Taieri Recreational Tramping Club
Mid-week recreational and social walking group based in Mosgiel NZ
Outram 10 km / Henley 21 km – from car park.
Outram, Allanton, Floodbanks, Lee Stream, Traquair, Whare Creek – Information and Trips Library
4. 25/10/2023. Hikers. Outram Loop. Grade 1.5, 11km, Leaders: Sue Nichol, Kathryn Fagg.
Outram turned on another scorcher for 16 hikers. We started at the West Taieri Rugby Club and walked around Kings Court and Anzac Court subdivisions where the gardens were in full bloom. Continue reading “Outram – Allanton Flood Bank”
17 km from car park.
St Clair, St Kilda, Kew, Corstorphine, Ocean Grove, Tomahawk – Information and Trips Library
Nineteen hikers left Marlow Park in sunny conditions at about 0930 after singing happy birthday to Liz Griffin and walked over the Kettle Park Sports field and up a track to the Barnes Lookout.14 kms PJP to cnr South Rd and Eastbourne St.
5. 27/09/2023 Hikers. Grade 2 Leaders: Jan and Jan
20 hikers set off from the old Carisbrook Hotel through the very run-down Caversham shopping area. We had a couple of stops to look at a bit of the history of the area. There were other points of interest, but with so much chatter going on, decided to give it a miss! We headed up South Road for a morning tea stop at a house belonging to Jan Y’s brother. It is a large property extending right down to just above the main trunk railway line. He has a stall at the Farmers Market every Saturday and has grown and propagated an extensive number of plants. Also has numerous tunnel houses, a couple of fruiting tamarillo trees and an avocado tree. He is a rockhound and there was a very large collection of rocks, crystals etc. on display.
Because there was so much to look at, the morning tea break was a bit longer than normal. We carried on up South Road to the Carlton Hill area, then cut across a couple of streets and back down to Sidey Street where you got a good view of Corstorphine House. From there we headed up a track which took us into the Kew area, with great views of Dunedin.
Down through a steep set of steps (Killikrankie Pass – a cool name) and we ended up in a park at Forbury Corner for lunch.
Returned to the cars by crossing over the motorway on an overhead bridge, then walked down a path on the north side back to the cars.
It was a pleasant day with no wind, and we covered approx 8 kms, at quite a leisurely pace. Several members of the group had lived in the vicinity of area covered so it was a bit of a trip down memory lane for them. Thanks to Jan and Pam who did a very enjoyable recce with me. The Two Jans.
4. 15/11/2015. Hikers. Leaders’ Choice. Lance and Joshiah. Street Walk: Mornington.
Seventeen of us met at Unity Park, wondering where Lance was going to lead us this time. He took us down High St just a little, across to the Old High St School property, then up through a corner of Mornington Park to the Mornington township. Back down the hill a little, Macnee St took us off into a suburb of Mornington few of us had seen before. Glenpark Avenue took us a long way steeply down and up, surprising us on the way with a bit of handsome Street Art – in the middle of suburbia. We eventually reached the Forfar St corner and down that a bit we stopped off under the shade of a tree in a recreation area for a morning tea break.
Forfar Street led us round to what this reporter reckons has to be the best city view in town.
There were views stretching out on our left to the head of the harbour and on the centre and right displaying St Kilda and South Dunedin beautifully stretched out. We stopped and drank in the scene. Some got into chatting with an unusually large well-dressed group of Jehovah’s Witnesses we passed on the street.
We followed Forfar Street winding on down and down and eventually entered a delightful rough track through an unnamed bush area near the bottom that led us through to the end of Barnes Drive. Now we were into the paths alongside the State Highway before having to confront a long climb up to the Lookout Point bridge at the top.
(Lance had earlier found out that this was to be the morning of the actual bridge opening.) Bad/good? timing saw us arrive just at the point where the official ceremony had concluded.
All the corporate suits and general onlooking public were still there enjoying the “seeing and being seen” of the occasion.
We wandered about for quite a while before one or two of us (was Fred the first?) found we humble tramping riff-raff were welcome to join the large crowd in a marquee for nibbles (nibbbles? – sandwiches and savouries galore) and drinks, and passed on the word. Yum. Eventually regrouped, Lance led us back down the way we had come up to stop off at the bottom in a grassy sloping section of Sidey Park for lunch.
The day had been hot. We were glad of the break. We were nearing the end of the outing, but not of any struggle. We exited further along by South Road and climbed the Caversham Rise to the foot of Eglington Road. Why did they put Unity Park at its top? It was a long weary climb for the end of a day, but all made it to finish off a day with a difference, capped, of course, by the Lookout Point Bridge opening. Thanks, Lance – and Josiah, for yet another creative Dunedin walk, opening up byways of interest we would never have otherwise known had existed. A hot day. Some steep struggles on hard pavements at times. A rewarding day. Well done. Finished off with a goodly social crowd at The Topiary Cafe. We DID miss you, Elaine! – Ian.
On the 9th Sept 24+ Hikers had a enjoyable day around Caversham.
We met at the corner of South Road and Eastbourne Street, walking down south road north to get on to Bridge Street and strolled along a path that was beside the motorway north-going traffic.
Morning tea was at the Barnes Drive traffic lights on a sloping bank and steps.
We walked up the back of the Caversham Valley Road to Aberfeldy Street, where a small car track went up to Baxter House…
…built in 1895 for a David Baxter whose daughter married T K S Sidey, the Mayor of Dunedin.
We also went to Rockyside Road where in 1855 Mr John Thomson the Surveyor for Dunedin built his house. Most of the hikers were unaware about the Baxter House still being there.
We travelled down lots of different streets in ‘Cavy’ and lunch was at the Kew Reserve.
After lunch, we passed the old Wax Match Factory and up to look at a very well done art work on a two-story building.
Then it was back down South Road and along to our cars. Those who wanted a coffee chat stopped off at Flax Cafe first. – Elaine.
21 kms PJP to Pine Hill School (via 3 Mile Hill Rd).
4. 20/09/2023. Hikers. Pine Hill. Grade 2. $5. 21km. Leaders: Jan Butcher/Jenny Finnerty.
3. 01/12/2021. Hikers. Hidden Gems of Pine Hill. Shone Munro and John Gardiner
On a misty drizzly day, 24 hikers met in Pine Hill Rd near the school.
We commenced walking down Pine Hill Rd to a walkway leading to the town end of Hillary St which we followed to the distant end before having morning tea at “The Fern house”, an iconic house built in 1882 where we experienced great hospitality from the owner, Dr Brian Cox, who had made toilets and his sunroom open for us.
Most hikers then followed him to explore some of his property while some reneged at the muddy walkway near an old barn and tricky bridge where we waited for the intrepid to return.
It was obvious that the hikers were enjoying themselves by the happy chattering we heard and gales of laughter from Fay. We were still unsure if this was because Fay’s new shoes got so muddy or something else.
Reassembling we walked to Campbell Rd where John educated us on the history of the little dog painted into the Power box mural, walked up Campbell’s Rd , through a walkway back onto Pine Hill Rd and upwards to “The Pines”.
This owner, Lindsay Moir, also extended great hospitality, allowing us use of his barn (adequate seating for all) and toilet.
After lunch, a number of hikers went to explore his farm and the creek with him. Highlights included the monster (wooden polar bear), frog pond, converted container for honeymooners and a Nissan hut where some of our male hikers discussed politics.
There was an old sign hanging in the barn, advertising the business of our late Life member, Doug Moir and as there were only 5 telephone numbers on this, not the 7 on today’s listings, it must have been very old indeed.
A brisk downhill walk to the cars preceded a visit to CrocQueODile Café.
Thanks must go to these generous property owners for their hospitality.
Distance walked approx 9km.
2. 20/6/2019. Hikers. North East Valley, Pinehill. Jan and Jenny
On a cold and frosty morning, 27 hikers set off for Malvern Street where we parked up and commenced our hike to Pinehill. We walked through Woodhaugh park where we located some seating and had our morning tea before setting off along Banks Street and turning left up Dolphin Street which in turn lead onto Gladstone Road. This being the home of Aquinas College. If you thought we had a good frost in Mosgiel – well it was matched here and we very cautiously negotiated the footpath, sometimes having to cross the road which was like a skating rink in places. However we all climbed the hill without mishap and into the sunshine which was a relief! Walking up Pinehill Road we stopped to admire the Church where Shona and Keith were married some 44 years ago on the 28th of this month.
We carried on, coming to John’s house where he picked up his dog for a walk up to the end of Pinehill Road & onto the end of a gravel road where we stopped for lunch overlooking a wonderful view of Dunedin and surrounds.
We were all suitably impressed with the view,
none of us having been up to that spot before – not even Shona! Sitting there with our backs to the sun,
it was hard to leave, but it was time to head back down the hill again, spotting some wonderful street art in a bus shelter.
We turned left at Pinehill School and on down the hill coming to a winding Bucclough Street which eventually lead us down to the 219 Duddington steps
and on down to NEV where it was a short walk to the intersection with Banks Street and through Woodhaugh again and back to the cars. A good 10k was the agreed distance and so called into the Village Green for a well deserved coffee & cake!
Jenny & Jan
1. 24/5/2006 Pinehill – Gardens return Betty B, Dot T, Anne
10. 16/08/2023. Hikers. Mosgiel Street Walk. Grade 1, $0, 9km, Leaders: Raewyn Keene, Helen Morris
It was a little frosty as 14 hikers set out from Peter Johnson Park for a street walk till lunchtime. Along Reid Street to Factory Road, Church Street to Gordon Road, the pace was steady. As we approached the railway crossing (and unknown to some of us), was the plaque about our own Lester and his beautification efforts.
As we continued on to the old Mosgiel Railway Station for morning tea, it was great to see the daffodils & blossoms beginning to bloom, indicating Spring is not far away.
Refreshed and with the sun trying to shine, we headed off to Cemetery Road, ventured into the new Grange Lifestyle village as far as we could go, and back out to the underpass into Kinmont.
Some hill climbing was considered necessary to get our hearts pumping, so up Leith, Clyde & Braeside Streets we went. Back down to Quarry Road and left at Nellies, we looped back to our cars via Argyle Street & Bush Road.
Ross C joined us today and was apparently looking forward to a ‘flat’ walk (as advised by his lovely wife) – oops! Hopefully the friendly chatter along the way helped.
All in all, a pleasant morning’s walk, good company and 9kms achieved.
The Harwood hike will be rescheduled into the summer programme.
Helen & Raewyn
7. 9/08/2023. Hikers. Mornington. Grade 2, $5, 18km, Leaders: Ady Whitson, Pam Clough.
Meeting at PJ Park we decided to go ahead with our hike. We decided to park further up Mornington Road which turned out not to be far enough up. Down Elgin Road we went, all 13 of us, and down the steps ending up at the steps at Caversham Valley Road. Morning tea we had on the steps that looked along Main South Road.
It was here two departed to return home as somebody had forgotten their pack and it was very cold.
We started off along Barnes Drive at a reasonable pace as I thought the weather might turn on us…
…up Glen Road and turned up steps to end up in Carson Road. From there we travelled up Cooper St with a few stops here and there for a breather.
Turning right into Glenpark Avenue I put a fast clip on as the weather was probably going to turn at about 11am. Another set of steps up to Mornington…
…and just at the top the weather did change completely. After a quick conflab, it was off to the Mornington Tavern for a warm up and a coffee.
We left about 12.15pm to head back to the cars and this was where I decided we had parked the cars far too far down Mornington Road as the weather really turned to custard. Home by 1.15pm.
We did have lots of laughs and Lynley was the only one from Trampers to show up (I don’t think she read the email in the morning and I didn’t let on I hadn’t either).
Like I’ve said before, don’t put me in charge as it is always wet when I’m at the front. Thank you Pam for all the help as I have no idea round some of those streets.
Cheers Ady. Continue reading “Mornington Ramble”
Distance from Bush Road carpark: 15 km.
12. 19/07/2023. Hikers. Taieri View . Grade 2.5, Leaders: Jill Dodd, Jenni Wright.
We continued up McIntosh Road, the only oncoming traffic being around 20 e-bikers, who were going like the clappers. We made good time and arrived at the intersection of McIntosh /Scroggs Hill Roads where we enjoyed lunch. It never ceases to amaze me the conversations that are had whilst out, they’re simply hilarious.
We now got our view over the Taieri, and then proceeded down Scroggs Hill Road mostly single file which had a few more vehicles but all were very responsive to our hikers and reduced their speed considerably. One member was concerned about walking single file as this may impede (his) conversation! There were many examples of retired tractors and cars exposed to the elements and the consequent erosion.
It was fascinating to see the variety of homes in Brighton …. some beautifully restored, other new builds taking advantage of stunning views, and some steeped in history of family times. Liz and Alex, being long-time residents, provided great commentary along the way.
We got back to the cars and enjoyed the walkway along to Brighton Beach Café, for ice creams, coffee and more chatter and laughs.
Continue reading “Scroggs Hill Road, Seaview Road, McIntosh Road”
No. 83 on old hardcopy list of 113 club tramps. “McNally Track, Milton. Year Round”
Potential for Combined trip.
McNally’s Walkway, Milton – Information and Trips Library
20. 28/06/2023. Trampers. McNally’s Walkway. Grade 2.5. Leaders: Graeme Souter, Yan Campbell
Hopefully, Constable Tom McNally would have appreciated that 17 hardy trampers weren’t deterred from following the walkway named for him. A night of heavy rain and inconclusive forecasts for the day had caused Graeme a restless night, trying to decide whether to cancel or change the tramp. Much of the trail is quite exposed passing through paddocks and would have been pretty miserable in a downpour. It wasn’t actually raining at Peter Johnstone Park at 9:15 and the sky seemed to be lightening to the south. We split into four cars and headed for the cemetery at Milton and the beginning of McNally’s Walkway.
We set off in a very light rain along a fence line of the first paddock. The ground and grass were certainly wet and it was a steady climb to our stop for morning tea in a sheltered spot with a bench. There was a great view of the Taieri Plain but the hilltops were still shrouded in cloud and would remain so.
By the time we set off again the rain had stopped and the only drips were from the overhanging trees.
We took a slightly different route from other years, turning onto the Kowhai trail for the rest of the climb. It passed through a mix of native and introduced trees before opening up into paddocks of newly planted pines. By this time, we could see the summit and the haybarn where we’d have lunch. There was just one more climb before we made ourselves comfortable and ate.
After lunch we headed downhill through quite long grass which soon became a clear path at least for those of us at the back. At this point the sun broke through and this clearer light made a remarkable pattern, contrasting the long fading grass with the small green pines.
Once we were through this, there was only one more steep pitch up through some trees. From then on the walk was steadily downhill coming out onto Cemetery Road and just a short distance from the cars.
After changing out of our muddy boots and gaiters we made our way to The Black Swan in Waihola. By this time the weather was fine enough to sit outside.
The day had really turned out well. Thanks Graeme.
Yan
Continue reading “McNally Walkway”
1. 24 May 2023. Bayfield carpark to Glenfalloch. Grade 1. Hikers. Leaders: Linda Partridge and Helen Ingram.
A convoy of cars from Mosgiel parked in the Bayfield carpark at 9.45 joining Brighton and Dunedin people. Twenty-five hikers in total readied themselves for a walk along the cycle track along Portobello Road to Glenfalloch. It was a still bright morning, the harbour sparkling in the sunlight. We walked along the side of the inlet and stopped at Vauxhall Yacht Club for morning tea.
Then on to Glenfalloch which we reached just before noon.
The gardens look beautiful every season, and that day in autumn the maples were flaming red, and a long bank of fuchsias in purple and shocking pink terraced one of the hillsides. We had a leisurely lunch and Linda had prepared a questionnaire for us to take round the gardens to help us explore the grounds.
How many spoons in the sculpture near the restaurant? Where will you find the sundial? It really brought out the competitive nature in us! But everyone’s a winner, and a bag of Cadbury Favourites was handed round.
The Portobello bus was due at 2.15pm, and most of the hikers decided to walk on to Macandrew Bay to catch the bus there.
Brandishing BeeLine Cards we filled the bus and were dropped off close to the cars.
We finished the day with a hot drink at Nicols Garden Centre. Thanks to Linda and Helen for a very enjoyable day.
3. Titri Wetland, Waihola Township and Lake. Hikers. Leaders Eleanore Ryan
On Wednesday 26 April 2023, it was very windy when 19 of us hikers arrived at the lake, meeting up with 3 from Outram. What a champ Bruce was joining 21 ladies!!! Also welcome to the new members.
We started off at the Sinclair, Bungard and Huddleston trees near the campground entry. My Great, Great Maternal Sinclair Grandparents arrived in 1857 from the Orkney Islands with 10 surviving family (they had 13 babies in 27 years). On arrival after 100 day voyage on the Māori to Taieri Ferry the father and older sons (my G. Grandfather bought a horse on the voyage) set off to find land and build a house. They settled at the junction of the Henley and Titri roads— which was the main road through to the early 1960’s. Between them they owned bordering farms, married and raised large families. My brother still farms Titri which has been in the family for over 100 years.
The Baumgardt (now Bungard) family arrived in 1872, along with 40 Polish families and settled round Allanton and Waihola, mainly employed building the Railway line south. They too also farmed round Waihola, and Taieri Ferry.
We walked up past the school and had smoko at a little cottage that would have housed a large family back in the day. Up the road a little further we stopped outside what was the home of Arthur Draper. He came from England and set up a Business in Outram in 1909 making Cricket Bats from Willow. He moved to Waihola in 1917. Over time he made around 10,000 bats from local Willow that had dried for 2 years. By the 1930’s lighter imported bats were proving to be more popular.
Up the hill overlooking the lake is the Cemetery, where a lot of the original Settlers are buried.
It was then down the road back to the far end of the lake where we found shelter for lunch. The lake was really stirred up with the wind.
Back to the cars and a short drive down to Titri wetland where we had seen the 2 Macracapa trees planted alongside a home built in the 1920’s. Some years later it was cut in half and dragged over the Island to the Waipouri river where it was floated down the Taieri river to Taieri Mouth—This Villa is still in ownership of a visitor we have had out a couple of times.
A short drive back to Black Swan for Coffee, cake and chat—where we were served with a smile, which is not always the case these days.
Thanks to Jenny Flack for keeping an eye on the tail Enders. Not many km’s, hopefully you all enjoyed the outing hearing snippets of local history.
Eleanore Ryan
Continue reading “Titri Wetlands Reserve and Titri Park. Taieri Ferry Bridge and Waihola.”
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.
This of course provided shelter as he coped with the unexpected invasion and happily displayed rail/train manoeuvres.
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.
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.
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.
We stopped at Leith Harrier and Soccer grounds for morning tea.
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.
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
February 2018
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.
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.
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
We followed the track into Livingstonia Park for morning tea, making use of all the facilities provided.
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.
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.
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.
Everyone was accounted for and yes more folk had arrived down for lunch which was great.
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.
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.
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.
We had morning tea near a log at about 10 am.
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.
After lunch we proceeded down Kathleen Road and then along Margaret
Road back to the cars.
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.
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
“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.
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.
Unfortunately I was too taken with the conversation with a pleasant land-bound surfer to remember the name she gave the ‘point’.
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.
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
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.
10. 21/10/2020. Leaders Noi McCunn and Bob Mitchell
Photo and Caption Clive – “The road south from Taieri Mouth”.
Photo and Caption Clive – “View back from the coast.”
Photo and Caption Clive – “Lunch at the beach.”
9. 24/4/2019. Hikers. Taieri Mouth Area. Leaders: Chris, Dot, Alex and Liz.
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.
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.
We didn’t miss it this time and were soon into the thickly covered bush walk
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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,
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 …
… and we reached the Island at around 12.30pm, to be greeted by large numbers of nesting gulls;
apparently the island was used to collect guano in the good old days, and you could understand why.
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!
( 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
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.
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.
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).
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)
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.
5. 7/8/2011. Both. Taieri Mouth. Knarston Park. Beach Walk. Easy. Leaders: Lex, Graham.
4. 30/6/2010. Hikers. Taieri Mouth. Beach Walk. Easy. Leaders: Lesley G, Neil.
3. 17/1/2007. Hikers. Taieri Mouth Easy. Leaders: Chris, Ray.
1, 8/2/1989. Moturata Island.
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.
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
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.
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.
The Hikers (3) enjoyed a walk on the track to Old Cromwell Town for coffee and return 5.2km each way.
