Pre-Christmas – Taieri Recreational Tramping Club

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”

Location: 31.5 km.

Millennium Track from Taieri Mouth – Information and Trips Library

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

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.

Clive 20 Oct Morning tea Akatore Inlet resize — *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.

Clive 20 Oct Watching the surfers resize — *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.

DSC04459res — “Our Leaders” – Photo and Caption John

FB_IMG_1607536659688 — “Walking past a magnificent flowering rata tree.” – Photo and Caption Helen

FB_IMG_1607536586530res — “The picturesque wetland.” – Photo and Caption Gordon

DSC04462res — “A peaceful spot.” – Photo and Caption John

DSC04468res — “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.

received_722738295315999res — “An enjoyable lunch with amazing food.” – Photo and Caption Helen

received_728949434419067res — ‘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

20201021_130105res — Photo and Caption Clive – “Knarston Park – the set off point”.

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

20201021_111404res — Photo and Caption Clive – “The happy team.””.

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

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

20201021_114925 (1) — 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.

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

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.

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

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.

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.

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.)

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.

Berwick Forest Tracks and Beyond

No. 35 on old hardcopy list of 113 club tramps. “Berwick Forest. G Such. Wenita. Nov-April. Year round”

Location: Old Wool Shed: 30 km.

Location: Lodge: 33 km.

click to enlarge

40. 11/9/2019. Trampers, Waipori Forest, Meggetburn. Leaders: Alan and Kerry

22 Trampers set off down to Berwick and left a car at the Government Track car park. 5 cars then carried on to the start of the track, by the road, into the Berwick Forest Lodge.

A steady walk up through native bush and forest

G.1st photo -- 1st obstaclec — 1st obstacle. (Gordon pic and caption.)

G.2nd -- Heading to Morning tea breakc — Heading to Morning tea break. (Gordon pic and caption.)

to a welcome morning tea stop.

G.3rd -- Morning teac — Morning tea. (Gordon pic and caption.)

Then down hill to the Meggatburn Stream which had quite a water flow, so it was difficult to cross without getting wet feet.

G.4th photo -- 2nd obstacle-- Some wet feetc — 2nd obstacle– Some wet feet. (Gordon pic and caption.)

Then up we climbed to Shaws Road. The track had been clipped back to allow for easier access. Therefore the track was easy to follow.

G.5th -- Regroup on way to topc — Regroup on way to top. (Gordon pic and caption.)

The day started well weather wise but with showers pending,

G.6th -- Heading down to Waipori Gorge for lunchc — Heading down to Waipori Gorge for lunch. (Gordon pic and caption.)

we quickly carried on

G.7th -- A couple of budding models on the stone seatc — A couple of budding models on the stone seat. (Gordon pic and caption.)

[See this URL for Molly Vaughan on the same stone seat in 2013. Its provenance is unknown. – Ed.]

to a hut for our lunch, near the old Waipori picnic ground which is no more.

Walking out after lunch, we crossed the bridge on the Waipori River

G.8th -- Next stop Wobbly Goatc — Next stop Wobbly Goat. (Gordon pic and caption.)

and walked down to where the car was parked. Then 5 drivers returned to the rest of the group to collect trampers. Followed by a coffee session at the Wobbly Goat. – Kerry.

39. 12/12/2018. All. End of year. Pot luck meal at Berwick Lodge. Leaders: Peter, Wendy and Dave.

Route map, courtesy Ian. Trampers and most Hikers were led from the Lodge by Dave and Keith along Hook Road, up, up, up Farm Road, left along Old Boundary Road and down, up and back down again along a track through broom, gorse and trees to the Old Wool Shed site on Hook road, and back along it to the Lodge again. Peter led the Ramblers on a shorter walk.

Young at Heart – Judy!!! (Dave pic and caption.)

A number of former club members turned up to a well-provisioned finger food meal at mid-day, and bowser a well covered trestle table of books, sale proceeds to go to the new Mosgiel swimming pool. Over 40 of us leisurely ate and talked till President Jill took over. She introduced Bruce who had composed a 4-stanza song to the tune of “The Old Grey Mare, and after lyric sheets were handed out, led hearty singing of it.

Thanks to excellent preparation, Jill had a briefed a number of us to give 2-minute accounts of private trips, local and overseas. These were many and varied. A good ending to the year, at a venue many of us hadn’t visited before. – Ian.

38. 20/9/2017. Trampers. Berwick Forest – Meggat Burn, Shaw Road. M. Leader: Arthur.

There were 14 keen Trampers out today for a walk in the forest – one member of the group used the word “intrepid” in describing us.

It must be a few years since our Club has tramped this track? Anyway, the cars parked at the usual spot by the old woolshed on the road into the “Berwick Forest Lodge”.

It was noticed that the toilet facilities by the carpark were absent, as about a month ago some “empty head” had burned it down!

There was a brief paddock walk in the sunshine (sunny all day) before crossing the footbridge over Boundary Creek, to the beginning of the track up into the pine trees. After about 150 yards we came to 6 large trees down over the track, which were successful negotiated by going under, over, or around.

Smoko was taken in a sunny trackside spot, at the appropriate time.

Gathering on way up. (Helen pic and caption.)

Continuing uphill we soon came to and crossed a Forestry Road (Prentice Road). Now descending slowly we eventually came to the Meggat Burn, which was crossed without mishap using a variety of techniques. Electing to just plough through, not worrying about wet feet, and some crossed on the shallowest part of the rock ledge where it was maybe only 3 inches deep. The burn was only slightly up after all of the rain a few days ago.

(Margreet pic.)

While the track was muddy in many places, it was surprisingly good after the quantity of rain that had fallen. Further up there was vegetation, especially gorse, beginning to encroach but not impeding our progress.

The track came out onto a forestry road, Tobermory Road; and in 10 minutes more we reached Shaw Road before 12 noon. Down Shaw Road for a few minutes took us to our lunch spot in a sunny area under the Pole Line that parallels Shaw Road. There was a limited view down on to the Taieri from here, with Hope Hill in the background. We could even see the sea.

Lunch spot. (Helen pic and caption.)

The sunshine was most enjoyable, ideal for lying back forma little nap after eating – one tramper having to be roused to begin the return journey!

Our return followed the same route, some care being necessary descending a slippery clay section before arriving back at the Meggat Burn. All crossed in safety again although a piece of equipment may have been lost?

It was uphill for a little while, and then it was down all the way. It was very noticeable that the leaders were in a hurry to get home (I was at the back of the group here), and not wasting any time – probably they could detect the aroma coming from the coffee shop? But it was just their imagination!

We were back in the lovely sunshine at the cars by 2.30 pm, having tramped 13.5 km for the day’s effort.

The Leader was most gratified to hear that all of the party had thoroughly enjoyed the day’s walk (and talk). Considerable birtdsong was heard in the forest.

As per the usual custom, a stop was made in Outram for refreshments and discussion. And then back to Mosgiel, and then home for boot cleaning duty. – Art.

37. 15/12/2010. All. End of year. Lodge, Farm Rd, East Boundary, Old Wool Shed, Lodge. Pot luck meal at Berwick Lodge. Leaders: Peter and Wendy.

For some of us, accustomed to entering Berwick Forest along Terrace Range Rd by the Old Woolshed at the old HQ site, it was a new experience to travel further along the Berwick Road to enter the forest by the sign-posted Webbs Rd and then down Farm Rd, turning left onto Boundary Creek Road to arrive at the Lodge.

The walk took us back up Farm Road.We stopped for tea break at its crest where it crossed East Boundary Rd and continues to Webbs Road.

From here we had a good view across to Waipori Lake.

Almost immediately off Webbs Rd, Peter and Wendy led us along a forestry track paralleling the E Boundary Rd (which you can see on the left of our GPSed route) through Douglas Firs…

…and blackberry brambles in the more open areas.

The track ended where at a log-loading site we joined up with the East Boundary Road. Turning right, were almost immediately at the two-storey lookout, with its lovely view of the Sinclair Wetlands.

Boundary Road eventually wound its way around to Terrace Range Rd near the old HQ site by the Old Woolshed.

Further on it was left off Terrace Range Rd onto Boundary Creek Rd, (passing Farm Rd on our left, thereby completing the loop,) and so back to the Lodge for lunch. Good planned timing, Peter and Wendy!

Peter reported that the tramp was 6kms long and 19 happy trampers took part, with one or two others joining us for lunch and a singsong with Bruce and his guitar.

Peter, as Past President, gave a speech on behalf of President Bill who unfortunately could not attend due to ill health, and wished us well for the Christmas season. – Ian

36. 8/9/2010. Hikers. Berwick Forest from Old Woolshed. Leaders: Bob and Evelyn.

35. 13/5/2009 Both. Berwick Forest from old Woolshed. Pink Route. Terrace Range, Shetland Saddle Ridge, Market, East Boundary Medium. Leaders: Ian, Ken.

Well, an unusual start to the day. For a wet morning, but promising to clear up later in the day, 10, mostly Hikers, turned up at the carpark and after much discussion forewent the programmed Cleghorn Street-Signal Hill walk, and settled on a Berwick Forest road-walk, because ground everywhere was SO WET. And again, despite a longer walk than usual, it proved that Hikers can do anything, given time-out on the hills.

click to enlarge

We endured one or two showers initially, giving way to cloud and latterly even to sunshine.

Down track — Down Shetland-Saddle Ridge. Peter & Neil at back. Bev at front.

It was instructive to witness extensive flooding everywhere and how waterways cope; also the transformations brought about by forest harvesting and re-growth that had taken place over the 10 years since the club last visited the area. Views of the Sinclair Wetlands rewarded the last stages of the day and we got back to the cars just after 3.00 p.m., tired, a bit sore, but triumphant. – Ian.

34. 31/10/2007 Shaw Road?

Although once again, weather report not so good and some cloud hanging around, we left the car park at 9am as usual for our hike in Waipori – Berwick Forest area with high hopes of a good day out. We parked by the side of the road and set off walking along the road then across farm land and up a fairly steep hill.

Took our time and stopped frequently to admire the view which got more interesting and expansive the higher we got.

Down Hill

Certainly well worth the effort. Had views over Taieri, down to Waihola and over the Wetlands, as well as the hills and valleys round that area. We really enjoyed our morning tea break after our hard slog up the hill. From then on it was fairly easy, pleasant going along forestry roads and through the trees. Found a nice sheltered spot in the sun for our lunch and sat and made the most of the break and rest before returning to the cars the same way we had come. Day turned out to be a good one for hiking. Not too hot at first but warmed up considerably by the time we were on our way back. Another happy day for hikers. Bev.

33. 24/10/2007. Hikers: Berwick Forest. Medium. Leaders: Lex, Tom.

32. 12/9/2007. Trampers. Berwick Forest from Old Woolshed. Medium. Leaders: Doug J, Tom

31. 7/6/2006. Old Woolshed to Shaw Road, return. Leaders: Bob H and Arthur H.

30. 7/6/2006. Both. Berwick Forest Lodge. Leaders (Medium): Bob H, Arthur H, (Easy): Margaret D, Val.

29. 14/12/2005. End of Year. All. Berwick Hall. Bring a plate. Leaders: Lance and Lois, Lesley S.

28. 26/5/2004. Old woolshed at Berwick to Waipori Return. H.Started from the old woolshed, through the forest, Meggat Burn to Shaw Road, and down the track to the picnic ground near the Waipori River Bridge to have lunch there. Returned the same way. It must have been a long, tough tramp to do that. (Recalled by Art.)

27. 18/12/2002. End of Year. All. Berwick Forest Pre-Christmas Tramp. Finger food lunch and flasks, wet or fine. Leaders: Bill H, Lesley S, Wendy J.

26. 19/12/2001. End of Year. Combined. Berwick Forest. Pre Xmas Tramp. Finger food lunch and flasks. Leaders: Graham, Bill H, Wendy J.

25. 13/12/2000. Berwick Forest – Pre-Xmas Tramp. Finger food lunch and flasks. Leaders: Margaret and Les, Bev H.

24. 30/8/2000. Berwick Forest Area. Leaders: Claude, Graham, Ian.

23. 16/2/2000. Berwick Forest Circuit. Leaders: Barbara McC, Mary L, Sabina.

22. 15/12/1999. Pre-Christmas tramp and lunch. Berwick Forest. Wet or Fine. Finger Food and Flasks. Leaers: Margaret and Les, Colleen.

21. 12/5/1999 Old Wool Shed. Green Route. Half track, half road. East Boundary, Hook, Halfway, Prentice, Oban, Ret. Leaders: Claude, Lex, Molly.

20. 3/2/1999. The Circle at Berwick Forest. Leaders: Jack R, Pat, Hazel.

19. 19/8/1998. Berwick Forest Tramp. Leaders: Les W, Eleanor.

18. 13/5/1998. Berwick, Shaws Hill, Hayes Woolshed. Leaders: Bill H, Lesley S.

17. 17/6/1998. Old Wool Shed. Pink Route. East Boundary, Market, Shetland Saddle Ridge, Terrace Range, Ret. Leaders: Graham, Claude.

16. 30/7/1997. Old Wool Shed. Pink Route. East Boundary, Market, Shetland Saddle Ridge, Terrace Range (Part), Halfway (part), Bishop, Longspur, Terrace Range (part), ret. Leaders: Graham, Claude, Les W.

15. 19/3/1997 Waipori Gorge to the Megget Burn stream, Berwick. Leaders: Molly, Diana and Ray

14. 12/2/1997. Woolshed Shaws Hill and return. Leaders: Colleen, Ted, Sabina.

13. 13/7/1994 Berwick Forest Woolshed to Waipori and return.Leaders: Molly, Dot T, Graham, Frank

12. 31/3/1993. Berwick Forest. Medium. Leaders: Jack R, Barbara McC, Mervyn, Doreen.

11. 17/6/1992. Berwick Forest walk. Average. Leaders: Mary Y, Nola, Doreen, Mary McG

10. 25/9/1991 Berwick Forest and Native Reserve. Average. Leaders: Dot B, Jean Y, Denise

9. 10/7/1991 Berwick Forest Woolshed to Waipori. A good winter tramp. Average. Leaders: Eric & Dot, Ray, Joyce I, Catherine T

8. 11/10/1989. Berwick – Shaw’s Hill Road. Easy. Leaders: Joyce I, Joan A, Norman.

7. 6/9/1989 Berwick Forest. Average. Youth Camp to Native Reserve. Leaders: Ria L, Peg C, Peggy A

6. 7/6/1989. Berwick Forest from Forest Headquarters. Sheltered pine walk. Leaders: June W, Ria, Peggy, Peg

5. 14/5/1989 Waipori Gorge to Meggetburn stream, Berwick. Bush and Pine walk. Leaders: Daphne, Helen W, Mavis

4. 3/2/1989. Berwick Forest – The Upper Circle. Incorporates the Otago Youth Adventure Trust training track. Leaders: Jack, Pat, Hazel.

3. 21/9/1988 Berwick Forest from Old Woolshed to Boundary Creek and O.Y.A.T.I. camp. Leaders; Kees and Ria, Doreen.

2. 22/6/1988 Berwick Forest from the Woolshed. Back early for barbecue. Leaders: Dave and Jean

1. 13/4/1988. Berwick Forest from Shaw Hill Road. Leaders: Hugh, Jean Y.

Harwood – End of year picnic

37 km.

Harwood – Information and Trips Library

6. 13/12/2017. All. Picnic lunch. E. Leaders: Alex and Liz

Having just emerged from ‘gorse forest’ track onto golf course. (Ian pic and caption.)

Pot luck Christmas lunch.(Helen pic and caption.)

5. 27/9/2017. Hikers. Portobello to Harwood. E. Leaders: Chris and Dot.

The track from Portobello to the aquarium being made difficult with slips and mud, the leaders decided on a new hike for the day. 20 keen members left the cars at the Portobello show-grounds and headed the short distance up the hill to the cemetery for morning tea.

Coming away from morning tea.(Ian pic and caption.)

It was a glorious morning, calm and mild, and there were many comments on the fact that cemetery sites always seem to have the best views…. this one right across Portobello and the tranquil, beautiful harbour.

The thought of walking all the way to Harwood seemed a bit daunting to some, but in fact was very pleasant, following the cycle track all the way so that traffic was never a problem. The predicted north-east breeze never arrived and jackets were gradually shed along the way. Round Lower Portobello Bay several slips were commented upon, and we reached the picnic grounds for a leisurely lunch by mid-day.