Location: 43 km from car park. Click Silver Peaks Forest for background information. No. 21 on old hardcopy list of 113 club tramps. “Green Hut & Pulpit Rock return or via Possum Hut. Year Round. Long.”
23. 1/10/2023. Combined. Green Hut Site and Pulpit Rock. Tramp Grade 4, Hike Grade 2. 43km. Leaders: Neil Hodgkin/Chris Bezett, Dave Roberts/Jay Devlin.
Hike to Green Hut (which is now two seats as the hut was deconstructed in 1988 because of ongoing vandalism).
On a foggy morning 18 keen hikers regathered at the On the Spot garage at Waitati where we turned left up a dusty road to the beginning Continue reading “Green Hut, Pulpit Rock”
No. 87 on old hardcopy list of 113 club tramps. “Michelle’s Farm Outram Farm”.
11 km from car park.
Park under Outram Bridge. Contacts: Seek 3 permissions.
Proceed east side of Taieri River along gravel road to gravel pit. Bear right uphill to power lines. Follow generally along grass farm tracks to top of hill.
Landmarks: Trig marker on right; also obvious paper road between two fence lines; Long barn on right (good for lunch stop); large wool shed on top of hill straight ahead (this is still on Hyslop’s property).
Straight on access is to Taioma Road but we don’t usually go that far!
Plenty of mushrooms in April – take a bag!
15 intrepid trampers parked under the Outram bridge. As we walked along the Taieri river wind in the willows gave us warning of a breath-taking day!
On the track above the Taieri River. Photo & caption Pam
Morning tea with the pretty yellow flowers. Photo & caption John
After ascending a narrow track through scrub we made our way along a ridge on Craig Nichol’s property. Any conversation was ‘gone with the wind’. To quote Evel Knievel “ I love the feeling of fresh air on my face and wind blowing through my hair” – certainly true today!
Those windblown skies were impressive. Photo & caption Marijke
We decided not to go to the trig – the howling wind spoke to us and we found our way down to a pocket of native bush. The relative calm here was a welcome respite from the punishing wind on the hill top.
Lovely view of Mosgiel’s iconic Saddle. Photo & caption MarijkeComing down off the windy hilltop to the sheltered gully. Photo & caption PamLunch spot. Photo Jill
Walking roughly parallel to SHW 87 we headed back towards Outram. Thank you farmer Neil for herding a mob of cattle out of our path.
Keeping our distance for the herd. Photo & caption Pam
Throwing caution to the wind we walked through a Douglas fir plantation, then a large stand of eucalyptus – fortunately there were few recently dropped branches! The only reportable incident was Diane being blown backwards whilst pivoting on a gate – luckily she was caught by the two behind her ( I rue a missed photo opportunity!)
Beautiful spring scenery with cattle sheltering in the trees (very wise). Photo & caption Marijke Lower Neil. Photo & caption Pam Happiness is tramping with friends. Photo & caption Pam
A nice hill climb took us to wide track Craig recently had dug out back down to the Taieri river, and we were at the cars by 3.00 pm.
A great day out and many thanks to Julie McKenzie and Pam Cox for your assistance.
Distance walked – 13.5 km
Jill Reid
17 hikers left the West Taieri Rugby Club on another lovely Outram day. Had an enjoyable walk through Eleanore’s Willowfield Village then headed through Outram and over the Outram bridge.
Outram Bridge. Photo and caption Helen.
We walked beside the river to the start of Craig’s property where we stopped for morning tea.
We walked up the farm track which was a reasonably steep climb…
Group gathering. Photo and caption Helen
…and along the tops through a couple of paddocks where we sat on rocks overlooking the Taieri picking out many of the landmarks.
Lunchtine photo. Photo and caption Margreet
View over to Saddle Hill. Photo and caption Margreet.
Lunch at the top. Photo and caption Helen.
86 years old and up the top of the hill which they had never done before. Photo and caption Helen.
Then back down the hill overlooking Outram township and onto the Wobbly Goat for refreshments before heading back to cars.
It was a good 12k walk and well done to everyone.
Kathryn.
13. 17 November 2021. Trampers. Nichols Farm. M-H. Leaders: Peter Gillespie & Arthur Heenan
With a medium to hard tramp with a windy day prescribed it didn’t sound inviting, WRONG on nearly all counts. It was a medium hard tramp 13.42km elevation 564m, actual tramping time 3hrs 47min, (4hrs 45 min time lapse).
Strava screenshot by Phil
The group of nine was led by Peter Gillespie and Arthur Heenan. With a wind on our backs we enjoyed tramping in nice sunshine on the north side of the Taieri river. We started on a climb, up to an electricity pylon, where morning tea was enjoyed looking out on the northern view upstream. Many removing layers due to the heat of the sun.
Morning tea (caption & photo Helen)
After the break we continued up a 7deg track sheltered from wind we came to a great view south of the rain on the Maungatuas.
Uphill through lush grass – Outram in the background (caption & photo Helen)
Onward, upward we continued toward the top where we came to a trig station, which Peter swore that the height was on, but no. There was some Maori “eh mutu tewanga” which we decided meant “564 metres high”.
Trig at the top (caption & photo Helen)
The view was sublime, of Saddle Hill, Mosgiel, lush farmlands, and hills of Flagstaff, Swampy, “magic”. We returned down the hill and found a track working through a forest and downhill…
Where’s the track Peter? (caption and photo Phil)
Beautiful forest (caption and photo Helen)
…then a gorse paddock where we found a nice sunny spot at the bottom, ideal for lunch.
Lunch (caption and photo Helen)
Jill required a ten minute kip, before we continued on through a 2nd forest track, past the lavender farm and some fertile farmland, before we hit the final hill. It was a decent climb, but the group got up it in good time.
Rain that didn’t get near us (caption and photo Helen)
We then returned, on a second track back down to river, watching for the odd sink holes. We had some windy spots, but the day was remembered for the views tramped, mostly in sun.
The group (caption & photo Helen)
A very enjoyable tramp, thanks leaders Peter & Arthur.
Then it was back to the Wooden Table for coffee & cake. Then it rained!
Cheers Phil Morris
12. 17/6/2020. Trampers. Nichols Farm. M. Leader: Gordon
From the carpark under the Outram Bridge 24 members started the walk beside the Taieri River in nice weather but with forecast for rain at 1.00pm. At the end of this track we turned off and headed up hill. Parts of this were quite steep but finally reached a nice flat spot for morning tea.
Photo and Caption Gordon – “Still slogging up hill”.
Photo and Caption Gordon – “Morning tea stop”Photo and Caption Gordon – “Hurrah finally levelling out.”
Heading uphill again after smoko we soon came out on to grass paddocks and continued on a gentle gradient to the cattle-yards at the top. from there walked a short distance before heading downhill on a steep ridge to the start of a small pine forest at the bottom, about ½ km from main road.
Photo and Caption Wendy – “Haven’t seen those people for a while!”
From there we walked a short distance before heading downhill on a steep ridge to the start of a small pine forest at the bottom, about ½ km from main road.
Photo and caption – “Wandering thru the trees”.
A pleasant walk through the trees to a farm track which we followed uphill to a stile where we crossed into Walmsley’s property. Followed cattle track down to gully then along foothills to lovely lunch spot with terrific views.
Photo and Caption John – “Comfortable lunch spot”.
Photo and Caption Gordon – “What a view”.
After lunch carried on along foothills before returning into forestry for assent to top after climbing through neighbours.
Photo and Caption John – “Panorama from the top”
Photo and Caption Helen – “Who’s watching who?”
After a “Pow Wow” at top, decision was made to head back on shorter route to cars which also allowed time for refreshments and catch up at Wobbly Goat. A good day to start off the tramping calendar after all the lock downs I really enjoyed it. Gordon.
11. 7/4/2019. Trampers. Nicols Farm. M. Leader: Gordon.
It was a cool start at the car park as we foregathered, but a typical beautiful autumnal day with lots of sunshine followed. Perfect for 15 Trampers to go and enjoy the outdoors.
Parking under the Outram Bridge wa a surprise for some, although a spot well known to our Outram members – from their younger days apparently.
Walking upstream beside the Taieri River through the willows we were welcomed by a great chorus of Bellbirds – wonderful. They were enjoying the day too.
It was an easy grade as we climbed various bulldozed tracks through the Manuka.
Long slog to top. (Gordon pic and caption.)
Morning tea was taken before we emerged onto a turnip paddock.
Still climbing gently on paddock and road we reached Trig I (360 metres). From this vantage point we had a superb view out over the Taieri Plain to enjoy.
Pointing out points of interest. (Gordon pic and caption.)
A short back track and then it was downhill on a farm road in the direction of S.H.87. Nearing the bottom we turned aside, and climbing a barbwire fence (the leader having thoughtfully fitted a pipe safety guard) …
The first fence obstacle. (Gordon pic and caption.)
Heading down into Walmsley’s farm gully. (Gordon pic and caption.)… found ourselves in a rough gorsey block.
Emerging once more onto open farmland it was time for a leisurely lunch in the sun, and still with a view to enjoy.
Afterwards we negotiated a paddock or two before entering an exotic forest to climb back up somewhat. In time we retained the turnip field to eventually finish the last leg back on our outward track.
Back to the cars at 2pm after walking over 13 km was good going.
To Outram where some visited the ice cream shop, others to the Hairy Goat – where all eventually congregated. And no one was in a hurry to go home. A day that was thoroughly enjoyed by all.
This report comes to you on behalf of Gordon (leader). – Art.
4. 13/09/2023. Trampers. Pine Hill, Mt Cargill. Grade 3.5, $5, 20km, Leaders: John Gardiner, Dave Roberts
Having already somewhat created a “rod for my own back”, in starting the Wizard of Oz theme in my tramp preamble last week, after some prompting, I’ll try to intertwine the “Wizard” theme into this report. Inevitably particularly pertinent to trampers, some yellow brick road references.
Getting ready to leave the cars (Photo & Caption John)
On an overcast morning with a chilly wind, 21 trampers, who arrived in 6 cars, set out at 10.00am, on the start of our tramp in Cowan Road. Like Dorothy at the beginning of her yellow brick road journey, most trampers had no idea where they would venture during the day.
– One interpretation of the “Wizard Fable” is that on life’s journey, tenacity, and perseverance in striving for a goal is a core value.
Following Dorothy to see what lies ahead (Photo & Caption Pam)
Following the previously described, muddy, gorse lined portal to what lay beneath, morning tea was enjoyed at 10.40am on the lower, wider, gravel road, at a sheltered spot.
About to have morning tea (Photo & Caption John)
– Some believe the gold colour of the yellow brick road and the green “Emerald City” represent the currency arguments the US experienced in the 1900’s.
Soon we were on the track leading down through the forest, with a pine needle carpet underfoot, and after following a fence line, we were soon on the gravel road to Sullivans Dam, arriving at 11.20am.
Tramping through the pines (Photo & Caption Pam)
-During the making of the “Wizard” movie, the snow scene contained fake asbestos based snow that left many on set chronically ill!
Lunch in the sun (Photo & Caption John)
Lunch was enjoyed at the beautiful Sullivans Dam, beginning a little early, at 11.50am, in a sheltered spot. We had reached our destination.
The shaft of light from above made the trout rise to Graeme’s delight (Photo & Caption Phil)
-In the Wizard story the Emerald City is a place to which Dorothy, the tin man, the lion, and the scarecrow journey in order to achieve their various dreams.
By 12.15pm we were on our way again, walking around the side of Sullivans Dam to the start of the “Cloud Forests of the Leith” track. This track, with it’s many boardwalk sections and beautiful bush (even a ‘bush telegraph’ and Gnome Grotto) adding yet more variety to our tramp.
No, I’m not having problems with my internet banking (Photo & Caption Pam)Creatures of the forest (Photo & Caption Pam)
-In the Wizard story the yellow brick road was at times very rough. The scarecrow often stumbled over the yellow bricks, which were very uneven, sometimes even broken, or missing altogether, leaving holes that dog Toto (a West Highland Terrier) and Dorothy jumped across or walked around.
Board walking (Photo & Caption Pam)
Arriving at the top of the Cloud Forests track by 1.20pm, we regrouped with a magnificent view north to Blueskin Bay and beyond, before following the gravel road to the base of the “portal” gorse lined track.
Regrouping (Photo & Caption Pam)Panorama – Blueskin Bay in the distance (Photo & Caption John)
On this section a navigational error by your’s truly resulted in everyone walking a bit further than necessary to a dead end part of the road. The greatest consequence of this being my embarrassment!
Are you sure we are going the right way (Photo & Caption Pam)
– In the Wizard story, Dorothy follows the yellow brick road, intending to find the Wizard, who would bestow on her the knowledge to achieve her goal, only to find that she had the answer within her all along.
Heading up the gorse lined final section of our tramp took us back to the cars by 2.30pm, having covered approx 8 km. A Grade 3 tramp.
Happy trampers (Photo & Caption Pam)
-So where was the yellow brick road? Some believe it is a brick road in Peekshill, New York, where author L.Frank Baum attended Peekshill Military Academy. Others believe it was inspired by a road paved in yellow bricks near Holland, Michigan where Baum spent many summers.
Afternoon tea was enjoyed at the Crocodile Cafe, Dunedin Botanic Garden, on what had developed into a mild , sunny day. As a footnote – I did apply and receive a permit to walk on the City Forests section of this tramp, only to receive a later email, stating that it wasn’t necessary if we stayed on the Escarpment or 3 Peaks tracks.
Special thanks to Dave Roberts for acting as tail end Charlie and Graeme Souter for his help with the rece.
3. 14/09/2023. Kaitangata – Inch Clutha. Phil and Raewyn Keene as guests of the Trixie Trampers (Balclutha).
This trip was undertaken by the Trixie Trampers (Balclutha), with Phil and Raewyn Keene going along as invited guests. Anybody else from the TRTC was invited to go along. I (Phil) have recommended to the trip committees we do it in Autumn 2024 as a combined walk (Photos were supplied by Phil).
The Whitebait Trail
At the invitation of the Trixie Trampers, we travelled down and through Kaitangata and crossed the wonderful high bridge over the Matau branch onto Inch Clutha Island and around to the start point near the pumping station/bridge where whitebaiters and hut owners launch their boats.
We parked up and once organised crossed the style onto the well formed pathway atop the flood bank and began meandering and skirting the river taking in quite expansive views, as well as the eclectic huts, great Kiwiana!
The pathway has the river on one side and dairy farms the other. The local share milker was most informative on the technology being used, all emanating from the collars around the cows necks. The pathway leads to the beach, not before crossing a causeway where large pipes permit the tidal inflows and outflows to move under the causeway into a large backwater that stretches to the Koau branch, this area probably a natural river course before the development of the farms.
Once at the beach we turned left and headed to the North end where the Matau branch flows into the Pacific. A strong westerly wind made its presence felt and the mare’s tails on the surf were impressive. Also impressive was the large amount of drift wood and tree stumps, some large, that demonstrate the power of floods and tides in this area. Plenty of seats to sit and enjoy the views down to Kaka and Nugget points, whilst having morning tea and then lunch near the South end where the Koau branch enters the sea.
This river mouth seemed to be the most active for the whitebaiters with numerous quad bikes, nets, huts, caravans and campers and yes we spoke to a man who was counting out his catch! The westerly was right in our faces and white tops whipped up the estuary as well as taking away our breath as we walked out onto the road that would take us back to the cars. An alternative would be to take the top of the adjoining flood bank for a while before walking the road.
This walk is flat, a little undulating on the beach whilst the sand is gritty and a tad soft, an option would be to take the grassed top of the beach where old wire fence lines are also present. A circular walk of approx 9kms is possible or maybe return along the inland watercourse. An alternative also being to take a couple of cars to one end for drivers to return to their cars and assist walkers back to the initial start point.
This is a wonderful area reminiscent of the Wild West Coast, great views, invigorating in all weathers but with flexible options for a combined walk. Approx 70kms from Mosgiel to a start point.
Phil and Raewyn Keene
2. 4/9/1996. Kaitangata Combined walk. Leaders: Kai leaders.
We explored the coast and an obvious coal seam running out into the sea.
11. 6/09/2023. Combined. Akatore Forest – Narrowdale Rd. Grade 3, 41km, Leaders: Bruce Spittle, Alex Griffin, Sarah McCormack, Phil Morris.
On a goodly spring morning, we headed from Peter Johnstone Park with a good number of trampers and hikers. At Milburn we turned left into Narrowdale Road (of note turning right at same point was Lime works and Whale Fossil Lookout). With Wenita permit conditions, group was split with trampers lead by Phil M and Sarah tramping up old golf course road while hikers lead by Bruce and Alec tramped up Narrowdale Road.
Trampers setting off (photo and caption Jenni)
And the hikers also ready to go (photo and caption Jenni)
The trampers headed past 2 small farms up into pine trees which obscured views but with warm conditions. We continued the climb with a stop for morning tea.
Morning tea in the clearing (photo and caption Pam)
Then along Stoop Road onto Homestead Road. Track conditions were perfect and chatter was aplenty. Time to junction Narrowdale and Homestead was 1.20min, 270 elevation.
Hikers travelling along Narrowdale Road past some belted Galloway cattle then up to the Rifle Range to the left. It was a good spot for morning tea.
Looks like a class photo (photo and caption Jenni)
Llivestock are well trained down here (photo and caption Phil K.
Then on to junction listed above (Narrowdale and Homestead). Time 1 hr, 185 elevation.
Trampers and Hikers rendezvous (photo and caption Pam)
Rays of sun through the trees (photo and caption Helen)
The group continued left along Dale Road, down onto Siberia Road at the junction. We met at Lower Narrowdale Road where hikers and a few trampers travelled on a grassy track for 2km before they stopped for lunch at 12.45pm.
Down lower Narrowdale rd (Hikers – pre lunch)(photo and caption Phil K.)
Incy wincy spider on Bill’s arm (hikers lunch) (photo and caption Phil K.)
The trampers continued up Siberia Road…
Yes, it’s uphill, another layer off! (photo and caption Pam)
…with full elevation of 405m, where we turned left along newly-named Scooter Road, with a stop for lunch in the sun at 12.30pm.
Trampers lunch (photo and caption Helen)
After lunch we continued along Scooter Road in search of a view (but none could be found) of prison compounds, Calder Stewart Ltd or Milton township. A decision to return back to meet hikers was made. With the good track conditions, the birds in forest were unable to get a word in, for the continual chatter of the trampers about many scenarios.
A gathering to decide hard or easy back to cars (photo and caption Helen)
The trampers for the 2nd time were a few minutes late so most of the hikers took the Homestead track option, while the trampers headed down Narrowdale Road and back to cars by 15.05pm. The Hikers arrived back about 15.35-15.45. Pollen during the tramp could be seen blowing in the open, hence most had a lime greenish tinge on clothes, shoes. and on cars.
They just won’t go home (photo and caption Phil K.)
It was an interesting part of the Akatore Block, thanks Bruce S for sourcing.
Phil M.
Stats: Hikers 13.5km (phone) 16km (Garmin), elevation gain 324m, travel 4hrs, grade 3
Trampers 15.2km, elevation 405m actual travel 3hs 30min, grade 3.5
Partly because Leone wasn’t available as a leader (swapped with Sabina earlier), George had not done a recce. Although he had a different route in mind, Ian persuaded him to take the gate just down from the Golf Course corner and up the (very) steep track to eventually arrive at the trig.
Glenice and George climbing last stretch to trig.
Gorge Hill Trig.
As there was general feeling that we should return by the usual road route, we went on down through the forestry and farm to Wilkinson Road in the valley, being early enough to climb up it and lunch at the top.
View of forestry plantings taken from Wilkinson Road.
After lunch just below the crest to shelter from the cool wind, we emerged onto Windy Ridge and all its views.
Toko plain with Correction Facility centre right. Keith. What is he looking at?!
A couple more upward slopes across the ridge, and it was down, down and on on along Narrowdale Road and back to the cars safely home before the promised cold hailstone front due in from the south slammed in at afternoon tea time when we were refreshingly showered, sheltered, nourished and warm.
9. 12/7/2006. Trampers. Stewarts Forestry, Gorge Hill, Windy Ridge, Narrowdale Road. Leaders: Graham, Ian
8. 24/3/2004 Trampers. Gorge Hill. Medium. Leaders: Doug M, Bob H
6. 28/6/2000 Gorge Hill – Narrowdale Road. Leaders: Ian, Dot T
5. 21/4/1999. Gorge Hill – via Wilkinson Road. Leaders: Ria L, Joyce, Molly.
4. 10/6/1998. Gorge Hill via Wilkinson Road, round trip. Leaders: George, Hazel.
3. 15/10/1997. Gorge Hill round trip from Wilkinson Road. Leaders: Hugh, Jack M, Ivan.
2. 23/5/1990. Gorge Hill – round trip via Wilkinson Road. Great views of Lake Waihola and Milton. Average. One hill to start. Leaders: Peggy M, Nel v Elizabeth Peg C
(David Nicol was an early settler and dairy farmer. He reputedly bought land here in the hope that the railway line would be routed north through Leith Valley.)
27. 30/08/2023. Trampers. Pineapple Track-Nicols Creek Grade 3.5-4 Leaders: Sarah and John
An Interview with Pineapple Track/Nicols Creek Tramp Leader Sarah by Tail End Charlie, John
Hi Sarah. You were a late incumbent to the leadership of this tramp?
– Yes, Ross was originally down to lead it, but back problems meant he asked me to lead it instead. (Best wishes for a speedy recovery Ross.)
Did you do a recce the Saturday prior?
– That’s right, Craig went mountain biking, and I went exploring on foot, in the area, to finalize the tramp format.
Were the group lucky with the weather on the day?
-The weather was brilliant. Sunshine, little or no wind and temperatures towards the mid-teens. The tracks were reasonably dry.
And did we have a good attendance?
– There were 18 of us – arriving at Tanner Rd/Fulton Rd corner in 7 cars.
What was the tramp route?
-We started on the Pineapple Track, walking up to the Pump House for morning tea.
Getting ready for morning tea in the sun Caption and photo John
Then we carried on up the Pineapple Track, turning off at McGouns Track onto the Old Pineapple Track. This led us to the “new” Pineapple Track by Pineapple Point.
crossing Nicol’s stream Caption and photo Pam
From here we followed the lower track, traversing Nicols Creek before arriving at the Mountain Bike picnic table at 11.55am for lunch.
Lunch with a view worth taking in Caption and photo JohnPanorama – View from lunch spot. Caption and photo John
After lunch it was onto the upper track, traversing Nicols Creek.
somewhere in the bush! Caption and photo Pam
Then onto the “new” Pineapple Track, and back to the cars via McGouns Track.
Heading down the pineapple track Caption and photo Pam
Wahl!! I think you lost me somewhere there! Did the tramp take long Sarah?
– The recce only took me 3 hours. On the day the tramp took us much longer at 5 hours. Some technical terrain reduced the tramp down to a crawl pace in parts.
Did you manage to squeeze in coffee afterwards?
– Only just. We were back at the cars by 3.00pm, then headed straight to the Fire Station Cafe’ in Roslyn.
How would you describe the shape of the tramp?
– Roughly a double figure 8.
Sounds lucky, I think? Thanks for the interview, Sarah.
23 km from carpark. Cars meet at Bethunes Gully.
Click Mount Cargill history for background information. No. 11 on old hardcopy list of 113 club tramps. “Bethunes Gully to T.V. Mast Organ Pipes. Wiggins. Year Round.” No. 100 on old hardcopy list of 113 club tramps. “Bethunes Gully – Brown House – Signal Hill – Chingford Park Year Round”. A broad gravelled track from picnic ground. NB. Opposite Brown House corner is an RSA Memorial to First World War servicemen and the old Junction School.
27. 30/08/2023. Hikers. Bethunes Gully to Mt Cargill. Grade 2 Leaders: Bill and Bruce
32 hikers assembled at Bethunes Gully carpark on a beautiful if slightly brisk morning. We set off just after 10.00am and after negotiating our way over and around a fallen Pine tree stopped in a semi-sunny glade for morning tea amongst the Pines – these trees must be amongst some of the tallest and straightest in the country.
The track was in pretty good order for winter – minimal mud but slippery rocks and bridges further up the track required extra care – apart from a couple of minor slips we managed to complete the day intact.
Photo Alex
Not long after morning tree it was decided to split into two groups with Jill Dodd volunteering to lead the second pack – there was still only a 10 minute gap between arrival times at the top of the mountain.
A little look at the top Caption and photo HelenBethunes Gully Caption Ady
The birdlife along the way was in great voice and Katrina even identified a Kingfisher welcoming us onto the track. The native bush section of the walk is quite beautiful complete with an abundance of ferns, some majestic old Rimus, clear streams and even the odd waterfall.
Almost there Caption and photo Helen
The steps at the top of the walk are real thigh killers and we were all very relieved to finally arrive at the summit and a well-earned lunch. The 360-degree panorama of Dunedin, the peninsula and surrounding districts is stunning and well worth the effort! The temperature was up around 15 degrees and led to many layers of clothing getting tucked away into packs.
Photo BarbaraPhoto Barbara
There was a discussion during lunch re the grading of the walk and while officially it is a 2 the majority agreed that it was more like a 3 – Ady told me during coffee that it felt more like a 6!
Group trip heading down. Caption and photo Jenni
After a fairly uneventful trip back down we adjourned to the Blacks Road Grocery cafe – this slightly quirky cafe was a lovely place to conclude a very enjoyable day – coffee and treats well deserved!
Blacks Road Cafe – very cool afternoon tea venue Caption and photo Jenni
There was a lot of learning in my first hike as the group leader, particularly around identifying the appropriate pace to set and the timing of breaks. I couldn’t have asked for better support from the more experienced members of the group as I negotiated my way through the various stages and protocols on the day. Special thanks to Bruce, Jill and Jenni but many others chipped in to keep me on the straight and narrow.
All in all a lovely day and living proof that age is no barrier to serious physical achievement.
Cheers Bill
26. 16/08/2023. Trampers. Forrester Park and environs. Grade 3, $6, 23km, Leaders: John Gardiner, Dave Roberts
After the cancellation of the previous two week’s tramps due to the weather, 27 eager trampers were “chaffing at the bit” when they arrived at Forrester Park.
Getting ready to leave the cars (Photo & Caption John)
Weather conditions weren’t quite ideal, but were pretty good, for a chance to finally get out and enjoy each other’s company, and get some exercise.
Not a bad line up (Photo & Caption Phil)
The Forrester Park area was known to most, but some weren’t very familiar with it, or hadn’t been there for some time. With some new members and regular hikers, we initially did a circuit around the perimeter of the park, on cycle trails. For Alex Griffin , it must have been satisfying to experience these trails again, having supervised their construction by Task Force Green members, many years earlier.
The pristine boots of hikers Bill and Alex (Photo & Caption John)
We stopped at the public toilets at about 10.50am, and again for a regroup at the park’s “Gate to Nowhere.” A novelty, the gate sits at right angles to the end of an existing fence, left presumably after an earlier fence was removed. The gate is, of course, padlocked shut! Anyway this initial stroll gave everyone a chance to see the park’s amenities; the football fields, dog-park, Dog Club building, and BMX Track.
Starting off passing the Forrester Park Dog Exercise Area )Photo & Caption Pam)Morning tea in the sun (Photo & Caption John)
Morning Tea was enjoyed in the sun, overlooking the, “Events Car park”, with it’s established and recently developed native plantings, complete with two resident Pukeko.
Kereru resting up••• (Photo & Caption Pam)
From here we walked across the road to Bethunes Gully, arriving at a cycle trail above the vehicle entrance at 11.45am. A myriad of cycle trails lie on this side of the forested hill, north of the main vehicle driveway. Having explored some of these, including some “make shift” accommodation found in the forest, we descended to the main gully track, went up the hill a little, then off to our left onto a cycle trail.
Plenty of matchsticks to build survival cover (Photo & Caption Phil)••• and over bridges (Photo & Caption Pam)
This trail, complete with boardwalks, took us uphill through forest and bush areas, before we again came out onto the main track. A steeper uphill climb saw us rewarded when we arrived at the waterfalls, before we back tracked to a suitable bank to sit on and have lunch.
Don’t go chasing waterfalls. On the Bethunes Gully Track (Photo & Caption John)Lunch spot (Photo Alex)
This 30 minute break ended at 1.00pm, when we were on our way downhill again. Those who thought their efforts for the day were winding down had one last surprise in store! By 1.15pm we were back into the bush again, climbing to the highest point of the cycle trails, we had initially explored upon entering Bethunes gully. An advanced cycle trail, complete with jumps, then one with the endearing name of “Dead Cow Gully” taking us back to the Bethunes Gully entrance. The twists and turns of these mountain bike trails provide an adrenalin rush, a physical and mental challenge, to master on a bike. When walking these twists and turns, they provide a less frenetic, but almost as emersive experience.
Beautiful straight trunks of the “ Red Woods” (Photo & Caption Pam)
By 2.05pm we were back at the cars, with four cellphones giving four different figures regarding how far we’d walked. Somewhere between 7.84 and 10km was the range, with two phones reading just on 9km, so we’ll go with 9km! Afternoon tea was enjoyed at Blacks Road Grocer, which we filled to capacity.
Enjoying the quirky Cafe at Black’s Road (Photo & Caption Chris)Very yummy (Photo & Caption Phil)
A thank-you to Christopher and his staff, for his hospitality, and speedy delivery of hot drinks to our band of 27. In summary, an enjoyable day. The Forrester Park and Bethunes Gully area is a versatile one for tramping or hiking, providing lots of options, it lends itself to a future combined Wednesday outing. Thanks to Dave Roberts for accompanying me on the main rece and acting as tail end charlie on the day.
Regards,
John
25. 15/7/2020. Hikers. Bethunes Gully, Mount Cargill. Leaders : Mike and Jim
With scenes reminiscent of recent National Party musical chairs, the leadership of the outing changed a few times prior to the hike due to unforeseen circumstances. A cabinet meeting in the Bethune’s Gully car park settled on the hike being led by Mike Webb with Jim Finnie acting as Tail End Charlie.
It was a mild drizzly day when nine of us headed out of the car park to start walking the track up to Mt Cargill. We soon found a large tree to shelter under while we had morning tea. This was after passing Andy Cunningham and his famous dog Meg coming towards us. Many will remember Meg as the dog who was missing in the bush near Purakaunui for weeks last year. She still has health problems from her ordeal but has a loving owner to help her along.
Photo and Caption Adi – “Morning tea stop, 5 minutes from the carpark, protected from the light drizzle.”
After a short break we started the long slow steady climb with a few stops along the way to catch our breaths and regroup. The views from the lookout points on the track were not as scenic as usual due to the low cloud and drizzle.
Photo and Caption Adi – “A pause giving a photo opportunity.”
Photo and Caption Mike – “Happy Hikers.”
After a couple of kilometres on the track three members of the team decided to call it a day and head back. That left six of us to carry on for a bit longer before a decision was made for the hike to be cut short and for us to return to the car park.
Even though we didn’t make it to the top, it was a pleasant outing with good conversation. The main group hiked a distance of 6kms.
Mike
It was a cool day, which was fortunate given the up-hill nature of this track. A small number turned back after 1.5 hours, and the remaining intrepid folk turned back about 1.5 km from the top. All met up at the Gardens cafe for an enjoyable coffee (actually it was better than enjoyable, it was down right delicious), the early birds having eaten their lunch before arriving at the cafe, and the later folk waited until they got home. Thanks to the planners and those who finally lead the party.
Adi
24. 25/9/2019. Trampers. Bethunes Gully, Mount Cargill. Jill D.
With a very threatening weather forecast 16 intrepid trampers parked at Bethunes Gully ,before traversing the track towards the television tower at the summit of Mt Cargill 600 meters above .We were greeted with birdsong along the way .The vegetation changed as we followed the track through pine plantation then opening to more scrubby vegetation but it did provide shelter from a southerly wind.
A welcome morn. Tea. (Gordon pic and caption.)
Along the way we had views over to the peninsula and harbour areas and also to the famous Brown House location -this providing some interesting reflections of party times of our younger days !!
There were clear views of the summit ,tower and nearby Buttars Peak .We knew we were getting closer to the top with the noise of the wind whistling through the tower .
The cell Tower. (Gordon pic and caption.)
The views from the top were amazing almost 360 degrees north up the coast east and west and to the south over Dunedin however we didn’t stay long up there.
Heading down. (Gordon pic and caption.)
Lunch was at the the junction to the Organ Pipes and Buttars Peak
Lunch at intersection of Buttars Peak @ Organ Pipes. (Gordon pic and caption.)
where a smaller group checked the peak out
Checking the photos. (Gordon pic and caption.)Caught!! Gordon putting his camera away!. (Dave M. pic and caption.)View of Dunedin from Buttars Peak. (Gordon pic and caption.)
before rejoining the rest of the group on the descent.
This was a shorter walk over a well formed gravel track even the steps on the final ascent to the top appear to be newer and easier to negotiate
Some of the steps to the summit. (Gordon pic and caption.)
– all in all 10.4 kms and clean boots !
The coffee stop was at the Crocodile cafe at the Gardens ,where we rearranged the seating and general chit chat creating a relaxed end to the day .We were very lucky the weather held out till back in Mosgiel. – Jill D.
23. 28/8/2019. Hikers. Bethunes Gully. M. Leaders: Jay and Jan B.
On Wednesday 28th August 2019 24 Hikers/Ramblers met at Bethunes Gully to walk up to Mt Cargill. The day was suitably warm and made for pleasant walking conditions.
Muster of hikers and ramblers at Bethune’s gully. (Clive pic and caption.)
7 Ramblers organised themselves to walk up as far as they wanted and they were joined by another member who decided to go back with the Ramblers and the remaining 17 took off at a steady pace up the gradual climb to near the top where there were 127 steep steps to negotiate to bring us to the communications tower at the top of Mt Cargill.
A view of the top. (Clive pic and caption.)
There we sat in the sunshine having lunch and admiring the 360 degree view of Dunedin and up the coastline to Karitane. After a good rest we started our downward hike.
On the way down. (Clive pic and caption.)
We all took our time getting down the steps as most people find going down is harder than going up. On the way back one of our long standing members [It was our 90-year-old Doug! – Ed.] was having trouble with his legs as they had lost strength and were feeling jellylike. But hardy fellows in the group stood on each side of him and helped him back to the carpark. Well done men!!
Clive and Lindsay took him to A & E where he spent the night. All was well.
Coffee was at the Gardens Crocodile Cafe. Leaders for the day were Jan and Jay.
Ramblers: Out talking and watching the birds on the Bethunes Gully track.
Route map, courtesy Ian. We went “about as fur as they (we) can (could or wanted to) go.” (From everything’s up to date in Kansas City).
A record crowd of 8 of us climbed the track out of the Gully as far as we felt like it. Lunched at an early 11.30 a.m. beside the track, and sauntered back down to enjoy a leisurely sit in the sun back in the domain, to wait out the delayed return of the Hikers.
Ramblers enjoying the sun. (Raewyn pic and caption.)Ramblers – kids at heart. (Raewyn pic and caption.)
Birds, their song and tiny fresh spring fuchsia leaves containing bellbird-nectar-sipped flowers where highlights.
P.S. Doug at home the next afternoon, was ruefully nursing his shattered pride, as he came to terms with what had happened the day before. – Ian.
22. 13/9/2017. Trampers. Bethunes Gully. M. Leader: Eleanore.
A record number (9 female and 8 male) trampers drove to car park at Bethunes Gully and started the steady climb up, up and up some more on a well maintained track.
Firstly, alongside Lindsay Creek. The track climbs steadily up the flank of Mt. Cargill, first through pine forest and then regenerating native forest. We found a cosy spot and enjoyed a smoko break. Once again we climbed steadily to the top of the ridge between Mt. Cargill and Buttars Peak. The intersection to the Organ Pipes Track was reached, by now we knew the mast was getting closer. Only to find we had to climb steps to reach the top!
(Margreet pic and caption.)
The weather was calm and the views fantastic.
On top of Mt Cargill looking towards Taiaroa Heads. (Phil pic and caption.)
For quite a few members it was a first time visit to this track. Also, the company of the intrepid adventurer Judy Knox was enjoyed. We continued onto the A.H. Reed track where lunch was had.
Lunch view. (Helen pic and caption.)
The beauty of this track is the downhill—all the way to the car park!
We chose the little coffee shop near Baldwin Street for coffee, cake and a chat.
Coffee. (Helen pic and caption.)
We travelled 10.9km and climbed 676 metres to the mast on top of Mt. Cargill
Another great outing had by all. – Eleanore Ryan.
21. 28/9/2016. Hikers. Bethunes Gully. H. Leaders: Adrienne and Judy K.
Route map of trek only to the top. (Sorry, jammed up the app.)
21 hikers with an age range of 12 to 89 (is that a record?) gathered at the car park at the start of the Bethunes Gully track. It was fine (well, not raining anyway) when we left Mosgiel, and dry at the start of the track, but a nasty creepy little drizzle hung round us the higher we went. Loud bird calls accompanied us for the steady climb up the gully on a well-formed track, slightly muddy in places, across several bridges where the creeks were running a bit higher than usual, to a welcome morning tea break on the side of the track.
Morning Tea stop. (Adrienne pic and caption.)
Slow and steady was the order of the day, with plenty of stops to get breath back. Up – and up – and up. Several fell by the wayside – first two, then two more. When at last the junction for the Organ Pipes and the Mt Cargill summit was reached, 10 more subsided and declared “Lunch!”
An intrepid 7 continued another half hour to the summit (a first for some), up the steps in annoying drizzle. No views available from the top.
The misty summit. (Adrienne pic and caption.)
so it was down to the junction again for lunch.
Lunch in the cloud, back down from the summit and at the junction. Where had the others gone? (Ian pic and caption.)
By which time the other 10 had departed, it being a bit cold and damp to hang around.
Down – and down – and down – collecting strays as we went. Fred wasn’t present but his chocolates were, and much appreciated, thanks Fred. It was warm and sunny back …
Our welcoming crowd at the end. (Adrienne pic and caption.)
… at the cars so parkas were discarded for the ride to the Botanic gardens and a well-earned (we think) coffee stop. – Adrienne and Judy K.
20. 30/9/2015 Trampers. Bethunes Gully, Mt Cargill, Organ Pipes return.
Bethunes Gully track was the destination for the day, & 9 keen trampers arrived at the car park in Bethunes Gully, ready to tackle the continuous climb up to the transmitter mast at Mt. Cargill.
We arrived at the picnic spot about 3/4 of an hour up the track, but the leaders misread the sign, & decided that it wasn’t the correct place, but they were called back, & we all had a relaxing morning tea break in the sun. Then it was up the track some more, with a few rest breaks till we reached the junction with the Organ Pipes track, where we had another short break before heading off up the terrible track with the very large steps to arrive at the transmitter mast on top. This section is getting worse as time goes on, or is it just the mind thinking that way ??
After a good look around…
Top photo One (Ken pic)Top photo Two (Ken pic)
… & a chat with a guy from the university language department who had a group of very well dressed [all in black suits] Chinese visitors to the city, we made our way back to the Organ Pipes track. After a regroup here, we walked down to the Organ Pipes …
Eric (Ken pic)
… where I could see how my handiwork on the boardwalks was standing up from nearly 20 years beforehand. We had lunch at the Organ Pipes, then retraced our steps back down to the cars at Bethunes Gully. It was a very nice day for a tramp, with only the slightest breeze at the top, & some weak sunshine all day. I think everybody enjoyed the day, despite the grumbles about the steep climb, & those terrible steps !! We stopped off at the new cafe in the shop at the bottom of Baldwin Street for a coffee, just to keep up the tradition of the Trampers Coffee Club. This cafe is owned by the former owner of the ‘Flax’ cafe in Caversham.
Walked 10.9km
2h 53m moving
3.7km/h
climbed 679m
max height 672m – Ken.
19. 21/9/2011. Bethunes Gully, Mt Cargill, Buttars Peak, Organ Pipes, Old Main North Road, Brown House corner, Norwood Street, Bethunes Gully.
GPS of tramp, clockwise, courtesy, Ken
Nine of us did this tramp, the most we have had out for a while, and one that the club had not done since 2006!
We were surprised with the new (?) bike barriers, although we still met a biker further on up the track.
Cycle barrier
Doug (nice knees?) and this reporter (the eldest two in the group) elected to remain at the track junction, letting the others (one or two who had never done it before) go on up to the top.
Relaxing in sheltered comfort
Their only reward was to reach the summit. Mt Cargill was entirely cloud-capped. Too bad! Doug and I rested in complete shelter from the cold Norwester. Even down where we were, we could see the mist still briskly blowing across the saddle below us. See Moving Mist
It was a surprise later on, on the former main road and nearing the old Brown House site to see the lovely-but-misleading external sight of the cloud cover we had bracingly experienced from the inside.
Cloud over Mt Cargill. Mast just peeking above cloud, barely discernible to the left of the cloud’s apex..
Another good tramp. Bethunes Gully track is still no less steep at the beginning before easing off further up. – Ian
17. 5/5/2010. Both. Bethunes Gully, Bike Tracks. M-. Leaders: Bob and Evelyn.
We parked cars at by the toilets at the end of Cluny Street (that’s what the Map said. Didn’t know that before.) in Bethunes Gully. Bob and Evelyn were to turn on a delightful surprise for us all. They led us back down the road to the gate to discover for us on the left a bike track leading up through the trees. We admired the loving attention lavished on the system of tracks by bike devotees as we climbed up through the un-pruned Oregon plantation. After a morning tea stop we ascended yet further to reach the plantation’s NE corner. Then it was down to our left back into the gully.
The tops of the tall Oregons.
Looking up at the tall Oregons. Wendy, Sabina, Peter, George, Lex, Ken.
We emerged at the head of the grassed part of the gully at the bridge across the Lindsay Stream.
Sturdy bridge
From here it was up the Mount Cargill walking track, stopping for frequent rests, one of which was by a small track on our left promising to lead eventually to Campbells Road in Pine Hill. (Bob and Evelyn had recced it, but it ends in dense gorse.) Eventually we reached the Lookout down on the right of the track where we stopped for an early lunch.
Bush view from the lookout.
After the leaders had ascertained all seventeen of us were back up onto the walkway from the Lookout, (with Ken obtaining dispensation to carry on on his own to Mount Cargill, as he had come in his own car), they took us part way back down the walkway before striking off on the right up a rutted vehicle track through the bush,
How did they lift the smaller on top of the larger? Leader Bob strikes a pose on the vehicle track
… from which eventually a track led off to the left and down to parallel the walkway back down the bridge and then it was just a short walk to the cars.
Thanks to Evelyn and Bob for finding us a new set of tracks in a Bethunes Gully we had thought we knew all about already. – Ian
16. 24/5/2006 Bethunes Gully, Mt Cargill, Buttars Peak, Organ Pipes,Old Main North Road, Brown House corner, Norwood Street, Bethunes Gully. Leaders: Judy, Tash 15. 15/6/2005. Trampers. Bethunes Gully, Mount Cargill. Leaders: Hazel, Ria. 14. 23/5/2007. Hikers. Bethunes Gully, Mount Cargill. Medium. Leaders: Betty, Dot T. 13. 5/11/2003. Trampers. Bethunes Gully, Buttars Peak, round trip. Medium. Leaders: D Jenkins, B McCabe 11. 28/8/2002 Bethunes Gully to Mount Cargill, Organ Pipes return. Leaders: Ray & Diana, Val 10. 16/5/2001. Bethunes Gully. Leaders: Nancy, Dot and Nelson. 9. 19/4/2000. Bethunes Gully, Mount Cargill. Leaders: Judy C, Mary M, Bev McI. 8. 27/5/1998. Bethunes Gully, Organ Pipes, North Road. Leaders: Hugh and Judith. 7. 25/3/1998. Bethunes Gully, Organ Pipes return. Leaders: Betty, Denise. 6. 25/3/1998 Bethunes Gully to Mount Cargill, Organ Pipes return. Leaders: B Bryce, D Pearce 5. 30/7/1997. Bethunes Gully, Mount Cargill. Leaders: Diana and Ray, Catherine. 4. 9/7/1997. Norwood Street, Bethunes Gully, Opoho. Leaders: Shirley McN, Pat, Wendy. 3. 27/9/1995. Pine Hill, Mount Cargill Track, Waitati Road, Bethunes Gully, North East Valley. Medium+. Leaders: Ria L, Catherine, Ria H, Shirley R 2. 12/5/1993 Pine Hill Road, Cowans Road, Mt Cargill, Old Mt Cargill Main North Road, Return Bethunes Gully, North East Valley. Back to Pine Hill Road. Leaders: Ria L, Catherine T, Penny & Peter 1. 11/4/1990 Bethunes Gully, Mt Cargill, Buttars Peak, Organ Pipes,Old Main North Road, Brown House corner, Norwood Street, Bethunes Gully. Leaders: Margaret S, Hartmann, Bev H, Peter R
15. 23/08/2023. Trampers. Possum Hut Circuit. Grade 3.5. Leaders Neil Hodgkin and Gwenda Farqharson.
18 trampers completed this tramp in an anti-clockwise direction on a calm mild spring day.
Leaving the cars with the a totally different backdrop since the tree felling. Photo & caption John
The track was in good condition and everyone seemed to enjoy it. We had Smoke-O after descending the track through the Douglas firs, a photo shoot at the derelict Possum Hut, and had lunch at the site of the old Green Hut.
Various ways of getting down the steep slope. Photo & caption Pam
First creek crossing. Photo & caption JohnWe find Dame Edna’s old hideaway. Photo & caption Phil
Chris, near the top, taking in the spectacular view. Photo & caption JohnAmazing views across the Silver Peaks. Photo & caption Pam
Lunch at the former site of Green Peak Hut. Photo & caption Pam
Panorama – no sign of civilization in any direction. Photo & caption John
Homeward bound on Possum Hut route. Photo & caption Pam
The total distance was about 8kms and we were away from the vehicles for 4 hours.
We culminated the day with coffee at the Gallery Cafe at Waititi.
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.
Hike to Green Hut (which is now two seats as the hut was deconstructed in 1988 because of ongoing vandalism).
