to the Lee Stream convergence.

Pam Arthur line
Arthur keeping the girls in line Photo and caption Pam

We stopped for morning tea beside the river just before the climb up the hill.

Marjke morning tea
Morning tea time along the Taieri River Photo and caption Marijke

The day was starting to warm up a bit with a few of us over dressed as we were expecting it to be cold. Barbara showed off her stone skipping skills that she learnt at a young age and obviously still practices to maintain a high skill level  The track was dry and would have been slippery if there had been any rain.

Pm rocky crossing
Rocky crossing Photo and caption Pam

We made good time after morning tea and arrived at the Lee Stream convergence by 11:15 so a bit early for lunch.

Marjke confluence
End point of the walk at the confluence of the Taieri River and Lee Stream Photo and caption Marijke

While checking out the scenery and having a natter the wind decided it was going to come up. The wind was coming straight out of the Lee Stream valley and had a definite chill to it, so we decided to make our way back and find a lunch spot along the way.

Lunch spot was found with convenient stone seats and some also had tables. After a leisurely lunch we meandered back to the cars stopping to check out the plentiful fantails and another show of stone skipping.

Marjke Barbara
Playtime before going home. Barbara was the absolute star at throwing skipping stones Photo and caption Marijke
Marjke fantails
Spotting lots of fantails in the trees Photo and caption Marijke

We finished the day with coffee at the Wobbly Goat after covering just under 10km.


13. 15/7/2020. Trampers. Outram Glen. Leaders : Joy and Kathryn

 18 keen trampers arrived fully kitted out for an easy but in some places slippery tramp up to the Lee Stream.

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Photo and Caption Gordon – “Off we go.”

This is a favourite hike with the odd little challenge of fallen trees or wash outs adding some variety.

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Photo and Caption Gordon – “Negotiating the washout”

After several days of damp weather the river was running higher than normal and the rapids could be heard above the chatter of the group.

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Photo and Caption Gordon – “Smoko break.”
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Photo and Caption Gordon – “Tackling the steps.”

 

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Photo and Caption John – “Which way?”
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Photo and Caption John – “Lunch”
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Photo and Caption Gordon – “Ready to head home.”

Gordon challenged us all to count the number of drainage pipes on the return trip. Seven, I believe was the winning number.

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Photo and Caption Gordon – “Final Obstacle.”

Another perfect Wednesday outing with a great group of people finished perfectly with a cuppa at the Wobbly Goat.


12. 29/1/2020. Hikers. Outram Glen M. Leaders Kathryn and Nikki

16 hikers and 5 Ramblers met at Outram Glen with the ramblers going off on their own walk.

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Photo and Caption Clive -“As the sign says trail not maintained so hard going in places”

Hikers had an enjoyable walk around the track stopping for morning tea down at the river before climbing the stairs to take u5s to the Lee.

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Photo and Caption Clive – “Under the trees the going was cooler.”
We were thankful of the overhead cover as it was another hot day.
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Photo and Caption Clive – “The sun shining on the righteous.”
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Photo and Caption Clive – “Great spot for morning tea
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Photo and Caption Nikki – “Morning stop at the river.””
The track was challenging in parts for some. Everyone handled it considering overnight rain had made some of the rocks quite slippery and with heavy rain last year washing out a piece of the track and branch of a tree over another part.
We all were ready to stop for our lunch at the Lee which was lovely, before making our way back down to the Glen.
IMG_0633
Photo and Caption Nikki – “Lunch at the mouth of the Lee”
We walked 10k and I think everyone was ready for a drink at the Wobbly Goat.

Kathryn and Nikki.


11. 18/4/2018. Hikers. Outram Glen to Lee Stream. H. Leaders: Clive and Jim.

Route map, courtesy Ian. Remembered to switch app on only at morning tea stop, so total distance more like 9 km.

26 Hikers and Ramblers set out from Outram Glen scenic reserve alongside the Taieri River to Lee Stream.   This was our first visit since the storm last year caused a lot of damage to the track and trail.   Repairs are on going, apparent from the pile of gravel on the track and washouts still to be repaired on the trail.   Several trees still block the trail.

We arrived at the end of the track about 10.15am and had morning tea on the rock strewn beach beside the river.

Morning tea at the end of the track. (Clive pic and caption.)

Several ramblers and a couple of the hikers then turned back to the start.   An intrepid 19 hikers continued over the trail, followed by fantails and tom tits to Lee Stream.   There seemed to be more hills to climb and they seemed steeper.   Maybe that’s an age thing!

Arriving at Lee Stream around lunch time we picked spots out of the wind to have lunch.

Lunch at Lee Stream – not quite there. (Clive pic and caption.)

It was pointed out by a senior hiker that we hadn’t actually reached Lee Stream and should continue to the stream.   Walking a further 100 meters got us there. (see photo)

Lee Stream. (Clive pic and caption.
Lunch of others at Lee Stream. (Ian panorama pic and caption.)

The return journey took longer than normal and unfortunately one member suffered a wound to her calf muscle on a broken bush stump whilst trying to cross a washout.

A tired crew arrived back at the carpark after 3.30pm.   It was intended to visit a local coffee shop, but when we got there it was closing,.so 2 cups of coffee next time!  Happy Tramping.  – Clive


10. 9/11/2006. Hikers. Outram Glen to Lee Stream. Leaders: Jennifer and Dorothy S.

Route map, courtesy Ian.
Route map, courtesy Ian. Total elevation of 433m the product of  ALL the UPS on the track, – the by-product of all the downs!
Morning tea by the Taieri. (Ian pic and caption.)
Morning tea by the Taieri. Threatening rain cautioned some to don parkas but there were hot sunny periods in the day as well.  (Ian pic and caption.)
Lunch at Lee Stream. (Ian pic and caption.)
Lunch at Lee Stream “beach” at the confluence of the stream with the Taieri River. (Ian pic and caption.)

9. 10/8/2016. Hikers. Outram, Historical Park and Museum, Outram Glen. E. Leaders: Alex and Liz.

Nike GPS Route Map
Nike GPS Route Map

A good frost today but lovely and sunny for our hike around Outram

Morning tea at storage sheds at Balmoral.
Morning tea at storage sheds at Balmoral.

which was varied with a visit to the Museum,

Museum
Waiting in the sun outside the Museum to regroup.

Vintage Park and then onto the Glen track.

Wheelbarrow
Standing aside to allow a motorised tracked wheelbarrow returning empty from delivering gravel to resurface the track. A sunny spot. (Liz pic.)
Frost (Liz pic.)
And a shaded spot. Frost. (Liz pic.)
Lunch in the sun beside the river by the track/route boundary point.
Lunch in the sun beside the river by the track/route boundary point of the Outram Glen – Lee Stream Track.

We numbered 25 and finished off with the Local Coffee Shop.
It was a wee bit different owing to the unknown conditions from the nasty weather three days earlier but as usual the company was good and we achieved our goals thanks to everybody. – Liz and Alex.


8. 26/3/2014. Hikers. Taieri Musem, Outram Glen Track to Lee Stream. Leaders: Jim and Betty.
GPS of track to Lee Stream
GPS of track to Lee Stream

We were met with a surprise variation to simply walking the Outram Glen track. The leaders took us first up to the Taieri Historical Museum via an interesting side track shortly up the George King Memorial Drive by the bridge over Traquair/Whare Creek. We were seduced by the machinery museum building at the top of the property with its wonderful variety of early Taieri farming implements. They found it hard to drag us away.
We made our way down the driveway this time, and past a surprising number of cars to the track beginning. Time had passed so the leaders made our cuppa stop at the crest of the track’s large rise just past the entrance and in a nice sunny spot.
Then on we went till we reached the great set of steps that took us up from the river side to the high undulating bush track, or more officially, ‘route’. From the top of the steps on to the end of the route was a long series of regrouping pauses, where the more able waited for the less able to catch up. But get to the end we did.
A note to the side: On our way to the start of the track, we noticed Bob’s ute had joined our parked cars while we were up at the Museum. Some knew that he did have a prior commitment and must have presumed he would have caught up with us somewhere on the track but knew nothing of the leaders’ plan to visit the museum first. Eventually we did meet him, towards the end of the track, returning. It was all just too sad a misunderstanding.
We discovered the reason for the group of cars at the start when we reached the end. By the Lee Stream mouth was a large group of young St Mary’s School pupils being instructed on safety measures pertaining to launching inflatable rafts drawn up nearby.

Launching
Launching the rafts
There were eight rafts in all, four setting out at a time to practise the art of paddling in the stiller waters upstream before heading off down over the first set of rapids below.
Afloat
The paddling rehearsal before negotiating the first rapids
By this time we had finished our lunch and just prior to entering the bush track again, were surprised again to see the rafts anchored against a cliff on the opposite side of the river, and each pupil being required to leap off a ledge in the cliff into the water, resurface, and to drift with their life jackets down to and be helped back into their rafts immediately downstream. They did this wonderfully, some choosing a yet higher ledge to leap from. Bravo.
We seemed to make much faster return time down the track than when earlier coming up, and were regaled from time to time by excited shouts and screams below us as the rafters made their way downriver.
As we neared the end, it was just a case of now of negotiating the rise at whose summit we had earlier in the day had our cuppa, (it’s steeper and more laborious on the up-track side of the rise and this reporter, at the tired end of the tramp, hates it) and we were back at the cars and en route to home.
Thanks to Betty and Jim for their imaginative planning of the day and careful looking after us. – Ian.

7. 5/10/2011. Both. Outram Glen, Lee Stream. Leader: George.
Lambing got in the way of the programmed Lee Stream ramble. The Outram Glen walk was a most successful replacement. 20 of us went. The first bit’s nice and flat in general. We stopped early for morning tea by the river. A cold wind drove us back up to shelter in the approach track.
Down-track view.
Up-track view.
Beyond the sign indicating the more difficult part of the track was the (never less) challenging (never-ending as well) set of steps. They are now well-worn but still very serviceable. We all made the ascent at our individual rates of speed. Beyond that, the various ups and downs are still well serviced by the sets of stone steps. They have stood the test of time and are firmly embedded. Well made. We all made our way to the Lee Stream confluence with the Taieri, some arriving earlier, others later. Again an early lunch enjoyed with the warmth of sun and calm, and cooler bits of  breeze. But still comfortable enough.
Some of us at lunch.
The confluence of the two streams at lunchtime.

Again, we wandered back each at our own pace. A pleasant day, sheltered by bush from the coolish wind. – Ian.


6. 3/9/2008. Both. Outram Glen, Lee Stream. Easy. Leaders: Evelyn and Bob.

Nineteen of us walked the riverwalk from Outram Glen to Lee Stream. The weather was threatening but we had just a little rain, and with no wind and a mild temperature it was an enjoyable 12 kilometre expedition. Many of us had not seen the Taieri River so brown and surging for a long time.
The track in the upper reaches was quite slippery so we needed to watch our feet. Some birdsong from bellbird and fantail was appreciated as was the presence of wood pigeons. We had lunch at Lee Stream where a number could remember past picnics beneath willow trees.
Congratulations to Evelyn and Bob for leading the group. Evelyn did a stalwart job in trying to keep the group together, trying to both race ahead to hold back the fast movers and take care to see the rear guard were still with us. She even managed to end up with one more tramper at the finish than she had at the start. Well done Evelyn!
Bob provided us with some drama by taking a tumble. However he bounced back and even did it again to keep the medics on their toes. He finished the tramp in fine fettle and good humour, leading the bulk of the group on the homeward stretch. We hope the scratches and bruises do not cause too much discomfort.
George celebrated his 80th birthday and first great grandchild by handing out beautiful chocolates to all.
Altogether it was a satisfying day with a return to home base before the southerly caught up with us. – Marjorie.


5. 6/6/2007 Ian, Doug M, Eleanor B, Joyce S

4. 3/5/2006. Both. Outram Glen. Leaders: Ian, Doug, Les & Margaret S, Bev H
3. 9/2/2005. Both. Outram Glen. Leader: Nancy
2. 19/8/1998. Outram Bridge, Taieri Gorge. Leaders: Nelson and Dot.
1. 25/3/1992. Outram Bridge – Taieri Gorge. Average. Leaders: Ria L, Catherine, Doreen, Molly

Silverstream Water-Race, Racemans, Top Weir

No. 40 on old hardcopy list of 113 club tramps. “Silverstream Weir. Racemans. Winefields. Year Round”
No. 107 on old hardcopy list of 113 club tramps. “Whare Flat – Silverstream Weir Year Round “

20. 11/01/2023. Racemans Circuit, Trampers. Grade 4 (regraded 3 – see below). Leaders: Neil Hodgkin, Julie MacKenzie.

Trampers: 10 women, 4 men
Weather: Low cloud, drizzly, calm, 16 degrees
Track: 14 kms, 3.5 hours walking and 170 m height gain.
A good, mainly flat walking surface, the odd muddy patch, and sometimes short, sharp, steep, descents/ascents in and out of side creeks.

IMG_4714 Pam Res 640
Striding out at the start of Raceman’s (photo and caption Pam)

Several crossings of the Silverstream and even though the flow was low, care was needed and poles were helpful with slippery and unstable rocks.
As a first up tramp for 2023 it was great and a very suitable tramp for the weather conditions. In the bush there was no precipitation and no wind. We had the usual stop for smoke-o …

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Morning tea at the junction with Tunnels track (photo and caption Pam)
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Abandoned water pipe on track (photo and caption Pam)
IMG_20230111_111601362~2 Ross Res 800
Strange objects in several places along the track. Much speculation about what they are/were. No conclusions. Any ideas? Feel free to use the Comments section at the bottom of the page. (photo and caption Ross)

…and got to the weir about midday…

IMG_20230111_114053094~2 Ross Res 1400
Silverstream top weir (photo and caption Ross)

…but decided to move on down the track for lunch where it was less noisy.

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Lunch taken between intermittent light drizzle (photo and caption Pam)

On our return I as leader came face to face with six barking and not so friendly dogs who were eventually followed by a female runner who didn’t seem to worry. She said that the dogs were barking because we had sticks, but I didn’t believe her. What goes up must come down so we were expecting their return and when we heard them approaching we all stood off the track, sticks by our sides and gave them a TRTC guard of honour!

Grading: The grade of this tramp is solely dependent on the flow and depth of the Silverstream. The way it was on Wednesday, I’d put it at 2.5 – 3, but with more water it would certainly be a 3 -3.5 I think.

Neil.
Continue reading “Silverstream Water-Race, Racemans, Top Weir”

Macandrew Bay, Company Bay, McTaggart St, Camp Rd, Pukehiki, Greenacres St

Distance from car-park: 24 Km.

MacTaggart St track closed for lambing September and October.

Macandrew Bay, Company Bay, MacTaggart St, Camp Road, Pukehiki, Greenacres St – Information and Trips Library


5. 7/12/2022. Hikers. Macandrew Bay.  Grade 2 Leaders: Jill D. and Linda

Twenty eager hikers departed Macandrew Bay car park on a cool grey morning. We walked along the harbourside walkway as far as McTaggart Street where we stopped  at the Company Bay reserve for morning tea. Unfortunately, the native plant nursery was closed for the day so we were unable to do the planned visit.  However, Jill was able to provide us with some information on the work that was carried out there to provide native plants for planting out on the peninsula.

Jill giving a speech at morning tea. Caption and photo Helen
Jill giving a speech at morning tea. Caption and photo Helen

Onwards and upwards we made our way up the road and on to the track, climbing over some stiles, walking across farmland and up the hill towards Camp Rd.

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How many stiles? Caption and photo Phil

We stopped several times to catch our breath and to admire the wonderful views of the peninsula. After the steady climb we reached our lunch stop on Camp Rd near Larnach Castle.

We did as the farmer instructed. Left the sheep to close the gate. Caption and photo Mike
We did as the farmer instructed. Left the sheep to close the gate. Caption and photo Mike

We then continued our walk along to Pukehiki where we visited the lovely little community church, with its loo with a view!

Pukehiki Church is the background for our group photo. Caption and photo Helen
Pukehiki Church is the background for our group photo. Caption and photo Helen

From here we walked along Highcliff Rd to Greenacres track and proceeded downhill to Macandrew Bay.

Screenshot Margeet
Screenshot Margreet

Some opted for an ice cream while others enjoyed refreshments at the Duck Cafe, while taking in the view of the lovely Macandrew Bay Beach on a nearly sunny afternoon.  Jill and Linda

Phil at Jamestown in the Hollyford, in 2003, telling the grandiose stories of James Macandrew Caption and photo Phil
Phil at Jamestown in the Hollyford, in 2003, telling the grandiose stories of James Macandrew Caption and photo Phil
standing alongside James Macandrew's grave and memorial Caption and photo Phil
Standing alongside James Macandrew’s grave and memorial Caption and photo Phil

Continue reading “Macandrew Bay, Company Bay, McTaggart St, Camp Rd, Pukehiki, Greenacres St”

Buskin Track from Bottom Tramps


4. 30/11/2022. Hikers. Highcliff Track/Buskin Track/Highcliff Road/Karetai Road. Grade 3. $7. Leaders: Max and Mike W.

Sign on Highcliff Road - Mike
Sign on Highcliff Road (Photo & Caption Mike)
M & M aka Max and Mike demonstrated their commitment to the TRTC by agreeing to lead a hike instead of sitting in front of a TV watching England thrash their Welsh cousins in the FIFA World Cup. I am not sure that this commitment was fully appreciated as shortly after the commencement of the hike there were mutterings of “when are these Poms stopping for morning tea?”
Morning tea looking over Boulder Beach - Helen
Morning tea looking over Boulder Beach (Photo & Caption Helen)
Ten hardy souls ignored the dodgy weather forecast and set off for a hike that took us around a boulder strewn hill with great views down to Boulder Beach and Sandfly Bay before descending down a zig zag poled track to join up with the Buskin Track.
Lookout - Photo Margreet
Lookout over Boulder Beach (Photo & Caption Margreet)

The steep descent was made without incident although some knees were creaking a bit by the time we had got to the bottom of the hill.
Gymnast of the day award was given to Jim Finnie. At the start of the Buskin Jim demonstrated his prowess by performing an impressive backward somersault with a half pike and a reverse tuck. The landing left a bit to be desired and stopped him getting a perfect 10.
Special mention also to Jay who re-arranged some of Max’s clothing after she spotted that he had his hi vis vest on upside down and back to front.
An early lunch was taken at 1130 in a sheltered part of the Buskin Track from where we could see the views of the coast disappearing in the mist and drizzle.

Eleanore Margreet and Betty on the seat with a view - Helen
Eleanore Margreet and Betty on the seat with a view (Photo & Caption Helen)

The Buskin Track does not appear to be used much as the grass was quite long in places with a few areas of thistle and nettles to be aware of.

Bushkin Track - Photo & Caption Mike
Bushkin Track (Photo & Caption Mike)

It was also a wee bit muddy and slippery towards the top where a few planks of wood had been laid.

The group of 9 plus the photographer at our high point - Helen
The group of 9 plus the photographer at our high point (Photo & Caption Helen)

Once at the top of the Buskin, it was a short walk along a private road to Highcliff Road and Karetai Road back to the cars.
The weather was not as bad as forecast. It was overcast with a few drizzle patches and one short bit of “wet rain”. Poms know the meaning of this.

Ponchos the order of the day - Photo & Caption Margreet
Ponchos the order of the day (Photo & Caption Margreet)

Debrief at the cars agreed that grade 3 was about right and that there would not be a coffee meeting on the way home.
As usual, great company and interesting conversation made this an enjoyable hike.
Mike


3. 11/8/2010. Trampers. Tomahawk, Soldiers Memorial, Highcliff Rd, Buskin Track, Karetai Road. Leaders: Ria, Hazel.

Buskin

We parked in the Tomahawk Lagoon carpark, & walked up the track to the Soldiers Monument,

Dunedin from soldiers monument. (Ken pic and caption)

stopping in the gorse for morning tea break,

Morning tea stop on track above Tomahawk inlet. (Ken pic and caption)

then a long road walk to get to Buskin track.

Buskin track. (Ken pic and caption)

Great views from this track down to the coast

Boulder Beach from top of Buskin track. (Ken pic and caption)

& along to Sandfly Bay, & Sandymount. Stopped for lunch at the junction of the Boulder Beach Track, & the Karatai Rd. track,

Lunch stop at junction of track to Boulder Beach, & Karatai Rd. (Ken pic and caption)

then it was a steep climb up to Karatai Rd. where we turned left, & walked down to Smaills Beach, then back to the cars. About 15.6km on a very nice day, most enjoyable. – Ken


2. 16/7/2008 Buskin Track, Boulder Beach, Highcliff Track, Paradise Road. Leaders: Bruce & Marjorie

Cliff View

Cliff View

Seven trampers met beside the Penzance Kennels on Highcliff and, undaunted by the thick fog that covered the whole of the Peninsula and beyond, set off on what proved to be an interesting walk.

We walked down the Buskin track until it intersected with the Highcliff track. A little way along the Highcliff track we found a very sheltered spot amidst some old macracarpas for a morning tea break, being very careful not to make contact with the prolific growth of ongaonga bushes. Refreshed, we began the very steep haul up to the top of the cliff and a clearing in the fog enabled us to wonder at the white lichen covered rocks, sheer cliffs and steep drops.

View of Boulder Beach

View of Boulder Beach

Hardy trampers

Hardy trampers

Boulder beach, aptly named, stretched far below us, white waves curling in a placid sea. We were unable to see the vista of coastline – that will have to keep till another day. Retracing our steps down the steep and at times slippery gradient we stopped for lunch at the same place where we had morning tea. After lunch we made a detour to the end of Boulder Beach where we were lucky to find one yellow eyed penguin standing sentinel on the rocky shore. We then laboured up Paradise Road and returned to the cars. Although unable to enjoy the views for most of the walk, Bruce made up for this by pointing out to us sites and remains of the old homesteads, stone fences and old fence posts. Even more interesting were the accounts he read to us of what life was like for the early farming families from a book by Hardwick Knight. Thank you Bruce for sharing this with us, enabling us to have a very enjoyable tramp on a grey day. – Marjorie

1. 13/4/1994 Tomahawk Lagoon, Smaills Beach, Karetai Road, Buskin Road, Soldiers Track and return. Medium. Leaders: Ria H, Jean A, June G, Betty H

Sawyers Bay, Golf Course and Reservoir

Distance from carpark: 26 km


9/11/2022. Trampers. Sawyers Bay Mt Cutten. Leaders Lyn and Diane

18 Trampers met at Reservoir Road after experiencing civil works and road closures.The weather was favourable with the promise of great views from the Mt Cutten summit. Mt Cutten was named after William Cutten who was an early settler, involved in the establishment of the Otago Daily Times. Cutten built a house located in Sunshine, Dunedin called Belmont which later became known as La Scala restaurant owned by the Massetti Family in 1955.

9 Nov Mt Cutten Morning tea Marijke
Morning tea at the first reservoir. Photo & caption Marijke

We had morning tea at the Sawyers Bay Reservoir then made our way up the track through native bush and pine trees to reach the road which headed up the hill to Cedar Creek Reservoir which was constructed in the 1950s as a backup water supply for Port Chalmers. It is no longer used, and the pipeline is now connected to the DCC supply.

9 Nov Mt Cutten Lyn coming out of the bush Marijke
Crawling from the dark into the lightness. Photo & caption Marijke
9 Nov Mt Cutten Striding it out through the pines Pam
Striding it out through the pines. Photo & caption Pam
9 Nov Mt Cutten sign Lyn
Photo Lyn

It was a steady climb to top of Mt Cutten where we had lunch enjoying the spectacular 360-degree views some of which included Port Chalmers, the Peninsula, The Spit at Aramoana and the harbour entrance at Taiaroa Heads.

 

9 Nov Mt Cutten Stunning views towards the harbour entrance Marijke
Stunning views towards the harbour entrance. Photo & caption Marijke

We walked along a massive cliff on the harbour side to view a stainless-steel sculpture of a entangled telegraph pole which was created by Andrew Drummond a New Zealand Sculptor and Painter who paid tribute to Len Lye. (Len Lye 1901-1980 was born in Christchurch, Len was internationally recognised as one of the 20th century most original artists, Pioneer Film Maker, Poet, Writer and Painter.)

9 Nov Mt Cutten Len Lye Pam
Sculpture tribute to Len Lye, NZ Sculptor 1901-1980, south of the summit. Photo & caption Pam
9 Nov Mt Cutten I can see you Phil! John
I can see you Phil! Photo & caption John

After lots of photo opportunities and a slight change in the weather we headed back down the track to cedar creek reservoir to walk the track around the water edge making sure we had a team photo on the bridge.

9 Nov Mt Cutten Timer photo (I'm taller than I thought). The full group. John
Timer photo (I’m taller than I thought). The full group. Photo & caption John

Unfortunately, we were either too late or too early for the Rhododendrons in flower. We will have to put Mt Cutten on the trip programme for 2023.

9 Nov Mt Cutten Mirror reflection on upper Cedar Creek reservoir John
Mirror reflection on upper Cedar Creek reservoir. Photo & caption John

Some of the vehicles headed over North Road to avoid road works and to have a coffee and ice cream at Black Road Grocer. A great day with amazing views and excellent company.
Trip distance 10.3 ks elevation Mt Cutten 539 metres.


27/04/2022. Trampers. Sawyers Bay Mt Cutten. M. Leaders: Lyn Keene and Diane Bezett

Eleven Trampers left Mosgiel and travelled to Sawyers Bay to attempt to Climb Mt Cutten. The weather was not looking great as we drove down the Port Chalmers highway.   We parked on Reservoir Road and walked up the track through beautiful bush and then around the Sawyers Bay Reservoir where we found a dry area under the trees and had morning tea.

Autumn weather
Autumn weather as we circumnavigate the lower reservoir Caption and photo Ross

We continued through bush and then up a 4wheel drive track to the Cedar Creek Reservoir.

cedar dam
Cedar Dam Caption and photo Phil

It was constructed in the 1950s as a backup water supply for Port Chalmers. It is no longer used and the pipeline is now connected to the DCC supply.  We walked around the reservoir through rhododendrons and native bush.

Brave hardy souls
Photo Lyn

We picked a spot under the pine trees to have lunch.

soggy sandwiches
Soggy sandwiches for lunch Caption and photo Phil

Meantime the rain was getting stronger so a decision was made not to tramp to the summit and leave Mt Cutten for another day.

Next time
Next time Caption and photo Phil

Suggestion was made to possibly look at returning in November when the rhododendrons are in flower.

descending
Descending towards the cars Caption and photo Ross

History –  Mt Cutten was named after William Cutten who was an early settler and was involved in the establishment of the Otago Daily Times. He  built the house located in Sunshine Dunedin called Belmont also known as La Scala.

Andrew Drummond, a New Zealand Sculptor and Painter, dedicated a tribute to Len Lye.  The sculpture, a stainless steel entangled telegraph pole, was erected on the South side of Mt Cutten looking over the Sawyers Bay, Port Chalmers and parts of the peninsula.  Len Lye 1901-1980 was born in Christchurch.  He was internationally recognised as one of the 20th century most original artists, Pioneer Film Maker, Poet, Writer and Painter.

Mt Cutten elevation 308 metres   Mt Cutten is situated nearby Mt Martin and south of Mt Kettle (545 Metres)

Lyn Keene


12/9/2012. Hikers. Sawyers Bay, Golf Course and Reservoir. Leaders: Chris, Elaine.


21/3/2010. Hikers. Sawyers Bay, Golf Course and Reservoir. Leaders: Chris, Dorothy.

About 18 hikers parked cars in Station Rd, Sawyers Bay, on a pleasant morning and set off for an area most of us hadn’t been to before. From the cars we headed up Station Rd, turning right into Stevenson Avenue and then left into Reservoir Road. Had our morning tea sitting by the side of the road admiring the view across the harbour to Larnach Castle. Then it was on past the Golf club to the end of Reservoir Road. Back down a short distance and then we turned in to a track that lead us to the reservoir which was in such a lovely setting in the bush with a variety of trees, including deciduous, which added to the colours.There was a track right round and we walked round this, enjoying birds and bush.

Reservoir above Sawyers Bay (Bill pic)
Reflection (Bill pic)
Fore…. (Bill pic and caption)
… and aft. (Elaine pic. Bill caption)
The Crocodile (Bill pic and caption)
We sat in a lovely grassy, area beside the reservoir for our lunch. Then it was back down to the cars. We all agreed what a pleasant surprise it was and how much we had enjoyed discovering it. Very many thanks to our leaders, Chris and Dororthy. -Bev

Karitane beach to Huriawa Pa, Beach walk

No. 12 on old hardcopy list of 113 club tramps. “Karitane to Maori Pa and Beach Walk. C Tither. Year Round.”

Pa accessed from Karitane wharf. 2 hr ret. Walking Track. – Manager: DOC.

If you want a history of Huriawa Pa, Sir Truby King or early Methodist missionary James Watkin, it’s all just a click away here.

57 km from car park.

24. 02/11/2022. Combined. Karitane. Grade 2.  $13. 56km. Leaders: John and Dave R

In our tramping and hiking endeavours, many factors are beyond our control. The weather is our greatest variable, but not the only one. This time it was Covid that scuttled our planned visit to the Puketeraki Marae.
Puketeraki Matarae (Pam)
Puketeraki Matarae (photo & caption Pam)
Many thanks to Mauraka for agreeing to host us when I phoned to arrange the visit. Get well Mauraka. A key part of the Puketeraki Marae visit was the Powhiri (welcome). Googling this, did cause some consternation, appearing to be more involved and complex than expected. Thanks to Barbara and Grant, for putting my anxiety to rest, by offering to manage this part of the visit for me. Yet another example of the depth of expertise within our membership. Sometimes things just don’t go to plan.
Morning Tea above the Puketeraki Marae - John
Morning Tea above the Puketeraki Marae (photo & caption John)
Subsequently, with a “glass half full” philosophy 27 keen hikers and trampers began their combined adventure at the Marae. Spending morning tea overlooking the beautiful settlement, the bay, peninsula, and beach that is Karitane.
On the Huriawa Pa track - Pam
On the Huriawa Pa track (photo & caption Pam)
Under blue skies we drove back to the reserve, where we regrouped at 11.00am, and began our walk. With a slightly chilly wind and choppy high tide waters in the bay, it was a relief to get out of the wind, on the more sheltered track around the Te Awa Peninsula.
Dramatic hole in rock - John
Dramatic hole in rock (photo & caption John)
Here we followed the well-formed track, passing the spectacular Te Awa Mokihi (Butterfly Bay), the imposing Pa-katata Cliffs, and the unique Ke Pehu’ Blow-holes, before passing The Pinnacles, (a group of offshore rocks).
Gathering up for the views - Helen
Gathering up for the views (photo & caption Helen)
With lunch beginning at 12.15pm overlooking Karitane Beach the day was right back on track, and spirits were high.
Lunch stop - Marijke
Lunch stop (photo & caption Marijke)
Heading back - Marijke
Heading back (photo & caption Marijke)
Interesting Stone sculptures -Pam
Interesting Stone sculptures (photo & caption Pam)
After lunch we walked down to the beach, joined by an unusual looking, resident old dog, who stayed behind to devour a dead seagull he found on the beach!
The beach was like a magnet - John
The beach was like a magnet (photo & caption John)
Our group got well and truly spread out on the beach, that we had pretty much to ourselves, with people walking at their own pace, enjoying the pristine surroundings, clear sands, and gentle sea breeze.
Special thanks to Dave, for his efforts as tail end Charlie in these conditions, (I know it’s just against your nature to be behind, or to go slow Dave!) By about 1.30pm we had all regrouped at our starting point on the beach, and following a short street-walk were at the Karitane Store for an ice cream at 1.45pm.
Ice creams. Very hot so needed - Helen
Ice creams. Very hot so needed (photo & caption Helen)
Blueskin Cafe’ was reached, dead on time, at 2.15pm for alfresco Coffee.
Looking back onto Huriawa Peninsula and Pa - Pam
Looking back onto the Huriawa Peninsula and Pa (photo & caption Pam)

In summary, Karitane is such a beautiful spot, one the club has visited many times, but one that never fails to delight. Ideal for our diverse group with varying abilities, it allowed flexibility for people to safely go at their own pace, yet permitted lots of interaction between hikers and trampers. The Grade 2 classification seems appropriate, with just over 7 Km walked.

Map (screenshot by Margreet)
Map (screenshot by Margreet)

23. 19/01/2022. Hikers. Karitane. Leaders: Liz Griffin and Faye Lamb

Karitane is one of the most popular walks the club has done with more than 18 walks over the years.
Clive 1
We started out with 14 hikers from near the Karitane fishing club.    There is so much history, scenery and things to see and do in Karitane.   We were not sure what the weather had in store for us so we kept an eye on the clouds.  We set off up the Huriwae Pa peninsular with stories posted at regular intervals and the easy walking tracks and paths well maintained.  As usual within the hikers ranks we had few ‘intrepid’ hikers (read trampers) who decided to scale the headland above the blow hole for even more spectacular views.
Clive 2
Once we completed the circuit of the peninsular we headed inland and followed the coast road parallel  to the beach.   We went to the church above the Puketeraki Marae for lunch.   The views from up there reached away to the North beyond Shag River and to the South to the entrance of Otago harbour.   A leisurely walk back along Coast Road got us back to the cars about 1.30pm with no sign of rain.
Clive 3
We had plenty of time for a coffee and biscuit at the ‘Salt & Sugar’ general store.   We were wished ‘Happy New Year’ in English, German and Russian on the sign above the coffee tables.   A good walk was enjoyed as the first walk of 2022.   Thanks to Liz & Faye our leaders.
Report and photos courtesy of Clive

22. 20/1/2021. Hikers. Karitane. Leaders: Linda and Heather

The weather forecast wasn’t looking too promising but it did not deter 20 eager hikers  travelling to Karitane for our first hike of 2021.

Fortunately we  were  rewarded with reasonably fine weather at Karitane.

J.01.Getting ready to get underway

Getting ready to get underway. (John pic and caption.)

J.03.Bob and Lester keen to get started

Bob and Lester keen to get started. (John pic and caption.)

We started the day with morning tea,

J.02.Civilised mornig tea

Civilised morning tea. (John pic and caption.)

before proceeding along the peninsula  track.

We walked past the totem pole and blow hole, taking in the magnificent ocean views, gazing at the distant coastline and a ship waiting to go into the harbour. Some of the more energetic  hikers walked up the steep track to take photos and admire the view from the highest part of the headland.

J.04.This view makes the climb worthwhile

This view makes the climb worthwhile. (Joh pic and caption.)

J.05.Coastline looking soutn

Coastline looking south. (John pic and caption.)

J.06.Alex has walked over this in the past!

Alex has walked over this in the past! (John pic and caption.)

Not much sign of wildlife today, only a few lone seals were spotted dozing on the rocks blending in as always with the sleek black rocks. Further on we took the track down to the waters edge  another time for photos,  with some amazing rock formations eroded by time and the tides.

J.07.Sure these rocks have names?

Sure these rocks have names? (John pic and caption.)

We proceeded back up the track, which led us up on to the road. From here we walked along the  beach, admiring the lovely new beach houses.We stopped for a lunch break near the end of the beach, a time for a rest and  for everyone to catch up on what they had been doing over the holidays.  After lunch we posed for a group photo in front of one of the stunning large rocks.

J.09.happy Hikers after lunch
Happy Hikers after lunch. (John pic and caption.)

  We then  headed back along the beach and out on to the road for a short street walk, checking out the local cribs , gardens and  back to our cars.We  enjoyed finishing  the day with afternoon tea at Salt and Sugar General store in Karitane, certainly a unique coffee stop, and I’m told the cake was very good! – Linda and Heather.


21. 27/3/2019. Hikers. Huriawa Pa Peninsula, beach walk. E. Leaders: Clive and Alex.

The week leading up to this walk at Karitane had threatened all kinds of extreme weather.   So it was surprising to muster at least 26 Hikers and Ramblers at the start of the walk outside the local fishing club.   First things first it was nearly 10 o’clock so fortification of morning tea was taken before setting off.   We headed to the prominent headland , whose history has been recounted in earlier visits and reports.   Alec who had spent many a happy hour in Karitane had extensive local knowledge and immediately tried to put it to good use by taking a little known short cut  …  over a cliff ….   So not that way.   The views from the headland are spectacular and a couple of more intrepid hikers made it further out on to the headland.  See photos attached.

C.3c
(Clive pic.)
C.4c
(Clive pic)

After the headland we made our way down through the bush to connect up with the road.    Although it was high tide there was enough beach to walk on and we made our way to the basalt rocks at the far end of the beach in time for lunch.

C.5Beach walkc
(Clive pic)
C.6c
(Clive pic)

A number of the hikers were able to recall holidays spent at Karitane over lunch.

Just as we finished lunch a cool wind came up heralding rain.   It was behind us so we made a faster return down the beach and up onto the main road.    By the time we reached the local dairy the rain had set in in earnest so we didn’t hang about but made it back to the cars just as the heavens opened.

We followed the scenic route over the hill past Seacliff to Warrington.  We had a short stop at St Barnabas’ church, which had been built in 1872 and is a tribute to the caring local community who keep it in such a fine state.

C.7.St Barnabasc
(Clive pic)

To end the day, with the rain lashing down,we made it to the Blueskin Nurseries cafe at Waitati for afternoon tea. – Clive.

Five Ramblers did a leisurely stop and start 2 km circuit of the Peninsula, rewarded with seeing a White Heron on a small outcrop while lunching. Avoided the worst of the rain while awaiting the Hikers’ return from the beach. – Ian.

20. 4/10/2017. Both. Huriawa Pa Peninsula, beach walk. E. Leaders: Jan and Bev.

Route map, courtesy Ian. Started recording late, so true distance 7 km. Trampers did 8 km.

A large contingent of trampers and hikers (40 in total) set off from the rivermouth area  along the edge of the estuary to the Huriawa Pa  peninsula.  Track then headed upwards, and we had morning tea on a bank under a large marcrocarpa tree.

Morning tea on the start of the walk up the Huriawa peninsula. (Clive pic and caption.)

Track climbed steadily tho not steeply up to a totem pole, then along the edge of the cliffs to the blowhole.  A group of trampers went up a steep little track to the highest point on the headland with great views.  Past the blowhole we  detoured off the main track along a mown pathway which looped round a newish planting of natives.  Then took another detour down to the water’s edge and back up to the main track which led on to the beach.  The weather had turned warm and sunny with no wind, so perfect beach conditions.

There’s a hole in my tooth. (Raewyn pic and caption.)

Came across a sea lion sunbathing on the beach, but he eventually trundled his way back to the water.

Basking sealion. (Margreet pic and caption.)

Walked to the end of the beach, and came back a little way to a lunch spot.

Cape Karitane launching pad. (Raewyn pic and caption.)

There were  lots of large slips along the bank which runs along  the edge of the beach and one of these slips provided good seating on the various tree trunks, rocks etc.

Lunch. (Ian pic and caption.)

Some of the hikers carried on back down the beach to the cars, whilst the rest took a track off the beach and meandered round the streets of the Karitane township before returning to the car park via the main road.  The tide was well in by  then, so quite a different look to the estuary.  The majority stopped off for coffee at the Blueskin Nursery  Cafe on the way home, but the staff coped well with the rather large crowd. – Jan.


19. 10/12/2014 All. End of year Christmas shared lunch. Karitane Fishing and Boating Club Hall. Tramp: Huriawa Pa, beach walk. Leaders: Elaine and Eric

Route
Route

Elaine’s planning for the day did not disappoint us. Eric, obviously under precise instructions, ably led those who came for the tramp around the peninsula…

The peninsula. (Helen pic)
The peninsula. (Helen pic)
last climb as we approach saddle near ocean end of peninsula.
Last climb as we approach saddle near seaward end of peninsula track.

…and along the beach and return to get us back to the hall right on the dot of the appointed time of 11.30 a.m.to meet up with those who were able to come only for the occasion. Well done Eric, for someone who had never done the route before! So thanks, Eric – and Elaine, who stayed behind. And what was that for?

Surprise! Yes, meantime Elaine had been busy secretly putting up countless photos with questions attached, pens and slips of paper to write the answers down on, not forgetting bags to put them into. What preparation! What inventiveness! What tramper was the child in the photo? In what year was the camp in the photo held? Identify the car. How many pages in the day’s ODT? The puzzles went on and on, around the walls of the small hall, inside and out.

Of course there was wonderful food in all its variety…

The spread. (Helen pic)
The spread. (Helen pic)

After we were all satiated, came the declaration of the winners. from the bags accompanying their respective photos, Elaine drew answers, correct, facetious and otherwise.  Each winner was awarded a Christmasy-wrapped present fetched and delivered by Eric from a large bag of presents donated by – who knows who? Where does Elaine get her sponsors from? Present after present. And we mustn’t forget the lucky numbers handed out when we first went in. It seems every number holder was awarded a present also.

After this was all over, Elaine got the Four Jolly Tramping Mates to perform their song, a song which has now come to be sung on one or two previous occasions. Well, it’s really Peter’s song as he has written the lyrics and chosen the tune. Over the years,  the membership has perforce had to slightly change, with Heb now replacing Ray who has retired from the Club. And that’s not the only change either. Peter had added two further brillian verses to include Fred’s chocolates and Margaret’s red brolly. The lyric’s subjects are so pertinent, cheeky and entertaining, it has stood up well to repetition over the years. Thanks, Elaine, for arranging this part too.

The Three Jolly Tramping Mates. (Helen pic)
The Four Jolly Tramping Mates. (Helen pic)

Well, that was it, unless you include the coffee stop (another of Elaine’s innovations) at Blueskin Cafe on the way home for some.

Well, Elaine. You have certainly put your stamp on the social side of our Club’s activities. Thank you, and Eric, for providing a most enjoyable finish to the year’s activities. – Ian.


18. 28/5/2014. Hikers. Karitane, Huriawa Pa, beach walk. Leaders: Bev and Lesley

GPS of route
GPS of route

Here we were at Karitane, all ready to set out, with Leader Bev out there on the right waiting for us to follow.

Before tramp. (John, Panorama)
At cars before tramp. (John, Panorama)

And as you can see from John’s second panorama below,

Tramp ending
Tramp ending (John panorama, showing both ending and starting points)

at either end of the pic you can see both the the tramp’s end on the left and its entrance point onto the peninsula. We made our way along right on the harbour inlet’s edge to a lovely spot for the morning tea cuppa. We we surprised by the occasion whiff of warm air which accompanied us for the day, until a norwester blast hit us just as we were returning to the cars, a trace of which can be seen on the above panorama.

Cuppa (John pic)
Cuppa alongside inlet’s entrance  (John pic)

Following the leisurely sit down, was a bit of moderately steep climbing to reach the top of the track where it returned  back on the peninsula’s southern side. We admired the following blowhole.

 

Cavern (John pic)
Blown out blowhole. (John pic)

Les recalled how once he and Ivan McIntosh had braved the ledge along the top. Not now!

By various stops and starts (part of a track we found too flooded to negotiate so had to find another way) we made it back to the peninsula’s beginning, and onto and along the long firm beach, to lunch at its southern end. Here John and Elaine combined to make this stunning photo.

Elaine
Elaine

After another leisurely break, we made our way back along the beach, across the peninsula’s neck and back to the cars.

A great day out for some 30 hikers, well led by Bev and Lesley, to whom much thanks. – Ian.


16. 30/11/2011. Hikers. Karitane from railway line. Easy.


15. 21/4/2010. Hikers. Karitane from railway line. Easy. Leaders: Elaine, Fred.

Whare Nui (?) of Puketeraki Marae. (Bill pic)

Tor. (Bill pic)

Rock on beach showing columnar basaltic structure. (Bill pic)

End of Huriawa Peninsula. (Bill pic)


14. 30/7/2008. Hikers. Karitane from railway. Easy. Leaders: Bob H, Evelyn C.

In spite of the weather being less than conducive for a tramping day, 4 trampers & 5 hikers decided to be positive and go to Karitane which was the destination for the hikers that day. So off we went, hoping that the rain we drove through most of the way there would not continue for the day! From getting out of our cars,we seemed to be ‘blessed’! No rain till we stopped at the Marae for lunch where we were able to sit on the porch and enjoy our meal, out of the shower that came on at that time. Then, lo and behold, the rain stopped and we got back to the cars without getting wet all day. We all agreed we had had a very pleasant and happy day, having got some fresh air and had a good walk. Bev

13. 8/8/2007. Hikers. Karitane from railway line. Easy. Leaders: Evelyn C, Bill H.

12. 22/3/2006. Hikers. Karitane, Maori Pa. Leaders:  Graham, Arthur & Barbara
11. /9/2002 Mary Y, Jean A, Chris
10. 25/9/2002. Alt. Karitane – Maori Pa. Leaders: Mary Y, Jean, Chris.
9. 10/11/1999. Karitane, over Railroad Bridge. Leaders: Catherine, Mavis, Shirley R.
8. 14/4/1999. Karitane – Maori Pa – Beach Walk. Leaders: Catherine, nancy, Lesley S.
7. 20/8/1997. Karitane Maori Pa and Church. Leaders: Catherine, Nel K, Denise.
6. 15/2/1995. Karitane. Medium. Leaders: Ria L, Catherine, Mary Y, Denise P.
5. 1/6/1994. Karitane. Medium. Leaders: Catherine, Ria L, Nel K, Mary Y.
4. 3/3/1993. Karitane. Medium. Leaders: Catherine, Ria L, Nel, Mary Y.
3. 27/1/1993. Karitane. Round Trip. Average. Leaders: Catherine, Ria L, Nel, Marie.
2. 19/8/1992. Karitane Beach to Maori Pa. Round trip. Average. Catherine, Ria L, Nel K, Marie F
1. 8/4/1990. Karitane to Maori Pa. Also beach walk. Interesting history. Easy walking. Leaders:  Peg C, Joan A, Audrey, June W
14/4/1989 Catherine, Nancy, Lesley S

West Harbour Recreation Trail

20 km from car park
8. 19/10/2022. St Leonards. Grade 1.5. Helen and Linda

Eighteen of us met at the Ravensbourne carpark opposite the old hotel, and in beautiful sunshine we walked along Totara St above the main road along to the park at the end where we had morning tea. From there we sauntered down the hill and crossed Ravensbourne Rd to the walkway and followed it until we got to Burkes.

Helen Ingrams 2
Photo Helen

The bus stop there has a striking monochrome mural (or ‘Muriel’ to longtime Coro viewers) of the old brewery that used to stand on the site.

Helen Ingrams 1
Photo Helen

Up to the streets above Ravensbourne Rd, all named after native birds where we walked to St Leonards passing well kept gardens including one with a stall of plants from Bluestone Nurseries for sale which the keen gardeners amongst us were very interested in. We saw both Lodges in St Leonards, and stopped for an early lunch at the end of Takahe Terrace on the edge of a sports ground. Then back down to the walkway which took us all the way back to the Ravensbourne carpark. A very relaxed and enjoyable day.

Jenny flexing her muscles on the exercise machine Ravensbourne walkway.
Jenny flexing her muscles on the exercise machine Ravensbourne walkway. Caption and photo Linda

We stopped at Emersons for a coffee on the way home. Thanks to Raewyn for organising this hike. And a  special thanks to Linda for leading the group at short notice.  Helen

7. 12/6/2019. West Harbour Walkway. E. Jay and Raewyn.
On a very nice winter’s day 30 enthusiastic hikers made their way to the Carpark opposite the
Ravensbourne Hotel to start the walk along the West Harbour walk and cycle way.   We stopped 15 minutes along the track for morning tea and those that felt a need had a turn on the exercise equipment to test
their skills.   Along  the way we came across a  railway maintenance crew  doing work on the track.  This really fascinated many though mainly the men. I’m sure with a bit of encouragement they would have
jumped the fence to have a try at hammering in the squiggly steel rods.   Further along  we left the track at Burkes and crossed a very busy road to walk up the various streets including Kiwi St, Kaka St. down Pukeko St. past  St Leonards Hall and school.

C.1) Great views of the harbourc
Great views of the harbour. (Clive pic and caption.)

On the way we enjoyed  looking at  historical homes and lovely gardens including St Leonards Lodge

C.3) One of the grand housesc
One of the grand houses. (Clive pic and caption.)

and  University Lodge.  We had lunch in the sunshine at
the St Leonards Park.

C.2) Lunch at St Leonards' football clubc ground
Lunch at St Leonards’ football club ground. (Clive pic and caption.)

After lunch we returned to our cars walking the whole way on the track and also had the pleasure of watching the large tanker and tug boat making their way up the harbour.  A very
pleasant 10.5kms.   Coffee stop was at the stadium.  – Raewyn and Jay.

6. 19/7/2017. Hikers. Boat Harbour to St Leonards ret. Leaders: Bev and Judy.
21 hikers parked at the Otago yacht Club and walked the cycle/walkway to St Leonards and back, a total of 11 ks.
Route map, courtesy Ian.

21 hikers parked at the Otago yacht Club and walked the cycle/walkway to St Leonards and back, a total of 11 ks – not bad for a mid-winter day with planned hikes cancelled due to illness of leaders.  Morning tea was had on the yacht club verandah as it was still a bit chilly.  With a cold breeze in our faces we stepped it out briskly …

Walkway name. (Ian pic and caption.)
A ship. (Ian pic and caption.)

… to St Leonards where lunch was eaten with a bit of sunshine to help.  The return trip saw us well spread out with unfit ones like myself dragging the chain a bit at the back of the pack.  We were reunited at the University coffee shop where a pleasant social hour was spent. – Judy.

5. 13/1/2016 Hikers. Ravensbourne – Burks – St Leonards. Leaders: Judy and Adrienne, Helen.
Route map
Route map

We parked cars down below the Ravensbourne Hotel and took the walkway to Burkes where we morning-tead.

Cuppa in bus shelter
Cuppa in bus shelter
Cuppa on lawn
Cuppa on lawn

We took the old road to St Leonards reflecting on its probably origin as just a track through the bush following the easiest gradient. We turned up Kiwi Street, along Kaka Street, admiring well-kept properties there, down Pukeko  and along past St Leonards Hall and the school. Up Ruru to view the mock Tudor House.

Tudor house by the harbour
Tudor house by the harbour

Down again  to front past the University Lodge  Gates, and next it, St Leonards Lodge. Then along to St Leonards Park for lunch.

Ready for sun or shower
Sun/shower security.
Ladies on the lawn
Ladies on the lawn.

Returning back to the cars we were relieved the cold southerly had abated somewhat. Thanks to Judy, Adrienne and Helen for excellent leadership. – Ian.

4. 29/10/2014 Hikers. Ravensbourne Walkway. E. Leaders: Peter and Wendy.

On the 29th October a very good group of hikers started off from the boat club on from the stadium. The day was cool to start with then got warm and sunny.
Pub
Harbour View Hotel (John Pic)
What a pleasure it is to walk on this wonderful walkway. There was so much going on in the harbour and train tracks. A very large goods train sped past us
Train
Train (John pic)
and a not very tidy rail car …
Shabby railcar (John pic)
Shabby railcar (John pic)
… I thought was up and down the track a few times.
The $12million Otago tug
Tug
Tug (John pic)
chuffed along the channel following [Tug illustration chosen shows the tug going the other way earlier. Sorry. Ed.] a cargo ship …
Ship. (John caption)
Ship. (John pic)
… going to the Dunedin wharf.
Lunch stop was very sheltered, with plenty to watch on the walkway – runners … cyclists … mums with prams …
Two of our group caught the eye of another group and had their photo taken which was published in the Star local paper on Thursday 30th.
I was very taken with a stone sofa on the side of the walkway.
Looking very nonchalant (John pic, Fred caption)
Looking very nonchalant! (John pic, Fred caption)
Who made it and how long has it been there?
All up we walked over 10km Lets hope this walkway does find its way to Port Chalmers in the future.
We spoke to a young girl on the track from Uni. She was part of a group of students from the Mining dept. She was amazed when Mollie told her how old she was. Then Doug came striding along and I said he was the same age. She was very impressed with us.
We had a coffee at the Plaza which is the cafe at the stadium in the uni part.
Have a good week everyone. – Elaine.
3. 27/3/2013 Hikers. Pedestrian-Cycle Track Rowing Club to St Leonards. E. Leaders: Arthur and Barbara.
GPS
“GPS” of route.
ship
LPG tanker viewed from walkway
2. 9/3/2011. Hikers Pedestrian/Cycle track North End Rowing Club to Maia E. Leaders: Arthur and Barbara.

1. 17/6/2009 Hikers Pedestrian/Cycle track North End Rowing Club to Maia E $4.00 Leaders: Lois & Lance

7 members (Molly, Neil, Lois, Lance, Bev, Margaret and Angela) set off at 10am from the University Aquatic Centre (just north of the Boat Harbour, via Leander St- opposite Butts Road on the way to Port Chalmers beside Palmers Quarry – now known as Shiel Concrete) for a brisk stroll to the Ravensbourne Yacht Club, stopping a while for morning tea.

From there we proceeded to Maia crossing the railway line at Hume Pipeworks, opposite the Ravensbourne Hotel, which looked closed for the winter.

There are extensive notices in yellow & red advising one NOT to cross the railway line but in this case we had no alternative as the walkway from the Ravensbourne yacht club proceeded on the left-hand side of the yacht club on the site of the second railway line which has since been removed.

Upon leaving Maia we proceeded up Ascog Road & along Totara St and down Adderley Terrace to the Ravensbourne Hotel, across the road to the overbridge at the Ravensbourne Yacht club and back to the cars.

The walk took approx 1 1/2 hours and because of the cool temperatures and accompanying wind chill factor it was decided to go home for lunch.

An enjoyable walk taking 3 hours (includes an hour travelling time) – Angela.

Port Chalmers and environs

Click Dunedin’s Hills’ History for background Information.
30 km from car park.

24. 31/08/2022 Hikers. Port Chalmers. Leaders: Michael Webb and Bruce Wright M.

On a typically beautiful Port Chalmers day with no hint of Mosgiel type frost, 32 hikers met at the Back Beach car park for what some thought was going to be a gentle stroll visiting some historical sights in West Harbours hidden gem.
The first hill climb on the track from Back Beach to Island Terrace cut short the usual discussing of sore hips, knees, dieting, prostate problems, midnight trips to the loo, hot flushes, ungrateful children, recalcitrant grandchildren, the Mayor and Jacinda.
Oh what a beautiful day Ady
Oh what a beautiful day Caption and photo Ady
It was during this first ascent of many hills that the first mumblings of mutiny were heard. The leader took this on board, totally ignored it and proceeded to lead the group up to Hotere Hill via Campbell Buchanan lane where we had morning tea.
Morning tea in Ralph Hotere Garden
Morning tea in Ralph Hotere Garden
Caption and photo Helen
We then descended a track to Back Beach for a relaxed stroll alongside the harbour where Faye revealed herself to be a “legend” with her lecture on oven cleaning.
Boat shed on Back Beach Michael
Boat shed on Back Beach Caption and photo Michael
Stone boat 2
Stone boat – how many just walked by? Caption and photos Phil

Stone boat 1 Phil

A walk up Currie Street to see some historic buildings including the old Buffalo hall was followed by a welcome comfort stop at the Port Chalmers Library. Another steady ascent took us to the Lady Thorn dell for lunch.
Neil will give anything a go - once Phil
Neil will give anything a go – once. Caption and photo Phil

Yet another climb took us to Scott Memorial before crossing the road for our last uphill leg before descending through some bush and a track past the old cemetery back to Port Chalmers.

The town Helen
The town Caption and photo Helen

Refreshments were taken at The Galley where one unnamed lady ordered a Bloody Mary. Due to the many steep tracks and hills in Port Chalmers this could possibly be a Grade 3.  The hike was 8km. Michael Webb


23. 25/11/2020 Hikers. Port Chalmers. Leaders Mike Webb and Jay Devlin. E-M.

17 of us set out from the car park at Back Beach
C.1.Setting off from Back Bay.120201125_095016
Setting off from Back Bay. (Clive pic and caption.)
on a typically beautiful Port morning for a walk around Port Chalmers. First stop for morning coffee was at the Sculpture Gardens commonly called Hotere Hill
c.2.Morning tea at Ralph Hotere's sculpture garden.20201125_101706
Morning tea at Ralph Hotere’s sculpture garden. (Clive pic and caption.)
where a discussion was held by some about the new time ball on the flagstaff. The first of many “are we there yet”? was heard on the track up to Hotere Hill. From there we walked down Aurora Terrace and up Constitution Street to Campbell Buchanan lane to visit the plaque commemorating the young local lad who was killed during a Pacific naval action in WW2 and who was awarded the USA Navy Cross for gallantry. The lane is named after him.
Next stop was Island Terrace where a few houses of interest where pointed out and good views across to the Peninsula were to be seen.
From there it was a descent on a track to Back Beach road
C.3.Around the harbour.20201125_104935
Around the harbour. (Clive pic and caption.)
and a leisurely stroll via Victory place and Wickliffe Terrace to George Street where a comfort stop was taken by a few before heading up Ajax Road and Church Street to have lunch in the Lady Thorn Dell. On the stroll around Back beach a brief stop was had at the plaque commemorating the sinking of the Pride of the Yarra in 1863 where 13 persons drowned after a collision with a vessel called the Favourite.
Three hikers left the main group at the comfort stop and re-joined by car for lunch at the dell
C.4.Lunch at the rhododendron dell.20201125_121203
Lunch at the rhododendron dell. (Clive pic and caption.)
and met up with us again at the completion of the hike.
After lunch the rest of us proceed to Scott Memorial via Brailey’s Track where there was a good view from the observation platform of a container ship approaching Port accompanied by two tugs. A steep climb through the bush on some steps on the other side of Blueskin Road was the last of the climbs. From there we walked down a steep track to Blueskin Road where we crossed to Blacks Track, had a quick walk through the old cemetery and on to Iona Church and back to the cars.
The afternoon coffee/tea break was held in the courtyard at the back of the Galley Cafe in Port which was the site of the opium den many years ago. Hence why the Galley used to be called the Tall Poppy and the smaller building at the back is the Small Poppy and is where us locals and townies go on a Friday night for drinks and live music. – Mike

22. 19/9/2018. Port Chalmers walkabout. E. Judy.

On Wednesday 19 enthusiastic hikers gathered at the Careys Bay Hotel
Establishment on a beautiful spring day.   We walked up to the lookout with stunning views of the harbour and had morning play-lunch at the
Ralph Hotere Garden. From there we made our way down  to Back Beach
Met up with some children on our track walk down to Back Beach. (Jan B. pic and caption.)

where we did a short walk out to the point where there were people
fishing for their evening meal.  We then walked round the point

Our walk around Back Beach taking us out to the Port Chalmers School. (Jan B. pic and caption.
School children on a kayak lesson. (Jan B. pic and caption.)

and made our way to the Lady Thorn Rhododendron Dell for lunch.  After lunch we walked up to the cemetery where some walked back down the hill and the others carried on another steep track which then took us down to the town and back to Careys Bay Hotel

Jan B. pic.

where we all enjoyed a beverage of various delights.  – Leaders Elaine and Jay.


21. 22/11/2017. Hikers. Port Chalmers. Leader: Judy.

Route map, courtesy Ian. Battery died within the last half km. So really 9 km.

22nd November saw two members celebrating the same birth date (Dave Mellish and the writer).  Are there any other shared birthdays in the Club?

Anyway, after some rather off-key singing, 18 hikers set off for Port Chalmers and the Careys Bay car park on a beautiful warm sunny morning.  The planned morning tea stop on Boiler Point didn’t happen, as the track was closed for new wharf development, so it was a bit of a slog up to the lookout (with a look inside the church on the way) and the Hotere garden for a well-earned break.

With a cruise ship in, there was plenty to see, and it took a while to gather the troops for the walk down to Back Beach, then around the point past the school …

(Kevin pic.)

… and rugby grounds, across the railway line and so up to the rhododendron dell for lunch.  Everyone sought whatever shade could be had, and we were entertained by rock climbers on the cliffs behind.

(Kevin pic.)

The excitement of watching a container ship berthing delayed some after lunch, and the group split at this point, eight continuing up the hill to the Scott Memorial, …

Radiance of the Seas and recently berthed container ship, taken from Scott Memorial. (Ian pic and caption.)

… then up and around the track beyond the car park on the far side (sorry, the leader forgot it went up some steepish bits for a while) and down in leaps and bounds to the Blueskin Road, across it to the track again, and so down to the Iona Church and a look inside here too.  There were quite a few cruise ship visitors about, and it was a good excuse for a rest as we stopped and chatted….  The choice then for these eight was either up and through the cemetery, or straight down to the road – guess which way we went?  Well, we were pretty hot and tired by then.

The remainder of the group were well installed in the hotel by the time we arrived, having taking an easier route through the cemetery and straight down to the Bay.  After some liquid refreshment and a leisurely chat, it was quite a late return home! – Judy.


20. 3/8/2016. Both. Port Chalmers. Leaders: Judy and Peter D.

On a cold wet winters day with snow predicted to 200 mtrs 9 hardy trampers left the carpark for Port Chalmers. We were farewelled by 6 fellow members who opted to go for a coffee fix rather than getting wet right from the start of the outing.

However our trip was very pleasant. Leaving the carpark at the back beach …

Back Beach. (Helen pic & caption.)
Back Beach. (Helen pic & caption.)

… of Port Chalmers following the road round the harbour with views of the Peninsula and further down the harbour towards Dunedin in the haze to the Harbour side rugby pavilion where we had shelter from the northerly driving rain, to enjoy our morning tea break.

Morning tea at rugby club. (Helen pic & caption.)
Morning tea at rugby club. (Helen pic & caption.)

We didnt dilly dally for too long as it didn’t take long to start chilling off. From here we proceeded along the railway line to the main road into Port Chalmers up to Ajax St and along Church St over the main trunk line to  the junction of the road to Lady Thorn Dell and up the short steep gravel track to the Blueskin Bay Rd.  Over the road and into the bushes following the Rangi track till we came out to a clearing greeted by a colourful array of noisy roosters at the Scott Memorial.

(Margreet pic.)
Two of the brave (?) few. (Margreet pic.)
(Margreet pic.)
One of the brave (?) few and a noisy (?) rooster (?) (Margreet pic.)

In this area we were very sheltered by the canopy of bushes . At the lookout we had panoramic views …

(Margreet pic.)
A rainy view. (Margreet pic.)

… of the container port at work and into the haze we could see right down to Tiaroa Heads. Quite surreal. Still no snow. From the monument we followed the Brailley Track to the Port Chalmers Cemetery where we found a shelter for lunch.

Lunch at Cemetery. (Helen pic and caption.)
Lunch at Cemetery. (Helen pic and caption.)

Careys Bay was beneath us so a quick zig zag through the cemetery to the famous Hotel where they allowed us to hang our wet gear in their front foyer while we enjoyed the warmth of the environment  and the open fires.

Coffee at Careys Bay hotel. (Helen pic and caption.)
Coffee at Careys Bay hotel. (Helen pic and caption.)

Two of our men did the gentlemanly act by fetching their cars and brought them round to Careys Bay to save the rest of us from further exposure from the elements !!

We walked 6.6 kms and ascended 200 mtrs, all satisfied that Wednesday’s tramp was a good day out – different from the many sunny days we have had in the past !! – Jill.

19. 22/4/2015 Hikers. Port Chalmers. Leaders: Judy and Jennifer.

GPS of route
Nike app GPS of route around Port Chalmers.
Judy, well backed up by Jennifer, led 30 Hikers an interesting trek around  Port Chalmers, pointing out several locations associated with her ancestors.
From the car park on Peninsula Beach Road she immediately took us up onto the  Island Terrace road whose northern end put us  onto the steep fenceline track that took us struggling up to the Flagstaff Point, (as it was originally called, but also variously known as Observation Point, Flagstaff Point and Flagstaff Hill,  in case you really wanted to know). (abt 0.22 km.) From here we took in the view of a China Shipping Line (a term new to this reporter)…
China Shipping Line. (John pic)
China Shipping Line. (John pic)
…ship, riding high in the water, loading containers. Back into the Hotere Sculpture Garden…
Hotere Gardens. (John pic)
Hotere Garden. (John pic)

…we morning teaed…

Cuppa. (John pic)
Cuppa. (John pic)
…and wandered round the well labelled (well, they were brass plates really) exhibits.
Judy then took us down and along the full length of Constitution Street before turning down – at its end – to right at the other end of Island Terrace, and down a bush track to the Peninsula Beach. Road. (abt 0.8 km) We walked to the Peninsula’s end and reflected on the sinking of the Yarra. (abt 2 km)
Yarra. (John pic)
Yarra. (John pic)
From here the road became Victory Place and yet further along, Wickliffe Terrace. Around about here Judy pointed out, half-hidden about us, what could well be the largest old house in Port Chalmers, the home of a former Dock Master, one of Judy’s relatives. At this point we turned off down a track that got us (abt 3 km) across to Albertson Avenue and thence to the southern end  of George Street, which we crossed, to climb-  in turn – Ajax Road and Church Street. Crossed the Railway line,  (abt 4 km) pass the gate of Lady Thorn Rhododendron Dell, on and up to end up via Braille’s Track at the Scott Memorial…
Lunch at Scott Memorial (John pic)
Lunch at Scott Memorial (John pic)
…and the “Nine Fathom Foul” large anchor (which used to foul fishermens’ nets)…
Anchor
“Nine Fathom Foul” Anchor. (John pic)
…for lunch.
Back down Braille’s Road, this time turning off into the Port Chalmers Cemetery,…
Cemetery
Port Chalmers Cemetery (John pic)
…noting on the way one of Judy’s Knewstubb relatives graves. Out near the bottom, now on Church Street again, (abt 4.8 km) across onto Harbour Terrace, viewing a wee ‘but-and-ben’ of Judy’s parents when young, down Slant Street to Join Macandrew Road by the Careys Bay Hotel. Along that road, past the dock entrance (abt 6.5 km) and along Beach Street back to the cars.
Thanks, of course, very much, to Judy and Jennifer for keeping us safe and well informed on a very well-planned route. – Ian.

18. 8/5/2013 Hikers. Sawyers Bay, Old Road, Lady Thorn Dell, Lookout, Back Road, return. Leaders: Mollie and Pat.

Route
Route

25 of us parked in Stevenson Road in Sawyers Bay, walked
from its end around Borlases Road, turned up Ajax Rd above the steepled Presbyterian Church, onto Church Rd, crossing the railway line to reach Lady Thorn Dell for morning tea amongst the Rhododendrons, small groups disported between the seats and tables there. The day was fine and the view from the viewing platform down to the container wharves excellent.

It was then back down Church Rd, Ajax Rd, onto Mount St, to cross State Highway 88 to climb steeply up Grey St, Scotia St and Constution St to the Lookout at its top. We spent some time there watching bundles of logs being slowly craned into the bowels of a rather rusty looking ship. A passing ship towed a tug on up the channel heading presumably to the fertilizer or the petroleum wharves nearer Dunedin. We then crossed the point, steeply down this time to reach Peninsula Beach Road at the back, and to have an early lunch there. Happily the group supporting blind trampers passing by noticed us and came across for a chat, with a number in each group recognizing friends in the  other.

After lunch, we completed the circumnavigation of the peninsula, detoured off across a rugby paddock to walk alongside the railway to the railway crossing, and back along State Highway 88 to Sawyers Bay Station Rd and up to the cars.

A point to note is that Hiker numbers are growing larger, making group control by the leaders more of a task, as our wide range of individual fitness led to us becoming a rather straggled out band at times. However, the weather was pretty ideal, if a little windy at lunch time and draughty when walking alongside logging trucks, and the social chatting side was well attended to. Thanks to Pat and Mollie for a most satisfactory day. – Ian.


17. 10/8/2011 Hikers. Port Chalmers, Scott Memorial, Lady Thorn Dell. Leaders: Bob and Evelyn


16. 16/9/2009 Hikers. Aramoana, and Port Chalmers. Leaders: Lex, Marjorie.

15(?) of us set out on a fine, mild day with only light breezes – an ideal hiking day – led by Lex and Marjorie, to walk at Aramoana. As that was deemed to be too short, we called in first at Port Chalmers, where, from Mount St, we ascended Grey St, passing the grand old Presbyterian Manse whose 14 rooms, recalled Lex from his courting days, were occupied by bachelor minister George Jeffries and several student ‘tenants’ – hence its nickname “Holy Fryers (Friar’s?) Abbey”. Lex’s reminiscences of his courting days continued as we passed his wife’s old family home and pictured him sunbathing on the lawn. We discovered, again from the Learned Lex, why Meridian and Magnetic streets are so named. (Answers are at the end (1) if you need them). Morning tea was enjoyed at the top on a grassy knoll looking at the splendid view towards Portobello.

Morning tea in a 'room with a view". (Bob caption and pic).
Morning tea in a ‘room with a view”. (Bob caption and pic).
A couple of coneheads. .. or ... a couple of pointy heads. (Bob caption and pic).
A couple of coneheads. .. or … a couple of pointy heads. (Bob caption and pic).

The descent was by Fox St to Peninsula Beach Rd and back to the cars by Beach St past the stacks of logs and chips. On to Aramoana. We parked at entrance to the township, puzzled over three signs of a crossed-out “H” in a circle alongside an arrow head, (a prize for the one who answers 1st as the answer is NOT at the end (2) if you need it) and walked to the north end of the beach, and along the beach to the Mole and a self-satisfied sea lion basking on the sand. Lunch at the start of the Mole looking out across sparkling waters

Lunch by the Mole. (Bob caption and pic).
Lunch by the Mole. (Bob caption and pic).

and asking how far we could see was most enjoyable. (We didn’t know the answer but see the end (3) for an informed guess). Of course we walked along the Mole and stood by the new “lighthouse”

The new "lighthouse" at Molesend. (Bob caption and pic).
The new “lighthouse” at Molesend. (Bob caption and pic).

(What was the date inscribed in the concrete base – see the answer (4) at the end), and noted albatrossesses whitely plumped on Taiaroa Head and also saw one or more flying. The dredge entertained us as we tried to determine its movements (See (5) at the end for a guess), and one of the divers was pleased to chat.

The long Mole ... and ... (Bob caption and pic).
The long Mole … and … (Bob caption and pic).
The short Mole (?) (Bob caption and pic).
The short Mole (?) (Bob caption and pic).

Lesley reckoned she had found a clump of Capt Cook’s scurvey grass, but noted that there seemed to be much less of the rare plant than there used to be around there. (See (6) at the end for some more information). And so to the memorial to the Aramoana Massacre where we sat briefly and talked of the events and the film “Out of the Blue”. Chris had played a part in its production and recalled the actor playing the role of David Gray (See (7) at the end for the name)) being very empathetic in the role. Consensus was that it was a good film in being even-handed in its treatment of Gray. But did the police need to be stalking in white shirts? Perhaps they were taken by real surprise at such an event.

The memorial to the massacred 14 (Bob caption and pic)
The memorial to the massacred 14 (Bob caption and pic)

To the park and out along the boardwalks

Salt marsh boardwalk. (Bob caption and pic)
Salt marsh boardwalk. (Bob caption and pic)

and gravelled paths among flax to the salt marshes, where Joyce delighted in betting on the crab races.

Elaine and Bev conspire to push Joyce over the edge. (Bob caption and pic)
Elaine and Bev conspire to push Joyce over the edge. (Bob caption and pic)

And back to the cars. A view near Deborah Bay of a wee house wedged between road and water where the Lewis family lived with 17 children!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! A pleasant walk. One learns new things every time one comes out with the TRTC. Thanks to all who share their knowledge and entertainment. Bob Answers 1 Magnetic Street points to the magnetic North, while nearby Meridian Street points to the geographical North 2 a prize for the 1st correct answer 3 on looking at a map, probably Shag Point or perhaps the more distant Katiki Point where the Moeraki lighthouse is situated. 4 March 2009 5 It appeared to dump its load, acquired from out by the buoys, near the Spit Beach as it returned to the sea so much higher in the water 6 on the following website you can see a picture of the plant Lesley found which looks very like Cook’s Scurvey Grass http://www.nzpcn.org.nz/documents/NZ%20Favourite%20Plant%202005.pdf 7 Matthew Sunderland


16. 27/8/2009. Hikers. Port Chalmers: Iona Church, Rangi Park, Cemetery, Scott Memorial, Lady Thorn Dell, Observation Point, Hotere Garden, Back Beach, Stinking Point, Walton Park, return.Leaders: Fred, Bob.

Eighteen keen hikers set off from around Iona Church (Peter claimed that we were moving in religious circles, and when Bob said “Iona Church” he wondered how he had come to be the “owner” ), and climbed up the Rangi Park track. We were diverted past the old cemetery

Graveyard
Graveyard Shift. (Bob pic and caption) Les, Peter, Wendy, Lesley G, Mollie, Bill, Lesley S, Evelyn

where we were regaled by stories of Lex’s youth, drinking there before the annual ball and being “late”. The steep track is well formed, though some of the steps are high, and passes through a most extensive grove of Brachyglottis Rangiora (or Rangiora )

Rangiora Row
Rangiora Row. (Bob pic and caption). Pat, Elaine.

that large-leafed, white-backed foliage you can write on with a ballpoint. Several lookout points were good for stops to admire the views across the port, harbour, islands and peninsula.

We descended from the Scott Memorial and Nineteen Fathom Foul anchor along Brailleys track to the new cemetery and thence into Church St and the Lady Thorn Rhododendron Dell

Rock Dwellers
Rock Dwellers. (Bob pic and caption). Lesley G, Evelyn, Les.

for a welcome morning tea – a warm and picturesque spot with early shrubs coming into blossom, and seats for all.

Round the church again (2 churches really with 2 spires – 1872 and 1883), down to the town centre,

Stopp Twins
Stopp Twins

up Grey, Scotia and Aurora streets to great views at Observation Point.  Neil was so engrossed there in pointedly chatting up a young lady that he made no observation that the rest of us had moved off.  A few moments were spent in the Hotere sculpture garden where Les and Peter tested the smacking law with some choice whacks of the inverted male’s bottom,

An inverted sense of humour
An inverted sense of humour? (Bob pic and caption. Les, Peter.

and there was a photo opportunity for some old hulks to pose by the old hulk, “Black Phoenix II”.

Old hulks
Old hulks pose by an old hulk. (Bob pic and caption). Fred, Bill, Peter.

Down the hill to the Yacht Club and the public toilet,

Revenge
Revenge: This is the woman who nominated me for Vice President. (Bill pic and caption). Margaret.

where there was much toilet humour, and then along the Back Beach walkway to a sheltered, planted picnic spot for lunch.

The Lunch Room.
The Lunch room. (Bob pic and caption). Bill, Neil, Lesley, Les, Dot, Arthur, Peter, who? Pat, Fred, Angela, Margaret, Elaine.

Now rested, we could complete the journey along the gravelled Peninsula Beach Road, past Russell Moses’ “Koputai” – the boat-shaped groyne sculpture,

The Groyne Sculpture
Groyne boat (Bob pic and caption).

round Stinking Point (where there was no smell but a useful seat) and the Pride of the Yarra Plaque (where there was a
plaque and another seat.) Along Victory Place and Wickliffe Terrace to the track above the school we strode, descending to Walton Park at Mussel Bay and along the grassy waterfront track to the railway line. A stack of uplifted tracks provided tiered seating for a wee rest out of the breeze,

Tiered seating
Tiered seating. (Bob pic and caption). Who? Evelyn, Fred, Lesley S, Pat, Bill, Les, Elaine, Peter, Lex, Dot, Joyce, Who? Margaret

and a garden filled with ornaments of all kinds offered a wee feast for the eyes.

An ornamented
An ornamented landscape. (Bob pic and caption).

The last stretch of the journey was along the George St shops and up Mount St to the cars. Less than 10km walking, but 4 hours of good exercise, and a route with some new ingredients for most.  Fred and Bob led luminously in the club’s fluorescent  jerkins. – Bob.


15. 26/11/2008 Hikers.Port Chalmers. Leaders: C. Hughes, G. Baxter


14. 16/1/2008. Port Chalmers. Leaders: Tash, Lex.


Scott Memorial

On a lovely calm and warm summer morning 15 hikers parked their cars at Sawyers Bay and set out for Port Chalmers. We went round the back road and then up the hill to the Scott Memorial and Centenary Lookout. Perfect place for morning tea break. Lovely views, shade or sun to sit in and the colourful company of the resident ‘free-range’ roosters and hens who are always very interested to check out the visitors! Then it was down the hill and through the Port Chalmers cemetery to the port itself. No cruise ships that day but two left recently and another due in that night. Up the hill then to the Conservation Point Flagstaff Lookout. Perfect day for great views all round. We sat in the recently developed little reserve that has a sculpture by Ralph Hotere as well as a couple of other rather intriguing and interesting ones, and enjoyed a restful and relaxing lunch break. Then, down the hill again to the back beach road. About half way along we went up a track that took us up to the top of the hill again. From there it was down the road, across the railway line and back along main road to Sawyers Bay and the cars. A happy and convivial day out. – Bev.


13. 16/1/2008. Hikers. Port Chalmers. Park cars at Sawyers Bay. Easy.Leaders: Lesley S, Eleanor B

12. 7/2/2007. All. Port Chalmers from Sawyers Bay – Cruise Ship. Easy.Leaders: Peter and Wendy, Molly, Lois.

11. 28/6/2006 Hikers. Sawyers Bay, Back Beach. Leaders: Jean A, Chris

10. 13/8/2003. Hikers. Port Chalmers, Careys Bay. Easy. Leaders: Lesley W, Denise.

9. 21/8/2002. Alt. Port Chalmers Careys Bay Back Beach. Leaders: Dot B, Joan H, Anne R

8. 17/10/2001. Alt. Port Chalmers, Back Beach. Leaders: Nelson and Dot, Mavis.

7. 6/6/2001.All weather. Overgrown. Port Chalmers, Deborah Bay. Easy+. Leaders: Bill H, Lesley S, Winnifred
6. 8/11/2000. Port Chalmers. Leaders: Mavis, Peggy M, Catherine.

5. 7/6/2000. Deborah Bay. Leaders: Bev H, Les & Margaret
4. 8/1/2000 Port Chalmers Careys Bay Back Beach, Rangi Park walkway. Leaders: Mary M, Catherine T
3. 21/5/1997. Port Chalmers, Back Beach, Rangi Walkway. Leaders: Daphne, Les and Mavis.
2. 13/11/1996. Port Chalmers Back Beach – Rangi Park Walkway. Return trip. LeadersL Les and Mavis, Daphne.
1. 12/7/1995. Port Chalmers. Deborah Bay. Easy+. Leaders: Shirley, Bev H, Ria H, Jean A

Street Walk: St Clair – Kew

St Clair, St Kilda, Kew, Corstorphine, Ocean Grove, Tomahawk – Information and Trips Library


2. 24/08/2022. Hikers. St Clair/Kew Street Walk. Grade 2.5. $5. Leaders: Shona & Maria

24 hikers met at the Forbury Trotting Club where Maria distributed a handout giving information on points of local interest (thanks Maria).

We walked together to Second Beach (a hidden Dunedin gem), for morning tea and took time to look at some stone installations there.

Shona. Morning tea
Morning Tea (photo & caption Shona)

We proceeded to Jacob’s Ladder where most climbed the 287 steps to Seaview Terrace and the remainder studied some of the more impressive homes on the flat.

Tamarillo
This was found whilst climbing up Jacobs ladder a fruiting Tamarillo bush . A little micro climate (photo & caption Jill).

Both groups re-joined at the bottom of Allandale Rd before dividing up again, one group taking themselves up the walkway beside Frances Hodgkins Retirement village to Easther Cres and meeting the rest for lunch at the recreational area between St Andrews home and Sarah Cohen school. We walked back to Forbury via Surrey St.

Coffee at The Good Oil at Nichols.
Distance approx. 8.4kms

 

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