No. 97 on old hardcopy list of 113 club tramps. “Purekanui & Canoe Beach Year Round”
39 km
At LOW TIDE it is possible to walk along the shore to Doctor’s Point.
Also pleasant stroll 1 km down southeastern end to mouth of inlet with scattered cribs.
16. 14 July 2021. Hikers. Purakaunui/Canoe Beach. Medium. Leaders: Betty & Jim
After regrouping at Waitati 4 Vehicles travelled with 16 hikers to park at the end of the Doctors Point Road. The tide afforded us plenty of clear beach for the Canoe Beach walk to Mapoutahi for our tea stop. Of significance were two new barriers recently erected by DOC, warning of the dangerous cliffs.
Looking across Canoe Beach (photo & caption Ady)Looking towards headland of Purakaunui Beach (photo & caption Ady)
From our morning tea stop the southern portal to the rail tunnel could be seen, high on the cliff showing the extreme difficulty that this section that must have been experienced in the construction of this main trunk line.
Weather conditions were pleasant for the Purakaunui Beach walk on firm sand to the Purakaunui inlet.
Purakaunui Inlet (photo Alex)
Entering the inlet, we were faced with soft sand conditions for a short distance to the pine plantation, then it was less than 400 meters through pines to the cemetery. We retraced our steps in comfortable time for the tide past Canoe Beach to the cars.
The coffee stop was at Blueskin before our return to Mosgiel.
No. 67 on old hardcopy list of 113 club tramps. “Swampy – Jim Freemans – (J Roy) Summer”
16. 12/07/2023. Trampers. Westside of Flagstaff. Grade 3. Leader Lynley.
10 brave souls came out to fight the elements. Thank you to John Fitzgerald helping me to do the tramp as I was unable to get recce done in time. Starting at the top of Spiers Road on to a scruffy piece of farmland we had amazing views over Dunedin.
Dressed for the cold. Photo & caption Pam
We passed a lovely rock wall made by Ben Rudd with a steep climb through flax and scrub. We joined Flagstaff then down to Ben Rudd shelter for a well-earned morning tea.
Among the flax on Spiers Track. Photo & caption PamMorning Tea at Ben Rudd’s hut. Photo & caption PamOne of many “stone walls” built by Ben Rudd (1870’s). Photo & caption Pam
We proceeded to Possum track on to McQuilkans Track where found a sunny spot for lunch.
Lunch enjoyed on McQuilkans Track. Photo & caption Pam …and up on to Swampy Ridge Track. Photo & caption PamThis stream was crossed multiple times. Photo & caption Pam
Missing out on rain, we had a few snow flurries looking like fairy land but very cold on top of Flagstaff. A good day had by all 6 hrs in total.
And it snowed. Photo & caption PamNo shelter here to regroup. Photo & caption Pam
8. 21/04/2021. The Gap. Leaders: Arthur Heenan, Peter Horrell
Eighteen Tampers set off from Mosgiel at 8.00 am and travelled to Waitati and drove up through the forestry to the start of Yellow Ridge track. Led by Arthur Heenan and Peter Horrell, we set off in great weather conditions, with a clear sunny day with little wind and the recent dry conditions making the track as good as possible It was a steady walk to the hut for morning tea and then up to Yellow Ridge.
“Time for a rest – morning tea.” – Photo and Caption John
“Which way? – Photo Peter
“Destination reached.” – Photo and Caption John
“No sign of rain.” – Photo and Caption John“Me at the top!” – Photo and Caption Peter.“The gap rocks.” – Photo and Caption John
At 860 metre above sea level the trig station gave stunning views out to Karitani ,Blue Skin Bay, Mt Cargill and Swampy, as we topped the first ridge we could see through Silverpeaks, Hindon, right through to the Wind Turbines above Lake Mahingarangi, a spectacular piece of country.
“Amazing views.” – Photo and Caption Peter“Panorama – as far as the eye can see.” – Photo and Caption John“Homeward bound stop.” – Photo and Caption John.
The 14.5 km walk was hard due to the elevation, with some steep climbs and some gorse to wade through and the final climb back to the cars certainly gave us all a good workout.
Peter
7. 13/3/2019. Trampers. Green track/ River Track. Leader: Neil.
Eleven trampers left Bush Road at 8 o’clock keen to get to Green Track arriving at 8:50 am – well worth while having the early start. 200 meters up Green track we turned onto Miners Direct, down past the end of Eucalypt Ridge and down to Waikouaiti South branch about 3/4 hr later. Turned right and went downstream, but missed the crossing place just past the blackberries, where some were busy sampling them. 10 minutes later we were in the creek because of bluffs, so after some discussion it was decided to cross to the true left
.Crossing river. (Helen pic and caption.)
and bush-bash up-hill
Bush bashing to the track. (Helen pic and caption.)
till we came to the track, which we did, arriving at 10:25 and so morning tea break was gratefully received by 11 weary trampers.
Morning tea on the track. (Helen pic and caption.)
The object of some trampers was to reach the bottom of Rosella Ridge by lunch time. This was achieved by 7 trampers at 12:30 pm. Four had wisely decided to return to the cars earlier, 2 via Eucalypt Ridge, and 2 visited Possum Hut by mistake before returning to the bottom of Miners Direct.
The track from morning tea to lunch was somewhat harder being more overgrown, less defined and not so easy walking, resulting in several members having trouble remaining upright. Another aspect of this walk that was commented on was the amount of bird life and bird song that was evident.
The return walk took about 2 1/2 hours, arriving at the cars at 3 :30pm. Two took the new track up from the bottom of Miners Direct to the road and commented on the easier gradient all the way. A real credit to the Green Hut Track Group who did the rerouting.
The result of the earlier start was now evident as we had time for coffee at Waitati before the place closed
.
Overall, a day’s tramping enjoyed by all. – Neil.
The rain started as we left Mosgiel, but despite this, it wasn’t cold and the eight trampers were VERY DETERMINED to go tramping.
The cars regrouped at Waitati, and ONWARD was the only option – no one wanted to cancel. So it was up Double Hill Road and Semple Road to Mountain Road. A key allowed us through the locked gate and we drove up to, and parked at, the beginning of the Tunnels Track. The rain continued.
Our plan was now just to do a short tramp. It was very dark in among the trees as we descended the track, some wag asking for the street lights to be switched on!
After twenty minutes we came to the old gold mining tunnels …
At tunnels…no one home. (Phil pic and caption.)
… where we had a stand-up morning tea. No one was electing to sit on the wet ground. A N.Z. robin kept us friendly company here, which was nice.
From the Tunnels we followed the old water race to the main track, and then descended to the South Branch of the Waikouaiti River which was up a bit and a little discoloured.
At South Waikouaiti Branch. (Phil pic and caption.)
No use going further in the rain, so it was uphill back to the cars to finish at 11.15 a.m.
We had travelled slightly less than 4 km, and all had greatly enjoyed our little excursion, which had taken one and a half hours.
Surprisingly, the tracks were not slippery, even on the steepest bits.
Into the cars and to Blueskin Nurseries for hot drinks, before returning to Mosgiel.
Eight trampers had decided that a little but of rain was not going to spoil their day, even if it was a shortened tramp. Thanks to all participants. – Art.
5. 11/2/2015. Trampers. The Gap, via Yellow Ridge.
GPS Yellow Ridge to The Gap, courtesy Ken. We walked just on 12km We climbed 1000mtrs. ave speed 3km/hr moving time just over 4hrs. Stopped time 3hrs max elevation 700mtrs.
A good number of 6 trampers, & one visitor + dog turned out for the 8:30 start for the tramp to the Gap via Yellow Ridge. 4 members of the group had not been there before, so it was a bit of an experience for them. We started by walking down to the tunnels, for the ones that had not seen them before, then it was along the old water race back onto the main track, where we had morning tea…
Morning tea break. (Ken pic and caption)
…at the grassed area before crossing the Waikouaiti River, & then climbing the steep track up to the new Philip J Cox hut for a breather.
We then carried on towards the Gap, but two of the new members were starting to struggle a bit by now, & as we approached the last couple of climbs up to the Gap, they decided that they would find a nice spot for lunch, & then go back down to the hut & wait for us there. The rest of us carried on to the Gap, where we had lunch,
Lunch at the Gap. (Ken pic and caption)
& admired the views.
View looking north from Gap. (Ken pic and caption)View looking South west from Gap. (Ken pic and caption)View looking South-West from Gap. (Ken pic and caption)
A quick trip was taken up to the trig on the northern side of the Gap to say we had been there, & then it was on with the packs, & back the way we had come. We caught up with the others at the hut, just a few minutes after they had got there, so an extended break was in order for refreshments,…
At Philip J Cox hut on the way back out. (Ken pic and caption)
…& another breather before the steep decent into the Waikouaiti River again.
At this time, one of the group decided that he would start off down the track, thinking that he had told somebody that he was leaving, & it was not until we all got about 15mins down the track that I noticed he was not in our group, & asked where he was. We stood around waiting, thinking that he was still behind us, but in the end I asked our fittest member if he would go back & check. While he was doing this, we decided that the others would go down to the bottom, & see if he was down there, while I stayed to wait on the member we had sent back up the track. All this took approx 1/2 hr to accomplish, so we knew we would be a bit late getting back to the cars. As it turned out, the missing member was at the bottom waiting for the rest of us to arrive, & was very apologetic for his mistake.
We took another break at the grassed area…
Resting at Philip J Cox hut on the way out. (Ken pic and caption)
…before we tackled the last climb up the steep track back to the cars. We had decided beforehand to go out the north end of Mountain Rd. as the road is in much better condition at that end. However, when we got to the last locked gate, we couldn’t unlock the padlock with the key that was given to us by City Forests, so it was about turn & drive all the way back to the south end & down to Waitati.
The weather was good, with no wind, & not too hot, & the low cloud that we observed when driving in was non existent when we got to the Gap. This is probably one of the harder tramps that we do, & is one that I might forgo in the future, although I managed it quite well, a result I put down to drinking Gatorade, & more fluids than I normally do on a tramp. – Ken.
4. 14/11/2012 Tunnels Track, Yellow Ridge, The Gap, Gap Ridge
GPS Yellow Ridge to The Gap, courtesy Ken. We climbed just over 1000mtrs. ave speed 3km/hr moving time just over 4hrs. max elevation 668mtrs.
Four intrepid trampers gathered at the Bush Rd. car park before setting off at 8:30am on an adventure that 3 of us had never done before. The fact that Dermot had managed to get a key from City Forests for the gates on Mountain Rd. saved us about 9km of walking time, as we were able to drive right to the start of the Tunnels track. We set off down this track at about 9:30, & went to explore the tunnels themselves, a new experience for 2 of the group. Arriving at the grassy area at the bottom by the river, we had morning tea, & then set off across the river, without getting wet feet, & started the relentless climb up Yellow Ridge. On reaching the new Philip J. Cox hut, we had a short break to regain our breath, admire the hut, it’s fixtures & facilities. {We even swept the floor when we left]
Ready for the next part of the trip. (Ken pic and caption)
The next task was to get to the Gap for lunch, however remote this possibility seemed as, the track actually goes past it, instead of towards it for a while, & you start to wonder when you will be getting closer.
Nearing the top with The Gap showing. (Ken pic and caption)
At this point, one member of the group decided that he would go back to the hut & wait for us there. We eventually did get to the Gap,
Sign at the top. Thank God for something to lean on. (Ken pic [taken by Heb] and caption)where we had lunch, then a short walk up to the trig on the top of the Northern part of the Gap,
Trig above Gap north rock. (Ken pic and caption)
where the views are magnificent, despite the lowering cloud/fog that had been hanging around all day. We then retraced our steps, carefully, due to the slippery nature of parts of the track that were very steep. Someone commented ” why didn’t they just provide a ladder” !! We stopped again at the Phipip J. Cox hut to have another drink, & to pick up our other group member, who we discovered had left a note for us, saying that he had left the hut 1/2 hr ago, & was making his way slowly back to the car. As we travelled back to the river, & up the Tunnels track, he had left numerous arrow signs, & the time that he had drawn them in the soft ground. So we knew how far in front of us he was, & when I arrived at the car, he had only been there about 3 minutes or so.
Everybody agreed that it was a worthwhile trip, & even although it’s a bit of a ‘gut buster’ it’s worth doing, but the early start, & the gate key is a must if you want to get home at a reasonable time. We made it back to the Bush Rd. car park just after 5pm, & I was home by 5:30pm. – Ken.
3. 20/2/2002 Tunnels Track, Yellow Ridge, The Gap, Gap Ridge Leaders: George, Ian, Hazel
Mountain Road, Tunnels track, Yellow Ridge, the Gap.
On Monday 4 Feb 2002, George Haggie, Hazel Leslie and Ian Fleming receed the route for the Taieri Recreational Tramping Club. We left Green Island meeting point at 8.30. On George’s prompting we drove further north and entered Mountain Road at Merton and drove 17 kms back to the Tunnels Track DoC sign on a good well metalled road arriving there a 9.30. The south branch of the Waikouaiti River was shallow enough but the track up to the manuka scrub was in poor condition with a large slip crossing it.
Once in the trees conditions improved greatly and it was most pleasant all the way to Yellow Hut which we found to be in poor condition inside. A DoC sign recommended going any further for experienced trampers only due to Silver Peaks notoriously changing weather conditions.
Beyond the hut we were into large tussock which being largely dry was not too much trouble to wade through although we walked more by faith than sight through the sea of tops, confirming we were still on the track with our feet. in many cases.
The route does a left-hand semicircle on a broad ridge. We lunched at the Gap at 12.15 in a very slight smirry rain but under dry rock overhang.
Returning, the tussock, now wet was much more difficult to push through, with the wet leaves lying lower onto the track, tangling our feet and tripping us up. The notorious steep never-ending climb back up from the Waikouaiti to Mountain Road keeps getting longer with more rest stops as one ages.
We got back to the car at 3 pm and continued round Mountain Road, now striking many potholes with several spots so severe as to be almost impassable. This part was 13 km from Tunnels Track to Waitati. The sandy road metal contrasts with the rock metal on the northern part and although a few kms shorter and with many main highway kms eliminated is not to be recommended at the moment. Returned home just on 5 pm, having driven 103 kms.
2. 23/2/2000. The Gap via Yellow Hut. Leaders: Margaret and Les, Ian.
1. 12/11/1997. Tunnels Track to Yellow Hut and Gap. Leaders: Les and Margaret, Claude.
3. 31/3/2021. Trampers. Maungatua Traverse. Leaders Eleanore Ryan, Heather Kirk and Arthur Heenan
One of our best tramps ever!!
26 of us were met by Richard from Good Tour Bus Company leaving at 8:25am and driving an hour up to the Woolshed road, past the sheep yards for 3kms (saved an uphill walk) on Horsehoof Station.
The finish is now the problem (Photo & caption Gordon Grant)
The weather was calm, with low cloud and fog in places. We set off up the access road for about 6kms to the summit at 895 metres.
On the way (Photo and caption Gordon)
Smoko was at 10:15am at the aerials, beside the boundary of the D.O.C. Reserve.
The fence into the Reserve was crossed and soon after a little detour to the rock outcrop was had to enable some to test their rock-climbing ability.
Rock Climbing (photo Pam Cocks)
We continued upwards following a faint track along the fence line, through scrub, dominated by dracophyllum. The summit in the rolling tops can now be hard to find as the trig has gone and only the base and a pole remain. This high point for us was reached at 11:30am. From here the views were truly spectacular.
Heading to the summit (Photo and caption Gordon)
This was the end of the days climbing, soon to be followed by about another 9kms down. We crossed the fence again and stopped for lunch at 12:15pm, amongst colourful, interesting plant varieties.
It was a great walk out in the afternoon, still enjoying beaut views, particularly the intricate set of channels, swamps, and lakes between Waipori and Lake Waihola, and, the Taieri river at the start of the gorge. Dunedin Airport was small in comparison to the vast Taieri plain.
View of Lakes Waipori and Waihola (photo Pam)
Continuing downhill we passed the lone rock outcrop before passing by The Three Kings rocks outcrop (which are much more of a landmark when viewed from the flood free highway). Finally, we came through a patch of native bush, including some great specimens of Beech trees. Then, rounding a bend we saw our bus was parked up waiting. We arrived to it at just after 3pm.
The bus is waiting down there (Photo and caption Gordon)
We covered about 16kms over 6 hours.
This MAUNGATUA Traverse was a first for all of us, apart from President Arthur. Our thanks to you Arthur for leading us today. Also, thanks to Heather for leading, along with Horsehoof Station Owners, the van Turnhouts at 3 Kings end and bus driver Richard Trainer.
I hope you all enjoyed this tramp as much as I did. We are so lucky to have strong bodies and good health to enjoy tramping in the hills we love.
Viewranger record of the tramp (Sarah McCormack)
19 km to Kempshall Rd.
2. 5/2/2003. All. Maungatua Traverse. Moderate. Bus. Leaders: Bob H, Ian, Lex.
1. 8/3/1995. Maungatua Traverse. Long Day. Bus at each end. Fare to be notified later. Leaders: Rob Q, George, Eric, Les W
No. 20 on old hardcopy list of 113 club tramps. “Powder Ridge – Long Ridge. J Roy. Year Round.”
No. 45 on old hardcopy list of 113 club tramps. “Chalkies Return Long Ridge D Jenkins Year Round”
10 trampers set out from Whare Flat to walk up and along Powder Ridge on a fabulous Dunedin day. We enjoyed birdsong along the Silver Stream and made three creek crossings before heading up the Powder Ridge track.
“Trampers dead keen to start.” – Photo and Caption Gordon“Some of the lovely native bush.” – Photo and Caption Gordon
The track was in a great condition, and although very steep in sections, steps cut into the hill make the climb less difficult.
“View of Mosgiel from the top.” – Photo and Caption Gordon
“Nearing the top in Kanuka.” – Photo and Caption Gordon
“Up to the knob.” – Photo and Caption Gordon
The vegetation changed from mostly Kanuka and ferns to more alpine plants, then tussock as we neared the 586 m high point.
“Lunch in the tussocks at the top.” – Photo and Caption Gordon.
Unfortunately wilding Douglas fir trees are becoming established in the tussock. After lunch enjoying the expansive views we began our return trip. A knotted rope on the first steep section aided us going down ( and up!)
“Heading down on the rope.” – Photo and Caption GordonLiquid and showers not far away.” – Photos and Caption Gordon
Neil and Carol had decided about two thirds of the way was enough for them today, and turned back……sensibly leaving 3 branch arrows along the track to ensure us they were safe & well!
With temperatures reaching into the high 20’s some of us were very happy to cool our feet on the creek crossings on the return trip.
A most enjoyable tramp of about 15 km.
Jill & Karen
12. 19/10/2016. Trampers. Powder Ridge. H. Leader: Arthur.
Eight Trampers made an early start from Mosgiel to conquer Powder Ridge.
The day began sunny and pleasant, but late showers were a possibility.
Parking at the Silverstream Pump-House, we had two river crossings to get onto the Powder Ridge Track. The water was deeper at the weir, giving some wet feet. Being well prepared, they changed into dry socks for the main tramp.
After crossing Powder Creek, we soon found the bottom of the Powder Ridge Track. It was 9.25 a.m. as we started uphill. About thirty minutes of stiff climbing got us up onto the ridge itself. The gradient eases off from here on.
Now seemed like a good time to stop for morning tea and a rest combined.
A stop in nice bush. (Helen pic and caption.)
The track was in good order, for what it is, but that lower part is just about ready for some track clearing – quite a lot of fern fronds overhanging it.
This is a bush track which follows the top of the ridge, ascending mostly, but with the occasional level stretch, or even descending briefly. We kept going, …
Going to the top of this hill. (Helen pic and caption.)
… and were finally onto the tussock, and reached the top of the track at noon plus five. We were on top of hill 586 metres. (See the map on page 8.03 in Antony Hamel’s book.), and we could see in all directions: – Saddle Hill and Mosgiel, Maungatua, the Lammermoors away in the distance, Mt Allan, Mt John, Lamb Hill, Pulpit Rock (the pulpit stood out clearly). Round further, – was that Mopanui away over there? – Swampy, and Flagstaff closer by.
It was the best spot in the world to sit down in the tussock and have our lunch. The sun shone down brilliantly, and no wind to contend with.
Lunch time. (Helen pic and caption.)
While others rested and recuperated, …
Bruce resting and a lovely view. (Helen pic and caption.)
… the leader did a short recce of the route down to the Long Ridge Track which was visible just below.
At 1.00 p.m. the return journey began, back the way we had gone up. After a while the clouds began to assemble above and later still a light wind appeared.
We kept moving, mostly going down now, but with a stop now and then …
Judy on a lovely bit of flat track. (Helen pic and caption.)
… to rest and regroup. Care was taken going down the steep portion at the bottom, and all were safely back to the Powder Creek junction by 3.20 p.m. where we had a snack/refreshment stop.
No sunshine left now, and a distant peal of thunder had been heard, we headed for the cars. Crossing the Silverstream, wet feet were ignored. Five minutes away from the cars, there was a mighty clap of thunder very close indeed.
But we beat the rain! Very large rain drops began falling as we drove out of the car park. Two km down the road, the rain pelted down, but had stopped by the time we were back to Mosgiel.
Our day’s tramp had covered 14.45 km (thanks, Margreet); the altitude gain must have been close to 500 metres.
The leader would be the first to admit that it had been rather a tough day for him, after the recent battle with the dreaded lurge, and was very pleased to return to the cars. The rest were just as pleased too, and can be very proud of themselves in achieving the day’s objective.
The leader was very gratified to hear that the whole group had thought that it had been a very good tramp, and had been enjoyed too.
Thanks to all. – Arthur.
11. 17/6/2015. Trampers. Powder Ridge.
Powder Ridge 2. GPS of route, courtesy Ken.
Having changed the days tramp from what was advertised, 6 of us set out for Powder Ridge. Only 2 of the group had done this tramp before, so were looking forward to a good day.
The Silverstream was very low, so there was no problem with wet feet on the 3 creek crossings encountered on the way to the start of the Powder Ridge Track.
We had morning tea at the Powder Ridge track sign, & spent some time here discussing computers, & anti-virus programs. Then it was up the steep, & still slippery 20 min. section at the start of the track, before the gradient eases off, & the going gets a lot easier. A well earned rest was taken before we carried on along the ridge.
My objective for the day was to get to the point where Powder Ridge joins up with Long Ridge, but even although we kept walking till 12:45pm we didn’t actually make it that far before I decided to stop for lunch, & turn back, as I didn’t want to be getting out too late in the day. So, we lunched in a relatively dry spot, with a smattering of sunshine,
Lunch stop. (Ken pic and caption)
then packed up & headed back out again. Progress was much quicker going out, due to it being mostly downhill, but we had to be very careful on the steep parts, which were still very slippery, as one member found out, not once, but 3 times. Luckily no injuries were sustained, so we had a short break at the bottom for a drink, then made our way back to the creek crossings. It was here that one member just had to get some water in their boots, I suppose it was inevitable that it would happen. The rest of the way back to the cars was uneventful, & we arrived back at the carpark just as the last of the hikers was leaving.
From the attached GPS route, you can see how close we got to my objective, so maybe another 1/4 hr. would’ve been enough to get there. – Ken.
10. 12/11/2014. Trampers. Powder Ridge.
Starting from the Pumphouse, we crossed the creek & made our way along to the broken weir to cross over to the Powder Ridge track. The first part of the track was quite muddy, but it got better as we gained altitude on this well maintained track.
We stopped occasionally to take in the views as we went up. On reaching the top we decided to have lunch there …
Lunch at top of Powder Ridge (Ken pic and caption)
… as the views were very good.
The clouds were starting to gather as we left our lunch spot, & a light shower of hail came through shortly after. Another shower of rain hit us as we got down near the bottom, but the sun was shining again when we reached the car.
It is now possible to walk all the way up to Pulpit Rock via this route, & the top end of Long Ridge. – Ken
9. 3/1/2012. Trampers. Powder Ridge from base, return.
GPS of route, courtesy Ken.
Five hardy trampers, & Finn the dog, decided to try their luck on Powder Ridge, after having a discussion over the phone about where to go. We left the car park at Whare Flat Pump House about 9:25 a.m. & made our way across the Silverstream over the old weir, & along the Powder Stream track to the junction with the Powder Ridge track , where we had morning tea. We then started the rather steep climb up Powder Ridge, until we reached the point where Powder Ridge swung across a small saddle to reach Longridge, & it was here we stopped for lunch amongst the tussock & scrub, in the sunshine.
Lunch on Powder Ridge. (Ken pic and caption)
Looking towards Pulpit Rock from Powder Ridge. (Ken pic and caption)
After lunch it was decided to abandon our packs, & make the short walk over onto Longridge, just to say ‘we had been there’. The view from there was quite good.
Looking back down Long Ridge from Powder Ridge. (Ken pic and caption)
We then retraced our steps back to the cars, arriving back around 4:10 p.m., having covered 14.6 km, & climbed over 500 mtrs.
Everybody agreed that it was a worthwile tramp, & enjoyed the day, although it was perhaps a bit steep for some, & I think there were some tired bods at the end. – Ken.
8. 15/10/2008 Trampers. Chalkies, Boulder Hill Track, Long Ridge, Powder Ridge triangle. Leaders: George, Ria
It was the longest tramp on the club’s programme. Six of us did the 7.5 hrs triangular circuit: one side being from the Chalkies to along the Boulder Hill track; the top side being Long Ridge; the third being down Powder Ridge.
First then, was to ford the Silverstream by the pump house and climb steeply up the left Chalkies track to reach the limestone ledge for morning tea a bit after ten.
Then just a little further up to the top and across to bypass the Powder Hill trig
Mosgiel. Saddle Hill, part of which pic forms the header of our homepage.
and then down and across to locate the Boulder Hill track to take us along to Long Ridge. The wind-blown fallen pine branches which we had to negotiate were too numerous to count.
The long trek up Long Ridge was broken by a 12.30 p.m. stop for lunch a short way past the zigzag which we had passed on our left. Then it was on and up …
One of the humps on Long Ridge
… along the (heavily overgrown fortunately with broom rather than gorse) track to finally reach the connection on the right with the top of Powder Ridge. The old fence-line route is overgrown but a marked route a little further up around a bend in Long Ridge led back to make for an easy climb to the fence at the top.
From there it was down the Powder Ridge,
Track scene on Powder Ridge
Track scene on lower Powder Ridge. Ria.
fortunately well cleared but still taking 2 hours before turning right at the Powder Creek Track junction, crossing Powder Creek, then the old concrete weir across the Silverstream, and so on down across the swing bridge and the ford by the Pump House to reach the cars again. – Ian
7. 13/7/2005. Trampers. Powder Ridge, Long Ridge, Chalkies. Leaders: Lex, Doug J.
6. 15/10/2003 Mountain Road, Pulpit Rock, Long Ridge, Powder Ridge. Silverstream. Car shuttle. Green Hut track pics only. Leaders: Lex, Ian
Up from Mountain Road. Lex, Arthur, Evelyn
Green Hut track. Pat
Green Hut site. Lex? Ian, Arthur, Doug.
5. 23/1/2002. Leishman – Powder Hill – Long Ridge – Powder Ridge
4. 17/9/1997. Powder Ridge and return. Leaders: Joyce, Eleanor, Wendy.
3. 9/4/1997. Boulder Hill Return via Ridge return Hamiltons Farm. Leaders: Nelson and Dot, jack R.
2. 19/2/1997. Powder Ridge – Long Ridge – Chalkies Leaders: Jack R, Doug and Myrie.
1. 27/2/1991. Powder Ridge to Long Ridge and return. A good bush tramp with a few steep parts. Harder. Leaders: George, Diana, Ray, Nel.
4. 27/1/2021. Trampers. Lamb Hill. Arthur and Peter.
Today 19 Trampers led by Arthur Heenan and Peter Horrell travelled to Hinden and completed around 14 km of farm tracks and paddock on Lamb Hill Station.
This Tramp took us through some magnificent scenery, starting by the Taieri and looking across at some of the Taieri Gorge railway on the opposite bank and you have to marvel at the workmanship of those early settlers who constructed the railway in such challenging conditions taking 11 years to get to Hinden , due to the difficult terrain and the recession in the 1880s cutting the work force from 700 to 30 for a period of time, but they persevered.
Morning tea was at 3 OClock Creek by the bridge.
Smoko. (Gordon pic and caption.)
The recent flooding was evident here with debris 3- 4 metres above the bridge. As we headed up the track
A very steep climb after morn. tea. (Gordon pic and caption.)
we got to see great views of the rocky outcrop formations,
The window. (Helen pic and caption.)
and the creek below showed how powerful the flow of flood water had scoured all the rocks clean in the valley below.
As we tramped higher we passed a shady face with all the tussocks in full flower. The countryside is responding to the rain. As we opened out onto the table top of pasture the farmland was quite stunning, to be so green at such an altitude.
The wind was getting up as we reached our lunch stop high on a rocky outcrop
Lunch out of the wind. (John pic and caption.)
looking down on the Taieri Railway
Rugged country. (John pic and caption.)
with views from two spots of two of the rail bridges and rock formations behind us sculpted by wind, water and time.
As we headed down we were soon out of the wind and overall it was very pleasant, and not too hot. The tracks have some steeper ups and downs with the recent rains making the schist base loose in places coming down hill.
A medium tramp with stunning scenery.
We called at the Hindon Railway station on the way out for a group photo at the stone statue
‘1,2,3 Woof woof’. (Phil pic and caption.)
of a sheep dog erected in recognition of the contribution of working dogs who made farming the land possible.
Eleven of us travelled up to Hindon in fog/cloud which obscured all views. However it was clear down in the Taieri Gorge where we parked beside the combined road/rail bridge.
Neils number from right, 1, 2, and 3 so we don’t get them mixed up. (Helen pic and caption.)
We began our tramp by walking across the bridge and onto Lamb Hill Station and then following the Taieri River upstream.
A morning tea stop was taken at 10.15 on the river bank,
Morning tea by river and train line. (Helen pic and caption.)
and just as we prepared to move on, the Taieri Gorge Train went past, going up the other side.
Taieri Gorge train. Some waved to us. (Helen pic and caption.)
After crossing Three O’Clock Stream it was uphill for some time, the clouds obligingly shading us from the sun to give very pleasant conditions as we expended energy.
When the farm road reached the top, a weak spot in the fence under the long row of pine trees allowed us onto a high knob …
Knob at top of tramp. (Margreet pic and caption.)
… with a great view down into the Taieri Gorge at the mouth of Deep Stream.
We came to the farm sheds (on the McFee Block) at 12.15, where we met the manager for a good catch up.
The cloud quickly dispersed now and we ate our lunch in brilliant sunshine beside a shed. It was the place to be as we could look across at the main block of Lamb Hill and much further.
An unhurried lunch …
Lunch at top by farm sheds. (Helen pic and caption.)
… was taken (why would anyone want to hurry from such a great spot?) before turning for home. A slightly different route was followed until it was onto the farm road for the downhill bit, the same we had ascended on earlier.
Down and down in the sunshine, along the riverbank, across the bridge and we were back at the cars.
Distance for the day was the tiniest tad under 13 km, but it should be noted here that the leader and one un-named person actually did 15 km in retrieving a forgotten camera from our lunch stop!
It had been a most enjoyable ramp, and one to be done again. A good turnout of 11 trampers also added to the enjoyment of the day.
Thanks to all. – Art.
2. 1/10/1998 Hindon railway left side Lamb Hill Station. Wenita Permit. George
1. 20/3/1996 Hindon railway – left side Lamb Hill Station Leaders: Doug & Myrie, Mary Y, Denise
25/3/2020. Trampers. Jubilee Hut from Silver Peaks Station.
A large group left carpark at 8:30 am to drive an hour up George King Memorial Drive, onto Hindon Road—-drove through early fog, and down past Ardachy (where we were spotted half a dozen peacocks), over the Taieri river rail/road bridge, then up past Lamb Hill on Silverpeak road to end of road at Silverpeak Station. Mike and Ginny Cowie own the large 2,500 hectare Station, home to 7,000 stock units (sheep and Beef cattle).
23 eager trampers(including Gordon’s daughter) headed off on a very calm, sunny morning at 9:30am
The start of a big day!I (Pam pic and caption.)
and stopped for smoko at 10:10am.
Morning Tea stop (Always with a view.)9John caption and pic)
Gordon and daughter Kim ,enjoying the sunshine. (John pic and caption.)
We followed the rough vehicle track up the left fork of Christmas creek continuing up the north side of the Valley.
Those views again. (John pic and caption.)Happy Tramper lineup. (John pic and caption.)
This is steep tussock country which has been oversown and grazed to create productive pasture. Mount John hut(an unused Musters hut owned by Silverpeak station) sits on the right hand side of the track).
The undulating walk continued until 11:50am to the junction of Cave creek, at this point the majority walked on another ten minutes to have a look at Homestead (or Christmas creek hut), also owned by Silverpeak station.
The strange patina on Orange Hut. (John pic and caption.)The Team’ at Sarah.The Team’ at Orange hut. (Sarah pic and caption.)
Meanwhile, the smaller group headed off towards the 1.5km walk up along Cave creek to Jubilee hut, waiting half way to regroup. Arthur had carried Loppers expecting to have to use them, however, Green Hut volunteers had the track clear. The original Jubilee hut was opened in 1951 on the left hand side of the creek, it was built in a cold spot. Signpost indicating Jubilee hut 100 metres on——that person had a long stride—— a very long 100 metres!
We had to cross Cave creek a couple of times—cooling on the feet.
Nearing Jubilee hut. (Gordon pic and caption.)
We arrived at Jubilee hut at 12:50pm. This 10 bed hut was built in 2007, some 300 meters up in a sunny spot with great views,
Panoramic view to admire. (John pic and caption.)
at about 600 metres. Staff and materials were flown in by helicopter (over 30 trips). Cost $70,000+. It is well used and just recently a booking system has been introduced.
All enjoyed a leisurely lunch in the sun and hut
Lunch at Jubilee Hut. (John pic and captionSorry Heather ,I can’t find the delete button! (John. pic and caption.)
before heading back along the undulating track,
Heading to the finish. (Gordon pic and caption.)
having rest/water stops along the way. The A team arrived back at 3:35pm, followed by B team at 4:00pm. Followed by an hour’s drive home.
This tramp was a new one for 18 members (1 driver wondered where he was going to end up). It was 2015 when 7 from the club were last there. So——-the 2 Leaders made mental note to self———Been there—Done that!!
Was a great way to spend the day In those very vast hills of Silverpeak Station, good company, good weather—-good life. – Eleanore and Arthur.
11/3/2015. Trampers. Jubilee Hut from Silver Peaks Station.
After a doubtful start to the day with quite heavy rain during the night, [I was worried about high creek levels] 7 hardy trampers turned up for the trip to Jubilee Hut via Silverpeaks Station. We arrived there just before morning tea time so set off along the track to find a spot to stop for morning tea. Then it was on to visit Orange Hut [Homestead Hut, Christmas Creek Hut, whatever you want to call it] having missed the turn off to go down to Cave creek, which has lost it’s large white plastic container that acted as a marker for the start of the track. We then backtracked a bit to the track leading down to Cave Creek valley, & made our way over a few more creek crossings & up to Jubilee Hut for lunch.
Two of the party had their lunch on the track about 10 mins from the hut, & one of them decided to walk back out again on their own, thinking we would catch up with them later. After lunch, we went down to the creek from the hut, & Ian [being the fittest] was voted by me, to go & photograph the sign at the old Jubilee Hut site,…
Sign at site of old Jubilee Hut (Ian pic, Ken caption)
…so we would know what it said. Then it was back along the track retracing our morning steps. When we got to the top track again, I decided that I needed to attend to a sore patch developing on my left foot, so Ian & I stopped while I attended to that. Just as I was finishing, we heard somebody calling out from nearby, & the next thing the person who had set off on their own appeared looking rather worried [lost !!] they had not noticed the sharp LH turn onto the track leading back to Silverpeaks Station homestead, & had instead gone straight ahead along the track towards Orange Hut. We pointed them in the correct direction, & they set off with what I would imagine was some relief. Shortly after this we all met up again into one group, & set off to our next adventure !
One party member while crossing the Christmas Creek where it doubles back on itself, slipped on a rock, & very slowly, & not so gracefully, first put a hand down to steady themselves, but that didn’t work, so they ended up sitting in the creek. [Oh I wish I had my camera handy !!] So this guaranteed a wet walk back to the cars for this person, but they did dry out rather quickly I think.
The rest of the walk out was very uneventful, compared to earlier happenings, & we all arrived back at the cars safe & well. We arrived back at Mosgiel about 5pm from memory.
Something we learnt today was :
1: We MUST stay together better as a group, or one day somebody will get properly lost.
2: Walking poles are handy for crossing creeks, even if you don’t think you need them!!
We walked 16km
3.8km/hr ave.
Climbed 876mtrs.
Max elev. 426mtrs.
– Ken.
12/2/2014. Trampers. Three Huts.
Distance to Jubilee Hut without going to Christmas Creek Hut =15.75km
Add on another 1 1/2 – 2 km for the extra distance to Christmas Creek Hut.
Walking time = 4hrs 25min; Moving Ave = 3.6km/hr; Total ascent = 919 mtrs.
7 hardy souls turned up at 8:30 on a wet misty day at the Mosgiel car-park to go to Silverpeaks Station for our tramp to Mt. John Hut/Christmas Creek Hut/Jubilee Hut.
It was good to see that the ones going on the Motatapu trip were carrying their large tramping packs filled with a bit more weight than they would normally carry.
It took an hour to drive to the starting point, & as it was not looking brilliant weather wise, we decided against going up to Mt. John Hut, & proceeded along the track a bit further for morning tea break. The double crossing of Christmas creek was done without mishap, & we continued on to the turn-off to Cave creek valley.
Most of us dropped our packs here & carried on to Christmas Creek Hut, [which is also know as Homestead Hut, & Orange Hut.] …
Some of the party at Orange Hut, also known as Homestead Hut, and Christmas Creek Hut. (Ken pic and caption)
… before returning & heading down to Cave Creek & the walk up the valley to Jubilee Hut.
The track above the boundary gate is getting badly overgrown with bracken fern, but it is still relatively easy going, but we got rather wet from the knees down as the scrub was holding water from the rain showers.
Up to this point we had only worn our rain jackets for a short time, during a light shower, but as we approached Jubilee Hut the rain drops started appearing again, so we managed to get to the hut before the weather let loose with a heavy shower which continued right through our lunch break, & beyond.
George writing in the Jubilee Hut visitors book. Note the inclement weather through the window. (Ken pic and caption)
After finishing lunch, we were all sitting around wondering how much longer the heavy rain was going to last, when it started to ease, & the visibility improved enough so we could look back down valley & see Christmas Creek Hut, so we decided to put on wet weather gear again, & start heading back to the cars.
By the time we got to the end of the Cave Creek valley, the rain had ceased, so it was off with the wet weather gear again. The only problems with the Cave Creek crossings were some wet feet, & Ken landing on his butt after stepping on a slippery rock. Just as well he had on his waterproof leggings, or he would’ve got a wet butt, as well as one boot full of water.
We made it back to the cars before the approaching rain, which we had seen coming some time before, & had a wet ride all the way back home.
There were some very tired trampers at the end of the day, they were not used to carrying the bigger packs with more weight in them, however, it was a good opportunity to ‘shake-down’ the equipment. – Ken
15/5/2013. Trampers. Mount John Hut and Beyond.
Route of tramp, courtesy Ken. We walked 13.5km, 4km/hr ave. 3h 22m moving. Climbed 814m !!! Max elev. 652m
The day started at 8:30 from Mosgiel carpark, with a very misty/foggy outlook on the Taieri, but we were hopeful that it would be clearer inland. When we were about 3/4 of the way to Hindon, the fog/mist just disappeared, & we were looking at quite a nice day.
We arrived at Silverpeaks station at 9:30. & set off towards Mt. John Hut where we had morning tea, & examined the log entries carved into the woodwork of the hut. [There is no log book in the hut.]
Morning tea at Mt John Hut. (Ken pic and caption)Looking back down at Mt John Hut and Christmas Creek (Ken pic and caption)
After leaving the hut we made our way up the track towards the top of Mt. John, but we took a wrong turn, which led us off to the NE side of Mt. John. However as it was already 12:30 when we reached the top, we decided to have lunch in the sun, & admire the views in all directions.
Wenita wasteland from our lunch stop. (Ken pic and caption)
We then retraced our steps back to the car, & arrived back in Mosgiel at 4:00pm.
Climbing Mt. John was a bit of a grunt at times, & only suitable for the fitter members. If we had gone to our original destination of Popular Hut, that would’ve been another 3hrs or more walking. [Estimate], & it’s a long climb back up again!!! – Ken
5/1/2011. Trampers. Orange and Jubilee Huts from Silver Peaks Station.
16 -17km, including side trip to Christmas Creek Hut. Numerous creek crossings. If the creeks are high, you will get wet feet.
A reasonably hard 8-9 hr. day if you include travelling and break stops. Fortunately, 4WD road along Christmas Creek true right largely follows contour line with relatively short ups and downs.
GPS of routes Homestead/Christmas Creek/Orange Hut (left fork) and Jubilee Hut. (Courtesy Ken)
Double ford on Christmas Creek. 2nd out of sight. Dry detour to left if water high. (Ken pic)
Track beside Cave Creek.
Track washout. Cave Creek. (Ken pic)
Gate on track up Cave Creek. Heavy bracken overgrowth in places.
Sign indicating ABC Cave to right, Mountain Rd car park to left, and 100m (seemed much longer!) up to Jubilee Hut,
Jubilee Hut. (Ken pic)
Bunks inside Jubilee Hut. (Ken pic)
Plaque
Steep Climb out of Cave Creek crossing. (Ken pic)
Crossing Christmas Creek on emerging from Cave Creek gully (Ken pic)
29/12/2010. Orange/Homestead/Christmas Creek Hut from Silver Peaks Station. -‘ recce’.
Morning Tea stop on ‘recce’. (Ken pic)
Jubilee Hut from Homestead Hut. (Ken pic)
Mount John Private Hut, Silver Peaks Station. (Ken pic)
Homestead/Christmas Creek/Orange Hut. (Ken pic)
Plastic jerry can marker at top of track forking right to Jubilee Hut. (Ken pic)
Track to Jubilee Hut. Devil’s Staircase in background upper left. (Ken pic)
24/3/1999. Jubilee Hut and return. Leaders: Les & Margaret, Bev H
[No. 7 on old hardcopy list of 113 club tramps. “Creamery Rd. Ocean View. C Hughes. Farm. Lambing.”
Not during lambing September to October.
USE STILE AT END OF CREAMERY ROAD.
No. 84 on old hardcopy list of 113 club tramps. “Taieri View (Blairs) (East Taieri) Farm”
No. 104 on old hardcopy list of 113 club tramps. “Old Brighton Rd – Clevelands – Saddle Hill (See George Haggie) Farm”]
42. 14/10/2020. Trampers. Leaders: Jill Dodd and Peter Gillespie
If we were to believe the weather forecast for Wednesday, some people would have been deterred by the gale force winds, rain and snow down to about 400m but no, 15 hardy trampers set off from the carpark by the bridge on Stage Coach Rd. We walked up to Saddle Hill Rd in the full force of a very strong south west wind. Even though we had amazing views over the Taieri plains and beyond it was hard to find a slightly sheltered spot at the lookout for morning tea . Carrying on past Jaffreys hill to Scurr road where we descended to Ronganui (place of the soul) the property of Colin Mackintosh and Marjorie Orr, who escorted us through their property .
Photo and Caption Wendy – “Colin McIntosh and Marjorie Orr”
This is a little hidden treasure. A QE11 Covenent area on the east side of Saddle Hill. There is 20 hectares of regenerating native coastal forest Totara, Rimu, Kahikatea, Miro, Matau and Kanuka.
Photo and Caption Wendy – “Natives everywhere”.
Another 20 hectares of liquorice all sorts – a collection of exotic trees – Eucalyptus species, Macrocarpa, Californian Redwood, Tasmanian Blackwood and Pinus Radiata.
Bird song was all around us as we traversed the tracks and bridges meandering the property. This is all maintained by the owners who are the guardians of the land.
Photo and Caption Sarah – “The walk through the bush was special.”
The previous owner had done the planting of the exotics and the little stream the Murray River named after him.(His wife was a member of our tramping club -Eleanor Watt)
The stream was a very vivid orange colour and when Dave broke the dam! (of a couple of sturdy branches) the water movement was quite sluggish and gel like.
Photo and Caption Wendy – “Dave removing the dam.”
It is an iron ore residue from the now disused coal mines that are on the hillside .
A real surprise for us all was when Colin dug into an old rotten log where he finally found a Peripatus a living ancient velvet worm like creature. These worms have been around for 500 million years and found throughout NZ.
Photo and Caption Wendy – “Finding peripatus in old logs.”
These slightly blueish insignificant small creatures with 15 pairs of legs and 2 front antennae exist in this undisturbed environment but had created much excitement with the researchers at the museum when 1st found here. Lunch in the forest at a designated picnic area so very sheltered we were oblivious to the outside world.
Photo and Caption Sarah – “Lunch in a designated spot”.
The walk concluded by reading a poem, dedicated to the greatness of trees, and looking at the 30year old kauri tree.
Photo and Caption Wendy – “The poem”.
Photo and Caption Jill – “The 30 year old kauri tree.”
Photo and Caption Wendy – “Outstanding views!”
There was a car shuttle back to the bridge but we probably tramped about 14 kms and the rain (apart from a quick shower) stayed away till after we had our coffee and debrief at Blend. Only a week late from the expected visit of Judith Collins and her team and they still had cheese rolls in the cabinet!
An interesting day shared by some very passionate landowners so close to home.
41. 16/3/2019. Hikers. Saddle Hill. Leaders: Bob and Jenny.
Today was my 1st official time at being “the Tail end Charlie” with fluro jacket.
I’m often at the back but not with a fluro.. there were 21 hikers and our 3 lovely ramblers. I think I got the numbers right???
We met in a paddock in McMasters Road. I presume Bob had permission?
The hike up the Saddle was the one that the Rotary had done as a fundraiser for the Mosgiel Pool. We had morning tea at the entrance to the scrub area,after which we climbed up a stoney track.It was good workout for us all. We came out to a clearing with fabulous views of wonderful coast line. Quite a few minutes were taken to enjoy and then we carried on up to the top for a photo shoot.
(Alex photo.)
More panoramic views were taken in before we went down the hill,out of the cool breeze, and had a leisurely lunch looking out over the Taieri. We then wandered down the hill and out onto Saddlehill Road and back to the cars. Coffee was at the Village Green. Thanks Bob. – Jenny.
40. 19/9/2018. Trampers. Saddle Hill circuit. Leader: Eleanor.
On a very warm spring morning 14 trampers set off from Quarry road and walked up Coal Stage and Saddle Hill roads then down McMaster road. Enjoying a great display of Kowhai in full bloom, also a mix of blossom and animals along the way. One member recalls riding horses as a girl on a property we passed.
Just the best Kowhai forest around. (Phil pic and caption.)
We enjoyed smoko break overlooking the ocean. At this point with the sun shining brightly upon us, we decided to do an add on.
Welcome morning tea break after earlier start. (Gordon pic and caption.)
Turning onto Old Brighton road we headed to Fairfield, then crossed over to Flower street walked up the couple of hills crossing a stile into the water tank paddock. Once again (on both sides of the rather steep stile) with more great views, lunch and chatting was enjoyed.
View of Kaikorai Valley from lunch. (Gordon pic and caption.)Donkeys on Chain Hill road. (Gordon pic and caption.)
We then walked along Chain Hill road and back down Quarry road to our cars.
View of Mosgiel from overbridge. (Gordon pic and caption.)
Blend was the chosen coffee shop, we enjoyed catching up with 2 members unable to tramp on the day.
We reckon we walked 15 km, give or take a little.
Great to be back out with such an enthusiastic group of friends.
– Cheers Eleanore
(12/2/2017.)
Route map
39. 6/4/2016. Both. A Circumnavigation of Saddle Hill, majoring on the seaward slopes. Leaders: Bob, Doug and Arthur.
The Hikers took the bus, the Trampers, the beach.Apr 6 Tramp Saddle Hill 2016. … Distance not counting the bus travel 10.2 km. (Bruce pic and caption)
Trampers’ Report. Saddle Hill to the Sea. – Arthur.
Being the first Wednesday of the month, this was a combined operation. Together with the Hikers, our group parked beside the wool-shed on Saddle Hill Road, before walking through the “Saddle” and down through farmland on the other side. Special thanks to the landowners for giving us permission to do so. A suitable spot was found at 10 o’clock for morning tea.
All twenty-seven of us at morning tea, part-way down the slope.The view from our morning tea spot.
The two groups then split, with the Trampers forging ahead, as they had further to walk. We had 8 trampers now, and it was noticed that the 2 men were outnumbered by the ladies.
Continuing down through the sheep farm we climbed a style out on to Creamery Road. Going down the road now, we could view several lifestyle blocks with new houses on them. At the bottom of the hill a large contractor’s yard had obviously had much money spent on it.
Contractor’s Yard
We arrived down at the main road to Brighton at Ocean View. After a short walk along the road we were able to gain access to the beach at the car-park (Freedom Campers spot). Good use of the facilities here was made for a comfort stop.
The tide was well out, just beginning to come back in, allowing us to walk on good firm sand for several kilometres. Other people were making use of the beach too – walking, exercising dogs and especially horses.
The Kaikorai Stream was closed to the sea, allowing us to return to the road on the Waldronville side, past the Pistol Shooting Club. The walk along the beach took a neat hour. We found a suitable lunch stop beside the car park at the road.
The Trampers’ lunch spot. (Helen pic)
From there we had to walk across the bridge and along the road a short distance. It was a little difficult climbing through a fence back onto farmland – several comments were made at this time about some not being as young as they used to be!
Trampers. A fence scramble. (Helen pic)
With the Green Park Cemetery on our left we had a very pleasant uphill walk through the large field, but with one especially steep pinch, before squeezing around the end of a gate and out onto the Old Brighton Road – closed long ago by a large slip.
Along the Old Road and then up McMaster Road a short distance, before taking a short-cut through private property. A donkey brayed a welcome as we passed, and then the lady was gardening at the house.
Coming back onto McMaster Road, we found three of the Hikers talking to the man of the house at his mailbox. The road levelled off, and soon we were back to Saddle Hill Road where we caught up with the Hikers with about a kilometre to go.
There were good views from here of Mosgiel, …
Mosgiel from lookout.
… the Taieri and beyond. In fact we had great views all day on this tramp, and good weather to go with them.
Our combined tramp could not have been more successful, as both groups began and finished the day together.
A big thank-you to Bob for this. Everyone was back to the cars by 2.15 p.m. The Trampers covered a distance of about 14 km (estimated).
***** SAFE TRAMPING IS NO ACCIDENT *****
– Arthur.
Hikers’ Report.
As Arthur has covered most of the day’s main points, this need be only a supplementary one.
Where Creamery Road joins Brighton Road, various options emerged. Some drifted off: one had a car waiting for her, another walked to her home nearby, others shortened their walk by walking on the seaward side of the road to earlier catch the bus to Brighton and back. The remainder walked towards Brighton and waited at a convenient bus stop to catch the returning bus. The driver put on a mock-stern display, questioning our age entitlement and closely examining our Gold Cards. We had made his day, as we disported ourselves around his empty bus. From the Green Park Cemetery gates we made our way uphill behind the cemetery and were surprised (well, this reporter was) to see the beginnings of an eco-burial site of about twelve plots, aligned alongside a clump of bush, each plot planted with a native plant.
We lunched in a sheltered spot a little further on up the hill.
Hikers at lunch part way up hill.
…. Much further on, as we turned from McMaster Road into Saddle Hill Road, we were surprised and delighted to find ourselves caught up by the Trampers . The timing couldn’t have been better. Excellent planning, Bob. This has to have turned out the most rewarding “together-Tramp” yet! – Ian.
Cars parked at the southern entrance to the Green Park Cemetery. The leaders took us directly up through paddock from behind the cemetery, to swing right …
GPS of round route from Greenpark Cemetery south gate.
… and continue on
View en route. Blackhead (Liz pic)
Green Island
Another view en route. Green Island (Liz pic, using zoom lens, no doubt.)
to eventually reach the style at the top of Creamery Road. Down the road to the Brighton Road, north along here to drop of Bruce and Marjorie at the home and on to the Ocean View domain for lunch.
Out onto the beach and a long walk to arrive near the Kaikorai Estaury. Through sand hills, skirt estaury, through horse yards, out onto the Brighton Road, and back along to the cars.
37. 29/9/2010. Trampers. Saddle Hill from Old Brighton Road. Leaders: Keith and Glenis.
GPS Route Map, courtesy Ken.
Eight of us set off over a paddock much hollowed with slumps betraying old coal mine workings, caused probably by wooden props long since rotted, up towards Saddle Hill. (See last pic below.) As we approached the bush ahead of us, we were glad to be able to follow a cleared track that wound up to our left, foregoing the former track we used to take to the right, now heavily infested with gorse. The track further up was well grassed, but just SO boggy and wet, although drier in places. One such place was ideal for an early morning tea.
Morning Tea on log. (Ken pic)
On up through a second property and we crossed McMasters Road into a third property taking us up to the bush around Saddle Hill.
Bush track entrance.
The track through the bush took us round to the seaward side grassy slope and then it was up to another bush entrance for the last push to the top (473m, according to Ken), where there were views galore for our cameras. 11.00 a.m. and far too early for lunch.
Emma (Ken pic)
Saddle Hill trig. (Emma pic)
Mosgiel from Saddle Hill (Ken pic)
View south from Saddle Hill
We made our way down over a very bouldery grass paddock to Saddle Hill road, round into McMasters Road again to reach the place we had ascended, and then it was back down again. We found a most pleasant lunch spot softened by thick pine needles and sheltered in by pines. Then it was down and through the much-slumped paddock back to the cars.
Coal Mine slumps.
36. 27/2/2008. Hikers, Saddle Hill, Taieri Lookout, Medium. Leaders Dot Bennett, Chris
35. 25/1/2006. Trampers. Saddle Hill from Stevensons Farm. Medium. Leaders: George, Hazel.
34. 27/4/2005. Both. Creamery Road, Saddle Hill, Watts BushLeaders: Joyce, Hazel, Eleanor W, Eleanor B
33. 14/4/2004. Trampers. Saddle Hill via Creamery Road. Medium. Leaders: Doug J, Molly
28. 11/6/2003. Both. Saddle Hill through Pearsons.
Year round. Park overhead bridge. Contacts: Seek permissions. The Grange. Phone for appointment for permission to tramp on this property. “We like to see you face to face.” (Paddock with coal mine entrance and tram line track)
Park cars at motorway overhead bridge. Leaders: George, Hazel, Jack & Rosemary.
23. 9/8/2000.Saddle Hill and Jaffray Hill from the overhead bridge. Average. Leaders: George, Hazel, Molly
22. 9/8/2000. Saddle Hill – Walnut Grove. Park Overhead Bridge.Leaders: George, Hazel, Molly.
21. 31/5/2000 Saddle Hill, Law Road, from carpark. Long Tramp. Leaders: Lance & Lois, Betty B 20. 7/2/2000 Creamery Road Finnies, McIntosh (frmly Watts) Bush, return Scroggs Hill, Brighton Road, Beach. Nelson & Dot, Winnifred 19. 8/12/1999. Creamery Road, Watts Bush, Scroggs Hill. Leaders: Dot B, Joan H, Bob H. 18. 25/8/1999. Car Park, Saddle Hill, Law Road. Long tramp. Leaders: Frank and Lesley, Arthur and Barbara. Return Silverstream to car park. Long tramp. Leaders: Wendy, Evelyn M, Eleanor B, Hartmann 17. 24/3/1999. Creamery Road – Ocean View. Leaders: Doug and Ngaire, W W. 16. 20/5/1998. Creamery Road, Saddle Hill. Leaders: Daphne, Margaret D. 15. 1997 Saddle Hill, Jaffrays Farm, East Taieri Scouts Hall. Leaders: George, Betty B, Wendy 14. 26/11/1997. Saddle Hill, Fulton Hogans, Hills Clevelands etc. 5 hour tramp. Leaders: George, Betty B, Wendy. 13. 13/8/1997. Saddle Hill, Scroggs Hill, Walnut Grove. Leaders: Les W, Frank, Jack M. 12. 2/10/1996. McLeods – Saddle Hill. Average. Meet Ocean View carpark. Leaders: Eric & Dot, Pat 11. 6/9/1995. Creamery Road, Watts Bush, Scroggs Hill. Medium.Leaders: Eric and Dot, Joan H, Chris 10. 16/8/1995. Saddle Hill, Old Brighton Road, Taieri Lookout, Chain Hill, Fairfield. Medium. Meet at Fulton Hogan Yard, Old Brighton Road. Leaders: Rob Q, Nelson & Dot, Molly 9. 24/7/1996. Jaffrays and Saddle Hill from East Taieri Scout Hall. Average. Leaders: Dot T, Les and Mavis. 8. 15/6/1994. Creamery Road, Saddle Hill, Watts Walk (now Finnies, McIntosh), Scroggs Hill. Leaders: Eric & Dot, Chris, Joan H. 7. 28/7/1993. Start from car park, Saddle Hill to Law Road. Long Tramp. Leaders: Wendy, Evelyn M, Eleanor B, Hartmann 6. 23/6/1993 Creamery Road Finnies, Watts Bush (now McIntosh), return Scroggs Hill. Medium but long. Cars at Ocean View Picnic Ground. Leaders: Eric & Dot, Jack M, Joyce S 5. 20/11/1989. Saddle Hill and Jaffray Hill from the overhead bridge. Average. Leaders: Mavis, Peg A, Margaret S, Daphne 4. 30/3/1988 Saddle Hill and Jaffray Hill. A little bit of history. Meet at Saddle Hill Lookout. Leaders: Daphne, Peg A 3. 18/9/1991 Green Park – Saddle Hill, returning via Hare Street and beach. Splendid coastal views. Cars meet at Green Park Cemetery. Average. George, Eric & Dot, Les W 2. 20/9/1989 Creamery Road, Ocean View. Average. Meet Ocean View carpark. Leaders: Mary Y, Daphne, Betty B, Margaret D 1. 24/3/1989 Creamery Road, Ocean View. Leaders: Doug M, Eleanor W
Nicols Creek circuit Maintained by Green Hut Track Group. DCC land.
Pineapple Track—the curious name of this track originates from a tradition involving a local grocer in the 1920’s. He guided parties up a track in this area and would provide tinned pineapple as a refreshment at the top. The empty cans were left as litter.
4. 24/6/2020 FLAGSTAFF WALKWAY ONTO SWAMPY RIDGE TRACK and RETURN. Leader Eleanore
After a couple of head counts our group of 24 (including 3 new faces) arrived at the Bull Ring at 10am to a very foggy morning. As well as us, staff were parked up waiting to spread gravel on Pineapple and Firebreak tracks, that was to be dropped by helicopter. We commented that it would be something new to look at as we were walking.
After a short sharp climb we arrived at the Plane Table marked by a drainpipe at a height of round 660 metres for smoko, still in fog and no views we headed off again down and around to the Pineapple junction, passing by damage caused by a fire last year.
Photo and Caption John – “Morning tea – not to be MIST!”
This section of the Pineapple track was wet and slippery along with the odd patch of icy puddles, we had to make sure we kept our feet firmly on the ground!!
Photo and Caption Gordon – “You couln’t have MIST this group of trampers.”
Photo and Caption Gordon – “Still slogging up hill!”
We arrived at the junction of Swampy and Firebreak tracks at 11am, then continued through more mud, noticing quite a lot of broom had been recently cut down—-thanks to those concerned.
After some climbing along the way, passing Moon, Powerline, and Telecom Microwave Station tracks, we arrived at the Aircraft Navigation Station at the Swine Spur junction at 12:15pm. Up till now, the only sight to be seen was the person in front of you!! Occasionally, one hoped for the fog to lift, so the amazing views could be enjoyed—so far, not happening.
Photo and Caption John – “Lunch at Swampy summit.”Photo and Caption John – “Gotcha Dave!”
At 12:40pm, after a shortened lunch it was time to head for home, negotiating the slippery, slidey slopes along the way reaching the Firebreak junction in 1 hour, we took the shortcut back onto Flagstaff track, and enjoyed the mostly downhill walk to the cars, arriving at 2:30pm.
Photo and Caption Gordon – “Homeward bound.”
The boots covered a good 13kms.
This was the first tramp with the Club I have been on that the fog never lifted the entire day. We were ready for coffee, cake and a yarn to celebrate our achievement at Blackstone Cafe.
As always, I hope you all enjoyed the day as much as I did.
Eleanore
3. 16/9/2009. Bullring, Flagstaff Walkway, Swampy Ridge, Moon, Nicols Creek Track, New Track across to Pineapple, Pineapple, McGouns, Davies , Flagstaff Walkway Firebreak/Bullock, Bullring. Leaders: Ria, Hazel.
We walked from the Bullring across Flagstaff and Swampy Ridge until sheltering for morning tea stop some way down the upper Moon Track,
Morning tea on upper Moon. (Ken pic). Ian and Doug. Ria and Hazel partially hidden.
then crossing to the other side of the valley.
Walking across headwaters from Moon on one side to Nicols Track on the other. Doug, George.
Perhaps it was the thinner foliage of early spring, but none of us had remembered noticing before the huge old tree trunk just below Nicols Creek track, with growth still struggling for its old branches far above us if we craned our necks.
George making a close examination of extraordinarily large trunk which he identified as a Kahikatea.
View across to the motorway from one of the few open patches on Nicols Track. Doug, George.
Ria and Hazel surprised us with a track leading off to the right just a little further on.
Surprising track off to the right. Doug, George.
It took us through brief bush out into heavy grass and scrub and led almost vertically uphill diagonally back from the way we had come, and eventually, after a few hundred metres of stiff climbing, coming out onto overgrown pasture and across to join the Pineapple Track just above the point where it enters the bush.
By taking us on this novel route, our leaders avoided any road work, as we were able to descend the Pineapple track and join the McGouns track to come out at the partially vandalised stone cairn and plaque marking City Forests 100 years of forestry planting by the Dunedin City Council begun in 1906. Its surrounding seating made a good place for lunch.
Lunch at plaque. (Ken pic). Ian, George, Doug, Ria, Hazel.
The plaque. (Ken pic).
From there, a short walk along Drummonds Street connected us with Davies Track, which zigzagged up through regenerating natives to eventually continue climbing through mature bush.
Rest stop in Bush on Davies Track. Ria, Ken, Doug.
Dunedin from Davies Track above bushline.
Above the bush line, it was then through tussock and flax till we reached the Flagstaff Walkway. We decided to take the Firebreak/Old Bullock Track back to the cars. – Ian.
9. 18/3/2020 Trampers. Bendoran, Mt Misery, The Gap, ABC caves. Leaders – Arthur and Eleanore
On Wednesday 18 March, 4 trampers had wood, coal, gas and food packed into 2 cars ready to travel 60 km to Bendoran for 2 nights. Along the way we met up with the other couple in their car. We travelled up to the old Cherry Farm site, onto McGrath road—then a very dusty trip up the gravel road to Bendoran. On arrival, we tidied the hut, lit the coal range and had lunch.
Photo and Caption Gordon – “We have arrived at Bendoran Hut.”
On a lovely sunny afternoon, with Arthur as our Leader, we walked up Mount Misery (714 metres) which was reasonably steep, however, we had great views of each every direction.
Photo and Caption Gordon – “On our way to Mt Misery”
Photo and Caption Gordon – “Mt Watkins from Summit.”
After coming down rather thick tussock, and heading back towards the hut, we then climbed up the fence line to Terry’s Knob (refer Hamels book section 7:13), then a downhill, uphill to get back home.
Photo and Caption Gordon – “Next stop top of Kerry’s Knob.”
Once back, it was time to light the open fire and enjoy a tasty selection of nibbles and have a yarn. Followed by dinner, consisting of a rather large stuffed chicken, new potatoes, carrots, broccoli and peas. Then, as if we hadn’t had enough to eat, it was time for Hot Cross Buns with butter and Jam (some members hadn’t matched up jam with the buns) don’t quite know who is right!!
Next morning all were eager to get to the Gap. Kevin(Barney) Black was Farm Manager and now leases the 5000 acre Bendoran off David Malloch, arrived to meet us. We started off at 8:40am, stopping to watch his clever dogs bring in a mob of ewes that were being trucked off.
Photo and Caption Gordon – “Where we are heading Thursday morning.”
The morning was very clear, warm and sunny. While the happy group were following the track up and down, all of a sudden a Falcon was spotted sitting on a fence post. He wasn’t bothered by our presence allowing us to keep creeping up to take photo’s. Soon, enough was enough, and he flew off.
Photo and Caption Gordon – “Friendly falcon posing especially for us.”
A while later another was spotted in flight.
After a while and a steady climb to a hilltop, it was 10:15am and time for a 15 minute smoko break, enjoying the magnificent views as we talked.
Photo and Caption Gordon – “A view of Waikouaiti Bay.”
By now the Gap was looking closer, however, one could also see a few more hills to climb before we made it . Also lopers were taken along, to cut back gorse in places which made the going a bit easier. We got onto the ridge leading to that big missing chunk, finally arriving in it at 11:35am. A steady three hour effort by all.
Photo and Caption Gordon – “The gap between two large rock formations.”
On the way up 3 of the group were keen to revisit/visit the A.B.C. Cave (refer Hamels book section 7:12). We all went to the trig at the north end of the Gap admiring views and happy with ourselves to have made it there.
Soon after the 3 decided to delay lunch for a while and headed off to the Cave. Leaving 3 of us to enjoy a leisurely lunch in the sun. Meanwhile, guess who realised her phone was missing!!! meaning a walk back to the trig by 2 to find it, while the other cut back more gorse.
We three then started the trip back. Arthur had made a meeting point with the A.B.C. Group, so 2 of us headed off up another hill with Arthur and his Hi Vis top in view. We waited till we spotted them heading into the rough gully——where they had spooked a ginger pig for Arthur to see.
Once again all headed towards home, meeting at a junction on the track. The A.B.C. group were happy to have went the extra mile to visit the cave, enjoying reading entries in the visitors book.
We stopped on the same hilltop as the smoko break, to enjoy well deserved energy bars etc.
Photo and Caption Gordon – “Heading back to hut after the Gap visit.”
By now the hills were almost behind us and Bendoran trees in sight. 8 hours later at 4:30pm, 6 weary but happy trampers were back home.
In no time, the water was hot and welcome showers had by all. The open fire lit, drinks and more tasty nibbles eaten. Dinner tonight was a delicious (3 recipe) pasta/mince meal with a freshly made lettuce salad. We must have been a bit weary because the Hot Cross Buns were forgotten!!
Photo and Caption Gordon – “Relaxing in front of fire after Gap tramp”
Lots of photo’s(Is mine better than yours?) were taken of the amazing cloud formations. However, later on we paid the price, battered—-huts shaking, doors being blown open by gale force winds, which had us awake much earlier than we wanted.
Friday morning had us up and away quite smartly, this time the dust was being blown off us!! Meeting up for coffee at Blueskin.
We all enjoyed great company, great scenery and great food on our trip into Bendoran huts—-a very special piece of Paradise.
Eleanore and Arthur
3. 27/11/2019. Trampers. Maungatuas Meander via Kempshall Road. M Margreet and Neil
It was warm and balmy as 20 eager trampers set out on our ‘meander’ today. Several in the group were adamant that ‘meander’ slightly understated the nature of the outing – and thought a better description would be ‘a very long Baldwin street’!!
The steep gravel road access to the parking spot proved challenging for some cars and passengers/pushers, but we all made it!
Photo and Caption Gordon _ “And we’re off”
In order to prepare for the ascent ahead we decided to have morning tea on the balcony at the landowner’s bach, which was just a short side trek from the main track.
Photo and Caption Gordon -“A great place for morning tea”
Views from there were stunning and to be honest the group was a bit reluctant to move on.
The steep climb up Mt. Maungatua to the top boundary took around an hour of huffing and puffing and moaning and groaning!
There was no sign of the aggressive NZ falcon and group of fallow deer encountered on the reconnoitre.
Photo and Caption Helen – “At the top looking out over the plains”
But once conquered the vista over the fertile Taieri Plain, wetlands and lakes; was outstanding.
Photo and Caption Gordon – “A view of Saddle Hill and the Taieri plains”Photo and Caption John – “the beautiful Taieri Plain”
Heading south we traversed gullies of verdant native bush and ridges of lush long grass.
Photo and Caption Gordon – “Still climbing”Photo and Caption John – “Further than I would usually take my dog”
We stopped for lunch on a grassy knoll prior to descent.
Photo and Caption Gordon – “Lunch, a disappearing view and a very special birthday shout”Photo and Caption Helen – “Birthday wine shout by the birthday boy Dave”
Within minutes a light easterly brought in low cloud which reduced visibility to a few metres. The leader,using all his native tracking skills, led the beleaguered group safely downhill to the lower track. What a hero!!
Photo and Caption Helen – “Walking down one of the many hills”Photo and Caption Gordon – “”Heading down to the cars we hope”
From there it was uphill and down dale back to the cars, pausing briefly to inspect the adventure course being used by the chatty children from Hampden school.
Recovery was commenced at Outram’s Wobbly Goat with coffee and cake.
P.S. A consensus asserted that this adventure be reclassified from M to H!
Margreet and Neil
2. 19/4/2017. Trampers. Meander the Maungatuas via Kempshall Road. M. Margreet and Neil.
As we drove through Outram heading for our ‘Maungatua Meander’; the rain bearing cold front forecast for lunch-time, arrived 3 hours early! Nevertheless 5 hardy gentlemen and 6 ‘complaining’ ladies set out on the steep 78 minute climb to the top boundary of this private property! We passed ‘Climbing Rock’ and inspected the outdoor adventure course where a tiered viewing platform made a handy stop for morning tea, sheltered from the wind and rain.
Morning Tea. (Margreet pic and caption.)
Confidence course. (Margreet pic and caption.)Jill on the helipad. (Margreet pic and caption.)
Plodding (and puffing) upwards past ‘Falcon Rock’, the top junction was soon reached, but the awesome scenic vistas promised by the leaders, were less than spectacular!
Heading South we followed the farm track passing through gullies of beautiful native Beech forest, and ridges of productive pasture. Destructive wild pigs had been busy in many places. The weather dictated an early descent for lunch beside a waterfall in the sheltering beech forest.
Lunch. (Helen pic.)
A side-trek to visit the landowner’s beautiful ‘Bunker’ completed the meander, during which we covered 8.5 KM and climbed to 1900 ft.
We enjoyed a debrief at the Wobbly Goat Café before heading home. -Margreet and Neil
1. 28/1/2009 Kempshall Road, Maungatua Leader: George
(Off Maungatua Road, beyond Grainger Road.) Permission.
Small waterfall, small pool, big rock. Doug, George. (Hazel pic)Twin rocks. Taieri Plain from Kempshall Rd Track. George, Glenice, Doug (Hazel pic)Back at the cars. Glenice, Doug. (Hazel pic)
3. 4/9/2019. All. Hightop, Semple Road, Green Hut track loop.
New meeting place. (Judy K pic and caption.)
Trampers. M. Leaders: Arthur and Gordon. M.
Route map highlighted, courtesy Arthur.
A new tramp. Parking on Semple Road, 16 Trampers followed the old, original track in to the Silver Peaks to begin a circuit of Hightop. Quite muddy at first, the old track hadn’t been cleared for many moons, but was well defined.
Mud-glorious mud. (Gordon pic and caption.)Heading to renddezous with hikers for morning tea. (Gordon pic and caption.)
We caught up with the Hikers at Sleepy Hollow for smoko together. It was a combined day, but they were heading for Green Hut.
Bit damp to sit down for smoko. (Gordon pic and caption.)
Fifteen minutes took our group back to the Swampy Ridge Track, which we followed through the muddy patches, made worse by wild cattle in the area over winter. And then on a good track, climbing now.
Nearly there 6th. Gordon pic and caption.)
The day had been sunny to start, but by 11 a.m. the north-east wind was bringing in cloud on upper Swampy.
In cloud, and with a cold wind, lunch was taken in the shelter of the Airways building at the north end of Swampy top.
Lunch; but mainly sheltered. (Gordon pic and caption.)
Faint mutterings about mud and hills were heard, but dismissed as inconsequential bay the leader. A kind offer to describe the views from there was declined!
We started off into the cold wind on the return journey, but it was downhill and were soon into the shelter.
Heading back down from Swampy. (Eleanore pic and caption.)
Going downhill all hopped and skipped merrily through the mud,
Muddy patches. (Eleanore pic and caption.)Muddy patches. (Eleaanore pic and caption.)
to arrive back at the junction to Sleepy Hollow for a group photo.
The HAPPY tramping group. (Gordon pic and caption.)
The last leg of the circuit about Hightop took us, on a lovely piece of track, back to our cars. The cloud had lowered. 12 km, or little more, for our day’s adventure was good.
Thanks to all, especially Phil and Gordon for doing the recce of Hightop with me.
A refreshment stop was made at Blueskin Nurseries on the way home.
Home to clean our boots! – Art.
Hikers. Semple Road to Green hut. Leaders: Clive and Alex.
After conducting a recce of the track to Hightop this Hiker deemed it too boggy for the hikers and lead a recreational hike from Semple Road to the old Green Hut site.
22 hikers set off in good hiking conditions of around 13 degrees and sheltered from any wind by high kanuka trees.
setting off from Semple Road. (Clive pic and caption.)
We met up with the trampers at sleepy hollow for a shared morning tea
Tthe combined hikers and trampers at morning tea. (Clive pic and caption.)
and the more intrepid trampers then set off for swampy’s and we set off for green hut. A couple of the climbs had several hikers blowing hard at the top (Leader included), but the underfoot was good with evidence of recent clearing and maintenance by the ‘Green Hut track group’ (see ‘Keeping up with the Green Hut Track Group’). By midday we arrived at the site of the old green hut and enjoyed a sociable half an hour over lunch.
Lunch at Green Hut. (Clive pic and caption.)Great view across the forest and bush. (Clive pic and caption.)
The more downhill return to Semple Road meant we were back in the cars by 2pm and at Blueskin Nursery Cafe shortly after. The trampers were not that far behind. – Clive.
Ramblers. Semple/Mountain Roads. E. Leaders: Mutual.
Seven of us contented ourselves with a road trip, going on a good bit further beyond the locked gate to lunch in sunshine – turned cloudy and windy – turned cold, before returning back to await the Hikers’ return. Did something like 4 km. All good company and chatter. (Interesting point to note: sign posts have extended Semple Road quite a bit beyond the Green Hut parking spot to where it eventually turns into Mountain Road.) – Ian.
Then, a recce, before we go any further. Ian wasn’t a likely starter because of problems at home, so Judy recruited Bev, but in the event Ian was able to come, but the recce had to be fitted in at the last moment.
We entered in at the Mountain Road entrance and made our way up to the first junction with the top track on the map that runs roughly parallel to Semple/Mountain Road. Only a short way in and solid gorse blocked the track. But a short loop down to the left and back up again recovered the track, much more open. Up and over the top to the fence line and here our troubles started. Snow fellings of the scrubby manuka from that heavy winter snow-fall plus the gorse made for much ‘bush-bashing’. Still hopeful of getting to the next junction we pushed on. But no. Time was passing, so back out again and on to the Sleepy Hollow junction.
This was well-cleared, but we had lost quite some time by now. We lunched on the way and nursed our gorse-pricked legs.
Gorse-ravaged legs.
We pushed on to the Swampy Track junction, also well-cleared, where a majority decision was taken to turn back, with the Swampy route to be the one taken. So we didn’t explore the less inviting Hightop one to the left. Time was running out.
Now to the tramp. All went well till we came to the Swampy Track junction. Ian had still wished to have at least a wee look at the Hightop track to the left, so general consent was given and he and several others set off on it, only to find it was nicely cleared and seductively inviting over a clear rise. So much so, that he phoned back to Judy an invitation for the remainder to follow. But several didn’t wish to come, asserting the Swampy track was the one that had been planned. On the other hand, Ian and the others with him were so reluctant to give in that a grudging assent from the nay-sayers was won and the two groups were reunited. The cleared track led us out onto Semple Road but we could find no sign of the emergence of the bush-bashed track anywhere.
Anyway, we lunched back up at the DoC sign indicating Silver Peaks Conservation Area that we had passed earlier before retracing our steps back to the cars. But Ian still doubtless remains unforgiven for his ‘splitting the group’ and adopting a cavalier ‘Trampers’ attitude. His phone call did put fellow-leaders Judy and Bev, who had both remained behind, in an invidious position.
So, we had made it 3/4 of the way around Hightop but the last side still awaits a good track-clearing day. 21 Hikers out on the day. A good overcast tramping morning, getting quite hot in the afternoon. – Ian.
1. 16/9/1992. Hightop, Swampy. Start Double Hill Road. Average. Leaders: George, Doug M, Penny & Peter
Permissions from Mt Gowrie Station, Strathview Station, Calder Station.
13. 20/6/2019.Trampers. Deep Stream Pipeline from SH 87. M. Neil M. and Carol.
A fine but cool day dawned for the 10 trampers to depart for the big bend to start the Deep Stream walk to the East. Now just because it’s called a pipeline doesn’t mean it’s flat. Once the water is in the pipe the line goes up and down continually. In fact going by past reports for the distance we walked we climbed over 700 metres.
We left the cars about on the hour of 10.0 and walked up
Throwing our shadows o’er Jack Frost (Phil pic and caption.
to the top of the first hill on the line in about 20 minutes, so a break was called for coffee and smoko.
M:Tea. Great view. (Gordon pic and caption.)
After that, onwards and what do we find but the first big dip.
Quite a bit of uphill. (Gordon pic and caption.)
From where we had coffee/ tea one could see the track in the distance but not all the gullies we have to go through, which could give one the wrong impression of this walk. Although the day was cool, it did warm up as the hours ticked by. We arrived at the high point in the walk about 12.15pm for lunch where we could see back towards Mosgiel and Saddle Hill. A good view all round.
Now the return trip started about 1/4 to one and we arrived back at the road by 3 o’clock. One noticeable thing about the return trip, there wasn’t as muck talk.
Last steep pinch. Gordon pic and caption.)
Maybe some were getting a little tired. Well, we walked about 16 kms and probably climbed more than 700 m so not a bad effort.
At this stage of the day, coffee calls, so we stopped at Clarks Junction Pub – come cafe, to satisfy these cravings before returning to Mosgiel. – Neil and Carol.
12. 22/6/2016. Trampers. Deep Stream Pipeline from SH 87. M. Leader: Neil M.
10 Trampers left Mosgiel at 9.30 am. It was somewhat cloudy with a very gentle breeze but pleasant conditions.
It was 10.10 am when we left the cars and from there an approximate 30 minute tramp before morning tea.
On a few occasions the pipeline and relief flues surfaced …
Pipeline. (Helen pic and caption.)Looks like a bird to me. (Helen pic and caption.)
… whereby Peter gave us a lesson about hydraulics (water pressure and air bubbles) before disappearing again …
Pipeline and some nice rocks. (Helen pic and caption.)
to wend its way …
Track. Very deceiving as no flat. (Helen pic and caption.)
… through stunning country of craggy rocks, sheep pastures, Deep Stream/Creek and even a lone, healthy hebe.
The many ‘ups’ were balanced out by ‘downs’ and that led us to a 12.30 pm lunch stop …
Group at lunch time. (Helen pic and caption.)
…from where we looked across to the Rock and Pillars on the west and the Kakanui hills to the north.
At 1.00 pm (after squeezing an extra 5 minutes out of our keen-to-get-going leader) we left the well-placed rock tables and seats and headed back by the same route.
Having walked 15 kms in 4 hours moving time and 720m height rise total, we arrived at the cars at 3.00 pm. Huffs and puffs had subsided at this stage and would shortly be replaced by sips and slurps of coffee! – Carole.
11. 13/5/2015. Trampers. Deepstream/creek pipeline where it crosses Hiway 87.
GPS of Deepstream pipeline – North. Courtesy Ken. Walked 16km; 3h 53m moving; 4.1 km/h; climbed 982mtrs [this is probably the most climbing we have done on a day’s tramp so far]; none of the climbs are very long, there are just so many of them.
For the Wednesday tramp, I changed the location, due to the difficulty of contacting the landowners [possibly 5 or 6] of the properties we needed access to. I don’t know why people have phone numbers, if they can’t answer their phones, or reply to messages left on their answer phone. I don’t think I will be putting the Omimi/slaughterhouse tramp back on the program ever again.
So, we went to the Deepstream/creek pipeline where it crosses Hiway 87, & proceeded to walk along the pipeline track towards Mosgiel. There was no set destination here, so it was just walk as far as we wanted to go, then return back the same way.
As there was a cool breeze blowing, we struggled to find a suitably sheltered spot for morning tea break, but eventually found a gully with not much breeze.
1 Morning tea stop. (Ken pic)
Then we ambled along admiring the view into the river below as we went. We found a very nice spot to have lunch in the sun, & almost completely devoid of wind, so it was a reluctant group that packed up their gear, & headed back out again.
This track has lots of up’s & down’s, so is quite a good workout, but I hope the walk was enjoyed by all. – Ken.
10. 18/7/2012. 8 Trampers. Hindon-Deep Stream Pipeline. Half of full distance. Return. Medium.
GPS of route. We walked 13.8km. GPS records level distance only so probably did close to 14.5 or more up and down. Total height climbed: 660 mtrs. max elevation 447 mtrs. Moving ave. 3.7km/hr Moving time 3hr 46min. – Ken (edited)A large ‘thing’ in the only cutting on the pipeline.Panorama of our lunch spot. Pines of homestead on skyline.
9. 9/7/2008. Trampers. Hindon Pipe Line from Highway 87 to Wallaces Ford Road. Easy+. Leaders: Ian, Ria
Permissions from Mt Gowrie Station, Strathview Station, Calder Station.
The pipeline stretches into the distanceAn interesting feature
A better day couldn’t have been provided. We were in the centre of a strong high pressure system that provided clear, sunny skies, a warm calm, and a quiet peacefulness, broken only by a gaggle of garrulous gulls over Deep Stream and the occasional baaing of sheep, while the remains of the snow from earlier in the week defined the lee edges of gullies against green pastures and brown tussock tops, providing us with a glorious panorama (taking in Maungatua, Silver Peaks, Rock and Pillar, Kakanui ranges). Our route was open and easy to follow and the track was broad and grassy. We had interesting man-made features, ie the Deep Stream pipeline, to accompany us.
And we had 14 companions whose enjoyment of the day we could share.
Six at a gate. George, Evelyn, Bruce, Who?, Hazel, Lex
Bliss. Except, that is, that vigorous debate about the means of ferrying ourselves and cars from start-point drop-off at Deep Stream Bridge on Highway 87 to finish-point collection 15km downstream at Wallaces Ford Road took up quite a bit of the ride. Bruce reminded us of the old puzzle about the ferryman who had to transport a fox, a hen and a sack of corn across the river only one at a time not leaving two together when one would be devoured. (We did solve it.) And except for the fact that we were also on a roller-coaster ride. The benched track we were following that was the access road for the construction of the pipeline looked to be horizontal from a distance, but of course, Deep Stream is appropriately named and its contributories have a similar character. So we sang, “And when they’re up they’re up, and when they’re down they’re down, and when they’re only halfway up, there’s still more up and down!” as we crossed the gullies.
Looking back down at the longest and steepest climb out of a gully
But what a feat the pipeline is, bringing water 60km from Lammerlaws to Dunedin, with siphon after siphon traversing the deeply-incised landscape. So we admired the weather, the landscape, the engineering and our good fortune at being able to appreciate it all! Thanks to Ian and Ria, and to Ken who regrettably missed all but the recce. – Bob
8. 27/6/2007. Trampers. Deep Stream Bridge, Middlemarch Rod, Hindon Pipeline. Medium. Leaders: Arthur and Barbara.
No. 1 on old hardcopy list of 113 club tramps. “Maugatua Microwave. J Roy. Year Round.” Permissions from Horsehoof.
Distance from car-park: 24 km.
29/5/2019. Horsehoof, – Maungatua. M. Arthur.
18 of us set off from Mosgiel and travelled through Outram and turning left off on a road into Horsehoof Station. Clear looking sky and the anticipation of a great day.
Parked up in the paddock, we set off up the first hill. The wind was very cold and strong up there, brass monkeys were the call, and numerous layers the call, jackets and hats also.
We stopped in a sheltered spot for our morning tea. Farm trackended and then it was onto DOC land and tussock.Not much track at all and quite hard going. The odd slip on the terrain.
Making it to the top
Finally the Summit. (Gordon pic and caption.)
where photo shoots were taken.
The new Saddle Hill volcanic crater.(Phil pic and caption.)
Great views but soooo cold and windy. Decided to go back to some shelter in the tussocks for lunch.
Lunch out of the wind. (Gordon pic and caption.)
Back up to the corner of Horsehoof,
Out of the West ( Mahinerangi in background) (Phil pic and caption.)
and with three going back down the start track to look for poor old Dave’s iphone lost on way up, while the rest of us went the longer way.
Two things sprung to mind on this tramp. If you go a different direction you need to let the leader know for safety reasons.
Lunch needs to be finished by everyone before some start on their way.
All in all a great tramp in some windy conditions, travelling 14kms. Refreshments well received
Coffee. (Helen pic and caption.)
with great service at the Wobbly Goat in Outram Helen.😉
MAUNGATUA DEBRIEF
It saddens the leader to have to write these notes, due to the fact that a few of the group completely ignored the club’s Safety Rules up on Maungatua.
The club formulate these safety rules many years ago, which were updated 2-3 years back. All new members are given a copy when they join, and they are on the club’s website. (v. Page 7a.) Everyone should be familiar with them.
There is nothing difficult about these rules, just simple commonsense things (but of course, as they say, common sense isn’t common any more. (A detailed email is going out to all members about this) – Art.
21. 27/2/2019. Maungatua. M. Leader: Gordon.
A Fairy Tale.
Once upon a time 12 happy trampers set out to climb the big mountain of Maungatua. They wanted to get to the top, and were very determined.
But the nasty rain came just as they set out, and the cold wind joined in to make things unpleasant for the 12 happy trampers.
The cloud came down too, to hide the top of the mountain, but that was no deterrent either. Jackets and gloves kept them warm.
Uphill they went, on the good 4WD track, into the cloud and with the wind and rain attacking them.
In time they were high up on the mountain, and stopped to have their morning tea in the slight shelter of a little hut, beside some aerials.
After a brief stop to enjoy their hot cups, discretion was decided upon, and the 12 happy (still) trampers returned back down the mountain to their cars.
But the 12 happy trampers had had a good morning’s exercise, covering more than 6 km and the rain and wind had given a good test to the weatherproofness of their clothing.
Feeling a bit wet and cold, the 12 happy trampers drove back to Mosgiel, returning safely to their homes.
And they all lived happily ever after! – Art.
20. 10/5/2017. Trampers. Maungatua trig via Horsehoof. M. Leader: Arthur.
Clear skies, a light breeze, and lots of sunshine gave perfect conditions for our tramp up onto Maungatua. The cars were left high up beside the farm road on Horsehoof, a group of 13 happy trampers setting out from here on the uphill dozed farm track.
About halfway up morning tea was taken, with stunning views to enjoy at the same time, in the clear air.
Onward and upward, we reached the top boundary of Horsehoof Station, and climbing through the fence were in the DOC reserve which encompasses all of the top of Maungatua. It was then single file through the tussock and turpentine shrubs on the faint track.
We stopped to admire the Big Rock,
The beautiful rock. (Helen pic and caption.)
photos being taken of the group.
The group of 12 plus me. (Helen pic and caption.)
Just as we were preparing to move on a pair of N.Z. falcons flew in and landed on top of Big Rock just above us. They weren’t at all worried by us humans, and it was marvellous to see them there.
In single file we moved on, and eventually came to the summit post at 12 noon – perfect timing for lunch.
From here, on the highest point (895 metres) we could see in all directions – 360 degrees. A huge fog bank right down the coast totally hid the sea and the Otago Peninsula, but the land was in clear view as far as the eye could see. What terrific scenery.
Margreet pic.
Lunch over we began the return journey, which meant retracing our steps. With an occasional brief rest/regroup stop, we were back past Big Rock, through the fence onto Horsehoof again, and down hill with a brief uphill bit to reach the cars.
A group of 13 happy trampers had had a great day, walking a total of 12 km. The perfect weather certainly added to the enjoyment of the day.
But, the tramp finished too soon (obviously too short), as it was necessary to stop in Outram for a while on the way home so that discussion that hadn’t had time to be had during the tramp could be concluded.
The leader was particularly pleased to have such a good turn out of trampers today – thank you to all. – Arthur.
19. 11/1/2017. Hikers. Maungatua Big Rock and Trig via Horsehoof. M. Leaders: George and Ian.
It wasn’t the best tramp to ease into after the relaxing holidays. However the easier programmed Kuri Bush beach walk had not taken the tide times into account. What to do? Something inland. George scouted Saddle Hill (summit not tackled by the Hikers since 2010) and Horsehoof (last done by the Hikers 2011). Relevant property owners for Saddle Hill could not be reached, so Horsehoof and Big Rock then.
Seventeen turned out on the day. A respectable number, given that some members were still on holiday. Admittedly the road entrance to Horsehoof is easily missed, as happened to some on the day, but eventually all the cars arrived and drove on up to park in the high paddock where the FWD track to the top corner of the station starts. At about 690m here, we had already made good inroads on Maungatua’s Big Rock elevation of 880m.
It was still a bit early so we trudged through that first unavoidable gully to merelyregain the cars’ height a kilometre or two further on, finding a bank to sit on for morning tea.
(Clive pic.)
No more gullies now but it was up, steadily up, with frequent regrouping stops to eventually reach the Horsehoof Station’s top corner. At 865m effectively all climbing was behind us. We had gained 225m since leaving the cars. One of us elected to stop here and await the return of the others, and Mollie, who hadn’t wanted to miss the chance of revisiting Horsehoof, was happy to keep her company.
Now it was 15 who scrambled through the fence onto the Maungatua reserve to push on through the tussock and dracophillum (turpentine bush) till we reached a point opposite to the Big Rock.
(Clive pic.)
Here, along with George, ten were happy to make this their destination stop,
(Clive pic.)
while a remaining group of five carried on with an assurance it was only another half hour to the trig. W-e-l-l not exactly. More likely three quarters, as one found the going harder than others. But we got there! Or rather two did.
Made it! 895m.(Ian pic and caption.)
Too bad,the other three had stopped off short of the last rise and lunched. However with the encouragement of the trig returnees (or is it returners?) they were encouraged to push on so that they could say they had made it too. And they did!
On the return we discovered the hypotenuse short-cut that avoids a right angle in the fence and which we had missed on the way in due to overgrowth disguising it at its other end. A shame. It needs a fence indicator.
When we arrived at Big Rock, we discovered the ten others had long since given up waiting for us, and were back waiting for us when we straggled up the last weary slope up to the cars – at least weary for this writer.
So there it is. A good traditional tramp perforce resurrected for the hikers by an unfortunate tidal assesssment. And an enjoyable stop and chat at the Wobbly Goat to finish it off. And roll on the better weather. – Ian.
18. 10/2/2016. Maungatua Summit. Leader: Arthur H.
Horsehoof Station to maungatua peak. GPS of route, courtesy Ken. (Ken pic and caption) 13.2km; 3.7km/h; 3h 33m moving; total ascent 409m; max height 900m
Nine trampers set out in ideal conditions to conquer Maungatua. The day was sunny with some high cloud. The breeze was light all day – westerly, then changing to southerly for a while, and then died away altogether.
We drove in through Horsehoof Station, up the road towards the microwave. A car shuttle was set up by taking one car back 2-3 km, leaving it at the top of the hill above the woolshed.
We took the dozed farm track that winds its way up to the top of Maungatua, stopping for morning tea at a suitable spot.
We reached the top of the track, where the small shed and various aerials are situated, at 10.50 a.m. Climbing over the fence we were then in the DOC Reserve, which covers a large part of Maungatua.
From here there is a faint track heading to the summit, which is some 2.5 km away. This is undulating country.
We soon came to the large tor, and stopped for several minutes to inspect and photograph it.
Side trip to rock tor (Helen pic)
Continuing on along the track, which follows the fence line, we gained the summit a few minutes before 12.00 noon. A black and white painted post now marks the spot, …
“Trig” post with rock placed on top by one of the party. (Helen pic)
… and is visible from a short distance. Sitting down in the tussock, we had a relaxed lunch on the spot. The slight breeze was just a tad cool, we noted.
Lunch at the “trig”
From the summit there is a great 360 degree view, but unfortunately haze in all directions spoiled this somewhat.
Half of the group had a look over the brow, down in the direction of the 3 Kings -which isn’t visible. All of us then picked our way through the rough vegetation, in an easterly direction, to get a better view down on the Taieri Plain and Airport.
Making our way back up to the track, we returned along it to the shed and aerials, and over the fence. A brief stop here, where it was noted the altitude was 865m, compared to the 895m at the summit.
We now walked down a 4WD track through the tussock, following the western spur.
On fence line track well down to the Lee Creek gully showing ‘uphill grunt’ on other side. (Helen pic)
A restful stop was made at the bottom, in the shade of the beech trees at the north branch of Lee Creek. A short uphill grunt gave a “tang” to the end of our tramp, and we were soon back at the “shuttle” car.
All agreed that it had been a good tramp and an enjoyable day. This had been a first time for most.
Seven held a debrief at Outram on the way back home.
Coffee at Outram. (Helen pic)
The tramp distance was 13.2 km. – Arthur H.
29/3/2010. Private. Horsehoof, Maungatua Trig.
GPS of route from car to trig
At the Maungatua Trig (1)
At the Maungatua Trig (2)
17. 4/5/2011. Both. Horsehoof upper paddock to Big Rock. Medium. Leader: George.
George had recceed the programmed McKendry Road tramp and found the mud too squishy and the undergrowth too thick so elected to fall back to Horsehoof Station again.
We took the cars on through several gates to the paddock that gave us a shorter walk up to the paddock corner at the top.
It was a misty day, but at our tea-break the weather cleared to reveal the wind turbines beyond Lake Mahinerangi.
Beyond the fence at the top corner, we went on to negotiate the turpentine shrub (dracophyllum longifolium), tussock and alpine moss to reach the large rock for an early lunch.
A cool westerly wind drove us to shelter in a cleft in the rock’s SW side.
A sheltered lunch spot.
An interesting bank of fog in the west.
The tarn beyond the big rock.
Obviously scientific, an exclosure on the tarn.
After all that, we returned the way we had come back to the cars. A good outing. – Ian.
16. 15/9/2010. Trampers. Horsehoof to Big Rock. Medium. Leader: George.
Walked up the 4WD track that went by the Microwave.
Morning Tea break. George. (Emma pic)
Lunched at the Big Rock.
Keith and George at the Big Rock. (Emma pic)
Returned back down through the Woodside Creek gully.
15. 6/5/2009 Both. Horsehoof Station. Bridge over Woodside Creek, top corner, back down the more regular farm road. Medium. Leaders: Bruce, Wendy.
Many were discouraged by the wet morning start, but 8 of us enjoyed a farm walk on what turned out to be an cold overcast day (which we were well wrapped up against) interspersed by sun at morning tea and lunch. From the regular parking spot, for a change we turned down steeply click to enlarge
Descent to bridge
to cross the Woodside Creek upper tributary nearby
Woodside Creek
and to then climb steeply
Climb ahead
to enjoy a cuppa at the set of rocks a little way up.
Cuppa.
Then to carry on up to the top corner of the station. This was a route the club hasn’t taken for five years and more. We forewent going on to the big rock and tarn through the rather heavy wet dracophyllum we would have had to struggle through, so lunched at the top under the shelter of a bank
Lunch in sun
and returned by the more regular farm track.
Rock and Pillar Range in sunRecycled car bolstering bridge. Wee waterfall behind.
We all enjoyed a good tramping day but regretted there were not more to share the walk with. Bruce stood in for Marjorie who was indisposed on the day. Our thanks to Wendy and Bruce for their leadership. – Ian.
This turned out to be a tramp from Horsehoof Station rather than from the advertised Allendale Farm. So it was simply up by the regular farm road to the Maungatua Trig and back. click to enlarge
Decorated Trig. George, Hazel, Ria, EmmaSaddle Hill from Maungatua
What was different was the wind measuring masts
Mast for measuring wind?
and various markers presumably installed by Trustpower. A breeze pleasantly tempered the heat of the sun and 8 of us enjoyed a tramp in the tussocks and Maungatua top with the George making it easier and shorter by having the two cars parked further up the hill than on previous tramps. – Ian
13. 27/8/2008Trampers. Horsehoof Station Upland road-walk Leaders: Ian, Ken
Winter conditions decreed a firmer road walk in place of the anticipated soggy ground we would have encountered at the Flagstaff big rock. So it was Horsehoof Station for a look at the fast disappearing snow conditions. click to enlarge
Drift snow remains. Ken
Seven of us set off from our cars parked down at the shearing shed and walked steeply up in the general Maungatua direction. It was a good walk in the fresh air with general sunny conditions turning to threatening clouds later. The breeze was fresh but sheltering in the lee of a gully made for a comfortable morning tea.
Lunch was on the sheltered side of the repeater station,
Emma and Glenys approaching the Microwave. George ahead.
reached by cutting across a couple of wet gullies swollen with fresh snow runoff.
The return. Bill, Pat, Emma
A shorter day but the sun was out most of the time and the views and company were good. – Ian
The return. Bill, Glenys, Emma.
12. 18/6/2003 Horsehoof Station walk. Leaders: Shirley M, Bill & Pat.
Lex, Doug J, Arthur, Doug M
Snow on NE Maungatuas
11. 16/2/2005. Both. Maungatua with Summit option. Leaders: Val and Brian, Arthur and Barbara.
10. 18/9/2002. Microwave – Maungatua Summit. Medium. Leaders: Ria L, Barbara and Arthur.
9. 21/11/2001. Maungatuas Summit from Microwave. Medium. Leaders: Les W, Mary M, Shirley R.
13 Trampers did a circuit today, on tracks that have been kept clear in recent years by volunteers from the Club.
The circuit was as follows – up the full length of Swine Spur Track, which took us high up on Swampy, right along the road, down Porkies Track, left on Possum Busters, right onto Smithys Track, and then down Steep Track to Lake Whare, finishing with a short road walk back to the cars.
The day was overcast and cool.
Heading up Swine Spur tr. (Gordon pic and caption.)
Morning tea was taken almost at the top of Swine Spur, after the hard climbing was done, …
Moving on after morning tea. (Gordon pic and caption.)At the top of Swampy. (Helen pic and caption.)
… and with a good view.
As we started down Porkies
Walking down before the rain started. (Helen pic and caption.)
low cloud began coming in from the city side over the ridge and on Flagstaff.
Crossing one of numerous creeks on way home. (Gordon pic and caption.)
The day was deteriorating now, and light rain began to fall at 12 noon (the forecasters were spot on).
A little later we stopped to have our lunch, but the tree canopy was leaking on us – and they the sky opened with heavy rain falling.
Quickly packing up we moved, and to save time took the shortest way by going down Steep Track (well named).
Being in he lead I couldn’t see back, but from the squeals, and other expressions of glee from behind, it was obvious that all were enjoying the descent as they swung from tree to tree!
We were soon down, and then visited Lake Whare, as the rain was mostly past now.
Distance for the day was about 8.5 Km. Back to Mosgiel, where thoughts of a hot shower was much more inviting than stopping for coffee, but it had been a good day out. – Art.
7. 8/11/2017. Trampers. Swine Spur. M. Leader: Dave.
Last Wednesday’s tramp could have been called a number of names and probably was!!
(a) Swine spur – was it the pig rooting or the steepness of the trail in a gale?
(b) A walk on snow in wintery gale conditions in November or
(c) How many differently named tracks can you do in a day?
Ten keen trampers’ left the car park having some idea what the weather might be like for the day ahead. We parked in Rollinson’s road just below the bridge adjacent to the entrance into the bush with the sign ‘swine spur’. The bushes and trees were wet from the rain the night before. It was pleasant walking through the Kanuka with lots of clematis flowering. However it wasn’t long before the colour of the track resembled the colour of the clematis! SNOW WHITE!!
Started off in snow.!! (Helen pic and caption.)
As we wandered up the track the snow got thicker and the wind got stronger. We decided to have morning tea in the last bit of shelter before the track upwards became exposed. The wind was very strong – we could just stand up! Keeping together we supported each other, through flax and dracophylum, up to the top to the green building on Swampy. The wind was so strong that there was little shelter even behind the building.
A very short break and then we followed down ‘swampy ridge road’ until we reached ‘Porkys track’ – this faced into the gale. We slipped and slid where the snow lay on the grass. Gradually we headed down to where the shrubs became trees. After a while we came to a track junction and then followed ‘possum busters track’. There were a number of creeks, full of water, from the rain the night before. To cross – you had to get wet again!
Tricky creek crossings. (Helen pic and caption.)
A welcome lunch was had amongst the trees in the shelter.
It was then on to the junction with ‘smithies track’ which we followed for a while through attractive natives. ‘Whare Loop track’ was then followed to Whare lake.
The group at Lake Whare. (Helen pic and caption.)
At this spot the Maoris of the past used to soak the flax in the lake – later making both twine and linen. See Flax in New Zealand – Wikipedia. The remains of a stone house were inspected before completing the loop and out onto the road where the cars awaited. A distance of approximately 10.2 km was covered.
The group decided to go for a well, deserved coffee at a usual coffee shop but alas the power was off, probably because of the winds. We soon found another where we recounted our adventure which was enjoyed by all.
Many thanks to Neil M and Arthur for the track clearing they have done, this was very evident. Others have volunteered to help them.
Swine Spur route done. Red indicates the heavy Swine Spur work, yellow the faster road work!
At the car park, the trampers lacked a leader knowledgeable of the Swine Spur track programmed for the day, so this hiker was dragooned into going with them, with his traitorous act objected to strongly by one of the hikers (who shall considerately remain nameless) with his friendly invitation for the writer to never go with the hikers again.
A careful inspection of the access road roadside eventually elicited the heavily grassed over entrance to the Possum Busters track. We made it through Manuka-Kanuka wood and the two steep guts of Mckenzie Creek and the other unnamed one, to stop for the cuppa at the traditional stop at the intersection of Possum Busters and Swine Spur tracks.
Then we turned left up the Swine Spur through the easily graduated track that was to inevitably bring us to the foot of the near vertical strenuous climb to Swampy Ridge roadway.
A word of appreciation here of the sterling track clearing from the route of all the impedimenta the once-in-a-life-time wet snow storm of last August brought down across it. Bravo, you track clearers! It was obviously a massive job.
Anyway, we reached the small concrete-block aerial navigation building sitting there at the top and turned left along the road to pass the Airways Corporation combined VOR (VHF Omnidirectional Radio) and DME (Distance Measuring Equipment – where’s an easier name?) setup to head down the access road. We forewent going on through Swampy to Hightop, as had been programmed, indulging in an easier day instead. (A concession to the hiker, the writer suspects.)
Well, that was to be just a boring road walk back to the cars, but most pleasantly interrupted with a lunch stop at the 0ld-trampers’ picnic area at the head of the Steve Amies track. With all the time in the world, we just lazed there around the tables before eventually deciding to head back out and down to the cars. We arrived back at the car park BEFORE the hikers! One for the record book? – Ian.
Navmap of tramp, courtesy Ken. Rollinsons Track at top, part of it hidden on slope behind Swampy Ridge
Ria and Hazel led us into the start of Possum Busters from off Rollinsons Road. The two deep gullies were still there, but with the steep banks provided with wonderful sets of steps. Bravo, track-clearers. We stopped for a tea-break at the Swine Spur junction, wishing we had the tools to re-attach Les Murcott’s track signs to the remaining-standing manuka trunk. Then it was up the gentle incline of the Swine Spur track before it steeply climbed onto the actual Swine Spur.
Snow on track near top of slope of Swine Spur.
We were delighted to find the last bit onto the Spur was now a well-defined route, replacing the half-dozen or so attempts through the over-grown area. Reaching the top, we stopped for a brief shelter from some cold wind.
Sheltering from wind at building at top of Swine Spur.
Then it was along the road to Swampy Summit.
Snow on Swampy Summit
The Swampy Summit Track beyond the summit led us down through slippery frozen snow and on to our next turn-off. The Rollinsons Track was well-indicated and its route well-defined with copious track markers. Another good change from a time when it was really hard to detect parts of the track. Again, thanks to some excellent recent work by some good people, added to by our leaders on their recce.
Lunch scene. Foreground: track marker on bush, background: left to right, Pulpit rock, Silver Peaks No. 2, Rocky Ridge, The Gap.
The track kept high on the slope, avoiding the wetter parts of Swampy.
Tarn at heart of Swampy
The track wound its way back up and out of Swampy to join with the Rain Gauge track. Again, the track sign had been clearly renamed “Rollinsons” instead of the “Swampy Tarns” sign that had been put over the old faded sign. Then it was just out to Rollinsons Road at the hairpin bend and on down to the cars.
Thanks to Ria and Hazel for this lovely tramp over the whole Rollinsons again – a replacement for the trip into Jubilee Hut that had been thoughtlessly scheduled for during lambing. – Ian.
3. 30/4/2003. Both. Access Road, Rollinson Track, Swampy Saddle, Swine Spur Track. Medium+. Leaders: Ria, Bill and Pat, Denise, Anne R.
2. 19/9/2001. From Access Road, Rollinsons Track, Swampy Saddle, Swine Spur Track. Medium. Leaders: Ria L, Doug and Myrie, Joyce.
1. 6/7/1889. Frozen Tarn on Swampy.
Frozen Tarn on Swampy. Alison Kerr, Jean Allen, Ria Hakkart, Mary Young, Leis de Yong in foreground. (Ian pic, scanned from Peg Chisholm photo collection.)
