Nov 08 2023
Sep 23 2023
Nicols Farm (formerly Michelles Farm), North Side Taieri River, Outram
No. 87 on old hardcopy list of 113 club tramps. “Michelle’s Farm Outram Farm”.
11 km from car park.
Park under Outram Bridge. Contacts: Seek 3 permissions.
Proceed east side of Taieri River along gravel road to gravel pit. Bear right uphill to power lines. Follow generally along grass farm tracks to top of hill.
Landmarks: Trig marker on right; also obvious paper road between two fence lines; Long barn on right (good for lunch stop); large wool shed on top of hill straight ahead (this is still on Hyslop’s property).
Straight on access is to Taioma Road but we don’t usually go that far!
Plenty of mushrooms in April – take a bag!
After ascending a narrow track through scrub we made our way along a ridge on Craig Nichol’s property. Any conversation was ‘gone with the wind’. To quote Evel Knievel “ I love the feeling of fresh air on my face and wind blowing through my hair” – certainly true today!
We decided not to go to the trig – the howling wind spoke to us and we found our way down to a pocket of native bush. The relative calm here was a welcome respite from the punishing wind on the hill top.
Walking roughly parallel to SHW 87 we headed back towards Outram. Thank you farmer Neil for herding a mob of cattle out of our path.
Throwing caution to the wind we walked through a Douglas fir plantation, then a large stand of eucalyptus – fortunately there were few recently dropped branches! The only reportable incident was Diane being blown backwards whilst pivoting on a gate – luckily she was caught by the two behind her ( I rue a missed photo opportunity!)
A nice hill climb took us to wide track Craig recently had dug out back down to the Taieri river, and we were at the cars by 3.00 pm.
A great day out and many thanks to Julie McKenzie and Pam Cox for your assistance.
Distance walked – 13.5 km
Jill Reid
Jun 30 2023
McNally Walkway
No. 83 on old hardcopy list of 113 club tramps. “McNally Track, Milton. Year Round”
44 km from car-park.
Access: Milton M 91km ret. Opposite Presbyterian Church, turn left at Ossian Street and follow on down Moore and Tokoiti Streets to Cemetery near which is the entrance to the McNally Walkway. Park cars by the side of the road.
Potential for Combined trip.
20. 28/06/2023. Trampers. McNally’s Walkway. Grade 2.5. Leaders: Graeme Souter, Yan Campbell
Hopefully, Constable Tom McNally would have appreciated that 17 hardy trampers weren’t deterred from following the walkway named for him. A night of heavy rain and inconclusive forecasts for the day had caused Graeme a restless night, trying to decide whether to cancel or change the tramp. Much of the trail is quite exposed passing through paddocks and would have been pretty miserable in a downpour. It wasn’t actually raining at Peter Johnstone Park at 9:15 and the sky seemed to be lightening to the south. We split into four cars and headed for the cemetery at Milton and the beginning of McNally’s Walkway.
We set off in a very light rain along a fence line of the first paddock. The ground and grass were certainly wet and it was a steady climb to our stop for morning tea in a sheltered spot with a bench. There was a great view of the Taieri Plain but the hilltops were still shrouded in cloud and would remain so.
By the time we set off again the rain had stopped and the only drips were from the overhanging trees.
We took a slightly different route from other years, turning onto the Kowhai trail for the rest of the climb. It passed through a mix of native and introduced trees before opening up into paddocks of newly planted pines. By this time, we could see the summit and the haybarn where we’d have lunch. There was just one more climb before we made ourselves comfortable and ate.
After lunch we headed downhill through quite long grass which soon became a clear path at least for those of us at the back. At this point the sun broke through and this clearer light made a remarkable pattern, contrasting the long fading grass with the small green pines.
Once we were through this, there was only one more steep pitch up through some trees. From then on the walk was steadily downhill coming out onto Cemetery Road and just a short distance from the cars.
After changing out of our muddy boots and gaiters we made our way to The Black Swan in Waihola. By this time the weather was fine enough to sit outside.
The day had really turned out well. Thanks Graeme.
Yan
Continue Reading »
Jun 28 2023
Pyramids, Victory Beach
29. 21/06/2023 Hikers Victory Beach Grade 2 Leaders: Avis and Maria
The sunny day helped top off another very enjoyable walk to and along Victory Beach.
The flywheel, the only remaining evidence from the shipwreck of the “Victory “ cargo and passenger ship in 1861, was still visible and a highlight for those seeing it for the first time. The presence or two seals stopped some of us venturing too close to the flywheel.
Morning tea in the cave of the small pyramid, lunch after traversing the sandy climb to the start of the loop walk then a break back at the small pyramid while two of our 22 walkers climbed to the top of the pyramid to gain a magnificent view of the reserve and beach. We rounded the day off with a lovely afternoon tea at Glenfalloch.
May 26 2023
Goodwood Road, Bobby’s Head, Puketapu
4. 24/5/2023 Mt Royal/Bobby’s Head Trampers. Grade 3.5 Leaders Graham Thurlow and Carol Thurlow.
On a calm and sunny winter’s day we arrived at the Tavora Reserve car park.
Some of us came via various routes! As we walked along the road towards Steven Foote’s farm and then up the paddocks toward Mount Royal, Graham explained that the Goodwood Rd had been the original wagon road to Palmerston and up to the goldfields through the Pig Route.
We walked up through the paddocks turning to admire views out to the coast, and the Pleasant River estuary to the southeast.
Then also looking further up the coast Graham explained that the large homestead on a knob facing west, was built by the Preston family in 1904. Some of their descendants still own Longlands Station inland at the end of the Pig Route as you enter the Maniototo. This house (shown below) was once their winter residence.
Then from a point higher up as we entered the valley we looked down on Ireland Road. Graham explained this valley had been occupied by many Irish families. The Kelly’s were the last to leave. We arrived at the Foote family Hut in the valley and had lunch.
After that we headed straight up to the Skyline and through the gate into Simon Engelbrecht’s farm. (Formally Graham’s farm). At the top we stood beside the survey Trig marker. We viewed Palmerston below us and up to the north the Kakanui mountain range. To the west were clear views of the volcanic peaks inland from Waikouaiti including Mount Watkin.
As we walked back down to the coast we observed the remnant native forest still on the farm largely ngaio, broadleaf, houhere or lacebark, totara, matai, kanuka and red matipo. Down Bobby’s Head Rd to the Tavora Reserve around the cliffs we observed seals lazing about in the sun.
Back at the cars everyone expressed their enjoyment to be out tramping again on a good day. Our thanks to Steven Foote and Simon Engelbrect for granting us access across their farms.
Apr 14 2023
A Cancelled Tramping Day
2. 12 April 2023 Trampers and Hikers
Choices for Hikers: Stay home and knit or brave the elements of mist and drizzle with potential rain but leave the Waihola Wanderings for another time. 11 chose to go for a local walk.
The course was plotted as we left the Peter Johnson carpark, going along the riverside, turning at the helicopter pad and wending our way over to Wingatui Rd and Gladstone Rd North.
It was decided to have morning tea under cover. Wingatui Station (built in 1875) was a likely possibility. However, the leader veered off track and we arrived at Neil’s model railway instead.
This of course provided shelter as he coped with the unexpected invasion and happily displayed rail/train manoeuvres.
Dry and refreshed, we passed the evidence of autumn in the yellow, gold and red tree colours, and wended our way back to the carpark after a pleasant 10 kms of Mosgiel Meanderings.
Eleanore and Carole
The Trampers choice
As a weather alert was given, safety required that we could not go to Rosella Ridge, so it was decided we would meet at Woodhaugh Gardens. After discussion, we headed towards Bethunes Gully. The rain had eased so we walked beside the Leith with some nice street art on the walls of the Leith.
We continued past the gardens, into North East Valley, past Dunedin North Intermediate school, then Baldwin Street(no takers), Dunedin Hospice and Ross Home. We detoured into Chingford Park, a nice stone home, which catered for weddings.
We stopped at Leith Harrier and Soccer grounds for morning tea.
Moving on we passed some garden plaques on a fence. Into Norwood Street we continued to Forrester Park (bmx bike park) then into Bethunes Gully. The good 35 minutes of uphill, required some reduction of gear before an uphill climb. On the way a large tree had fallen and was being removed. We passed a couple of waterfalls,5 bridges over Lyndsay Creek and got to the top at 12.05 – lunchtime.
The return to the bottom took 30 mins, past the Normanby Tavern (now closed), Ross Home, then via a track behind the Hospice, thanks John G. We continued back onto the main road to NEV shops back to Woodhaugh and the cars. As some had cooled off due to drizzle, it was decided no coffees but a couple of pieces of chocolate fudge sufficed.
Distance 16.18km Elevation 445m actual tramping time 3hrs 6min.
Thanks Graeme S for being TEC. A fun day out. Phil.
Feburary 2018
February 2018
Apr 07 2023
Gabriels Gully, Lawrence. Bus Trip
7. 5 April 2023. Combined. Gabriel’s Gully, Lawrence. Grade 4 (trampers) & Grade 2 (hikers). $20. Leaders: Phil Keene (Trampers), Jan Butcher (Hikers)
Hikers’ Report (scroll down for Trampers’ Report):
At 8.45am we travelled in convoy with the trampers to Lawrence, where we had a comfort stop before continuing onto Gabriel’s Gully. Halfway down the road the brakes were on as we came across a large STOP sign and barriers preventing us from going any further.
It turns out contractors were cleaning up a large tree which had fallen across the road, so we retraced our steps back to Blue Spur Road, a gravel road taking us up and up, around and down, meeting up with Munro Road and down into Gabriel’s Gully. Whew!
We all had morning tea on arrival and then said goodbye to the trampers as they set off in another direction and 19 hikers commenced the Interpretation Loop Track.
The first 20 minutes was up and up and a couple of “breathers” needed but soon we reached the top with great views over the Gully floor below.
We continued around the well-groomed ridge walk and down Blue Spur/mining sites checking out the information stations along the way and stopping at points of interest.
It was then back down the hill to our cars and a short walk along the road to Grey’s Dam where we sat under a large tree to enjoy our lunch break, after which we dropped our packs back at our cars and took a short walk around the gully floor.
Fortunately, the return road was cleared and we stopped off at the ‘Prospector’ for refreshments before returning to Mosgiel. The weather played its part – not too hot and no wind to speak of. A very enjoyable 4ks walked on the day.
Jan and Jay
Trampers’ Report:
32 very keen walkers set out on time, in 8 vehicles, to make their fortune in the hills of Central Otago; we suffered all sorts of setbacks as traffic delays, or ‘hold ups’ frustrated us. Most of us felt better for the stop on the corner in Lawrence; and some just had to get that takeaway coffee…..another ‘hold up’ on the road up to GG with a sign that had multiple meanings and road block. On up around the bend Jan B walked and got the low down (tree clearance) so the cars did an about face and detoured over Blue Spur – once farmed by Chris and Ant Wither and down into GG. Chris outlined the local well known activity of sheep rustling, and apparently ‘not just back in the day’.
With a school group also present the GG car-park really did feel as if another gold rush was underway. The delays did not lessen the need for morning tea, as the sun was shining, but we were finally off on our way by 10.45am.
13 trampers skirted the SW ridge of GG, through the man-made landscape now dominated by Sycamore trees, feeling very much at home here as well as adding a nice splash of Autumn, passing the mine tunnels and North of Ireland battery. Some of us musing where was the South of Ireland battery?
We crossed Victoria Road, the main entrance to the Glendhu Forest and on past Victoria (Milburn’s) Dam and started the steady ascent, initially through a larch forest, then up through the remnant beech forest and gorge/ ravine/gully of the Munro track.
Progress was tempered by the intimate feel of the walk, as well as the little dips into streams (they looked gold bearing to me) then the challenge of all those man made steps.
Finally, we emerged into the Glendhu pine forest and onto road 21, are we at the top yet? being a common question. The answer being ‘no not yet, we’ll just go up and around the bend a little way for lunch, which will give a lovely view into the West, Blue Mountains and all’. And of course, this happened as planned.
After lunch we continued the steady ascent, mostly now on Victoria Road; no trucks came past to enjoy our bright coloured tops…..We took the first turn on the right into Road 22 and continued down, shambling through fir and gum forest and along the very well maintained forestry roads and drainage systems.
Upon a slight rise in the road, we enjoyed a view down into Otago Dam which was full to the brim as usually there is just a trickle of a stream.
The entrance onto the Dam is now much clearer than other recent club forays and we stopped to pose, as you do in these sorts of places. From here it was a slow and steady descent through beech forest for a couple of hours, as a little care was required on the steeper parts, as well as completing half a dozen stream crossings, and of course the banter about the number of flood warning signs there were and how many hundreds of metres did each sign say?
As we emerged around Grey’s Dam into the bright open car-park many mused on the fact ‘that last time this was where the bus was parked, and we took our boots off and lay in the sun…..’
After the inevitable team photo with the autumn coloured back drop, we set off for the last ten minutes of walking to the cars, where we did take our boots off; the general consensus being it was to be each car for itself back into Lawrence (the tree had been cleared) and get an ice cream on the run which we did do, helping us to get back to PJ park at 4.45pm, just as the first bus pulled in to take folk to the Rod Stewart concert. For those that went, is he still sexy? Is he still sailing? Did Cyndi just want to have fu-un?
A great day out, thanks to the drivers especially and to Rayonier Matariki Forests for access to Glendhu Forest. For the trampers 11km, walking time 4 hours 30 minutes, 350 m altitude gain and I’m sticking with Grade 4.
Phil
6. 3/2/21. Combined. Gabriel’s Gully/ Munro Gully Track/ Glendhu Forest
Gabriel’s Gully: Lawrence 3 February 2021
Well then, what about the best laid plans of mice and men…… thanks to everyone for being early, and money in the bank, but we were undone by an accident near Burnside that held the bus up! Fortunately there was no walk out, and once it arrived, everyone jumped on board to go for a ‘walk about’ at Gabriel’s Gully, on a near perfect day, not too hot & not too cool. Just perfect you might say.
Richard the bus driver did his best to get us back on schedule, and after a short stop at the corner in Lawrence, we arrived at Gabriel’s Gully just after 10am; so naturally the 40 participants partook of morning tea and readied for the walking, as you do!
With map in hand the 7 (including the driver) in the Jan Team (thanks Jan B and Jan Y) headed up the hill to undertake the Interpretive Track, and to spend an hour or two absorbing the history of the area.
The remaining 34 headed to Munro’s Gully on the opposite side of the Gully, with the groups able to wave to each other, almost ‘Bon Voyage’ like at a wharf.
Passing both an old Mine Shaft and the North of Ireland Battery, the self-named Team B (29 walkers) led by Phil, opened up a bit of a gap on Raewyn’s Team A (5 walkers).
Crossing Munro Road and heading for Milburn’s (Victoria) Dam, there was time to stop & take in the reflections, no hint yet of any early autumnal colouring.
From the Dam it was a steady ascent through the lovely beech forest, with those pesky red Rowan berries trying to outdo the red colouring on the native Horopito (pepper) trees.
Some impressive bracket or shelf fungi were visible (Ganoderma); in days of old, these were sent back to China by early immigrants apparently having amazing medicinal properties; at a more practical level they are rock hard and used for intricate wooden jewellery. They attack the diseased heartwood of a still living tree.
The rise and fall of the track gave time to take in the babbling brook, ferns, mosses etc and the dappled light was well, beautiful. For Team B we were welcomed about 2/3 of the way up by some Falcon screeching, with some brief sightings – this was in the same place as the week before recce, where 3 came much closer and all being very visible. I was reminded in this time and place of Wendell Berry’s lines “Always in the big woods when you have left familiar ground, and step off alone in to a new place there will be, along with feelings of curiosity and excitement, a little nagging dread. It is the ancient fear of the unknown and it is your first bond with the wilderness you are going into”.
After an hour and a bit, pine cones were lying on the track, an indication we were getting near Glendhu Forest, ‘the top’ and not long after, we emerged on to Road 21, the lunch spot right on 12 noon. Most sat on the road with feet downhill, almost meant to be!
The arrival of Team A gave rise to enthusiastic acclamation – well done! After some chit chat, 4 of Team B were welcomed into Team A. They returned to the Gabriels’ Gully car park via Cornishman’s Dam, down through the forest beside water races to Pollard’s Dam and then followed the Interpretive track to their destination. Once reconnecting with Jan’s Team they all drove off to Lawrence to enjoy the local delights.
This left 25 in Team B, and so we headed off up through Glendhu Forest on Road 21 thence Victoria Road. At the top, this provided great views of West Otago and I think Northern Southland in the murky distance. Thence down Road 22 through a delightful archway of Douglas Fir and at the intersection of Roads 22, 23 and 24, we found a ‘yellow ribbon tied around a wineberry tree’. Amazing.
Oct 22 2022
West Harbour Recreation Trail
Eighteen of us met at the Ravensbourne carpark opposite the old hotel, and in beautiful sunshine we walked along Totara St above the main road along to the park at the end where we had morning tea. From there we sauntered down the hill and crossed Ravensbourne Rd to the walkway and followed it until we got to Burkes.
The bus stop there has a striking monochrome mural (or ‘Muriel’ to longtime Coro viewers) of the old brewery that used to stand on the site.
Up to the streets above Ravensbourne Rd, all named after native birds where we walked to St Leonards passing well kept gardens including one with a stall of plants from Bluestone Nurseries for sale which the keen gardeners amongst us were very interested in. We saw both Lodges in St Leonards, and stopped for an early lunch at the end of Takahe Terrace on the edge of a sports ground. Then back down to the walkway which took us all the way back to the Ravensbourne carpark. A very relaxed and enjoyable day.
We stopped at Emersons for a coffee on the way home. Thanks to Raewyn for organising this hike. And a special thanks to Linda for leading the group at short notice. Helen
Ravensbourne Hotel to start the walk along the West Harbour walk and cycle way. We stopped 15 minutes along the track for morning tea and those that felt a need had a turn on the exercise equipment to test
their skills. Along the way we came across a railway maintenance crew doing work on the track. This really fascinated many though mainly the men. I’m sure with a bit of encouragement they would have
jumped the fence to have a try at hammering in the squiggly steel rods. Further along we left the track at Burkes and crossed a very busy road to walk up the various streets including Kiwi St, Kaka St. down Pukeko St. past St Leonards Hall and school.
On the way we enjoyed looking at historical homes and lovely gardens including St Leonards Lodge
and University Lodge. We had lunch in the sunshine at
the St Leonards Park.
After lunch we returned to our cars walking the whole way on the track and also had the pleasure of watching the large tanker and tug boat making their way up the harbour. A very
pleasant 10.5kms. Coffee stop was at the stadium. – Raewyn and Jay.
21 hikers parked at the Otago yacht Club and walked the cycle/walkway to St Leonards and back, a total of 11 ks – not bad for a mid-winter day with planned hikes cancelled due to illness of leaders. Morning tea was had on the yacht club verandah as it was still a bit chilly. With a cold breeze in our faces we stepped it out briskly …
… to St Leonards where lunch was eaten with a bit of sunshine to help. The return trip saw us well spread out with unfit ones like myself dragging the chain a bit at the back of the pack. We were reunited at the University coffee shop where a pleasant social hour was spent. – Judy.
We parked cars down below the Ravensbourne Hotel and took the walkway to Burkes where we morning-tead.
We took the old road to St Leonards reflecting on its probably origin as just a track through the bush following the easiest gradient. We turned up Kiwi Street, along Kaka Street, admiring well-kept properties there, down Pukeko and along past St Leonards Hall and the school. Up Ruru to view the mock Tudor House.
Down again to front past the University Lodge Gates, and next it, St Leonards Lodge. Then along to St Leonards Park for lunch.
Returning back to the cars we were relieved the cold southerly had abated somewhat. Thanks to Judy, Adrienne and Helen for excellent leadership. – Ian.
4. 29/10/2014 Hikers. Ravensbourne Walkway. E. Leaders: Peter and Wendy.
Lunch stop was very sheltered, with plenty to watch on the walkway – runners … cyclists … mums with prams …
Two of our group caught the eye of another group and had their photo taken which was published in the Star local paper on Thursday 30th.
I was very taken with a stone sofa on the side of the walkway.
All up we walked over 10km Lets hope this walkway does find its way to Port Chalmers in the future.
We spoke to a young girl on the track from Uni. She was part of a group of students from the Mining dept. She was amazed when Mollie told her how old she was. Then Doug came striding along and I said he was the same age. She was very impressed with us.
We had a coffee at the Plaza which is the cafe at the stadium in the uni part.
1. 17/6/2009 Hikers Pedestrian/Cycle track North End Rowing Club to Maia E $4.00 Leaders: Lois & Lance
7 members (Molly, Neil, Lois, Lance, Bev, Margaret and Angela) set off at 10am from the University Aquatic Centre (just north of the Boat Harbour, via Leander St- opposite Butts Road on the way to Port Chalmers beside Palmers Quarry – now known as Shiel Concrete) for a brisk stroll to the Ravensbourne Yacht Club, stopping a while for morning tea.
From there we proceeded to Maia crossing the railway line at Hume Pipeworks, opposite the Ravensbourne Hotel, which looked closed for the winter.
There are extensive notices in yellow & red advising one NOT to cross the railway line but in this case we had no alternative as the walkway from the Ravensbourne yacht club proceeded on the left-hand side of the yacht club on the site of the second railway line which has since been removed.
Upon leaving Maia we proceeded up Ascog Road & along Totara St and down Adderley Terrace to the Ravensbourne Hotel, across the road to the overbridge at the Ravensbourne Yacht club and back to the cars.
The walk took approx 1 1/2 hours and because of the cool temperatures and accompanying wind chill factor it was decided to go home for lunch.
An enjoyable walk taking 3 hours (includes an hour travelling time) – Angela.
Sep 15 2022
Street Walk: Town Belt areas.
10. 14/09/2022. Hikers. Street walks of Dunedin – from the Oval. Leaders Jenni and Bruce
Memorials, buildings and landmarks that we drive past regularly were revisited when 24 hikers ventured out on a clear but cold Wednesday. Wearing many layers of clothing, we set off from the Oval, which as one clever quiz team recalled, covers 22.9 acres.
Henry Ely Shacklock, Prince of Wales Hotel, Carnarvon Station, Bell Pepper Blues, the Empire Hotel – the home of the Dunedin Sound, all conjured up memories of time passed.
Further along Princes Street, we admired the beautiful refurbishment of Wains Hotel, now a 5 star boutique hotel and its across the road neighbour, Distinction Hotel, formerly the 1937 Chief Post Office. This building housed a huge number of public servants over the years.
Morning tea was taken in the sunshine on the Dunedin Cenotaph.
There was much to observe and discuss in the Exchange. The Cargill Monument, originally erected in the Octagon, but shifted to the Exchange in 1872. A mammoth effort, considering the detail.
It was interesting to visit Queen Elizabeth II’s, great-great-grandmother, Queen Victoria, who reigned for 63 years and seven months. What an amazing length of service from our two stoic royals.
Rattray Street, today a crumbling collection of buildings, has huge memories for many of the team ….. Hong Kong Café, Sunset Strip, Dragon Café, Tai Ping Restaurant, the Rolling Stones party place, Calder Mackay and the Crown Hotel to name a few. Along Manse Street, up Stafford Street. Ross and Glendining Ltd, Kempthorne Prosser, Sew Hoys and the St Mathew’s Anglican Church. The architect for the church was William Mason, MP and Dunedin’s first mayor and yes related to Mason and Wales of today.
Next came the stories from the Rugby Hotel, topless waitresses (from one who knows) and the Bell tea building.
The Market Reserve was our next destination, and there’s miles of history around what was formerly a tidal inlet, the original shore of Otago Harbour. The Victorian style men’s toilets were discussed, ladies were no where to be found. The Crown Roller Mills building has now been beautifully restored and houses 12 luxury apartments and a restaurant.
We admired the house Johnny Jones lived in (39 Melville Street) which is still in great shape and then popped our heads into The Dunedin Club which was built for him. Royalty have stayed there. This is used today as a hub for business people, weddings, conferences etc. It also has eight luxurious suites for accommodation. As an aside did you know that Jones donated the land for the building of St Paul’s Church in the Octagon?
We zigzagged up the 98 steps (one of the quiz questions), to Maitland Street and some viewed the Bottled Sunshine sign for the Lanes lemonade factory. Some missed that! Carroll Street which was previously known as Walker Street, was the red-light district of Dunedin and associated crime. The top block of Carroll Street was known as the Devil’s half acre. The arrival of the Lebanese community helped improve the area, but the reputation was renowned. Now, we’re informed the red-light district is all around us, with online ordering and home deliveries!
The team made good progress up the steep Maitland Street and arrived at our lunch stop at Unity Park. The wind chill factor caused us to depart sooner than we would have liked. We were happy to know the Trampers had reached the top of Mt Cargill for their lunch stop but they couldn’t see us waving!
The only other site worth mentioning was from Walter Street and overlooking where Carisbrook once was and pondering what might be in store for the Forbury Trotting site.
Back through the Southern Cemetery, a rather sad place with many delipidated plots.
At the Oval, we popped into the Kensington for a short quiz on the day’s findings. One of the team’s names was “Time for Ovalteam” – clever! The team though who won the quiz was “Outram Plus 1” and received boxes of Smarties, which seemed appropriate. Drinks and homemade nibbles were enjoyed, service was a bit slow.
Walk was around 9 km.
We would like to thank everyone for their keen participation for an enjoyable day out.
Bruce and Jenni.
Note: Toilets on this walk are few and far between. If you want the Oval toilets open, you need to organise this with the DCC – www.dunedin.govt.nz/do-it-online/book/facility-bookings or phone 477 4000. The ones in the Exchange area where the ACC building is being erected, are no longer available.
9. 16/02/2022. Hikers. Town Belt Circuit. M. Leaders Linda Partridge and Diane Paterson
Thirteen keen hikers met at Woodhaugh Gardens for morning tea before setting off on a circuit of the northern/central part of the town belt.
We began by taking the zigzag path and steps up from Duke Street. When we reached Queen and Warrender streets, after our first ascent, we viewed the university in the distance and saw up close where many of the students lived in their hillside flats. We met some students from Auckland moving into their new abode and friendly banter ensued between the students and the sprightly TRTC hikers. We also marvelled at the parking arrangements in these narrow steep streets.
We continued on to Cosy Dell and took time to view the tennis courts and the array of historic homes, many now flats that are located in a small area.
More steps (and groans) and we made our way along Park Street to Heriot Row, London Street and then around by Moana Pool to our lunch spot at Olveston.
Unfortunately we felt we were a little early for lunch so low and behold another set of steps were located and we climbed up to Wallace Street and then found a pleasant route back down to Olveston for a well-earned lunch.
After lunch and a brief look at the lovely Olveston gardens our route back took us along streets and tracks through the town belt until we regrouped at Stonelaw Terrace. Given we were making good time we did a detour down Cannington Road and Braeview Crescent before descending on the historic Bullock Track to our cars at Woodhaugh Gardens.
It was a great day with lots of interest including history, panoramic views, friendly students, the very special Green Belt and a few laughs along the way. The circuit we took was around 9kms.
Afternoon tea was enjoyed at the café in the Botanic Gardens.
Linda and Diane
8. 11/9/2019. Hikers. Town Belt- walk, bus trip. Leaders: Pam and Jenny.
May 27 2022
Buskin Track from Top Tramps
Distances from car-park: Top of Buskin Track 24 km, Glenfalloch 24 km, Macandrew Bay 25 km.
25/05/2022. Trampers. Greenacres, Buskin, Paradise Tracks. M. Leaders: Anne and Rod Ward
It started as a cold blustery day when we departed from Mosgiel, proceeding down the bay with white caps plentiful on the harbour. 14 hardy souls started the Greenacres Track at 0940.
Conditions were better than expected once we started our journey up Greenacres Track and turned right to walk along Highcliff Road to the start of the Buskin Track.
We stopped for a cuppa at the start of the Buskin Track then proceeded down the track to the junction of Paradise Track. Buskin Track was surprisingly sheltered from the cold southerly wind.
After a side walk to Boulder Beach which was spectacular with crashing waves, foam whipping up the beach and blustery cold wind we returned to a sheltered spot at the start of the Paradise Track for lunch.
Ascending up Paradise Track without stopping and a cold southerly on our backs we again joined Highcliff Road then back down Greenacres Track to our vehicles.
Everyone enjoyed the walk and as tramp leader I must congratulate everyone for being so well prepared for the extreme conditions that never eventuated.
Finished our walk at 1440 and headed to “The Duck” at Macandrew Bay for a well-deserved coffee.
Anne & Rod Ward
Glenfalloch’s name is Gaelic and means “Hidden Valley”. Glenfalloch was established in 1871 by George Russell. It covers 12 hectares (30 acres). In 1917 Philip Barling purchased Glenfalloch and it was opened to the public by his son in 1956. It was brought by the Mills family in 1960 and in the late 1960’s the Otago Peninsula Trust purchased the property. We can be very grateful to have this asset to enjoy every season of the year.
9.40am saw Phil and his harem of nine set off through the woodland gardens of Glenfalloch following a path which took us to the Bridal Lawn, over the Russell stream bridge to admire the ferns and woodland foliage before climbing up many steps to a four-wheel drive track and the start of our first big ascent.
As we steadily climbed, this track petered out into a single overgrown track which took us to the boundary line.
Here we pushed our way through low Manuka branches to the fence where packs and poles were thrown over before we squeezed through the wires.
Then it was a steady zigzag climb up Claremont Farm to just below Highcliff Rd where we stopped for morning tea while enjoying the great vista’s back over the city, the sparkling water of the harbour and to Port Chalmers and beyond. Jill D’s birthday treat of easter eggs got us going again walking up Highcliff Road for 15mins to Penzance Kennels and the start of Buskin track.
This track weaved its way down the side of the hill, again with spectacular views now of the Pacific Ocean and rolling farmland out to Sandfly Bay. This single file track was mostly grass with the odd churned up muddy patches trampled by cattle, but some boards had been placed in situ. We eventually came to a junction with Braidwood track to Boulder Beach and Highcliff Track to the right. We continued on the Highcliff track through clumps of macrocarpa trees until we came out in the open again.
The track weaved its way towards the sea and then suddenly it was a steep grunt up to the top to the White Rocks (lichen covered) for lunch.
Again, enjoying spectacular views over Boulder Beach, towards Sandfly Bay and Mt Charles, Phil handed around chocolate treats from Betty and Jim (thank you soo much).
With the sugar rush we were off again and, as we walked around a corner, the views changed again to Tomahawk, St Clair Beach and Black head. When Highcliff Track finished, we continued on Karetai Rd to where it meets Highcliff Rd. A 20-minute walk down Highcliff Rd brought us to the unmarked District Track.
Once Phil cleared the grass around the stile, we scrambled down through long grass following the fence line for 20 mins to another stile and from there continued through trees towards Portobello Road.
A very steep final descent brought us onto Portobello Road.
We had a 20 minute walk on the shared pathway to Glenfalloch where we were joined by Raewyn, Claire and Jan for coffee, cake and ice cream on the deck in the last rays of sunshine.
Thank you Helen for filling in at the last minute as Tail End Charlie and to Jason allowing us access through Claremont Farm. Pam Cocks
Oct 04 2021
Botanic Garden, Logan Park, Northern Cemetery, Chingford
Jul 24 2021
Boulder Beach
Boulder Beach closed during yellow eyed penguin nesting, moulting, December-February months.
Distance from car-park: 24 km to Macandrew Bay, 27 to Highcliff Road.
17. 21 July 2021. Trampers. Greenacres St -Boulder Beach – Seal Point Rd. M. Leaders: Ross and Wyn
Brrrrr… it was cold in Mosgiel after a light frost so we were keen to get into our cars and head out for Macandrew Bay, our starting point. After meeting up with the Trampers from town, 23 of us set off from Macandrew Bay just after 10am. (I thought there were 22 until morning tea when I realised I hadn’t counted myself!). We headed up Greenacres Street…
…where we came across our first of many animals of the day (and my favourites) – Highland cattle and even baby ones.
After about 35 minutes of uphill and not far up the Greenacres Track we stopped for morning tea by a seat at some big old macrocarpas.
We then carried on up the track until we came to Highcliff Road (280 metres of climbing). We had certainly warmed up after that and we were able to admire the views as we walked along Highcliff Road towards the Paradise Track.
About halfway along we crossed the road to look at the monument to New Zealands first Cheese factory in 1871. The monument was understated considering how important the dairy industry has become. Then it was onto Paradise track which leads down to Boulder Beach. It was slippy slidy in places but everyone seemed to remain upright.
A few animal distractions on the way starting with a group of friendly alpacas which received quite a bit of attention.
Then we came across 2 sheep engaging in rather vigorous headbutting. After all the animal antics we made our way on down to the bottom of the track to the Beattie cottage which we had a look around…
… before making our way to Boulder Beach through the protected area. It was 12.30pm and lunch was had on the beach near a leopard seal sunbathing on the sand who seemed to pose to have his photograph taken.
It was very calm and even warm with a short appearance of the sun. The return journey was an uphill climb via Braidwood Road (a 4-wheel drive track), leading onto Seal Point Road which in turn joined up with Highcliff Road at Pukehiki. The church has been undergoing renovations with a very smart paint job in grey and white.
A bit further along Highcliff Road to Greenacres Track again for the thankfully downward journey to our cars (with the customary stop at the BIG swing).
We had a well-deserved coffee at the The Duck café at Macandrew Bay where we were pleased to rest our weary legs and chat some more. A great end to an enjoyable tramp.
Wyn
Apr 16 2021
Camps: Borland Lodge Adventure and Education Trust
4. 12-16 April 2021. Borland Trip. Leaders: Raewyn and Phil Keene.
Day 1
At last, after a few weeks of planning, and watching weather reports etc. we were underway, and all before 9am on the day!
After 2 hours of driving we emerged through the forest at the Dunsdale reserve, at 1 minute past the estimated time on Raewyn’s manifest; this proving to be an ongoing source of feedback as we completed each part of the day and week. A pretty impressive lineup of cars too, and the groundsman cutting the lawns had to move on until we had departed.
We were walking by 11.30am up the true left side of the Dunsdale stream, to emerge at Forks Flat clearing, before crossing a bridge and returning down the true right side, where there were some impressive matai and other podocarp trees.
Back by 12.30pm for lunch at the various picnic tables and away at 1pm, on time!
Some topping up of petrol at Winton was followed by one of those road trips where all roads lead to Clifton Suspension Bridge, except when you have too much chatter in the vehicle, miss a turn off and end up nearly at Mossburn for a venison pie….. with one vehicle down Peter gave an interesting outline, on the Bridge, of the ups and downs of the Manapouri Project. The major down being the adverse effects on the Waiau River and it’s life force and downstream communities. Having communicated with the errant vehicle we moved on up the Southern Scenic Route turning off near Blackmount onto the Lake Monowai Rd and up to Borland Lodge. Black skies into the west were foreboding….. We all settled in quickly and hey presto the first of 4 lovely evening meals was whipped up and devoured, in anticipation of some hard tramping ahead. After searching the web pages of the weather gods, it was decided we would start with the easier of the 4 main walks on the agenda.
Day 2
South-North Borland to Lodge
Up up and away on time at 9am, with the bulk of the group opting to do the South ‘n’ North Borland/Rock Bivvy return to the Lodge, whilst Raewyn’s group did Lodge to South Borland return. With help from the smaller group, we ferried everyone to a drop off on the Saddle Rd, and set off across, down and through fields of moss carpets and crown ferns at the base of high limestone cliffs.
Along the way we were accompanied by tomtits, fantails and the odd Robin or two.
We morning tea’d on a high bank overlooking the South Borland stream, with views of Mt Titiroa in the foreground.
From here we turned off, walked across a swing-bridge over the stream, and carried on to what has to be the best rock bivy in the world?
Along the way we had an interesting chat with Fiordland’s Robin Hood, who was hoping to get a deer with his bow and arrow! We lunched sharpish at the rock bivy, then returned down the North Borland and over the swing-bridge, turning left to follow the track above and alongside the main Borland River back to the Lodge. The babbling brook was quite large in places, and oh those deep pools must be home to some gigantic trout? We returned to the lodge over the swing-bridge on the Pig stream, past lots of emergency shelters, erected by school pupils as part of their outdoor training activities. In parallel, Raewyn’s group (or rather Keith’s harem?) set off from the Lodge just after 10am once the ferrying of hikers and cars was complete. Walking in reverse of the above, they enjoyed their walk through the moss covered forest and Keith too was interested in those trout pools (even to the extent of standing beside a tree to peer into the depths, to later discover it was overhanging the stream with no roots below!). Final destination was the turn-off spot above, and once they discovered that no-one was waiting to return with them, they had lunch back further on the track around a previously used campfire. Sandflies were biting, so the journey back was soon started.
The only first aid required was to Jan’s shoe which lost its sole.
Everyone’s efforts were rewarded by another lovely meal, a great social atmosphere with lots of board and card games underway. But earlyish to bed to ready for the day ahead, this time on the Borland Bivy to Green Lake and return walk, and hopefully on the Mt Burns Alpine tarns walk.
Day 3
Borland Bivy to Green Lake return – Mt Burns Alpine Walk
A perfect split of people to vehicles meant Phil’s group was away sharpish at 8.20am, arriving through the mist to a clear Borland Saddle, where some time was taken to take in the views and anticipate the Alpine walk on our return later in the day. Then on down the Grebe Valley side of the Saddle to find ample parking under the pylons near the entrance at the bivy. A slightly wetter forest than on day 2 meant the yellow carpet had given way to a rich green, and we bobbled along through a low saddle, then down and across a large but boggy clearing.
Bang on 10.00am we had morning tea, either in the edge of the forest or around patches in the sphagnum moss.
On through another low forest saddle, this time with a picturesque tarn surrounded by sharp colours, not unlike a geothermal pool. The bush and tussock tracks were more pronounced than at the time of the recce, thanks no doubt to the pitter patter of hunters feet through the roar period, and no wonder with hearing regular bugles all day long, and a bit later on, some Kea squawking. The next tussock clearing was on another scale, vast wonderful high red tussock, and drier under foot and eventually we entered another short forest walk and came to the junction with the Island Lake track. Everyone was travelling well, so we agreed to stay together and box on. We were immediately met by a good old fashion ‘grunt’, requiring good breathing spots about each third of the way up; it didn’t quite look this steep on the map! Having ascended we travelled along the ridge, but with 3 hours gone and still wanting to do some of the Alpine walk later in the day, the majority of the group opted for lunch. The famous five moved (rumoured to be running?) on to the edge of the Green Lake, descending and ascending the quite steep ridge.
The majority returned to the Island Lake track and went down to the outlet, catching up with the famous five an hour and a half later, allowing for a nice group photo with the lake in the background. Island Lake was rumoured to be the most picturesque on the day?
From here we returned at a solid pace back to the cars, visualising the best spot to put our bush hut close to nearby tarns, and guessing where those roaring stags were. An inspection of the bivvy found an entry in the hut book from Raewyn’s group, who had completed part of the walk. Their three cars left later and also stopped at the saddle for a look. Still a little misty, they headed down to the pylon park and walked through the forest to the first clearing on the Green Lake walk to view the valley. Too boggy for morning tea there, they back tracked to find a dryer spot in the forest. Back to the cars, they drove on another 5kms to the Grebe Valley lookout where the mist had cleared for a great view down the valley. Also stopped there were a couple of deer hunters using modern technology to look for deer down below. Discussion developed and soon a few binocular sets were out, deer seen and photos taken. From there they returned to the Saddle for lunch, ventured through the Goblin forest and completed the Alpine Walk up far enough to enjoy the spectacular scenery.
This was the point Phil’s group returned to, and most went above the bush line to enjoy the big picture, which was pretty good!
On down the Saddle road and returned to the Lodge for more, well you know, great food and socialising but noticeably most sneaking off to bed a little earlier than the night before.
Day 4
Mt Eldrig ascent/descent
Lodge to Lake Monowai and return Mt Eldrig:
A close to even split for either walk, with 15 ready and willing at 8.45am to head for Mt Eldrig (an unofficial name, there is a Loch Eldrig in Scotland. Eldrig has become synonymous with deer trapping, named after a 10 th century monk Aelric who dug trenches to lead deer into net traps). With just 3 vehicles the steep ascent and parking arrangements up the pylon road was easily achieved, and off we went through quite an overgrown entrance, but the track settling down to one of steady to steep beech track, some fallen logs and bogs, and large rocks making it a little difficult to navigate; fortunately DOC had placed more numerous -markers on the trees. We morning tea’d right on10.00am where we had some great views but also had to seek some shelter from a strong NW wind. Another 45 minutes saw us emerge above the bush line onto
steep tussock/bog country with the track progressively giving way to poled markers. We followed these for another half hour, where 3 of the group decided to rest, awaiting the return of the main
group. They carried on and up and around to come to a significant white granite outcrop, providing spectacular views into and beyond the Borland valley, as well as to Te Wae Wae Bay,
Lake Monowai and the Takitimus, and up to the forward peak of Eldrig.
We took some group photos, with two folk returning to the other 3 and then on down to a car and back to the Lodge. The remaining 10 had a good lunch break and then over the next hour and half ascended/descended this forward peak, through lovely alpine herb-fields, gentians, with some Edelweiss flowers seeking shelter at the base of rocks; this brought forward the inevitable song from the Sound of Music and we could hear the ‘echo’ albeit at a much higher and tuneful pitch, from Raewyn’s group the day before on the Alpine Walk just over the hill! Finally all 10 ascended to admire the views, and the 1000m vertical drop a few metres behind us.
Group photos, into the west, and into the east were taken before we made the steady, steep, slippery descent, with one or two slightly embarrassing moments along the way.
Lodge to Lake Monowai:
With Raewyn overseeing, Esther & Pam led 18 on the track from behind the lodge and over Burnt Ridge. Different forest again, gave way to a couple of boggy areas, then a climb up to the ridge for morning tea. Onward across the ridge and down the other side with a few narrow and/or steep areas to negotiate before coming out on the flat. Following the clear markers, the walk travels through broom etc and then along the pine forest edge to the main Monowai road. A 1km walk along the road comes to the main car park & boat ramp at Lake Monowai.
The boat harbour area of Lake Monowai – Photo Gordon
Meantime, a few of the team had stayed behind, so they drove two cars round to the same spot to join them for lunch. Lunch was under the beech trees at quite damp picnic tables with the lake below. After lunch, a stroll to the flood gates and group photo with the lake.
A few opted to return by car, the rest were led back by Esther & Pam (thanks ladies).
During the evening meal breaks Judge Mellish outlined an extensive list of sins that everyone had committed during the days, except himself of course! He had spies everywhere, resulting in the singing of Happy Birthday to Ross. Helen thanked the leaders and their teams for the great meals, while Esther expressed thanks to Raewyn and Phil for the organisation of the week and made a presentation from the group. To which Raewyn and Phil say thanks again to everyone for making it a successful foray into Fiordland. This part of Fiordland, apart from the power lines and road, is close to what it has always been, and provides a sense of adventure for those who encounter it on it’s terms. Phil encapsulated this by reading Wendell Berry’s lines from “the ancient fear of the unknown”
“Always in the big woods when you leave familiar ground and step off alone into a new place there will be, along with the feelings of curiosity and excitement, a little nagging of dread. It is the ancient fear of the unknown, and it is your first bond with the wilderness you are going into”.
Day 5
Ah parting is such sweet sorrow – An orderly departure unfolded with the camp being left spick and span; it was heartening to see many follow Raewyn’s final manifest, with many visiting Rakatu Wetlands where we encountered Mark Sutton, the project manager and a board member of the Game Bird Habitat Trust, who had received our blog on the Takitakitoa wetland – small world. Also just like a run on the bank in days of share market collapse, there was a run on Venison pies at Bracken Hall in Mossburn, the quality of the pies passing the test of all who ate, and ate…..
Raewyn and Phil
Mo 7/4/03-Fri 11/4/03 Leaders:
1. Friday 27/10/1995 – Monday 30/10/1995. Combined meals. Arranged car passengers. Camp Parents: Bill and Lesley, Dot and Nelson. 33 attended.
Sep 18 2019
Akatore Farm Walk or Beach Walk
… and followed the creek around …
… up to the road.
We then had a nice climb up the road until we arrived back at the cattle yards. It was an 8.5 k walk with roads, farmland, beach, water and a nice climb and then we finished off at the Brighton Cafe. – Kathryn.
Bob lead 24 Hikers down the road to the bridge over the Akatore River,where we sat in the sun for morning tea.
The tide was low enabling us to walk along the estuary,to the coast.This included a few moments of rock hugging,with many helping hands to get around a bluff.
A few people declined and returned to the road,to be picked up by Braden,Bob son,on his farm “mule”and some rejoined the group.
It was a clear,sunny day,with little wind and the journey along farm tracks,above the rocks,was good hiking.We lunched and explored at a private beach, …
… then climbed the hill back to the cars,completing about 9km.
It was a different route on a favourite area,enjoyed by all, with coffee at Wals. – Lesley.
It was quite a relief to reach a lovely sandy beach, with the tide well out.
Lunch was partaken of in the shelter of a steep bank, with some lovely yellow flowers about The breeze was quite light, but cool.
At the top of the hill we devoured a little to the left to get a good view looking down onto the Akatore estuary and environs.
Out onto the road, we followed it for two kilometres to arrive back at our starting point at 1.35 p.m.
With its aid, we all made our way safely down the cliff-face, …
… each doing so in our own fashion.
26/6/2013. Trampers. Livingstonia Park to Akatore. Beach Walk.
We then retraced our steps, with two of the group deciding that the farm paddocks offered a better route back again. The rest of us did some beach, & some farm walk back to the cars, which took a bit longer than the outward trip due to tiredness creeping in. We arrived back at the carpark at about 4pm. (13.9km, 3hrs 44min, moving ave 3.7km/h.) – Ken
There were places where we had to clamber up to the paddocks before descending to the rocks again.
This was a very narrow squeeze.
The trip was well-timed, with low tide after 1.00 p.m. so there was room for plenty of rock work clambering …
and beach sand. This is where we stopped for a pleasant cuppa.
Five lunched down at the Akatore mouth, the rest content to dine in the paddock above.
The five “down at the mouth” are just visible from the paddock.
Here is just one of the ponds as we made our return, this time largely over paddocks.
Careful rock clambering challenged some, and for others the distance was a bit of a stretch. But it was another successful day with the weather remaining kind. – Ian
6. 6/2/2008 Taieri Mouth Livingstonia Park to Akatore Beach walk. Trampers. Leaders: Ria, Hazel.
Tramp Report for Wednesday February 6th 2008
It turned out to be quite an adventure as we scrambled up and down rocks between the lovely bays that stretched all the way along this stunning Otago coastline. The tide was at a tantalising level as the more adventurous felt it was possible to get round, while our leaders took the more secure upper route along the cliff top. It was great to have the choice. We had lunch where the Akatore River reaches the sea, an enchanting spot with crystal clear water and white sand. George had a paddle in the water and we all relaxed in the sun. The tide was coming in, so most of the way back was along the top grassy pathway, but we did manage to go along some of the wider beach areas. As we descended the rope walkway back down to Taieri Beach we were so surprised to see so many people sunbathing and swimming, all taking advantage of the amazing Waitangi Day weather. Carol and I couldn’t resist a quick paddle before returning to the cars where everyone was waiting for us !! – Tash
Beautiful day for a beach walk when 12 hikers parked their cars at Knarston Park. The tide was out so we were able to walk south along the beach for quite some way before having to go up a rope walk to the grass area above beach to get past an outcrop of rocks. Then back down onto beach and time to sit and relax with our morning tea. Such a lovely day and so clear, the views were great and sea bird life interesting. On down the beach until we came to another outcrop on rocks that for us, was impassable and we couldn’t find a place suitable for us to climb up to top. So we decided that although it was a bit early we would have our lunch and sit a bit longer than usual, just soaking up the scenery and views. Watched the tide gradually coming higher up a little inlet, examined some interesting seaweed and heard about some of the bird life from our expert, Lesley G. 12 happy hikers wandered back to cars along the beach mostly and all agreed we’d had a very relaxed and pleasant day.- Bev.
Mar 27 2019
Rollinsons, Swampy, Swine Spur
The day was overcast and cool.
Morning tea was taken almost at the top of Swine Spur, after the hard climbing was done, …
… and with a good view.
As we started down Porkies
low cloud began coming in from the city side over the ridge and on Flagstaff.
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!!
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!
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.
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.
– Dave M
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.
5. 20/10/2010. Trampers. Rollinsons Road, Possum Busters, Swine Spur, Swampy Ridge, Rollinsons Track, Rollinsons Road. Leaders: Ria, Hazel.
1. 6/7/1889. Frozen Tarn on Swampy.