At about 10.10am four cars from Mosgiel, met three cars from Dunedin, at the “On the Spot Dairy”, Waitati, and proceeded to Steep Hill Road, a short distance passed the ‘big dip’at the top of the Kilmog. A few Kilometers or so, on the gravel road, saw us arrive at Moana Farm (Lawson’s Farm.) By 10.25am Twenty four trampers left the cars, with Theresa leading the first part of the tramp, myself being Tail End Charlie.
And off they go – Photo & Caption Phil Keene
The previous night had been a cold, stormy one, and the cold South Westerly wind, certainly made it’s presence felt as we walked further along Steep Hill Road, through a farm gate, and along the fence line parallel to the road, until coming to the next downhill fence, which we followed until turning left at the gate, bottom of the paddock.
A strung out mob – Photo & Caption Phil Keene
(Please bear with me on the previous bit, that seems like information overload, but is critical knowledge for anyone planning the tramp in future.) From here the tramp goes in a roughly circular, clockwise direction, up hill and down dale , following farm tracks.
The lowest point of the tramp was soon reached, where most kept reasonably dry feet, crossing Mary’s Creek.
Crossing Mary’s Creek – Photo & Caption Pam
This creek has an intriguing little story (tall tale or true?) as to how it got it’s popular nickname, which I explained soon after the crossing. It seems Mary was a gold miner’s wife who regularly bathed in the creek.
Listening to John’s story about Mary – Photo GrahamJohn and Neil looking for Mary!!! – Photo & Caption Pam
After this bit of local cultural enlightenment, we seemed to do more uphill than downhill, until
Admiring the Striking landscape above Mary’s Creek – Photo & Caption Pam
Theresa stopped us for morning tea in a sheltered spot, out of the wind, amongst the tussocks, at 10.50am. By 11.05am we were on our way again, following the farm track, and admiring views of the valley below; farmland with native plantings in the gullies, and farm tacks, mostly following fence lines, seemingly going in all directions, zig-zagging around the property. At 12.30pm we stopped for lunch at the same spot Theresa, Sarah, Phil and I stopped on our Recce. Here sheltered from the wind, most found a ‘comfortable perch’ on rocks, logs, or the bank. to enjoy lunch.
Great lunch spot out of the wind – Photo & Caption Pam
A visit by the farmer, with his beautiful Huntaway perched on the back of his quad-bike followed, just before we started off again at 1.00pm.
Stunning views towards the coast – Photo Graham
I then led the second part of the tramp, back to the cars. Shortly afterwards the forecast wind change took place. The South Westerly wind, changing around to a “Nor Wester.” Just as cold, just as strong, and just as much in our faces! Some respite was found in the sheltered areas of the track as it wound it’s way around hillsides, up and down gullies, and ridges. By 1.45pm we were back at the cars after negotiating the cattle yards. (Thick squelchy mud!)
A great way to finish – Photo & Caption Phil Keene
Afternoon coffee was enjoyed at Blueskin Nursery Cafe’.
In all we had covered 8.56km, altitude 240metres, a Grade 3 Tramp.
Thank-yous are due to :-
Farmer Willie Lawson, for so generously allowing us access to enjoy his property
Theresa White, for keeping me on my toes, and acting as Leader and Tail End Charlie.
Phil Keene and Sarah McCormack for help with our Recce.
Neil Simpson who has lead the tramp before, and was a mine of information on my initial contact with him.
Mosgiel trampers met the town trampers at Waitati then travelled to the Doctors Point car park.
About to leave the cars (photo and caption John)
25 trampers began the trek along the beach in mild weather looking toward the horizon with calm sea and a very photogenic sky.
Fading sunrise on the beach (photo and caption Pam)
We walked through the rock arches …
Through the Arches (photo and caption Pam)
Almost good enough for a swim before morning tea (photo and caption Phil K)
… and carried on to the headland, which was the site of the Mapoutahi Pa, for our morning tea in warming temperatures.
Morning tea at the Mapoutahi Pa Site (photo and caption John)
We then headed through the trees on a 4wd track skirting the puddles as we went. We walked the road around the Purakaunui Inlet …
Are we going up that hill -yes! (photo and caption Phil K)
Regroup at Purakanui, below Osborne Township (photo and caption John)
… then turned off at the Purakaunui Station road to cross the rail tracks and begin the McKessar track. The beginning of the track was a bit muddy and slippery but improved as we ascended through the bush.
No trouble slowing down, even without a horse (photo and caption Phil K)
There was a lot of debris littering the track from the strong winds we had about four weeks ago.
Looking back over Purakaunui Inlet (photo and caption Pam)
Strolling through the pines (photo and caption Pam)
We stopped at the ruins of original McKessar stone cottage and as the area had been cleared and logged, we were able to investigate the remains of the stone outbuildings.
Old ruins at McKessar Farm (photo and caption Sarah)
Plenty of firewood, but no fire at McKessars Homestead (photo and caption Phil K)New light through old windows (Chris Rea album title) (photo and caption John)
Lunch was enjoyed at this spot as it was sunny and the clearance afforded a sea view. The next part of the track feels steeper with a full tummy but it’s not long until it meets with the Mopanui Ridgeline track by the Orokonui Ecosantuary.
Stone wall on Mopanui Ridgeline Track (photo and caption Pam)
We regrouped at the top and took in the amazing vistas looking towards the coast, the hills and down to the beautiful Blueskin Bay. We made our way down the track having to skirt a couple of large fallen pine trees, over the crumbling rock wall and onto David’s track. This is a lovey track through the bush before coming out at the top of Whites Road. We then walked back along the road to the carpark. Refreshments were enjoyed at Blueskin Bay Nursery.
Length of tramp is approximately 14km, elevation gain of 472m.
Karen McInnes
4. 29/6/2016. Trampers. Orokonui, Mopanui. Medium. Leaders: Helen and Judy D.
Ten of us left car park and travelled in two cars up to the Orokonui Ecosanctury We were walking round the outside of the fence. Walking up to the first corner we had our morning tea.
More uphill. (Helen pic and caption.)
Then a clamber up the 468 meters to the trig at the top of Mopanui.
Trig at top. (Helen pic and caption.)
Worth the climb up as the views were some of the best we had seen anywhere.
Over to the Estuary. (Helen pic and caption.)From top of Mopanui. (Helen pic and caption.)Towards Portobello. (Helen pic and caption.)
Continuing around the fence line to the start of some steep downhill we stopped for our lunch.
Starting on the steep hill we renamed Tumble Hill. Judy lost it on the rolling gravel crashing into Eleanor who crashed and rolled getting a hole in her precious 1980s shorts. No major damage. Then Jay slipped on the gravel as well. The rest of us hugged the fence to keep upright.
We all got right round and had our welcome coffee after out interesting and hardish almost 10km tramp. – Helen.
[DCC brochure extract: Government Track. 4 hr 30 min, 17 km (return).
The track entrance is Government Track / Kowhai Spur 5 km down Waipori Falls Rd on the right; parking is 100 m further on the left. Traversing the slopes of the beech-and mānuka-forested Waipori Valley south of Dunedin, the Government Track was built in the 1860s to provide access to the central goldfields. For mountain bikers there is an option of riding up and returning the same way. Alternatively, once at the top follow the pylon track left and steeply down into Waipori township, then follow the road back to the start.]
34. 3 May 2023. Combined Government Track Grade 3 Hikers Grade 4 Trampers Leaders: Jay, Kay, Sarah and Pam
Trampers: After a winter start time meet n greet, 10 cars converged on the Waipori Gorge starting point for our combined hikers’ and trampers’ foray up the Government Track. For the trampers the route was to take us further up the hill than the hikers, doing a kind of loop at the top of the hill, then descending back to the Government Track for the homeward leg. Originally Phil and Helen Morris were to be leader and tail end charlie, but Phil catching Covid put paid to plan A. Our initial replacement leader also suffered some health gremlins, so Sarah, rather had things sprung on her the night before, but agreed to lead.
Fourteen trampers started out ahead of the hikers (at 10.am), up a surprisingly damp and cool lower section of the track (mild 23-degree temperatures forecast for the day). As we climbed away from the shaded valley floor, and chilling Waipori River, we warmed up quickly. Accompanying the hikers behind us was a lost, and bewildered looking pig hunting dog (wearing a GPS dog tracking collar), who had been resting under his owner’s ute when we arrived at the car park. Morning tea was enjoyed at 10.30am, not quite at the clearing where it was planned, but on a small bank beside the track. By sheer chance, we soon discovered that the hikers had later stopped around the corner just below us! That pig dog was still with them but did apparently head back down the hill soon afterwards.
He wanted to join the team Caption and photo Pam
Soon on our way again, by 11.40am we had reached the clearing originally planned for our morning tea stop. An enjoyable wander up the track, admiring the array of toadstools and fungi along the way followed.
Many fungi were growing everywhere in the bush Caption and photo Marijke
Purple toadstools were spotted, and a great variety of toadstools sprouted from rotting logs and tree stumps. It soon dawned on us however, that our slow ramble, could make for a very long day, and late finish. Averaging only 2.5kph for 2 hours meant we were well behind schedule. Why so slow?
Navigating through the creek Caption and photo Pam
Creek crossings, recently fallen trees and large branches, and some technical bits slowed our progress, so we started to speed up on the smoother sections.
Another tricky little creek crossing in the beautiful bush Caption and photo John
Being an old horse and dray track, much of the tramp was on lovely dry, smooth surfaces with a gentle uphill gradient. Sarah, ever vigilant, referring to her topo map, subsequently had us stop for lunch later than originally planned at 1.25pm, where we dined and rested in a section of beech forest, having covered 9.74km at this stage.
Late lunch never tasted sooo good ! Caption and photo Pam
By 1.50pm lunchtime was over, and we were on our way at a better clip, reaching the usual tramp lunch stop spot (a clearing by power lines) at 2.00pm. Five minutes later we were at the road, turning right, then soon after turning right again into Dunstan Road.
Out in the sun, it was an unseasonably warm day. Caption and photo Marijke
Our speed along this lightly gravelled road increased substantially, which had us arrive at the “White Doc. Gate” at 2.35pm.
Our view as the ascent started Caption and photo John
Following the road down from here we arrived at the at the “old hut” at 3.19pm.
Group photo that Heather and Diane thought they got out of Caption and photo John
Leaving here Sarah’s topo map suggested we cross a large open field curving around the hillside diagonally, Phil’s instructions more conservatively showed a fence-line following along the top then down. Although perhaps with a little initial trepidation, our faith in Sarah’s topo map was vindicated, leading us straight to the power-line clearing strip, in the lower bush, and the stile onto the Government Track, (Never doubted you, Sarah!) at 3.40pm. By 4.25pm we were back at the cars, having covered 18.8km with 4.5 hours moving time (average speed 4.18kph). A special shout out and thank you to original leader Phil Morris, who despite having Covid, greatly assisted with a set of instructions and map of the tramp Thanks to Sarah as leader and Pam as tail end charlie. A long day, but one with many fond memories. John
Hikers: 18 keen hikers left PJ Park at 9.30am and travelled down to Berwick where we turned right into Waipori Falls Road and travelled along until we reached the carpark on the left. We took off on our walk accompanied by a dog wearing a GPS collar. Thoughts were that it may have been a pig hunting dog. The walk was a gentle climb through the bush on a reasonably dry track apart from the usual muddy parts which never seem to dry out.
The Hiker’s morning tea just down the track from the trampers. Caption and photo John
Still the dog followed. About halfway up 2 hikers returned to the carpark followed by the dog.
The lost pig dog that followed us up the track. Caption and photo John
We carried on up through the bush until we reached open farmland where a bit further on we stopped for lunch overlooking native bushland and forestry.
Lunch Caption and photo MichaelPhoto Grant
After lunch we returned the same way back to the cars having walked 7kms.
I often point out fungi when I am on a hike and others are starting to notice them Caption and photo GrantPhoto GrantPhoto Grant
Coffee was at Wobbly Goat. We all hoped the dog was found by its owner. Today’s leaders were Jay and new member Kay as tail end Charlotte.
33. 16 November 2022. Hikers Government Track Grade 3.5 Leaders: Neil and Margreet
The day dawned partly overcast and warm with half-hearted rain showers. 20 eager hikers made their way to the Government Track car park on Waipori Falls Road. After negotiating the muddy beginning, the track soon became dry and pleasant underfoot as we settled in to the gentle 260 metre climb to the bush line.
Just checking everyone’s OK. Nice! Caption and photo Jenni
‘Smoko’ was taken bang on time on the side of the track. Occasional mud patches and washouts were skilfully negotiated until we reached open paddocks with scenic views up the Waipori Gorge.
Tree down and some mud Caption and photo HelenGathering up Caption and photo Helen
In order to get a better view, some keen punters climbed to the top of the hill to enjoy their early lunch.
Some climbed up the hill for lunch Caption and photo MargreetOthers stayed at the bottom Caption and photo Margreet
After lunch it was a case of reversing the morning’s effort by trekking back down the beautiful bush clad track to our cars.
Map of the days hike Caption and photo Margreet
But then we were told of a special treat! The hikers were all invited back to Eleanor Ryan’s picturesque Outram home for coffee/tea and home baked cakes! With her lovely garden and trimmed lawns, not to mention her delicious baking; it was an awesome highlight to our day on the Government Track. On behalf of us all Eleanor, thank you for your generous gesture.
It’s not all about the hiking. Eleanore’s beautiful garden. Caption and photo Margreet
Delicious afternoon tea at Eleanore’s Caption and photo Margreet
32. 29 September 2021. Trampers. Government Track / Kowhai Spur. M. Leaders Phil and Helen
We set off from Peter Johnstone Park at 9am on a nice mild Mosgiel day heading toward Waipori Falls Road to a parking spot just past start of the bottom of Government Track. This was a track built in 1860 to provide access to the goldfields. Over 20 men were employed to form this publicly funded work. It provided a cheaper alternative to bring horse supplies from Dunedin which previously had been carted from Lawrence.
A good number of 17 trampers headed up the track, muddy at start but soon became well cleared with a gradual 7deg incline most of the way, apart from small creeks that were hard to pass due to slippery and wet rocks.
Along the track. Photo and caption Helen.
We continued up the track for an hour and a quarter before young Eleanore hinted that a cuppa would be good, so within 10 mins we found a nice clearing and the call was made, morning cuppa was consumed. At that time two young ladies one from Salt restaurant in St Clair and the other a midwife caught up with our group and we conversed with them as to how far to the top and introduced each other. They were very nice and by lunchtime approx. 8.75km up the track they had stopped for lunch, we had caught up so we joined forces at the clearing and decisions on which way we would tramp from there. So I walked on some approx 50 yards and found the gravel road that I was looking for on map, then returned to the group.
Lunch in the sun (mostly). Photo and caption Dave.
We finished lunch then headed to gravel road, headed right, continuing up until we found an intersection with Styx Road on sign. Did we continue straight ahead or did we go right? After a wee bit of discussion we went straight ahead thinking we were on Styx Road we continued for a km and a half, “wrong”!! An about turn, back to intersection amidst a laugh or two. We should have turned right at the intersection, although I was not a 100% confident, Gwenda and Eleanore, were though. The young lady from Salt had also scooted up 800 yards and returned saying there didn’t appear to be a turnoff. But a decision to continue was made, John also very confident decision was correct. After about 2km in the distance we saw a Dept of Conservation truck so we thought right these fellas would know, so we got closer and a second truck had arrived. Asking them if we were on track for Kowhai Spur Road, they replied YES, phew!!
When we realised how high we really were! Photo and caption John.
Panorama – view from the track. Photo and caption John.
Go to white iron gate 300 yards ahead and turn right, hill is pretty steep but when you get to hut go in there and over ridge and head down to fence line. They were right and Teresa hinted, when we got there, if you follow tyre marks down the ridge, we should get back to the fence stile. By that stage the ladies we had met said we were on track, Mr Google says so.
Looking to the hut. Photo and caption Helen.
A group of happy trampers (and two guests). Photo and caption John.
A small sun shower went through just after we left the hut, but with much glee we got down to the fence line, and although tired it was great to be out and about, 21.3 km later and 4.45pm we removed the boots and put our tired backsides down on the car seats, job done, good company, and off home, no time for coffee!!
Directions simple – up Government track, lunch at clearing 50 yards from gravel road, turn right to Styx intersection, turn right, 3 km along gravel road to white conservation iron gate, turn right, down hill to hut, over ridge go right, following tyre tracks downhill, to electric fence go left through gate, continue down 40 metres or so then when you feel you should go right go left then straight down to a clearing where the fence line takes you to the stile which is the Government track taking you back to start 18.3 kms.
Cheers for a cool longer but casual day,
Helen and Phil.
31. 9 June 2021. Hikers. Government Track. E. Leaders Sue & Kathryn
9 hikers travelled to Berwick on a cold (-1 deg.) but pleasant morning. We proceeded up the track which is a gradual incline on a reasonably dry track. We stopped for morning tea part way up.
After walking a short distance, it became very wet and boggy where cattle had been walking through, so we detoured up the hill and onto a slightly overgrown track in parts. We came into sunshine and a nice area for lunch.
Lunch above the bush line (photo & caption Clive)Great view up the valley (photo & caption Clive)
After lunch we walked downhill to the stile and back down the track to the carpark. We all headed to the Wobbly Goat for coffee.
Kathryn Fagg
30. 28/10/2020. Hikers. Leaders Clive Crossman and Alex Griffen
A Bright sunny morning saw 14 hikers gather on Waipori Road at the entrance to Government track. Even with the weather being dry parts of the track were muddy and slippery. After climbing the initial incline the walk levelled out to a pleasant hike under the beech trees and native bush.
Photo and Caption Clive – “An even track under the beech forest”
Numerous song birds accompanied us on our way. After an hour we stopped for morning tea with the sun breaking through in patches giving what more romantic writers would describe as ‘dappled shade’.
Photo and Caption Clive – “Morning tea on the track.”
As we climbed higher we looked down through the forest and became aware how precipitous the track is in places, the steep drop off camouflaged by the dense bush.
Photo and Caption Clive – “Breaking out of the bush.”Photo and Caption Clive – “Looking up the valley towards the surge chamber(white dot in middle.”Photo and Caption Clive – “A good spot in the sun for lunch.”
The height gave us some spectacular views across the valley with the road snaking away hundreds of feet below us. Eventually we broke through the muddiest part of the track into open paddocks. The sun had raised the temperature into the mid teens so it was decided the open paddock would be a good place for lunch, however it was a bit early, so we continued for about another kilometre into the bush.
There we saw some corrugated iron that some speculate is the remains of the hut used by the original track makers..
photo and Caption Clive – “Could this corrugated iron be 160 years old?”
After lunch we returned the way we had come. With the track being so muddy and slippery in places it is surprising that only one hiker took a ‘dive’. The degree of difficulty = 0, artistic merit = 0, comment from hiker = Oh Oh, and laughter.
We made it back to the cars in good time and gathered at the ‘Woobly Goat’ in Outram for afternoon tea where the consensus was that it was a good days hike.
Alex and Clive
29. 17/10/2019. Trampers. Government Tramp. Leaders: Gordon and Sue.
18 eager trampers (twice as many females today) headed out to Waipori on a mild morning, parked at the Government track carpark and headed off into the hills. The gradient on the track is enjoyable, gradually climbing to the top. It was pleasing to see how dry the track was, considering recent rain. This was obvious with the amount flowing down the Waipori river.
We crossed the stile into a grassy patch and walked for a while before stopping for smoko at 10:30am.
Photo Gordon – Morning tea
Onwards through mature Silver Beach, Kanuka and Manuka.
Photo Gordon – Walking throug native flora.
Also, the odd creek crossing and windfall trees, one you climb under, the rest you climb over! One spot has about a 100 metre scramble to get through.
Photo Gordon – Some trees were tricky to get over!
After hiking just on 8.5 kms we reached Shaw Road at 1:45pm and enjoyed the sit down in sunshine for lunch and a chat.
We proceeded along the road for 2km’s before reaching the pole track, which has a very steep descent, however, the views over the Taieri plains, the Taieri river, the Sinclair wetlands and the Lakes are well worth stopping to admire. (In July 2018 we had light covering of snow and a slippery trip down)
At the top of the Kowhai Spur we headed right through the gate into farmland, passing a Musterers hut, then a herd of healthy Hereford cows with happy calves at foot.
Photo – Gordan – Renants of native bush on downhill farmland
Sidling around and down paddocks we arrived back to the stile, and once again—-looking like a very long caterpillar, enjoyed the hike through the bush to the cars.
Deciding not to stop at Wobbly Goat for coffee because it was near closing time.
The Government track was built in the 1860’s to provide access to the Goldfields. Over 20 men were employed to form this publicly funded work. Was never much more than a bridle track and unsuitable for wheeled traffic. When completed it provided a cheaper alternative route to bring in horse drawn supplies from Dunedin, which previously had to be carted via Lawrence.
We hiked a good 18km’s, arriving back to carpark at 4pm.
Photo Gordan – The whole happy group!
Good company and good weather == another great day out.
Gordon and Sue
28. 12/9/2018. Hikers. Government Track. Leaders: Clive and Lester.
25 Hiker set out from beside the Waipori River.
Hiker set out. (Clive pic and caption.)
At first the track was slippery and boggy. Then as we got up into the bush a walk up a steady incline was enjoyed by all.
Morning tea on the track. (Clive pic and caption.)
Until…. we hit the next patch of boggy ground and we had to negotiate more slippery track, made a bit worse by the cattle that had churned up the path. The weather was kind and we made it to the 5km mark before deciding that was far enough and returned to the open paddock for lunch.
Lunch in the sunshine. (Clive pic and caption.)
We then made our way back the way we had come trying to find the less slippery and boggy part of the path. The views from up the top were great.
The view up the Waipori River Valley. (Clive pic and caption.)
We all made it safely to the cars and then onto Topiary for afternoon tea. – Clive & Lester
27. 25/7/2018. Trampers. Government Track. Leader: Sue.
Still quite cool. (Gordon pic and caption.)A rocky slip. (Gordon pic and caption.)Another obstacle. (Gordon pic and caption.)A well deserved late lunch break. (Gordon pic and caption.)
26. 30/8/2017. Trampers. Government Track. M. Leader: Dave.
14 keen trampers met at the carpark near the start of the Government track on Waipori Road. We soon started on the track noting the 4 twisted manuka trunks at the side of the track. The track has a gentle grade and is 8.5km long.
The reason for the gentle grade and generous width of this track lies in its origin as the original “road” from Berwick through to the Waipori gold fields. Over 20 men were employed during the 1860’s to form this publicly-funded work, which was never much more than a bridle track unsuitable for wheeled traffic. When completed, it provided a cheaper alternative route to bring in supplies (horse drawn) from Dunedin, which previously had to be carted round via Lawrence.
Morning tea was had over the style, up the ridge, in the sun and on time at 10am!
(Margreet pic.)
We continued up the track which is through native bush, mainly manuka, kanuka and silver beech
(Margreet pic.)
. There were occasional views out to the Waipori valley and surrounding hills. A number of big tree trunks lying over the track were either scrambled under or over. There was plenty of talking and hilarity on this trip which was great!
Lunch break was at the top of the track, again in the sun.
(Margreet pic.)
We then continued along the forestry road and stopped at the highest point (580 metres) where there were great views all around,
(Phil pic.)
particularly Maungatuas, Lammerlaws and Rock and Pillar range. Moving on to the top of the kowhai spur we stopped to get panoramic views of the Taieri plain, very clear because of the fine day. The kowhai spur is aptly named as it is steep and feet can move to the front of your boots! The next break was at a farmer’s workers hut
(Margreet pic.)
before heading down the ridge, through some bush and back on to the bottom of the Government track. A number of birds were heard and sighted including kereru (wood pigeon) and bellbirds. On getting back to the cars we found we had covered 18.5km. A fair walk!
It was then off to the wobbly goat (with some wobbly legs) in Outram for a well, deserved coffee and more chit chat.
A great group to be with – Dave M.
25. 23/11/2016. Hikers. Government Track. E. Leaders: Jim and Betty.
Route map, Government Track, courtesy Ian. (N.B. Used old shortcut route on return. Regular route a bit longer.)
The party consisted of 23 people.
The weather’s appearance was indifferent. But the Government track up the Waipori Gorge afforded good shelter in the bush. The condition of the track was excellent [thanks to track-clearing by the leaders on their recce, especially on the zig-zag beginning – ed.] and this track has a very moderate consistent gradient. The return was a slight downhill grade & a total of approximately 9.5 kms was covered. Lunch stop …
Lunch on Government Track. (Ian pic and caption.)
… was brief as there was drizzle approaching. On the return to the car park some hikers took an old short cut which gave them a minute advantage.
Hot drinks were enjoyed at the Wobbly Goat in Outram, …
Last of the Summer Wine. (Adrienne pic.)
… before returning to Mosgiel. – Betty and Jim.
24. 17/2/2016. Trampers. Government Track. Leader: Various.
At the car park, Bush Road, we looked towards the silver peaks. It was raining. We were told the wind was 50k plus, so we changed our mind and decided on the Government Track.
Arrived at the lower Waipori car park. In front of us was bright blackberries. To the left a tree full of apples, and a deafening sound of crickets.
Five of us set off up Government Track. Morning tea at the grass clearing. No wind, little sun.
At the top of the Government Track, we had lunch in the sun.
Lunch in the sun. (Helen pic)
After lunch, walked along …
Along the pole line (Helen pic)
… and down the pole line to the hut.
Down the pole line to the hut. (Heb pic and caption)
Turned right, found a tape marker which led us over and down to the style on the track just below where we had morning tea. Carried on down the track to the car park.
Heard lots of wood pigeons and bellbirds. A great day’s tramp. About 17k, and quite warm temperatures. – Heb.
23. 21/10/2015 Hikers. Government Track. Leaders: Betty and Jim.
22. 27/5/2015. Trampers. Government Track, return part Kowhai Spur.
GPS of route, courtesy Ken. Government Track-part of Kowhai Spur. Walked 17.1 km; ave 4.4 km/hr; moving time 3hr.54min; climbed 480mtrs. (Ken pic and caption)
The day looked suspect, with some light drizzle, but the turn out at the carpark was very good, & we had 6 members on our adventure for the day. We motored out to the carpark at the Government Track where it was cold & still drizzling, so it was on with the rain jackets before we set off. Once into the bush, the rain became a non issue, but everybody kept their jackets on to combat the cold.
We had a short stop for morning tea,
1. Packing up after morning tea. (Ken pic)
then pushed on towards the very muddy part of the track, just before the open grassed area, where we hoped that our planned route would bring us back to on the return journey. The track was in excellent condition, as it had just been cleared, apart from some large trees down across the upper part, which we had to crawl under.We stopped just short of the top for lunch, as there was a cool wind blowing, & the bush gave us shelter. Then it was onto the Poleline track…
2. Looking back along Poleline track. (Ken pic and caption)
…which had some snow remnants lying on it.
3. Trudging through the snow grass. (Ken pic and caption)
We estimated the distance to the top of Kowhai Spur to be about 1Km, but were surprised to find it was actually over 2kms, but when we got to the top & looked down on the amazing views of the Taieri & surrounds,
4. View from top of Kowhai Spur. (Ken pic and caption)
5. another view from top. (Ken pic and caption)
it was worth the trudge through the snow. We made our way down the steep track till we came to the hut on the true right of the spur,
6. Hut where we turned off Kowhai Spur. (Ken pic and caption)
where we left the spur, & went down through a very steep paddock heading back to the Government Track. This part of the trip was quite hard, due to the steepness, & the muddy tracks formed by cattle movement. However, we were soon within sight of the Government Track, & didn’t even have to climb a fence to get back onto it. We came out at the first fence with a stile over it, [the boundary of the privately owned land] on the uphill side of the grassed area. Then it was a brisk walk back to the cars, & the trip home, punctuated with a stop at Outram…
7. Latest Cafe footwear fashion. (Ken pic and caption)8. Trampers coffee club. (Ken pic and caption)
…for the “Trampers Coffee Club”. – Ken.
21. 12/6/2013. Trampers. Government Track. Styx Rd return.
6 trampers ventured out for the walk up Government Track today. We stopped at a “dry area” for morning tea, at about 10am, then carried on to the top at Styx Rd. where we had lunch in the sun. The sign at the bottom had said 2 1/2 hrs to the top, & that’s very much what it took us.
Lunch at top of Government Track. (Ken pic and caption)
After lunch we had a discussion on whether we tried Kowhai Spur, or just go back down the way we had come. The unknown condition of Kowhai Spur [very steep & slippery] meant that the decision was made to go back the way we had come, so we set off, & arrived back at the cars at 3:00pm.
Thanks to the earlier start time of 9:00 instead of 9:30, we were able to complete this 18.5km walk before it got too cold in the afternoon, & it gave us a time buffer if somebody had injured themselves.
We walked 18.5km
moving time 4hr 15mins
climbed 364mtrs
– Ken.
20. 3/10/2012. Both. Government Track. Leaders: Graham, Judy.
There were 17 of us, (but one turned back before the paddock). We did between 8-10 km in total, getting up to the beech section for lunch (much further than the Hikers did last time). The wind across the farm paddock was as severe as the last time the Trampers had done it. Several in the group were doing the track for their first time and were equally amazed at the ease of the gradient, and appalled at the muddy section just prior to the paddock. (They didn’t know how much better the present marked route was than some earlier routes through the slough.) This, and some other tricky bits took careful negotiating for those unsteady on their feet.
Four of the Trampers left early and did the whole track. Ken’s GPS record shows that they did 18.2 km at 4.4km/hr average. Moving time was only 4hrs 9min.Total ascent was 523 mtrs. They took an extended lunch break, making stopped time 1hr 19min. – Ian.
19. 6/4/2011. Both. Government Track. Medium. Leaders: Les and Margaret.
There is no comment from the hikers on this one, so here is a report from the trampers.
It mitigated against the intended ‘bothness’, but the leaders generously permitted three appreciative trampers to set off to do the whole track. The sign posts indicate 2.5 hours up and 2 hours down. The trampers almost made the 2 hours down but fell well short of the time up. 19 km there and back!
When we arrived at the ‘paddock’, the predicted wind was there in full force and it was a real battle to make our way across and around its slope and back into the shelter of the bush. The sloppy muddy gully just below the paddock gets no better as time goes by, despite the many attempts to re-route the track to avoid it.
GPS of Government Track from the road to the Pole Line. Courtesy Ken. Depicts how close Kowhai Spur is to the track. The multitude of gullies traversed by the track are clearly depicted. 19 km ret.
The track was well-cleared and the gradient as usual beautifully steady.
A shot of beech trees taken looking across one of the upper gullies.
Track disappearing up into the gully. Taken from the same spot as the one above.
The above pic shows only a modest amount of pig rooting. It was much worse in other places with us having to tread a new path amongst the upturned soil.
Temperatures were cooler up at the Pole Line so we retreated from it back from the gusty wind into the shelter of the manuka bush to munch a quick lunch. There was nothing tempting us to linger long.
Doug set a good pace on the return trip and the clear track allowed us to step it out with a good swing.
Back at the exposed paddock, we found the wind had lost none of its force, but fortunately it was a tail-wind this time. Then it was the atrocious gully again. The paddock and its gully had to be the worst features of the tramp. – Ian
18. 3/2/2010. Hikers. Government Track. Medium. Leaders: Neil, Lex.
Location: 30 km.
17. 9/9/2009 Government Track, return Kowhai Spur. Leaders: Ian, Sabina.
Beginning Government track. George, SusanA bit further along the track. Susan, Sabina, GleniceMorning tea on the paddock. Susan, Ken, George, Glenice, SabinaThrough the silver beech section. Ken, George, Susan, Glenice, SabinaLunch at the pole line. George, GleniceLunch on other side of track. Sabina (showing her colourful hat), SusanDOC sign indicating back down the track.View from top of Kowhai Spur. Waipori Lake and Taieri River gorge beyond. Ken Susan, George, Glenice, Sabina.
Shaws Hill road and ridge from a little further down Kowhai Spur. Sabina, Susan detectable.
Preparing to rest near site of former hut which had been moved up the hill behind camera.. Glenice, Sabina
16. 17/9/2008 Waipori Gorge Area, 1860s Government Track, Waipori Leaders: Bill H, Peter B
The ‘disturbed’ kanuka
The ‘disturbed’ kanuka
The programme said ‘Waipori’, but it really meant Bill H’s traditional walk up the “Gummint Track”. As a past long-serving employee in the area (both on a farm and in electricity supply) he was the ideal leader. As slips had made the upper reaches of the track difficult, the 15 of us began walking from the end of the seal up the Waipori road, then crossing farmland and having morning tea beside the river. After that we were following the route taken by early prospectors up the steady incline of the old 1860s Government standardised track for drays and horses to the Central Otago Goldfields. After an initial 3-minute climb, the track maintains a remarkably consistent, gentle gradient considering theodolites were not used and the construction teams used handtools! The day was calm and mild, and spring growth was evident in the lovely mixed broadleaf forest, with signs of fuschia flowers and kowhai. The track was carpeted with innumerable ’skellingtons’ of fuschia leaves (the fuschia is one of the few deciduous NZ trees) which made it soft and springy and patterned.There were also Kanuka, Matai, Totara and juvenile Lancewood. At one point there were 4 Kanuka alongside the track that must have had a disturbed childhood as they all had right-angle bends in them! The sound of the river gradually receded, and at lunchtime we came out onto cleared farmland with cattle and a good view up the gorge to look at while we ate. We returned by the same route. There was some birdlife to remark upon– paradise ducks, bellbirds, warblers- but the most remarkable was at a willow tree on the river flat in which Arthur counted 13 wood pigeons, all greedily gorging great gulps of green tips. A very pleasant walk of about 16km through lovely local terrain. – Bob
15. 12/12/2007. Hikers. Government Track. Medium. Leaders: Bill H
Resting among the trees
Only seven hikers took advantage of the ideal place to be on a very warm & humid day, the lovely bush of the Government Track in the Waipori area. It is a lovely place for a hike. Beautiful bush and beech forest. Lots of birds singing in the trees and great views of surrounding bush and road to Waipori Falls. The track is not too difficult and although you go fairly high it is a relatively gentle climb most of the way. With only a small number we took our time and lapped up the cool and pleasant conditions of the track. Morning tea sitting by the track just after 10am, and then, about 12noon, 5 of us decided we would stop for lunch. Two of the group thought they’d like a bit more of a challenge so went further up the track and had lunch before heading back. Those of us in the larger group found a really lovely spot in the beech forest to sit, chat and enjoy our lunch break. Then it was back down the track, (down hill all the way!) to the cars. All agreed we had had a very enjoyable days hiking. – Bev.
14. 29/11/2006. Hikers. Government Track. Medium. Leaders: Arthur and Barbara.
13. 5/7/2006. Both. Government Track. Leaders: (Easy+): Doug M, Bob H; (Easy): Arthur & Barbara
12. 21/9/2005 Arthur & Barbara, Bill H, Lance & Lois
11. 22/9/2004. Hikers. Government Track, return. Easy. Leaders: Jack and Rosemary, Frank and Lesley.
10. 26/5/2004 Lesley S, Irene, Les W, Mary M, Ray
9. 22/10/2003. Both. Government Track. Medium. Leaders: Trampers: Helen S, Kerri; Hikers: Mary M, Barbara L.
8. 13/2/2002. Combined. Government Track. Leaders:
7. 6/12/2000. Government Track. Leaders: Jack and Rosemary, Mary Y.
13/9/2000 Bill H, Bill & Pat
6. 7/7/1999. Government Track. Leaders: Les W, Mary M, Ray.
5. 7/10/1998. Government Track. Leaders: Lance and Lois.
4. 16/7/1997. Government Track. Leaders: Hugh, Bill H, Lesley S
3. 23/10/1996. Hikers. Government Track, Waipori. Leaders: Jack and Rosemary, Ted.
2. 14/12/1994. Government Track. Easy. This is a morning walk only, and as it is our last official tramp for the year, please bring some finger food to share for lunch, to be eater at the picnic ground. Leaders: Denise, Mary Y, Les and Mavis.
1. 13/3/1991 Government Track, Waipori Gorge, return Kowhai Spur. Nice bush and tussock walk. Average+. Leaders: Denise, Hugh and Judith, Ria de J
4. 26/4/2023 Mt Watkin. Trampers. Grade 4.5. Leaders Graeme Thurlow and Phil Keene.
View of Mt Watkin from the car. Photo & caption Pam
On a cool day 7 trampers came and we headed straight up Mt Watkin first.
On our way, meaning straight up Mount Watkin! Photo & caption MarijkeAnd it was steep. Photo & caption PamAnd the wind blew… Photo & caption PhilAt the top of Mount Watkin, cold, blustery, lonely! Photo & caption Marijke
With wind in exposed places especially at the top we all enjoyed a rest and a sit down for a well-earned morning tea. Great views of the snow on the Rocky Pillars but slightly misty in the distance.
We found some shelter on the lee side of the mountain to have our morning tea. Photo & caption Marijke
Descending all agreed it was a grade 5.
It was rocky! Photo & caption PamLaying down in an ancient Celtic ring? Photo & caption Phil
A welcome rest was needed amidst the rocks before continuing to the boundary fence with Smith’s farm. Graham T’s jovial comments “We haven’t got far to go’ received responses like “Yeah, right??”
Following down the fence line. Photo & caption Pam
After the descent to Smiths boundary when we looked at distance and time, we were shocked at how little distance we had gone for the time it took.
Now easy going to the rewards of the blackberries near the boundary and onto lunch at the DCC hut which was wired and set up for entertainment with LED lights!
It was sheer luxury to have lunch in a hut! Photo & caption Marijke
Further on down the western track we exited into long grass circled by forest and then entering the forest we bush bashed.
These vines weren’t here when I did the recce (Graham T). Photo & caption Pam
Zig zagging and encountering vines we continued down until finally reaching the creek for our climb up and out finally to a track out through a gate into Noone’s property.
The stream at the bottom. Photo & caption Phil…then up the goat track. Photo & caption PhilRegrouping after the bush bash. Photo & caption Pam
A longish walk back to the car and comments were ‘It’s good we knocked the b…. (Mt Watkin) at the start of the day’ and not had to tackle it at the end of the day.
Good comradeship, jovial comments and laughter eased the challenges of the day.
Thanks to David Smith and Zac Noone for giving permission to tramp on their property.
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 HelenView 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
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
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
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
We stopped at Leith Harrier and Soccer grounds for morning tea.
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
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.)
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.
First night, settling in. Photo & caption JohnBannockburn Camp. Photo Helen
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.
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.
They are on their way. Photo & caption PhilMorning tea. Photo & caption JohnWorking 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.
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.
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.
Beautiful views. Photo & caption HelenThe long and winding road. Photo & caption JohnMorning 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).
Hope this is worth it. Photo & caption JohnNo 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.
Boys and their toys. Photo & caption JohnPhoto HelenThis one took John’s fancy. Photo & caption HelenHelen laying down the law to her ‘boys’. Photo & caption Phil
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.
High Tea under the trees at Stewart Town. Photo & caption PhilHeather’s photographic skills to the fore. Photo & caption JohnLovely 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.
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.
Boundary riders. Photo & caption PhilWe did it. Photo & caption PhilA long way down. Photo & caption JohnViews of the Felton road vineyard. Photo & caption Neil
Many sore and tired muscles took refuge in the pool back at camp.
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.
‘Hope Hill’ is a working farm located just south of Allanton. The owners over the years have given the TRTC permission to undertake tramps through their unique property. We parked in a paddock off the State Highway. The morning was clear and warm and 16 trampers were keen to get underway. Ahead of us was a winding farm track up to the top of the hill. With a few stops along the way to appreciate the views of the Taieri Plain we reached our morning tea stop in around 45 minutes.
A steady climb to admire views over the Taieri Plains Caption and photo Pam
After morning tea we continued on the farm track for a bit more time and then we turned left and walked on grassy pasture toward the sea.
Panorama- First glimpse of the Pacific Ocean. Caption and photo John
The interesting eastern view was unfolding for us and when we made our way up to a trig station we could see it all – Saddle Hill, Blackhead, Taieri Mouth, peninsulas beyond and forestry to the south.
Group photo using a timer Caption and photo John
After leaving the trig station we continued walking through the picturesque landscape with the ocean in the background. However, we had to leave this gentle part of the farm and tackle a steep downhill track that eventually led us to a large flat paddock. We followed sheep tracks through the paddock and eventually got to McLaren Gully Road. We turned right and had about 1.5kms to walk on the narrow, dusty gravel road. The road is used extensively by logging trucks. We were thankful that Lyn (one of our trampers) had contacted the haulage company and explained we would be on the road about midday, and they alerted their drivers to take extra care. We managed the road walk without incident. After passing wooded areas and an interesting old house the Hope Hill paddocks came back into view. We turned off the road and into the paddock at the earliest opportunity.
This side of the farm was drier and hotter and so it got a bit tougher for us. Our view now was the Taieri Plan, Dunedin Airport and surrounds.
Panorama – Allanton to the right. Caption and photo John
Our aim was to reach the two prominent cell phone towers near the top of a ridge and have our lunch. However, there was a steep climb for us to reach the towers so needless to say we enjoyed our lunch break when it came.
After lunch we continued climbing but on a gentler slope and then traversed several paddocks back to the farm track we had come up in the morning. We descended the farm track back to our cars.
It’s all downhill from here. Caption and photo Neil
More downhill Caption and photo Neil
And we’re still going down Caption and photo Neil
We walked around 14 kilometres and were all pleased to finish around 2.30pm as the day was getting hot and windy.
Thank you to Neil for all his work with helping us through fences and opening and closing gates.
Crossing fences has it’s challenges. Caption and photo John
Thank you also to Lyn for coming with us on the recce and helping us on the day.
13. 28/8/2019. Trampers. Hope Hill. M. Leader: Gordon.
The Hope Hill farm tramp started off at 9.50am, after parking cars in a paddock south of Allanton with 19 enthused trampers.
We followed a farm track straight up a ridge for nearly an hour
470. The farmer asks Are you fit and experienced trampers? (Phil K. pic and caption.)
which was pretty steep at times, arriving at the top for Smoko amongst some tussocks sheltering us from a coolish breeze.
Welcome morning tea stop at the top of Hope Hill. (Jenni pic and caption.)
The sun was shining brightly and some great views were had from the south end of the Taieri down to Mosgiel. We then set off toward the coast which provided views of Blackhead, Saddle Hill, & Scroggs Hill until we came to the ridge which would lead us down to McLaren Gully road.
Heading down to McLaren Gully road. (Gordon pic and caption.)
It was easy going for a start but got quite steep on the last half,
Pretty steep @ rocky in places. (Gordon pic and caption.)
but thankfully no twisted or broken ankles or knees were reported after reaching the flats at the bottom from where we carried on to the road. After walking on the road for a while we turned off to start heading back up toward the cell towers where a very welcome sunny spot was found for a much needed lunch break.
Perfect sunny lunch spot. (Gordon pic and caption.)
After lunch we started back up a gentle gradient track back to our morning smoko spot and down the track a bit further to where we turned off to go down a different ridge to the cars
478 Homeward Bound. (Phil K. pic and caption.)
so that we were walking on grass which most, felt easier on the feet than the gravel track.
We arrived about 2.30pm, then on to Wals for a great social hour.
Wals. (Helen pic and caption.)
A great tramp, great workout, great views, great company. Distance 14kms. – Gordon.
12. 18/1/2017. Hope Hill. M. Leader: Arthur.
Today our team was comprised of 7 regulars plus guest Kathleen from Canada and Dave coming across from the Hikers – 9 in all.
The tramp was on “Hope Hill” farm, just below Allanton and we parked in the paddock off State Highway 1. To begin, we had a 3/4 hour uphill walk on the farm road, and in doing so gained about 200 metres of altitude.
Morning tea was taken beside an old farm trailer,
Morning tea stop at top of hill. (Helen pic and caption.)
giving us a rest after the uphill bit. The weather was overcast, and just touching the top of Maungatua at the time. There were very good views from up on top.
Moving on, after paralleling the main road south for a short time, we changed direction towards the sea. We were able to view Scroggs Hill, Saddle Hill, Blackhead, and down to Taieri Mouth and beyond at times. The Peninsula was only vaguely visible in the misty conditions though.
Newly-weaned lambs were in the paddocks that we were walking through. Eventually we came to the boundary with the forestry, when the leader realised we had come too far. A little scouting found the top of the track we were to descend, requiring us to backtrack about 300 metres.
We followed a very steep track down through the bush, to emerge into a large paddock of ewes, who baa-ed a greeting to us, wondering where their lambs had got to.
Across the paddocks to McLaren Gully Road. A road walk for a while
Old farm house in the trees. (Helen pic and caption.)
before venturing back into the paddocks to climb up to our lunch spot in the shelter of a hut beside the 2 cell phone towers. It was a stiffish climb up to there,
Up the hill to lunch spot. (helen pic and caption.)
and lunch was eagerly anticipated. The breeze was cool and we sought the shelter. The weather was deteriorating now, the cloud lowering considerably. We were overlooking the airport, but the far side of the plain and far hills disappeared.
View from lunch stop. (Helen pic and caption.)
It seemed wise to make our lunch stop brief, but we had only started off again when fine drizzle arrived with the cool breeze we were facing into. We were still climbing for a while, but it was a gentle slope. Not too unpleasant.
Return to the cars was planned to take a different route, but we changed our minds due to the conditions, and descended the farm road that we had begun on – not so nice going down on it though.
It started to rain just as we got to the cars, so the timing was good. Keith’s distanceometer indicated that we had walked 14.2 km. A good tramp, giving us all a good workout on the hills – and it had been quite enjoyable, too.
Arriving back in Mosgiel, the cars detoured into “Wals” for a little while. – Art.
11. 20/4/2016. Hikers. Hope Hill from McLaren Gully Road. M. Leaders: Lester and George.
Logs being hauled down to be cut. (Jan B. pic)Log cutting & trucking on the spot. (Jan B. pic.)The steep pinch up to the masts. (Jan B. pic.)
Morning Tea view. (Liz pic and caption)Lunch view. (Liz pic and caption)Weed. (Liz pic and caption)
10. 16/2/2011. Hikers. Hope Hill from McLaren Road. Moderate. Leaders: Peter and Wendy.
9. 21/1/2009 Trampers. Wallaces’ Farm on Hope Hill and Forest tracks. Medium. Leaders: Keith, Glenice, George
Nine of us walked from foot of McLaren Gully Road through a paddock with a stand of larches, cut across the corner of a paddock newly laid down in grass but at present largely growing fat-hen, to climb a track up through scrub,
Track up through scrub. Glenice, Wendy
then manuka,
Emerging from manuka shortcut. Angela, Doug, Bob
then gorse
Gorse section of climb. Ian (Bob pic)
to arrive at the transmission mast by the macrocarpas, for morning tea. Here we enjoyed that panorama of the Taieri plain.
Panorama of Maungatua, Taieri Plain and airport. (Bob pic)
Along the farm ridge we inspected the historic site of the Harvard plane crash
Harvard crash site (Bob pic)
The wreckage of the Harvard of the No. 4 (Otago) Squadron Territorial Air Force which crashed on Hope Hill.
The Harvard crashed during a flight from Taieri on 16 Sep 1954. Both occupants of the plane, married airmen, were killed instantly when their night trainer hit the hill at an altitude of 2000ft. The men were Flying Officer Roanald Arthur Slade (30), of Dunedin, a territorial officer and Leading-aircraftman R. H Lester (30), a radio mechanic of the Taieri Air Force Station. The aircraft was one of three which left Taieri at 10.15 pm. on a training exercise. (ODT Sat 6 Sep 2009 “Within Living Memory” section).
and an antique trailer loaded with farm miscellanea.
Antique trailer. George, Doug
Further along Bob took advantage of an empty drinking trough to take a bath.
Bob bathing
and down a ridge to the right, stopping to photo Saddle Hill from the south
Panorama of Saddle Hill and Brighton coast (Bob pic)
into the forestry, with a surprisingly clear floor.
Down through open forestry. Keith, foreground.
Down, down, down, to cross a small stream then up, up up back out into the farm and further steeply up a ridge to a trig
Climb struggle over. (Bob pic)
and to complete a clockwise loop (has usually been down anticlockwise on previous occasions) and back along and down the way we came. A good day, little wind, cloud but still quite hot apart from a passing shower. – Ian.
8. 28/5/2008. Trampers. Hope Hill from McLaren Road. Easy+. Wallaces’ Farm on Hope Hill Leaders: Ian, Pat
Tea Break. Peter, Ken, George.
A chilly start in the carpark for a healthy turnout of hikers, trampers and walkers. We celebrated an 80th birthday for Anne Rose, who looked about 50, with several comments along the lines of “Hope I look like that when I’m 60 never mind 80″… A very good advert for the benefits of hiking!
We parked our cars on McLaren Gully Road and started the steep climb up Hope Hill, with someone saying no wonder it was called Hope Hill because you just hoped you would make it to the top. Morning tea was overlooking the Taieri Plains with the Taieri River and the airport down below and a panoramic vista in all directions. George gathered us together on one of the high points to tell us about a tragedy that happened here in the 1950s. A Harvard training aeroplane with 2 people on board crashed into the top of the hill, nose diving into the ground. It was found at the inquest that carbon monoxide had leaked into the plane from a pipe that ran through the cabin overcoming the pilots, probably before the plane crashed. Several people remembered the accident. We continued through Wallace’s farm, in places quite wet and muddy. At a trig we were able to see all along the coast as far as the peninsula, trying to name the headlands we could see. Then we wended our way down to a sheltered spot among some trees for lunch. We were a bit wary of the tall trees, as at a previous spot a large branch had crashed down making us all jump.
After lunch it was down, down, down a steep paddock and then a very steep track
Steep! Joyce, Lex, Ria, Tash, Peter, George, Evelyn?, Emma
Steep! Emma, Joyce, Hazel, George, Lex, Peter,
through bush until, along turnip paddocks and wet, wet, wet, we hit McLaren Gully Road again and made our way back down to the cars. Thank you to Pat and Ian for doing the recce on Saturday and Monday and making it a good circular walk. – Tash
4. Eastern Flagstaff. Trampers. Grade 4.5. $5. 15km. Leaders Ross Davies and Gwenda Farquharson
(Redwoods bike tracks – Old Pineapple Track – No track – Davies Track – Flagstaff Walkway – Spiers Road Track – street walk)
Keen to start the tramp (photo & caption John)
17 of us met up in Wakari Road at the carpark for the Redwoods bike tracks on a cloudy morning and headed off into the maze at 9.20am. It’s a lovely meander through the very tall trees. We emerged at the Booth Road end of the Pineapple track and took the track up to the water treatment plant.
Morning Tea at the pumping station (photo & caption John)
We had morning tea there a little after 10am on the uphill side before heading into the bush behind the plant. This was the entrance to the original Pineapple Track which was replaced by the current one in the late 1970s. Within a few minutes on a faint unmarked trail we crossed the McGouns Track and kept on straight up. The track is reasonably obvious. It was a bit greasy in places but is a nice contrast with the new track.
Mind your step (photo & caption Phil)
We emerged into the open area beside the new Pineapple Track but didn’t head over to Pineapple Point viewpoint as we’d been enveloped in cloud by then.
Regroup in the bush (photo & caption John)
Instead we retreated a little way back down the way we’d come before heading south through the bush, contouring around to the middle part of the Davies Track. There’s a slight ground trail, and some markers, probably noting trapping lines. Plus lovely big Totara trees and impressive cabbage trees. Towards the Davies Track there are blue triangle markers for another trap line and this leads on to the Davies Track about halfway up. We had a look at the alligator swamp but they were all hiding.
Feels like the jungle in Borneo (photo & caption Phil)
The upper part of the track was fairly muddy and slippery. Eventually we emerged from the bush, just below the cloud. After the fire a few years ago, the flax and gorse and grass are growing back, and it was saturated. With nowhere dry to stop, we carried on up to the Flagstaff Walkway and then a few more minutes towards the top where we found a sheltered dry spot beside the track for lunch, at about 12.45pm.
Lunch on a handy bank (photo & caption John)
After lunch we zoomed across the summit, then down a little way towards the Bullring. You have to keep your eyes out for the Spiers Road track branching off to the left, over the ridge and then plunging down towards Halfway Bush.
Within sight of civilization (photo & caption John)
After the light rain of the night before the track needing a bit of care.
Ross explains the site of the original road out of Dunedin (photo & caption John)
This was the route of the Snowy Mountain Road, the first overland route out of the new Dunedin to the north, over Flagstaff, over Swampy, over Hightop, and on north to Johnny Jones’ Cherry Farm at Waikouaiti via what is now the Mountain Road forestry road.
Ben Rudd’s stonewal (photo & caption Phil)
Further down we passed Ben Rudd’s stone wall, and then the site of a plane crash in 1943 which everyone survived, including the plane! From the bottom of Spiers Road it was a 30-minute street walk back to the cars, checking out the houses and gardens along the way. Most repaired to Coffee Culture in the olde Roslyn fire station for the de-brief.
Thanks Gwenda for helping out, and to everyone for sharing in another happy adventure.
Ross
Tramp details: Distance – 13 kms; height gain – 730 m; moving time – 3.75-4 hrs; elapsed time – 6.25 hrs.
Discussion afterwards agreed 4 or 4.5 for grade and I’m comfortable with 4.5 because of the extra height gain and the proportion of rough track involved.
9. 7/12/2022. Trampers Lamb Hill, Fiddlers Hut, 3 O’clock Stream. Grade 4.5 Leaders: Phil and Gwenda
Thanks again to 15-year managers Chris and Lucy Thomson for allowing us on their farm, split by the stream with an altitude of 180 to 700m above sea level. These 4550 hectares of steep exposed hill country run, alongside 10,880 ewes, 750 mixed aged Angus cows, including 200 yearlings in-calf heifers, recently scanning 97% in calf. The yearling girls well and truly pay their way going to the bull at 350-390kg LW an impressive feat given Lambhill’s challenging climate. (all other history can be looked up on the internet.)
We had 11 hardy trampers battle into a cold NE wind. We worked up from the airstrip a km before heading through the first gate and then headed NW into good terrain of green paddocks. We worked over to what was a tree line now removed, heading off more west beside the Angus cows and calves and then numerous paddocks of sheep with a lot of twin lambs.
Heads down into a cold southerly wind Caption and photo Pam
Lynn did her job of herding a lamb back to her mum. After an hour and a half we arrived at the top of the hill looking down on Fiddlers Hut and 3 O’clock Stream.
Descending to Fiddlers Hut across the stream. Caption and photo Ross
We found a crossing that wasn’t too deep and crossed the stream ready for lunch at hut by 12.44 pm.
“Walking on water”- 3 O’Clock Stream Caption and photo Pam
Lunching at Fiddlers Hut. Caption and photo RossInside Fiddlers Hut Caption and photo Pam
After lunch, we decided to return around the ridge to the east, 10 minutes in we thought we could hear the squeal of a falcon or its chicks, so we moved as quickly as possible not to disturb.
We could hear the Falcon’s calling in this gully. Caption and photo Pam
We then needed to head to the top of the ridge so we could work out how to return the way we had arrived. It was hard work and the wind was unforgiving.
Uphill With a Tail Wind – Phil to the fore Caption and photo Ross
So with a few rest stops’ we headed back to the cars. I must admit we were not quite as chirpy as the case on the way down. It was an impressive property but only the hardy would survive the wind. Back to the car, we munched on some chocolate goodies to revive energy.
Hindon must be a lonely spot in winter, but the land has magic not seen that often.
Thanks to tail-end Charlie Gwenda. Phil
Dist 16.51km elevation 628m time 4hrs actual walking (ala strava)
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
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.
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 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
From here we walked along Highcliff Rd to Greenacres track and proceeded downhill to Macandrew Bay.
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 PhilStanding alongside James Macandrew’s grave and memorial Caption and photo Phil
18. 30/11/2022. Trampers. Post Office Creek track from the Waipori Village side. Grade 3. $14. 60km. Leaders: Barbara and Leah.
Despite ominous weather predictions for several days prior to the 30th, and heavy rain early that morning, the visual was more promising.Three vehicles and 14 trampers left the Peter Johnstone carpark heading towards Berwick and up the Waipori Falls Road, through the Village and continuing towards Lawrence. The big, locked orange gate, although on a side road, can’t be missed! Through the locked gate, past the new picnic area, following the road below the Mahinerangi Dam to cross the bridge and climb up into the Wenita section of Dunstan Road. The potholes aren’t for the fainthearted.
About to leave the cars (photo & caption John)
The walking track is off Patearoa Road which itself is off Moonlight Road and we parked at the junction of the two. The permit was left visible through the windscreen.
Excited to be ready to go (photo & caption John)
A quick morning tea, and the party set off on the 1km down-hill (remember what goes down at the beginning of the day must go up at the end!!) to the rustic signpost indicating Post Office Creek track. There was a brief delay while one driver (nameless) went back and spent a frenetic 5 minutes searching for car keys in order to lock the vehicle. Having found the keys in the backpack, they were left on the ground while the pack was rezipped. The person (also nameless) who had ferreted them away while the rezipping was underway should be afraid; very afraid! A brief detour a few minutes down the track proper took us to the now dilapidated fishing huts.
Fishermen’s Hut hidden in the trees above lake Mahinerangi (photo & caption Pam)“Watch your head John” as the track winds under the overhanging rock (photo & caption Pam)
A scramble back up the track and we were crossing the first of the creeks and negotiating the rock bivvy.
Post Office Creek rock bivvy (photo & caption Barbara)
The entire track follows the contour of the slope with very little up or down. Many of the guts had bridges in varying degrees of disrepair but which, it’s understood, are likely to be removed entirely in the near future, after the maintenance work in the forestry has been completed. The tracks will be realigned to navigate the guts minus bridges.
One at a time crossing the old wooden bridge (photo & caption Pam)
Pigs had been digging up the track which left it nice and soft underfoot and there were a few fallen branches we cleared as we went.
Escaped from the forest (photo & caption Jenni)
We left the canopy cover of the trees as we neared the re-sited Waipori School buildings where we sat and had our lunch. Half the group elected to follow Jill to the actual Post Office Creek while the remainder sat and chatted, walked down to the lake edge and poked around the buildings.
Disappointingly there was no fishing or poetry recitation.
Lunch beside the relocated school house once used by musterers (photo & caption Pam)Our industrious leader with historical info (photo & caption Jenni)
On the return of the wanderers, we set out again, retracing our steps, looking out for litter to take back to our vehicles. The last uphill kilometer was unwelcome but all 14 made it. A change of footwear, a little shenanigans with someone’s pack and sticks, and we headed back to the locked gate, this time heading to the right, over the Lake Mahinerangi causeway, through the fishing village and back to the Middlemarch Road at Lee Stream, enjoying a commentary from Jill who, for several decades, had farmed the property on both sides of the road.
End of track at Post Office Creek (photo & caption Pam)
One carload stopped for an icecream at Outram ($2 for 2 scoops being excellent value!), but weren’t joined by the other two, who must have thought 4.30pm too late for such extravagance!
An enjoyable day on an easy track which could well be considered for a combined day.
It would be possible to leave a 4WD vehicle at the bottom of the hill, at the signpost for the track, as we did on the recce, shortening the distance by 2 km.
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 (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 (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 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 (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)
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 (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)
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
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
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
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
