23. 28/06/2023. Hikers. Silverstream to Wals. Leaders: Bill Cubitt and Jill Dodd
After cancelling the Mt Cargill walk for the second time due to weather conditions, 15 happy hikers walked down the Silverstream track to Wal’s for morning coffee. We had 2 members join us there (Jenny F and Jan Y) which was lovely.
Group at Wals for morning coffee (photo and caption Jill D)
The weather remained very overcast with just a hint of moisture in the air. The temperature was pleasant. The Silverstream was fast flowing, dirty and quite high after the heavy rain. We have just had nothing to what the other island has experienced.
Our wander home was along back streets to the new Mosgiel pool Te Puna o Whakaehu, where some members went for a swim, some a look around, and others home for lunch.
The new Mosgiel pool (photo and caption Jill D)
In total a leisurely walk of about 6 kms with plenty of time to socialise with one another .
Cheers Bill n Jill
22. 8/7/2020. Hikers. Silverstream Gladfield road south. E. Leaders : Jim and Betty
Due to inclement weather the walk to Doctor’s Point was cancelled.
Thirteen walkers braved the cool conditions for an alternative walk to the Gladfield ford, (Silver Stream South). This was achieved without encountering any rain. Nine made it to the Blackstone Cafe for a pre lunch hot drink.
Betty & Jim Finnie.
21. 26/6/2019. Hikers. Silverstream floodbank from Carlyle Rd to Confluence. 13+ km. Leaders: Shona and June.
On a clear but cool morning, we car pooled to Wal’s rear park before walking along Bush and Carlyle Rds to access the Silverstream floodbank.
Morning tea was had in the sun at Riccarton Rd bridge.
Morning tea beside the stream. (Clive pic and caption.)
We continued to the confluence of the Silverstream and Taieri river
Where two streams meet. (Clive pic and caption.)
where we had lunch,
Lunch at the Taieri. (Clive pic and caption.)
with most finding enough room to avoid the numerous sheep droppings.
Returning back along the track to Wal’s we straggled out a bit like “Brown’s cows” so some were leaving after coffee as others were still arriving. – Shona.
20. 24/8/2016. Hikers. Lower Silverstream to mouth. Leaders: Jim and Betty.
Number of people in the group: 19.
The weather was a very cold northerly that threatened rain, fortunately rain coats were not required.
The hikers followed north from the car park on Factory Road and turned left at L J Hookers which took the group through the civic gardens, across the soccer field to the Silver Stream flood bank which was followed to the Taieri River. Because of the cool conditions there was a short lunch break
Lunch at the Taieri River. Sheltering as much as possible from the cold nor-wester.Another lunch photo.
then it was a return along the same flood bank back to Carlyle Road to meet Bush Road and back to the car park.
A coffee break was had at Topiary’s. – Betty and Jim.
Lunch to coffee map. About an 8 km distance!
19. 3/9/2015. Both. Lower Silverstream to mouth. Leaders: Arthur and Ian
This was a fall-back option. The programmed tramp to the Ship at Anchor area (still under snow) had been rescheduled by the leaders to the Racemans-to-weir area. However 17 of us gathered at the car park in only a suspicion of a drizzle, were faced with the prediction of solid rain in the afternoon and the prospect of muddy conditions even before one got up to the Racemans after the overnight rain. But the weather at the moment was getting lighter. So we decided on the walk along the lower Silverstream flood-bank. Two of us had other engagements so it was fifteen who set off making our way to the start at the Gordon Road bridge. Sloppy mud on the flood-bank confirmed suspicions of what life would have been getting to the Racemans. The Silverstream was quite a sight, rushing a good torrent of muddy water. The day was brightening. We were going well. Time grew on. With today being the first of the nine o’clock start, some began to pant for their still distant 10.00 a.m. morning tea stop.
The big macrocarpa hedge had been machine sawn back considerably. Silverstream visible on the left.
Eventually, come ten, we found an ideal bank in the sun at the Gladfield Road ford whereon to stop and drink. Stones and a stick were placed by the water’s edge to determine whether the water would rise or fall. Verdict: it was falling, but just a bit.
Sheltered morning tea in the sun. Note stones and stick to mark water level.
Then up and on again to reach the Riverside Road bridge. Time now 10.30 a.m. Time perhaps, to ensure returning dry before the 12.00 o’clock rain. However, the Trampers in the party, delighted to be walking in territory new to them, inquired how much further it was to the river’s mouth. On being informed it was an eight [Ed. note: Sorry, should have been ‘seven’.] km trek car-park to the mouth, they thought that at this stage it couldn’t be all that much further. So four of them went on with Leader Arthur and the remaining ten returned with Ian. When the returnees found themselves back beside the Sewerage Station at high noon and there was still no sign of rain, Marjorie proposed a stop and just a little further on where she had espied an inviting Rotary seat, backed by a high wood fence. So we sat, some seated, some ‘grassed’ and lunched in the sun. Some little time later the trampers turned up, declaring the mouth had been only about two kilometres further on. So the five joined the ten for an enjoyable time together in the sun.
Tidying up after lunch.
Happy day. Eventually we picked ourselves up again and began an zigzag cut-through of streets, new to some, back to the cars. Back at the car park we each took our separate ways, with a remaining seven resorting to coffee at Wals and Ian’s Shirley joining us. Conversation between Ian and Shirley with Jan turned up a surprising mutual connection with Duntroon, and the fact that Ian had married and buried one or two of Jan’s elder relatives – recollection of some wonderful people and local areas. Jan hadn’t heard of ‘rattling rocks’ in the Maerewhenua River. Must show her sometime. Small world.
A great day out, a vindication of the value of the Club’s practice of leaving final decisions for the car park and an example of making your own luck by giving things a go. (Where was all that rain anyway?) – Ian.
18. 24/6/2015. Hikers. Silverstream to River. Leaders: Les and Margaret.
GPS from Taieri River back to car park. Therefore, total distance 14.28 km.
Thirty-one hikers trekked the Silverstream flood-bank.
A Gaggle Doggle(?) of Ducks. (John pic)
A wafting wind from behind blew coldly, especially noticeable when we stopped for our morning cuppa.
Morning cuppa. (John pic)
But it mercifully stopped as we sipped and the rest of the day was calm. 14 km on hard grass is a solid distance for Hikers, made no less easy by the relentless use of same leg muscles unrelieved by any rough track variation. So it was no surprise that some of our wiser (?) ones chose an early lunch stop-off,
Early lunch (John pic)
while the rest carried on to the stream mouth at the Taieri River. Here, a number of flood-washed-up logs provided welcome seating, promising later easy rising untroubling arthritic knees.
Logs to sit on. (Panorama)A touching moment of male obeisance.
The calm confluence of the two streams was breathtaking in its beauty.
Stream confluence panorama
Time to return. Refreshed. Time passes. Legs getting weary. Ah! A pedestrian walkway promising a shortcut zigzag through streets back to the car park instead of having to walk right up to Gordon Road. We cut through, lane after lane. Ah, the bliss of car seats again. Next, coffee adjournment. But not without cleaning up or divesting entirely filthy sheep-droppings-caked boots. Thanks to Margaret and Les for a trek we hadn’t done for some time now. – Ian.
17. 10/7/2013. Hikers. Silverstream to River. Leaders: Peter and Wendy.
16. 15/8/2012 Both. Silverstream. Gordon Road to through-way to Goodall St. Coffee Shop.
Silverstream. It was only a light rain. The stream had gone down a lot but was still quite high. Seven of us. Love the brolly.Exiting cafe. After-thought pic. Well, why shouldn’t we have made an occasion of the day?
15. 25/7/2012. Hikers. Silvestream and Blokes Shed. – Leaders: Molly and Elaine.
We had a good walk around the Silverstream along the banks.
Morning tea was at the “blokes shed”. We had a chance to have a quick look around at the awesome projects that these retired guys are doing.
Lunch was had a sunny spot by Riccarton Road.
A stroll along, then to Wals plants in Bush Road. This place is really going ahead. The veggie boys are building a big shop there.
A cafe is opening soon there also. Yum Yum. It’s people that ran the No 8 in Outram.
Also they have a railway that children can ride on.
A very nice day out. – Elaine. (Stand-in for Bill Hunt)
14. 27/6/2012. Silverstream. Carlyle St to Gordon Road.
It was a winter stormy day. Eight of us turned up at the carpark. Trampers’ plan had included Swampy Ridge. Gales and snow. OUT! Same with street walks. We ended up heading down Bush Road into icy wind and rain, back up the Silverstream with the wind more comfortably behind us …
Wrapped up against the weather
… and on to morning tea at Les and Margaret’s lovely home. At least we ventilated our lungs with some good fresh Antarctic air. – Ian
13. 19/10/2011 Silverstream NE & Stedman, Dukes and Gordon Roads and then SW to Carlyle St. Heavy rain up to Tuesday night. Everything wet. Programmed tramps cancelled. But six hikers turned up at the car-park and enjoyed walking the Silverstream.
There was light rain at the car-park. Leaders George and Dot had recced the programmed walk on Roberts Farm on the western foothills of Maungatua the day before, but cancelled it today because of rain, cloud and forecast strong winds, and after discussion, left for home again. However the remaining nine of us were still prepared for an outing so set off for the lower Silverstream flood bank from Gordon Road. We realised we hadn’t done it for quite a while. The first part was beautifully mown as far as the eye could see. And the flowers and tidy sections were just a picture.
Mown grass and gardens filled with summer flowers.
However from Carlyle Street on, the grass was a little longer – and wetter! We passed under Riccarton Road bridge, reached Gladfield Road and morning teaed at the pedestrian over-bridge. Then it was onwards again. The rain had stopped but the grass was still wet, and added to that was now the droppings of grazing sheep. (The very worst for mucking up one’s boot soles, no matter how careful one is.) Then the forecast wind began to gust strongly from the southwest, which made us relieved we weren’t having to face its full force up on the Maungatua foothills. (The cancellation by the leaders had been a prudent decision!) We battled on and found shelter in the lee of the Riverside Road bridge. We also discovered a firm called Earthworx had established a storage site nearby. That was something new.
Earthworx storage area
It was now 11.30, a bit early for lunch but what the heck. It was sunny, we were sheltered from that strong wind. We certainly weren’t going to push any further today. So we had a nice long rest and chat.
Sheltered from the wind. (Pic by Peter)
Eventually, lazily, we picked ourselves up and meandered home, hating the sheep droppings but enjoying the wind gusts floating us back home. – Ian
11. 9/12/2009. Silverstream to Taieri Riverside. Leaders: Bill and Lesley.
It rained up to 8.30 a.m. Result: no one was ready to go on the Tramp of the day and the Hikers’ leaders cancelled the Hike. But the seven who turned up at the car-park decided the day was still worth it for the Hike. So off we set. When we had got further down-stream, we found the stop-bank was well-stocked with sheep and their doings! But we found a passably clear tussocky spot down by the stream for our morning tea.
Cuppa by the stream. Lesley, Joyce, Lex, Pat, Bill, and Molly.
Down at the mouth, some selected the log there for lunching against …
The log lunchers. Lesley, Pat, Joyce.
… while the remainder chose the grass.
The grass lunchers. Molly, Lex, Bill.
Our leisurely stop was enhanced by the beautiful scene in front of us.
The attractive scene at the confluence.
An arresting sight on our way back was a variegated hedge of trees.
A real colour treat.
We avoided crossing roads by diverting under the bridges. Here some of us tried a cramped short-cut.
A cramped short-cut.
The only downs-side to the day were the unavoidable ‘pellets’, ‘grenades’ and ‘plops’ of the sheep.
Sheep and what they ‘do’!
10. 23/7/2008 Silverstream & Stedman, Dukes, Gordon Rds. Leaders: the four of us!
The weather report was for rain and cold southerlies strengthening so the leaders for both Aramoana and Sawmill Rd cancelled their trips for the day. Despite this, four of us still turned up at the carpark, in good traditional club practice, viz. Peter, Neil, Molly and Ian and walked up the side of the Silverstream. The writer was amazed at the knowledge the other long-lived Mosgielians had of the people living in every second house. Greetings were continally exchanged as we made our way along the path. Neil pointed out the part he had in establishing the camping ground, planting the dividing hedges and constructing the amenities block. Neil had a continuing interest in the seats he had had a hand in placed at intervals along the path and in tightening any loosened nuts on the bolts anchoring the seats to their foundation slabs. He was also able to point out the line delineating the stop-bank’s boundary between the Regional Council’s and the City Council’s ownership responsibilities.
Then it was into the Taieri airfield buildings and the friendly welcome into the newly-established Blokes’ Shed, having just passed the frontage of the old NAC hanger, reminding us of the history of this area. On again past the many private hangers and out onto Stedman Road and around past the Fisher and Paykal and old Siverstream PPCS buildings. Again recollections of the extent of the original aerodrome now encroached upon by roads and buildings. Down Dukes Road, back onto Gordon Road and back to our homes. Occasional light drizzle came and went but we all remarked on how pleasant a day it was to be out walking and enjoying each other’s company. No pictures this time – left camera behind. – Ian.
9. 5/9/2007. Silverstream and Taieri Riverside. Leaders: Ria, Bob H, Catherine, Mary M.
As it was the first Wednesday of the month the tramp involved the hikers and the trampers all going together. The hike was led by Ria and Bob, both very experienced trampers and members of the track committee. We followed the banks of the Silverstream in Mosgiel and had morning tea sitting on the bank watching a farmer fording the river in his tractor. We crossed the stream and on reaching the Taieri River continued along it upstream to a farm access road. We were able to complete the circular walk by continuing up the other side of the Silverstream and making our way back to the same bank for lunch and then back to the cars at Peter Johnson park. A pleasant hike in fair weather. About 20 people took part. – Tash
8. 2/10/2007 Silverstream and Taieri Riverside. Leaders: Ria L, Bob H
7. 22/11/2006. Silverstream to Ivermay and Picnic Ground from Car Park. Easy. Leaders: Nancy, Margaret S.
5. 30/5/2001. Silverstream. Leaders: Lance and Lois, Pam. 4. 29/11/2000. Silverstream. Leaders: Margaret D, Ivan and Bev. 3. 10/5/2000. Silverstream – Riverside. From Carpark. Leaders: Peggy M, Margaret D, Diana. 2. 11/6/1997. Silverstream Outlet, Taieri River. Return Bush Road. Leaders: Peg C, Shirley R, Mavis. 1. 1/5/1996. Alternative to Duncan’s Farm Road and return Kowhai Spur: Silverstream to Taieri River. Easy Leaders: Peg C, Jean A, Ria H
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.
Getting ready to leave the cars (photo and caption John)
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.
Morning tea on McNally Track (photo and caption Barbara)Morning tea (photo Helen)
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.
Lunch among the bay bales (photo and caption Pam)McNally’s Track Summit (photo and caption Pam)
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.
All the new planting of the pine trees (photo and caption Helen)
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.
On the last stretch of the tramp (photo and caption Helen)
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.
Camaraderie at Black Swan Cafe (photo and caption Pam)
3. 7/7/2023 Combined. Street Walks – Roslyn and Kaikorai. Grade 2, 16km, Leaders: Gwenda Farqharson, Helen Morris, Dave Roberts.
24 hardy members met at a very frosty Frasers Gully car park. After about 15mins we were in the sun on a steady climb up the left side of the Gully with great views. Then back into the bush up the steps and onto Dalziel Road, along to the other side of the gully …
On the sunny side of Frasers Gully (photo and caption Pam)
Regroup photo from Frasers Gully upward leg (photo and caption John)
Toadstools disguised as plants in Frasers Gully (photo and caption John)
Walking Track through Native bush of Frasers Gully (photo and caption Pam)
Frosty start – on way back from walking Fraser’s Gully (photo and caption Pam)
… then down to the car park (now in the sun) for morning tea.
We then made our way to Kaikorai Valley Road, picking up Jill and Linda on the way. Then on up Stuart Street and along the front of Kaikorai School and the Memorial Arch which was the original main entrance to the school.
Talk by Gwenda (photo and caption Helen)
Bell (photo and caption Helen)
It was built in 1921 in remembrance of the teachers and pupils who lost their lives in the first World War. The third school to be built on the same site is almost now complete. After leaving Kaikorai School we crossed Highgate and followed one of the main routes from the Octagon to Māori Hill and Roslyn before the Stuart Street Extension was completed. Stuart Street was formerly called Albert Street. We stopped at points of interest on the way.
Don’t stand below the security guards (photo and caption Phil K.) (Can you spot the 2 Kereru?)
Perfect stop for lunch at Littlebourne Grounds (photo and caption Pam)
Lunch was at Littlebourne soccer field where there once was a Governor General’s Dunedin residence which was built in 1890. by John Roberts. It was never used by the Governor General. During WW1 the military used it and in later years Dutch immigrants from Indonesia, finally as a student hostel. In 1949 it was it was pulled down. Imagine that happening today.
After lunch we saw where the Māori Hill tram route went, also where the Rattray Street cable car and the Kaikorai cable cars used to go.
Cilla McQueen ‘quote’ on seat on Sligo St (photo and caption Phil K.)
On to Falcon Street, where the cable car was supposed to go but it was deemed too steep so unsafe. At the intersection of Falcon Street, and Oats Street., there is a plaque dedicated to the South Pole expedition.
The next up and coming adventurer (photo and caption Phil K.)
We continued down…
Won’t be long til coffee now…… (photo and caption Phil K.)
… and crossed Kaikorai Valley Road The cable car sheds were on the corner where the pensioner flats now stand. Back to the cars then onto the Roslyn Fire Station for afternoon tea after a good day for all. Thank you to Helen and Dave for your support.
Gwenda.
2. 18/7/2001 Alt. Juicy bits of Roslyn and Kaikorai. Leaders: Margaret D, Betty B, Peter R
1. 16/12/1998. Roslyn and Kaikorai. (Dn Street Book). Leaders: Daphne, Peggy M, Margaret D.
Wednesday proved to be warm balmy day, when 35 eager TRTC members met at Long Beach to give a few hours volunteering on DOC reclaimed land behind the sand dunes .
We were met by the project manager, Jeanne, who was very well organized with equipment ready for us to start after morning tea.
Getting ready to get started Caption and photo JohnThis is how it’s done Caption and photo Phil
The work involved was digging holes, planting natives and flaxes and making protective heavy cardboard collar’s to go around the newly planted specimens.
Great teamwork Caption and photo RaewynThey thought they were just the best Caption and photo AdyPhoto Margreet
When the project is completed there will be about 38000 plantings (we did approx 800). Since starting last year, the success rate is 85-90ish%.
There were a couple of other small groups volunteering like a team building exercise.
Photo BarbaraWe deserve a walk to the beach Caption and photo Phil
Lunch was on the beach but, unbeknown to us, a young sealion appeared from the dunes behind ready to share time with some of the group. This really did give them one big fright, so our lunchtime was shortened.
The smell of salmon sandwiches brings a young sea lion from out of hiding Caption and photo John
We did continue down the beach a little further before heading back to the cars.
Continuing after lunch along lovely Long Beach Caption and photo Marjke
Some of us went to a quirky little cafe Santosha in Port Chalmers.
I think we all enjoyed the experience and especially being able to help with a community project. Perhaps another time.
Thanks to John for his help and support.
1. 24 May 2023. Bayfield carpark to Glenfalloch. Grade 1. Hikers. Leaders: Linda Partridge and Helen Ingram.
A convoy of cars from Mosgiel parked in the Bayfield carpark at 9.45 joining Brighton and Dunedin people. Twenty-five hikers in total readied themselves for a walk along the cycle track along Portobello Road to Glenfalloch. It was a still bright morning, the harbour sparkling in the sunlight. We walked along the side of the inlet and stopped at Vauxhall Yacht Club for morning tea.
Morning tea stop. Photo & caption Ady
Then on to Glenfalloch which we reached just before noon.
An amazing lunch spot, thanks to Glenfalloch for allowing us to use their steps. Caption & photo MarijkeEnjoying the last of the stunning autumn colours on this beautiful sunny day. Caption & photo Marijke
The gardens look beautiful every season, and that day in autumn the maples were flaming red, and a long bank of fuchsias in purple and shocking pink terraced one of the hillsides. We had a leisurely lunch and Linda had prepared a questionnaire for us to take round the gardens to help us explore the grounds.
Some googling (cheating) required to get the right answer. Photo LindaTime for some chat before we hear the results of the survey. Photo LindaHelen announced the outcome of our “Treasure Hunt”. We saw things that we never noticed before, and we all got a chocolate prize! Thanks to Linda and Helen, it was a lot of fun. Caption & photo Marijke
How many spoons in the sculpture near the restaurant? Where will you find the sundial? It really brought out the competitive nature in us! But everyone’s a winner, and a bag of Cadbury Favourites was handed round.
The Portobello bus was due at 2.15pm, and most of the hikers decided to walk on to Macandrew Bay to catch the bus there.
[DCC brochure extract: Government Track. 4 hr 30 min, 17 km (return).
The track entrance is Government Track / Kowhai Spur 5 km down Waipori Falls Rd on the right; parking is 100 m further on the left. Traversing the slopes of the beech-and mānuka-forested Waipori Valley south of Dunedin, the Government Track was built in the 1860s to provide access to the central goldfields. For mountain bikers there is an option of riding up and returning the same way. Alternatively, once at the top follow the pylon track left and steeply down into Waipori township, then follow the road back to the start.]
34. 3 May 2023. Combined Government Track Grade 3 Hikers Grade 4 Trampers Leaders: Jay, Kay, Sarah and Pam
Trampers: After a winter start time meet n greet, 10 cars converged on the Waipori Gorge starting point for our combined hikers’ and trampers’ foray up the Government Track. For the trampers the route was to take us further up the hill than the hikers, doing a kind of loop at the top of the hill, then descending back to the Government Track for the homeward leg. Originally Phil and Helen Morris were to be leader and tail end charlie, but Phil catching Covid put paid to plan A. Our initial replacement leader also suffered some health gremlins, so Sarah, rather had things sprung on her the night before, but agreed to lead.
Fourteen trampers started out ahead of the hikers (at 10.am), up a surprisingly damp and cool lower section of the track (mild 23-degree temperatures forecast for the day). As we climbed away from the shaded valley floor, and chilling Waipori River, we warmed up quickly. Accompanying the hikers behind us was a lost, and bewildered looking pig hunting dog (wearing a GPS dog tracking collar), who had been resting under his owner’s ute when we arrived at the car park. Morning tea was enjoyed at 10.30am, not quite at the clearing where it was planned, but on a small bank beside the track. By sheer chance, we soon discovered that the hikers had later stopped around the corner just below us! That pig dog was still with them but did apparently head back down the hill soon afterwards.
He wanted to join the team Caption and photo Pam
Soon on our way again, by 11.40am we had reached the clearing originally planned for our morning tea stop. An enjoyable wander up the track, admiring the array of toadstools and fungi along the way followed.
Many fungi were growing everywhere in the bush Caption and photo Marijke
Purple toadstools were spotted, and a great variety of toadstools sprouted from rotting logs and tree stumps. It soon dawned on us however, that our slow ramble, could make for a very long day, and late finish. Averaging only 2.5kph for 2 hours meant we were well behind schedule. Why so slow?
Navigating through the creek Caption and photo Pam
Creek crossings, recently fallen trees and large branches, and some technical bits slowed our progress, so we started to speed up on the smoother sections.
Another tricky little creek crossing in the beautiful bush Caption and photo John
Being an old horse and dray track, much of the tramp was on lovely dry, smooth surfaces with a gentle uphill gradient. Sarah, ever vigilant, referring to her topo map, subsequently had us stop for lunch later than originally planned at 1.25pm, where we dined and rested in a section of beech forest, having covered 9.74km at this stage.
Late lunch never tasted sooo good ! Caption and photo Pam
By 1.50pm lunchtime was over, and we were on our way at a better clip, reaching the usual tramp lunch stop spot (a clearing by power lines) at 2.00pm. Five minutes later we were at the road, turning right, then soon after turning right again into Dunstan Road.
Out in the sun, it was an unseasonably warm day. Caption and photo Marijke
Our speed along this lightly gravelled road increased substantially, which had us arrive at the “White Doc. Gate” at 2.35pm.
Our view as the ascent started Caption and photo John
Following the road down from here we arrived at the at the “old hut” at 3.19pm.
Group photo that Heather and Diane thought they got out of Caption and photo John
Leaving here Sarah’s topo map suggested we cross a large open field curving around the hillside diagonally, Phil’s instructions more conservatively showed a fence-line following along the top then down. Although perhaps with a little initial trepidation, our faith in Sarah’s topo map was vindicated, leading us straight to the power-line clearing strip, in the lower bush, and the stile onto the Government Track, (Never doubted you, Sarah!) at 3.40pm. By 4.25pm we were back at the cars, having covered 18.8km with 4.5 hours moving time (average speed 4.18kph). A special shout out and thank you to original leader Phil Morris, who despite having Covid, greatly assisted with a set of instructions and map of the tramp Thanks to Sarah as leader and Pam as tail end charlie. A long day, but one with many fond memories. John
Hikers: 18 keen hikers left PJ Park at 9.30am and travelled down to Berwick where we turned right into Waipori Falls Road and travelled along until we reached the carpark on the left. We took off on our walk accompanied by a dog wearing a GPS collar. Thoughts were that it may have been a pig hunting dog. The walk was a gentle climb through the bush on a reasonably dry track apart from the usual muddy parts which never seem to dry out.
The Hiker’s morning tea just down the track from the trampers. Caption and photo John
Still the dog followed. About halfway up 2 hikers returned to the carpark followed by the dog.
The lost pig dog that followed us up the track. Caption and photo John
We carried on up through the bush until we reached open farmland where a bit further on we stopped for lunch overlooking native bushland and forestry.
Lunch Caption and photo MichaelPhoto Grant
After lunch we returned the same way back to the cars having walked 7kms.
I often point out fungi when I am on a hike and others are starting to notice them Caption and photo GrantPhoto GrantPhoto Grant
Coffee was at Wobbly Goat. We all hoped the dog was found by its owner. Today’s leaders were Jay and new member Kay as tail end Charlotte.
33. 16 November 2022. Hikers Government Track Grade 3.5 Leaders: Neil and Margreet
The day dawned partly overcast and warm with half-hearted rain showers. 20 eager hikers made their way to the Government Track car park on Waipori Falls Road. After negotiating the muddy beginning, the track soon became dry and pleasant underfoot as we settled in to the gentle 260 metre climb to the bush line.
Just checking everyone’s OK. Nice! Caption and photo Jenni
‘Smoko’ was taken bang on time on the side of the track. Occasional mud patches and washouts were skilfully negotiated until we reached open paddocks with scenic views up the Waipori Gorge.
Tree down and some mud Caption and photo HelenGathering up Caption and photo Helen
In order to get a better view, some keen punters climbed to the top of the hill to enjoy their early lunch.
Some climbed up the hill for lunch Caption and photo MargreetOthers stayed at the bottom Caption and photo Margreet
After lunch it was a case of reversing the morning’s effort by trekking back down the beautiful bush clad track to our cars.
Map of the days hike Caption and photo Margreet
But then we were told of a special treat! The hikers were all invited back to Eleanor Ryan’s picturesque Outram home for coffee/tea and home baked cakes! With her lovely garden and trimmed lawns, not to mention her delicious baking; it was an awesome highlight to our day on the Government Track. On behalf of us all Eleanor, thank you for your generous gesture.
It’s not all about the hiking. Eleanore’s beautiful garden. Caption and photo Margreet
Delicious afternoon tea at Eleanore’s Caption and photo Margreet
32. 29 September 2021. Trampers. Government Track / Kowhai Spur. M. Leaders Phil and Helen
We set off from Peter Johnstone Park at 9am on a nice mild Mosgiel day heading toward Waipori Falls Road to a parking spot just past start of the bottom of Government Track. This was a track built in 1860 to provide access to the goldfields. Over 20 men were employed to form this publicly funded work. It provided a cheaper alternative to bring horse supplies from Dunedin which previously had been carted from Lawrence.
A good number of 17 trampers headed up the track, muddy at start but soon became well cleared with a gradual 7deg incline most of the way, apart from small creeks that were hard to pass due to slippery and wet rocks.
Along the track. Photo and caption Helen.
We continued up the track for an hour and a quarter before young Eleanore hinted that a cuppa would be good, so within 10 mins we found a nice clearing and the call was made, morning cuppa was consumed. At that time two young ladies one from Salt restaurant in St Clair and the other a midwife caught up with our group and we conversed with them as to how far to the top and introduced each other. They were very nice and by lunchtime approx. 8.75km up the track they had stopped for lunch, we had caught up so we joined forces at the clearing and decisions on which way we would tramp from there. So I walked on some approx 50 yards and found the gravel road that I was looking for on map, then returned to the group.
Lunch in the sun (mostly). Photo and caption Dave.
We finished lunch then headed to gravel road, headed right, continuing up until we found an intersection with Styx Road on sign. Did we continue straight ahead or did we go right? After a wee bit of discussion we went straight ahead thinking we were on Styx Road we continued for a km and a half, “wrong”!! An about turn, back to intersection amidst a laugh or two. We should have turned right at the intersection, although I was not a 100% confident, Gwenda and Eleanore, were though. The young lady from Salt had also scooted up 800 yards and returned saying there didn’t appear to be a turnoff. But a decision to continue was made, John also very confident decision was correct. After about 2km in the distance we saw a Dept of Conservation truck so we thought right these fellas would know, so we got closer and a second truck had arrived. Asking them if we were on track for Kowhai Spur Road, they replied YES, phew!!
When we realised how high we really were! Photo and caption John.
Panorama – view from the track. Photo and caption John.
Go to white iron gate 300 yards ahead and turn right, hill is pretty steep but when you get to hut go in there and over ridge and head down to fence line. They were right and Teresa hinted, when we got there, if you follow tyre marks down the ridge, we should get back to the fence stile. By that stage the ladies we had met said we were on track, Mr Google says so.
Looking to the hut. Photo and caption Helen.
A group of happy trampers (and two guests). Photo and caption John.
A small sun shower went through just after we left the hut, but with much glee we got down to the fence line, and although tired it was great to be out and about, 21.3 km later and 4.45pm we removed the boots and put our tired backsides down on the car seats, job done, good company, and off home, no time for coffee!!
Directions simple – up Government track, lunch at clearing 50 yards from gravel road, turn right to Styx intersection, turn right, 3 km along gravel road to white conservation iron gate, turn right, down hill to hut, over ridge go right, following tyre tracks downhill, to electric fence go left through gate, continue down 40 metres or so then when you feel you should go right go left then straight down to a clearing where the fence line takes you to the stile which is the Government track taking you back to start 18.3 kms.
Cheers for a cool longer but casual day,
Helen and Phil.
31. 9 June 2021. Hikers. Government Track. E. Leaders Sue & Kathryn
9 hikers travelled to Berwick on a cold (-1 deg.) but pleasant morning. We proceeded up the track which is a gradual incline on a reasonably dry track. We stopped for morning tea part way up.
After walking a short distance, it became very wet and boggy where cattle had been walking through, so we detoured up the hill and onto a slightly overgrown track in parts. We came into sunshine and a nice area for lunch.
Lunch above the bush line (photo & caption Clive)Great view up the valley (photo & caption Clive)
After lunch we walked downhill to the stile and back down the track to the carpark. We all headed to the Wobbly Goat for coffee.
Kathryn Fagg
30. 28/10/2020. Hikers. Leaders Clive Crossman and Alex Griffen
A Bright sunny morning saw 14 hikers gather on Waipori Road at the entrance to Government track. Even with the weather being dry parts of the track were muddy and slippery. After climbing the initial incline the walk levelled out to a pleasant hike under the beech trees and native bush.
Photo and Caption Clive – “An even track under the beech forest”
Numerous song birds accompanied us on our way. After an hour we stopped for morning tea with the sun breaking through in patches giving what more romantic writers would describe as ‘dappled shade’.
Photo and Caption Clive – “Morning tea on the track.”
As we climbed higher we looked down through the forest and became aware how precipitous the track is in places, the steep drop off camouflaged by the dense bush.
Photo and Caption Clive – “Breaking out of the bush.”Photo and Caption Clive – “Looking up the valley towards the surge chamber(white dot in middle.”Photo and Caption Clive – “A good spot in the sun for lunch.”
The height gave us some spectacular views across the valley with the road snaking away hundreds of feet below us. Eventually we broke through the muddiest part of the track into open paddocks. The sun had raised the temperature into the mid teens so it was decided the open paddock would be a good place for lunch, however it was a bit early, so we continued for about another kilometre into the bush.
There we saw some corrugated iron that some speculate is the remains of the hut used by the original track makers..
photo and Caption Clive – “Could this corrugated iron be 160 years old?”
After lunch we returned the way we had come. With the track being so muddy and slippery in places it is surprising that only one hiker took a ‘dive’. The degree of difficulty = 0, artistic merit = 0, comment from hiker = Oh Oh, and laughter.
We made it back to the cars in good time and gathered at the ‘Woobly Goat’ in Outram for afternoon tea where the consensus was that it was a good days hike.
Alex and Clive
29. 17/10/2019. Trampers. Government Tramp. Leaders: Gordon and Sue.
18 eager trampers (twice as many females today) headed out to Waipori on a mild morning, parked at the Government track carpark and headed off into the hills. The gradient on the track is enjoyable, gradually climbing to the top. It was pleasing to see how dry the track was, considering recent rain. This was obvious with the amount flowing down the Waipori river.
We crossed the stile into a grassy patch and walked for a while before stopping for smoko at 10:30am.
Photo Gordon – Morning tea
Onwards through mature Silver Beach, Kanuka and Manuka.
Photo Gordon – Walking throug native flora.
Also, the odd creek crossing and windfall trees, one you climb under, the rest you climb over! One spot has about a 100 metre scramble to get through.
Photo Gordon – Some trees were tricky to get over!
After hiking just on 8.5 kms we reached Shaw Road at 1:45pm and enjoyed the sit down in sunshine for lunch and a chat.
We proceeded along the road for 2km’s before reaching the pole track, which has a very steep descent, however, the views over the Taieri plains, the Taieri river, the Sinclair wetlands and the Lakes are well worth stopping to admire. (In July 2018 we had light covering of snow and a slippery trip down)
At the top of the Kowhai Spur we headed right through the gate into farmland, passing a Musterers hut, then a herd of healthy Hereford cows with happy calves at foot.
Photo – Gordan – Renants of native bush on downhill farmland
Sidling around and down paddocks we arrived back to the stile, and once again—-looking like a very long caterpillar, enjoyed the hike through the bush to the cars.
Deciding not to stop at Wobbly Goat for coffee because it was near closing time.
The Government track was built in the 1860’s to provide access to the Goldfields. Over 20 men were employed to form this publicly funded work. Was never much more than a bridle track and unsuitable for wheeled traffic. When completed it provided a cheaper alternative route to bring in horse drawn supplies from Dunedin, which previously had to be carted via Lawrence.
We hiked a good 18km’s, arriving back to carpark at 4pm.
Photo Gordan – The whole happy group!
Good company and good weather == another great day out.
Gordon and Sue
28. 12/9/2018. Hikers. Government Track. Leaders: Clive and Lester.
25 Hiker set out from beside the Waipori River.
Hiker set out. (Clive pic and caption.)
At first the track was slippery and boggy. Then as we got up into the bush a walk up a steady incline was enjoyed by all.
Morning tea on the track. (Clive pic and caption.)
Until…. we hit the next patch of boggy ground and we had to negotiate more slippery track, made a bit worse by the cattle that had churned up the path. The weather was kind and we made it to the 5km mark before deciding that was far enough and returned to the open paddock for lunch.
Lunch in the sunshine. (Clive pic and caption.)
We then made our way back the way we had come trying to find the less slippery and boggy part of the path. The views from up the top were great.
The view up the Waipori River Valley. (Clive pic and caption.)
We all made it safely to the cars and then onto Topiary for afternoon tea. – Clive & Lester
27. 25/7/2018. Trampers. Government Track. Leader: Sue.
Still quite cool. (Gordon pic and caption.)A rocky slip. (Gordon pic and caption.)Another obstacle. (Gordon pic and caption.)A well deserved late lunch break. (Gordon pic and caption.)
26. 30/8/2017. Trampers. Government Track. M. Leader: Dave.
14 keen trampers met at the carpark near the start of the Government track on Waipori Road. We soon started on the track noting the 4 twisted manuka trunks at the side of the track. The track has a gentle grade and is 8.5km long.
The reason for the gentle grade and generous width of this track lies in its origin as the original “road” from Berwick through to the Waipori gold fields. Over 20 men were employed during the 1860’s to form this publicly-funded work, which was never much more than a bridle track unsuitable for wheeled traffic. When completed, it provided a cheaper alternative route to bring in supplies (horse drawn) from Dunedin, which previously had to be carted round via Lawrence.
Morning tea was had over the style, up the ridge, in the sun and on time at 10am!
(Margreet pic.)
We continued up the track which is through native bush, mainly manuka, kanuka and silver beech
(Margreet pic.)
. There were occasional views out to the Waipori valley and surrounding hills. A number of big tree trunks lying over the track were either scrambled under or over. There was plenty of talking and hilarity on this trip which was great!
Lunch break was at the top of the track, again in the sun.
(Margreet pic.)
We then continued along the forestry road and stopped at the highest point (580 metres) where there were great views all around,
(Phil pic.)
particularly Maungatuas, Lammerlaws and Rock and Pillar range. Moving on to the top of the kowhai spur we stopped to get panoramic views of the Taieri plain, very clear because of the fine day. The kowhai spur is aptly named as it is steep and feet can move to the front of your boots! The next break was at a farmer’s workers hut
(Margreet pic.)
before heading down the ridge, through some bush and back on to the bottom of the Government track. A number of birds were heard and sighted including kereru (wood pigeon) and bellbirds. On getting back to the cars we found we had covered 18.5km. A fair walk!
It was then off to the wobbly goat (with some wobbly legs) in Outram for a well, deserved coffee and more chit chat.
A great group to be with – Dave M.
25. 23/11/2016. Hikers. Government Track. E. Leaders: Jim and Betty.
Route map, Government Track, courtesy Ian. (N.B. Used old shortcut route on return. Regular route a bit longer.)
The party consisted of 23 people.
The weather’s appearance was indifferent. But the Government track up the Waipori Gorge afforded good shelter in the bush. The condition of the track was excellent [thanks to track-clearing by the leaders on their recce, especially on the zig-zag beginning – ed.] and this track has a very moderate consistent gradient. The return was a slight downhill grade & a total of approximately 9.5 kms was covered. Lunch stop …
Lunch on Government Track. (Ian pic and caption.)
… was brief as there was drizzle approaching. On the return to the car park some hikers took an old short cut which gave them a minute advantage.
Hot drinks were enjoyed at the Wobbly Goat in Outram, …
Last of the Summer Wine. (Adrienne pic.)
… before returning to Mosgiel. – Betty and Jim.
24. 17/2/2016. Trampers. Government Track. Leader: Various.
At the car park, Bush Road, we looked towards the silver peaks. It was raining. We were told the wind was 50k plus, so we changed our mind and decided on the Government Track.
Arrived at the lower Waipori car park. In front of us was bright blackberries. To the left a tree full of apples, and a deafening sound of crickets.
Five of us set off up Government Track. Morning tea at the grass clearing. No wind, little sun.
At the top of the Government Track, we had lunch in the sun.
Lunch in the sun. (Helen pic)
After lunch, walked along …
Along the pole line (Helen pic)
… and down the pole line to the hut.
Down the pole line to the hut. (Heb pic and caption)
Turned right, found a tape marker which led us over and down to the style on the track just below where we had morning tea. Carried on down the track to the car park.
Heard lots of wood pigeons and bellbirds. A great day’s tramp. About 17k, and quite warm temperatures. – Heb.
23. 21/10/2015 Hikers. Government Track. Leaders: Betty and Jim.
22. 27/5/2015. Trampers. Government Track, return part Kowhai Spur.
GPS of route, courtesy Ken. Government Track-part of Kowhai Spur. Walked 17.1 km; ave 4.4 km/hr; moving time 3hr.54min; climbed 480mtrs. (Ken pic and caption)
The day looked suspect, with some light drizzle, but the turn out at the carpark was very good, & we had 6 members on our adventure for the day. We motored out to the carpark at the Government Track where it was cold & still drizzling, so it was on with the rain jackets before we set off. Once into the bush, the rain became a non issue, but everybody kept their jackets on to combat the cold.
We had a short stop for morning tea,
1. Packing up after morning tea. (Ken pic)
then pushed on towards the very muddy part of the track, just before the open grassed area, where we hoped that our planned route would bring us back to on the return journey. The track was in excellent condition, as it had just been cleared, apart from some large trees down across the upper part, which we had to crawl under.We stopped just short of the top for lunch, as there was a cool wind blowing, & the bush gave us shelter. Then it was onto the Poleline track…
2. Looking back along Poleline track. (Ken pic and caption)
…which had some snow remnants lying on it.
3. Trudging through the snow grass. (Ken pic and caption)
We estimated the distance to the top of Kowhai Spur to be about 1Km, but were surprised to find it was actually over 2kms, but when we got to the top & looked down on the amazing views of the Taieri & surrounds,
4. View from top of Kowhai Spur. (Ken pic and caption)
5. another view from top. (Ken pic and caption)
it was worth the trudge through the snow. We made our way down the steep track till we came to the hut on the true right of the spur,
6. Hut where we turned off Kowhai Spur. (Ken pic and caption)
where we left the spur, & went down through a very steep paddock heading back to the Government Track. This part of the trip was quite hard, due to the steepness, & the muddy tracks formed by cattle movement. However, we were soon within sight of the Government Track, & didn’t even have to climb a fence to get back onto it. We came out at the first fence with a stile over it, [the boundary of the privately owned land] on the uphill side of the grassed area. Then it was a brisk walk back to the cars, & the trip home, punctuated with a stop at Outram…
7. Latest Cafe footwear fashion. (Ken pic and caption)8. Trampers coffee club. (Ken pic and caption)
…for the “Trampers Coffee Club”. – Ken.
21. 12/6/2013. Trampers. Government Track. Styx Rd return.
6 trampers ventured out for the walk up Government Track today. We stopped at a “dry area” for morning tea, at about 10am, then carried on to the top at Styx Rd. where we had lunch in the sun. The sign at the bottom had said 2 1/2 hrs to the top, & that’s very much what it took us.
Lunch at top of Government Track. (Ken pic and caption)
After lunch we had a discussion on whether we tried Kowhai Spur, or just go back down the way we had come. The unknown condition of Kowhai Spur [very steep & slippery] meant that the decision was made to go back the way we had come, so we set off, & arrived back at the cars at 3:00pm.
Thanks to the earlier start time of 9:00 instead of 9:30, we were able to complete this 18.5km walk before it got too cold in the afternoon, & it gave us a time buffer if somebody had injured themselves.
We walked 18.5km
moving time 4hr 15mins
climbed 364mtrs
– Ken.
20. 3/10/2012. Both. Government Track. Leaders: Graham, Judy.
There were 17 of us, (but one turned back before the paddock). We did between 8-10 km in total, getting up to the beech section for lunch (much further than the Hikers did last time). The wind across the farm paddock was as severe as the last time the Trampers had done it. Several in the group were doing the track for their first time and were equally amazed at the ease of the gradient, and appalled at the muddy section just prior to the paddock. (They didn’t know how much better the present marked route was than some earlier routes through the slough.) This, and some other tricky bits took careful negotiating for those unsteady on their feet.
Four of the Trampers left early and did the whole track. Ken’s GPS record shows that they did 18.2 km at 4.4km/hr average. Moving time was only 4hrs 9min.Total ascent was 523 mtrs. They took an extended lunch break, making stopped time 1hr 19min. – Ian.
19. 6/4/2011. Both. Government Track. Medium. Leaders: Les and Margaret.
There is no comment from the hikers on this one, so here is a report from the trampers.
It mitigated against the intended ‘bothness’, but the leaders generously permitted three appreciative trampers to set off to do the whole track. The sign posts indicate 2.5 hours up and 2 hours down. The trampers almost made the 2 hours down but fell well short of the time up. 19 km there and back!
When we arrived at the ‘paddock’, the predicted wind was there in full force and it was a real battle to make our way across and around its slope and back into the shelter of the bush. The sloppy muddy gully just below the paddock gets no better as time goes by, despite the many attempts to re-route the track to avoid it.
GPS of Government Track from the road to the Pole Line. Courtesy Ken. Depicts how close Kowhai Spur is to the track. The multitude of gullies traversed by the track are clearly depicted. 19 km ret.
The track was well-cleared and the gradient as usual beautifully steady.
A shot of beech trees taken looking across one of the upper gullies.
Track disappearing up into the gully. Taken from the same spot as the one above.
The above pic shows only a modest amount of pig rooting. It was much worse in other places with us having to tread a new path amongst the upturned soil.
Temperatures were cooler up at the Pole Line so we retreated from it back from the gusty wind into the shelter of the manuka bush to munch a quick lunch. There was nothing tempting us to linger long.
Doug set a good pace on the return trip and the clear track allowed us to step it out with a good swing.
Back at the exposed paddock, we found the wind had lost none of its force, but fortunately it was a tail-wind this time. Then it was the atrocious gully again. The paddock and its gully had to be the worst features of the tramp. – Ian
18. 3/2/2010. Hikers. Government Track. Medium. Leaders: Neil, Lex.
Location: 30 km.
17. 9/9/2009 Government Track, return Kowhai Spur. Leaders: Ian, Sabina.
Beginning Government track. George, SusanA bit further along the track. Susan, Sabina, GleniceMorning tea on the paddock. Susan, Ken, George, Glenice, SabinaThrough the silver beech section. Ken, George, Susan, Glenice, SabinaLunch at the pole line. George, GleniceLunch on other side of track. Sabina (showing her colourful hat), SusanDOC sign indicating back down the track.View from top of Kowhai Spur. Waipori Lake and Taieri River gorge beyond. Ken Susan, George, Glenice, Sabina.
Shaws Hill road and ridge from a little further down Kowhai Spur. Sabina, Susan detectable.
Preparing to rest near site of former hut which had been moved up the hill behind camera.. Glenice, Sabina
16. 17/9/2008 Waipori Gorge Area, 1860s Government Track, Waipori Leaders: Bill H, Peter B
The ‘disturbed’ kanuka
The ‘disturbed’ kanuka
The programme said ‘Waipori’, but it really meant Bill H’s traditional walk up the “Gummint Track”. As a past long-serving employee in the area (both on a farm and in electricity supply) he was the ideal leader. As slips had made the upper reaches of the track difficult, the 15 of us began walking from the end of the seal up the Waipori road, then crossing farmland and having morning tea beside the river. After that we were following the route taken by early prospectors up the steady incline of the old 1860s Government standardised track for drays and horses to the Central Otago Goldfields. After an initial 3-minute climb, the track maintains a remarkably consistent, gentle gradient considering theodolites were not used and the construction teams used handtools! The day was calm and mild, and spring growth was evident in the lovely mixed broadleaf forest, with signs of fuschia flowers and kowhai. The track was carpeted with innumerable ’skellingtons’ of fuschia leaves (the fuschia is one of the few deciduous NZ trees) which made it soft and springy and patterned.There were also Kanuka, Matai, Totara and juvenile Lancewood. At one point there were 4 Kanuka alongside the track that must have had a disturbed childhood as they all had right-angle bends in them! The sound of the river gradually receded, and at lunchtime we came out onto cleared farmland with cattle and a good view up the gorge to look at while we ate. We returned by the same route. There was some birdlife to remark upon– paradise ducks, bellbirds, warblers- but the most remarkable was at a willow tree on the river flat in which Arthur counted 13 wood pigeons, all greedily gorging great gulps of green tips. A very pleasant walk of about 16km through lovely local terrain. – Bob
15. 12/12/2007. Hikers. Government Track. Medium. Leaders: Bill H
Resting among the trees
Only seven hikers took advantage of the ideal place to be on a very warm & humid day, the lovely bush of the Government Track in the Waipori area. It is a lovely place for a hike. Beautiful bush and beech forest. Lots of birds singing in the trees and great views of surrounding bush and road to Waipori Falls. The track is not too difficult and although you go fairly high it is a relatively gentle climb most of the way. With only a small number we took our time and lapped up the cool and pleasant conditions of the track. Morning tea sitting by the track just after 10am, and then, about 12noon, 5 of us decided we would stop for lunch. Two of the group thought they’d like a bit more of a challenge so went further up the track and had lunch before heading back. Those of us in the larger group found a really lovely spot in the beech forest to sit, chat and enjoy our lunch break. Then it was back down the track, (down hill all the way!) to the cars. All agreed we had had a very enjoyable days hiking. – Bev.
14. 29/11/2006. Hikers. Government Track. Medium. Leaders: Arthur and Barbara.
13. 5/7/2006. Both. Government Track. Leaders: (Easy+): Doug M, Bob H; (Easy): Arthur & Barbara
12. 21/9/2005 Arthur & Barbara, Bill H, Lance & Lois
11. 22/9/2004. Hikers. Government Track, return. Easy. Leaders: Jack and Rosemary, Frank and Lesley.
10. 26/5/2004 Lesley S, Irene, Les W, Mary M, Ray
9. 22/10/2003. Both. Government Track. Medium. Leaders: Trampers: Helen S, Kerri; Hikers: Mary M, Barbara L.
8. 13/2/2002. Combined. Government Track. Leaders:
7. 6/12/2000. Government Track. Leaders: Jack and Rosemary, Mary Y.
13/9/2000 Bill H, Bill & Pat
6. 7/7/1999. Government Track. Leaders: Les W, Mary M, Ray.
5. 7/10/1998. Government Track. Leaders: Lance and Lois.
4. 16/7/1997. Government Track. Leaders: Hugh, Bill H, Lesley S
3. 23/10/1996. Hikers. Government Track, Waipori. Leaders: Jack and Rosemary, Ted.
2. 14/12/1994. Government Track. Easy. This is a morning walk only, and as it is our last official tramp for the year, please bring some finger food to share for lunch, to be eater at the picnic ground. Leaders: Denise, Mary Y, Les and Mavis.
1. 13/3/1991 Government Track, Waipori Gorge, return Kowhai Spur. Nice bush and tussock walk. Average+. Leaders: Denise, Hugh and Judith, Ria de J
4. 26/4/2023 Mt Watkin. Trampers. Grade 4.5. Leaders Graeme Thurlow and Phil Keene.
View of Mt Watkin from the car. Photo & caption Pam
On a cool day 7 trampers came and we headed straight up Mt Watkin first.
On our way, meaning straight up Mount Watkin! Photo & caption MarijkeAnd it was steep. Photo & caption PamAnd the wind blew… Photo & caption PhilAt the top of Mount Watkin, cold, blustery, lonely! Photo & caption Marijke
With wind in exposed places especially at the top we all enjoyed a rest and a sit down for a well-earned morning tea. Great views of the snow on the Rocky Pillars but slightly misty in the distance.
We found some shelter on the lee side of the mountain to have our morning tea. Photo & caption Marijke
Descending all agreed it was a grade 5.
It was rocky! Photo & caption PamLaying down in an ancient Celtic ring? Photo & caption Phil
A welcome rest was needed amidst the rocks before continuing to the boundary fence with Smith’s farm. Graham T’s jovial comments “We haven’t got far to go’ received responses like “Yeah, right??”
Following down the fence line. Photo & caption Pam
After the descent to Smiths boundary when we looked at distance and time, we were shocked at how little distance we had gone for the time it took.
Now easy going to the rewards of the blackberries near the boundary and onto lunch at the DCC hut which was wired and set up for entertainment with LED lights!
It was sheer luxury to have lunch in a hut! Photo & caption Marijke
Further on down the western track we exited into long grass circled by forest and then entering the forest we bush bashed.
These vines weren’t here when I did the recce (Graham T). Photo & caption Pam
Zig zagging and encountering vines we continued down until finally reaching the creek for our climb up and out finally to a track out through a gate into Noone’s property.
The stream at the bottom. Photo & caption Phil…then up the goat track. Photo & caption PhilRegrouping after the bush bash. Photo & caption Pam
A longish walk back to the car and comments were ‘It’s good we knocked the b…. (Mt Watkin) at the start of the day’ and not had to tackle it at the end of the day.
Good comradeship, jovial comments and laughter eased the challenges of the day.
Thanks to David Smith and Zac Noone for giving permission to tramp on their property.
3. Titri Wetland, Waihola Township and Lake. Hikers. Leaders Eleanore Ryan
On Wednesday 26 April 2023, it was very windy when 19 of us hikers arrived at the lake, meeting up with 3 from Outram. What a champ Bruce was joining 21 ladies!!! Also welcome to the new members.
We started off at the Sinclair, Bungard and Huddleston trees near the campground entry. My Great, Great Maternal Sinclair Grandparents arrived in 1857 from the Orkney Islands with 10 surviving family (they had 13 babies in 27 years). On arrival after 100 day voyage on the Māori to Taieri Ferry the father and older sons (my G. Grandfather bought a horse on the voyage) set off to find land and build a house. They settled at the junction of the Henley and Titri roads— which was the main road through to the early 1960’s. Between them they owned bordering farms, married and raised large families. My brother still farms Titri which has been in the family for over 100 years.
Eleanore giving us some interesting history. Photo & caption HelenAn older timer’s cottage (now derelict). Photo & caption Margreet
The Baumgardt (now Bungard) family arrived in 1872, along with 40 Polish families and settled round Allanton and Waihola, mainly employed building the Railway line south. They too also farmed round Waihola, and Taieri Ferry.
We walked up past the school and had smoko at a little cottage that would have housed a large family back in the day. Up the road a little further we stopped outside what was the home of Arthur Draper. He came from England and set up a Business in Outram in 1909 making Cricket Bats from Willow. He moved to Waihola in 1917. Over time he made around 10,000 bats from local Willow that had dried for 2 years. By the 1930’s lighter imported bats were proving to be more popular.
The house where Arthur Draper made the first cricket bats. Photo & caption Helen
Up the hill overlooking the lake is the Cemetery, where a lot of the original Settlers are buried.
Eleanore pointed out historic graves at Waihola Cemetery. Photo & caption Margreet
It was then down the road back to the far end of the lake where we found shelter for lunch. The lake was really stirred up with the wind.
A lunch spot out of the wind. Photo & caption MargreetSun on the lake. Photo & caption Helen
Back to the cars and a short drive down to Titri wetland where we had seen the 2 Macracapa trees planted alongside a home built in the 1920’s. Some years later it was cut in half and dragged over the Island to the Waipouri river where it was floated down the Taieri river to Taieri Mouth—This Villa is still in ownership of a visitor we have had out a couple of times.
Titri Nature Trail. Photo & caption Margreet
A short drive back to Black Swan for Coffee, cake and chat—where we were served with a smile, which is not always the case these days.
Afternoon tea at the Black Swan. Photo & caption Margreet
Thanks to Jenny Flack for keeping an eye on the tail Enders. Not many km’s, hopefully you all enjoyed the outing hearing snippets of local history.
Choices for Hikers: Stay home and knit or brave the elements of mist and drizzle with potential rain but leave the Waihola Wanderings for another time. 11 chose to go for a local walk.
The course was plotted as we left the Peter Johnson carpark, going along the riverside, turning at the helicopter pad and wending our way over to Wingatui Rd and Gladstone Rd North.
It was decided to have morning tea under cover. Wingatui Station (built in 1875) was a likely possibility. However, the leader veered off track and we arrived at Neil’s model railway instead.
Morning tea in luxury at Morrisons. Caption and photo HelenView from their house of fog Caption and photo Helen
This of course provided shelter as he coped with the unexpected invasion and happily displayed rail/train manoeuvres.
Neil Morrisons trains – amazing Caption and photos Helen
Dry and refreshed, we passed the evidence of autumn in the yellow, gold and red tree colours, and wended our way back to the carpark after a pleasant 10 kms of Mosgiel Meanderings.
Hikers passing by Caption and photo Carole
Eleanore and Carole
The Trampers choice
As a weather alert was given, safety required that we could not go to Rosella Ridge, so it was decided we would meet at Woodhaugh Gardens. After discussion, we headed towards Bethunes Gully. The rain had eased so we walked beside the Leith with some nice street art on the walls of the Leith.
Street art surviving the students !. Caption and photo Pam
We continued past the gardens, into North East Valley, past Dunedin North Intermediate school, then Baldwin Street(no takers), Dunedin Hospice and Ross Home. We detoured into Chingford Park, a nice stone home, which catered for weddings.
Chingford Park- Discussing the weather!!! Caption and photo Pam
We stopped at Leith Harrier and Soccer grounds for morning tea.
Morning tea under shelter at Chingford Pavilion. Caption and photo Pam
Moving on we passed some garden plaques on a fence. Into Norwood Street we continued to Forrester Park (bmx bike park) then into Bethunes Gully. The good 35 minutes of uphill, required some reduction of gear before an uphill climb. On the way a large tree had fallen and was being removed. We passed a couple of waterfalls,5 bridges over Lyndsay Creek and got to the top at 12.05 – lunchtime.
Soggy sandwiches eaten on Bethunes track. Caption and photo Pam
The return to the bottom took 30 mins, past the Normanby Tavern (now closed), Ross Home, then via a track behind the Hospice, thanks John G. We continued back onto the main road to NEV shops back to Woodhaugh and the cars. As some had cooled off due to drizzle, it was decided no coffees but a couple of pieces of chocolate fudge sufficed.
Distance 16.18km Elevation 445m actual tramping time 3hrs 6min.
Thanks Graeme S for being TEC. A fun day out. Phil.
Feburary 2018
Thirteen turned out for coffee. (Judy pic and caption.)
15. 29/3/2023. Millennium Track, Taieri Mouth. Leaders Dave and Mike
I seriously questioned my sanity on the drive from sub tropical Port Chalmers to Mosgiel for this weeks walk. The torrential rain and hailstones on the Southern Motorway left me with a sense of foreboding. However, 17 hikers eventually assembled at the meeting place at Knarston Park on Taieri Beach for what turned out to be a really enjoyable walk with the predicted rain showers non-existent.
Morning smoko was held on the verandah at Jay’s river mouth crib where we could admire the house extension at one neighbouring property and the dismantling of a Kauri boat on another.
Morning tea at Jay’s crib. Photo & caption Helen
From there it was a pleasant river side walk on the Millennium Track and boardwalks before starting the grunt up the hill to the welcome seats where we had lunch before re-tracing our steps back to the cars.
Millennium Track. Photo & caption MikeView from the lunch seat. Photo & caption HelenLunch. Photo Helen
Consensus of opinion is that the grade should be re-classified as a 3.5 as Sir Edmund Hillary got a Knighthood for climbing hills that steep. The return to the cars was achieved without mishap and tiffin was taken by some at the Brighton Cafe.
Thanks to Dave Roberts for leading at a leisurely pace that made the uphill sections enjoyable. Total distance walked was 9.5km
Mike Webb
14. 14/12/2022. Taieri Mouth. Leader Phil
” Aah numbers seemed a bit down at the meet n greet so there must be a few heading straight to the Hall at Taieri Mouth (Apologies were received from Carole and Neil Morrison who we hope to see back with us in the New Year). And yes sure enough at the Hall people and cars everywhere, added to by contractors working on the hall and yoga underway, although it seemed more like line dancing to me… After dropping off an array of good looking finger food cars were sorted and off 33 went to Knarston Park, and we were joined for the first time by Rowena McSkimming, who had bought finger food (!) on her first outing, well done, and Neil H grandson.
At the start point at Taieri Mouth. Photo & caption Helen
Setting off beside the Taieri river for the beach. Photo & caption Pam
We shambled off down past the river to the beach, which on the day seemed like Waikiki; the wind was quite gentle compared with the day before recce, however the driftwood ‘cabbage tree’ needed it’s socks pulled up….it was a cruisy walk along the beach with no flow from the wetlands to cross, ORC were to open the mouth on the Friday. Baby seals playing in the surf the day before had obviously gone home to Mum.
The beach art. Photo & caption John
Panorama Taieri Mouth beach art draws its biggest crowd. (Click to enlarge). Photo & caption John
We followed the track into Livingstonia Park for morning tea, making use of all the facilities provided.
Morning Tea. Photo Phil
I was so relaxed I nearly forgot to share my bag of goodies…, but finally remembered, I must be getting older…. Quite a lot of interest was shown in the display boards as we left the Park and walked down ‘main street’ to the entrance to the Alan Green Wetland area.
Beside the wetlands. Photo PhilLivingstone Wetlands. Photo & caption Pam
We dawdled and chatted around the wetland, negotiating the Number 8 wire gates….and off through the forest and the dappled light on the forest floor; what was the sweet scent in the air? Not cabbage trees, not Olearia Fragrantissima shrubs……The sun seemed even hotter when we emerged from the bush, to enjoy the panoramic views of the area.
View out across the wetlands with Taieri Island/Moturata Island in the background. Photo & caption Pam
On the return, the group spread out to re-group at the third gate, but as our estimated return time to the Hall was slipping, initiative was shown by the ‘Hall’ team to drive to Coutts Gully road and pick us up and return to Knarston Park, and then the Hall.
Heading back to the hall for lunch. Photo & caption John
Everyone was accounted for and yes more folk had arrived down for lunch which was great.
Fantastic food. Photo & caption Helen
Following a moment’s silence to remember absent friends and family, followed by Ian Fleming’s grace, 55 folk enjoyed a delicious lunch, supplemented by chocolate goodies from Neil S, another with a near Xmas birthday. This was followed by an update from Anne Ward on the planning for the Bannockburn week in March. After lunch was cleared away Grant Shackell provided a generous bracket of Xmas music, with good crowd participation on occasions! Thank you, Grant.
Beautiful singing by Grant. Photo & caption Helen
Thanks also to Jay and the team for setting and cleaning up the food and Hall, especially after not getting full access till after 10.30am.
Another very successful Xmas club outing and yes, the first walk for 2023 is the 11 January!
Ho ho
Phil K
13. 07/09/2022. Alanton Block of the Wenita Forests. Grade 2 – $8. Leaders: Esther & Karen, Alex & Bruce S.
Forty-six Club members set off on the combined tramp in the Allanton Block of the Wenita Forests, 7.13 km south of the Big Rock School at Brighton.
On the forestry road -M2 (photo & caption Pam)
A welcome was extended to Roger and Barbara who are testing the water. We proceeded along Daphne Road passing the D7 sign and turned into Margaret Road.
Regrouping at the Margaret Road intersection (photo & caption Jenni)
We had morning tea near a log at about 10 am.
Morning Tea stop on side of road (photo & caption John)
We then proceeded up Margaret Road to Big Stone Road and saw some logging trucks, with logs, emerging from Daphne Road.The lunch venue was changed from the planned spot near Margaret Road to near the start of Kathleen Road.
Catching up over lunch (photo & caption Pam)Lunch stop out of the wind (photo & caption John)
After lunch we proceeded down Kathleen Road and then along Margaret
Road back to the cars.
Happy leaders heading downhill after lunch (photo & caption Jenni)Heading back to the coast through Farm land (photo & caption Pam)And still chatting on the road (photo & caption Pam)
Distance travelled approximately 10 km. Climb 243 m. The weather remained cool but there was no rain. A large group had refreshments at the Brighton Café.
Looking north over forestry to Blackhead quarry (photo & caption Pam)
Our thanks are due to all the leaders: Karen, Esther, Alex and Bruce S. In addition, we thank Liz for her liaison with the Brighton Café and Wenita Forests for permission to enter the forest.
Bruce Spittle
12. 20 October 2021. Taieri Mouth. Leaders Bob Mitchell and Barbara Shackell
Bob and Barbara our leaders for the day (caption & photo Clive)
“Twenty (or was it 21?!) folk set out for the Akatore River bridge, where Hike Leader, Bob Mitchell, was to meet us at the anticipated road works traffic lights on the hill climbed at the end of a previous tramp. There was sufficient off-road parking on the south side of the bridge for all vehicles and we were quickly off, heading downstream to the coast like bits of colourful flotsam, passing as we went a wading spoonbill which took off and flew over us.
Morning tea Akatore Inlet (caption & photo Clive)
We settled ourselves for morning tea among nesting oystercatchers before tackling the short sharp climb into farmland above the coast. It was very pleasant strolling south in perfect weather. The forward motion stalled briefly to watch a group of talented surfers riding the regular rollers coming in.
Watching the surfers (caption & photo Clive)
Unfortunately I was too taken with the conversation with a pleasant land-bound surfer to remember the name she gave the ‘point’.
Scenic Otago coastline (caption & photo Clive)
It’s obvious it’s not only trampers that the obliging farmer allows access across his paddocks. Eventually we set off further south, cross-country, until we dropped down onto a sheltered rocky spot for lunch where a seal kept a benign eye on his human companions. From the lunch stop the group gradually moved up and inland across lush clover filled paddocks and along farm tracks which brought us out onto the Akatore-Taieri Mouth Road.
Homeward bound Akatore Conservation Area (caption & photo Clive)
Several kilometres on, we were back at the vehicles with doubts about our ability to reach the Brighton Cafe which was expecting us about 2.15pm. Unfortunately, when we finally arrived at 2.55pm our fears were realised and we were declined service as they were closing at 3pm. From that point we made our own way back to Peter Johnstone Park carpark, and from there, home. Happy, a little sun/windburned, and feeling like we had actually walked the 12 km the fitbits suggested.
Thanks to Bob for his planning, and leading this day.
11. Taieri Mouth Millennium track, Alan Green track. Leaders Jay Devlin, Jan Butcher, Alec and Liz
On Wednesday the 9th of December approximately 60 members met at the Leitch Memorial Hall at Taieri Mouth for a walk and a shared Christmas Lunch. It was a picture perfect day and showed Taieri Mouth at its best. There were two walks on offer, The Millenium Track and the Alan Green Track. Most opted for the Alan green Track as it was one that was new to many members. The Alan Green Track is off Moturata Road and is a private conservation track. It meanders round wetlands and is home to a large variety of bird life which then leads on to a gully with fine examples of podocarps.
“Our Leaders” – Photo and Caption John
“Walking past a magnificent flowering rata tree.” – Photo and Caption Helen
“The picturesque wetland.” – Photo and Caption Gordon
“A peaceful spot.” – Photo and Caption John
“Time to regroup and take in the view.” – Photo and Caption John
The track is very narrow but well formed and is lovely to walk on. At the top of the gully you get lovely views of Taieri Mouth and surrounding farmland. On the way back Alec led us through a track off Livingstonia park where we had great sea views. We got back to the lunch venue 12.30pm. Arthur lead his group on the Millenium Track which many of us are familiar with. Thirty six folk enjoyed the walks while the remainder were happy to stay and catch up with those they hadn’t seen in a while. Jill, Jan B and their team of helpers stayed at the hall and set up the tables in a Christmas theme and put out delicious food brought by everyone.
“An enjoyable lunch with amazing food.” – Photo and Caption Helen
‘More mature club members.” – Photo and Caption Helen
Faye, Alec and Liz led us in “We Wish You A Merry Christmas”
So to everyone have a safe and Happy Christmas. Jill Jan B and Jay
10. 21/10/2020. Leaders Noi McCunn and Bob Mitchell
Photo and Caption Clive – “Knarston Park – the set off point”.
Photo and Caption Clive – “The road south from Taieri Mouth”.
Photo and Caption Clive – “The happy team.””.
Photo and Caption Clive – “View back from the coast.”
Photo and Caption Clive – “Lunch at the beach.”
Photo and Caption Clive – “Surfs up”.
9. 24/4/2019. Hikers. Taieri Mouth Area. Leaders: Chris, Dot, Alex and Liz.
Route map, courtesy Ian. 8km limited to the 7 who returned after lunch. (The rest did 4km more not travelled by this Nike app!) The “8km” indicator hides the points on the map where the route started and finished.
About 26 Hikers and Ramblers mustered under a cloudy sky by the Taieri Mouth Bridge to walk through hidden nooks and crannies of the Taieri Mouth area, led by Liz and Alec.
We started off along Riverside Road and cribs that are only a stones throw from the flowing river. A living history was related by Alec and Liz as we went past the cribs telling us stories of past and present inhabitants. We eased along a lower part of the Millennium Track to a sheltered glade where we sat down for morning tea. More stories were told of holidays spent along these banks and of income gleaned from whitebait or discarded beer bottles.
After morning tea we returned along Riverside Road to Hanning Place. This is a turn off that is easily passed without discovering Picnic Gully. Picnic Gully is a walk that used to be frequented by travelers from Dunedin more than a hundred years ago before the bridge was put across the Taieri.
Picnic Gully. (Clive pic and caption.)
We didn’t miss it this time and were soon into the thickly covered bush walk
which ended in a scramble up a bank onto a newly bulldozed track up onto Finlayson Road. This track was very steep and soon had us all stopping to catch our breath.
We learnt that this gully walk crossed the land of Alan Gorton who allows us to cross other parts of his land when going to the old sawmill. We also acknowledge the work done on the track by the children of the nearby Taieri Mouth school.
Down the hill saw us entering Knarston Park and led us onto the beach. It was now close to low tide and we could see it would have been easy to walk out to Moturata Island, but not today. We continued along the beach and passed a recently erected old tree and masses of toa toa and pipi shells. Charlie and Jess had recorded their presence in Toa toa shells which would last only until the next king tide.
Lunch was now in sight. We arrived at Livingstonia Park as the sun broke through. There was discussion over lunch as to the name for the park be it Livingstone or Livingstonia. Those in the know confirmed it as Livingstonia and was a living war memorial to returned servicemen and women with amputations and other injuries.
After lunch we headed up Coutts Gully Road to a walk up through bush at Livingstone – Green bush walk and lagoon. Someone had taken a lot of time and trouble writing notices along the path explaining the history of the bush area. There was a great view from the top along the beach to North all the way to Saddle Hill.
The view from the top. (Clive pic and caption.)
Once down the hill we skirted the lagoon to see geese spoonbills and ducks before heading back to the cars by the Taieri Bridge. We had walked nearly 12 kilometers in 4 1/2 hours. Some wished they could have taken longer as there was such a lot to see and enjoy. Maybe something to do on another day. Thanks Liz and Alex.
– Clive
8. 5/12/2017. Both. Livingstonia Park. Moturata Island. M. Leaders: Bob and Phil.
Route Map, courtesy Ian. (Ian pic and caption.)
A combined 32 Trampers and Hikers ventured down through Brighton to Taieri Mouth , certainly not expecting traffic lights at Kuri Bush! Livingstonia Park was the starting point after being warmly welcomed by Bob and we set off towards Akatore passing a range of new property developments; just prior to moving on up the rise to the highest point of the walk, Bob detoured us onto the lawn, surrounded by sheltering trees, at the old NZ Forest HQ.
Morning tea at Forestry HQ. (Phil pic and caption.)
Some of us pondered the thoughts of this site having a ‘second coming’ with the new governments initiative of a billion trees…….
We then headed south with the breeze at our back, up the gradually increasing rise, enjoying the views of forest and farmland and sea, interrupted regularly by shouts of ‘truck’ and ‘car’. before Bob again turned us off ( clearly a man with great local knowledge and contacts!) and headed down through farmland to the seaside. Here we mounted the stile and various scouts attempted to find their way onto the beach. This was more easily achieved by Bob when his hands were free after helping at the stile!
A mix of short beach walks, interrupted by rocky headland became the norm, requiring some inventiveness to move through the formations,
Into the promise land? (Phil pic and caption.)
as well as some rather intimate team bonding as some larger rocks were mounted! Well done everyone!
Eventually the main Taieri Beach came into view and on we set following the curve of the surf to the ‘bar’; nothing changes when tramping, initial hesitancy to getting the feet wet to plain old just barge on in or take the boots off. Rumours of a channel were probably proved correct as a ‘minor river’ was crossed before the main bar being traversed …
Sand bar, not showing heavy-flowing channel needing to be waded. (Ian pic and caption.)
… and we reached the Island at around 12.30pm, to be greeted by large numbers of nesting gulls;
Birds nesting on Moturata Island close up. (Ian pic and caption)
apparently the island was used to collect guano in the good old days, and you could understand why.
Colours on the rocks over on the Island. (Helen pic and caption.)
With low tide being over half an hour past, it was decided to return to Knarston Park for lunch, and shelter from the incessant sea breeze. This was a good decision as the ‘minor river’ had increased in volume, requiring river crossing techniques for some.
The scale of the bar was impressive, being much larger than thought, as were the patterns in the sand and rock formations both at the island and on the rocky headlands.
Following a late lunch, (more so because of the early morning tea!) everyone safely made their way back to the cars and met up with others who had completed a shorter walk.
I am reliably informed the full walk was 11.4 km and well, we won’t specify the altitude will we….
The day was very satisfyingly repleted at the new Brighton Café, where it seemed we had more than 32 folk chatting away!
New coffee bar in Brighton.(Helen pic and caption.)
( Ice creams from next door more than welcome, as both shops are apparently owned by the same folk).
It was a treat of a day. Well, yes, a bit of a cold wind, but – the sandbar!
We parked, morning-tead at Knarston Park on concrete picnic table seats that were not at all warm.
Then out to the sandbar. The tide was super-low, half a metre below sea-level. The bar was broad as broad. And dry. We walked and walked. This writer was overwhelmed with the experience of being on such a wide and long stretch of sand so under the waves at other times. Eventually we reached the island.
At Moturata Island
We sauntered round. The tide was so-o-o low we were assured of plenty of time before heading back. We headed to the rocks the north end of the islands and scrambled over them to see the surf breaking on the seaward side of the island.
Rock at northern end of island.
And then we sauntered back. Marvellous, as John Campbell would say.
The wind was still a bit sharp however, so we went back to the cars and on round the road past the fishing boats. A couple of fisherfolk said they had already noticed us and it was good to hear that locals keep a sharp eye out for the sandbar trekkers. Then on further to the start of the John Bull for lunch. (5km marker on GPS route map).
Lunch at terminus of John Bull track.
Back down and across the bridge to walk round the beach on the river’s true left. Yes, back to the cold wind, but it was behind us. We observed the cliffs below the houses until we thought it best to get off the beach. We climbed a set of steep large steps and up through a property and a wire fence to reach the highway at the top. (7km on map)
Onto road
We took the road back, crossed the bridge and reached our cars at near the 10km mark. Thanks to Judy and Pam carefully checking out our chances the day before and their leadership on the day.
Morning tea time – when we were still optimistic of a successful outcome!
Tide, wind and flood were all against us.
Tide – Even though we had got the low tide time exactly as we had wanted, we failed to take in consideration that minimum low tide was still o.9 metros. Must aim for nearer 0.0 next time!
Wind – Although a boisterous wind was from off the land, whipping up sand and breaker spray, the waves were still coming in stronger than we had expected.
Flood – The Taieri River was in quite flood mode, breaking two channels across the sand-bar we had hoped to traverse.
S-o-o-o-o-o. We had morning tea. We walked down the beach to where the rocky part begins and back. We waited. And waited. Some more hopeful than others. Some more resigned to failure. We early lunched. Then walked down the beach again, aiming for a round trip through Livingstonia Park and back along the road, but short-cutted through a bit before that.
And then behold. KB contractors drilling a pipe-line for fibre-optic (we think) alongside the road with a wonderful machine. Complete with GPS guidance showing on a screen to the operator, it automatically screwed and push-drilled successive pipes through alongside the road and under the ground, with a clever drill-head (we learnt on asking) that could tilt the pipe’s direction left and right, and up and down on the operator’s bidding. Marvellous! (To the technically-minded anyway.)
We were now close to the cars again. The day had been wind, but grew warmer as it progressed. Everyone was philosophical about the way the day had turned out.
Perhaps, as was suggested, a low-tide day late summer or autumn, when the Taieri is NOT in flood would be a much wiser day to tackle the Island next time.
There was a full tide around 11.30 a.m., which we cunningly exploited by negotiating the narrow beach parts before and after its peak.
The beach walk down river however, was rather constrained by the rising tide at one brief point, splitting the ‘(Fool(?)-Hardy Paddlers’ from the ‘Off-Beach-Detourers’ before we could make it to the large beach seen on the next pic.
The Taieri Mouth in the distance behind us.
Inevitably, we had to come to the rocky outcrops and were forced to make our way up a rope-lined track to paddocks.
A careful steep climb.
The track climbed. (Elaine pic.)
A view from the paddocks. (Elaine pic)
Further on, we were able to descend to another beach.
At one point, we were treated to a swimming seal lumbering its way out of the water to sun itself on a rock
Then it was time for lunch before retracing out steps back to our cars.
While we were seated, our President read out a text sent to us by Leslie S from hospital, saying she was feeling better and sitting up. (Today’s trip was a replacement for the scheduled trip to Waipori with Leslie and Bill as leaders.)
9. 15/03/2023. Hikers. McGouns/ Wakari Bike Track Grade: 2.5 Leaders: Jay and Jenny
17 keen hikers gathered at the bottom of the Pineapple track in Tanner Road. We entered the Cragieburn track at the Corner of Wakari Road and Tanner Road. We walked up a short distance to an historical site where there were remnants of dairy farming in 1860. This area is well preserved and a lovely new seat has been installed for people to sit and enjoy the views over Dunedin and its surrounds.
We then proceeded on to the Wakari Bike track which took us through attractive bush and meandering Ross creek.
Beautiful coloured toadstool on the trackside Caption and photo Jill
The track was good underfoot and pleasant walking. We reached the top of the track in 45 minutes where we had our morning tea.
Morning tea break at the entrance to the bike track Caption and photo Jill
After that we carried on the track which was a mixture of lots of ups and downs.
Feels like an Avatar scene Caption and photo Jenni
The trees here were a mixture of natives and exotics. The redwoods were huge and stunning.
Found under a couple of trees tiny pixie houses very cute Caption and photo Jill
We carried on then to join the McGouns Track which has beautiful unspoilt bush. This was steep in places but nothing like getting the heart rate up to feel alive. At the end of the McGouns Track we were supposed to turn right but the leader took us left up another steep climb where we had our well deserved lunch break and there we enjoyed views of the city and harbour.
Nearing our lunch spot with great views Caption and photo Jenni
After lunch it was all downhill for a change to the cars. We had two prospective hikers with us today, Margaret and Kay. Coffee was at Sunnyvale.
3 -10 March 2023. Bannockburn. Trampers and Hikers and Bikers. Leaders: Anne and Rod Ward.
The club planned a trip to Bannockburn for three days of tramping and three of bike rides. This all started on Friday 3rd of March with accommodation at the old Bannockburn school now run by the Otago Outdoor Education Trust. Accommodation was a mix of the old schoolhouse, an attached cottage and the barracks for boys and girls at the other end. Anne and Rod had a full programme of activities for the six days, including delegating the evening meals to teams for the first four nights, this included providing nibbles, main course, dessert, and home baking for supper.
Friday 3rd March – Day 0
Travelled to Bannockburn and settled into the camp. It was a beautiful hot afternoon/evening under the veranda soaking up the atmosphere. With rooms sorted some had a swim, others happy to watch. Team 1 prepared scrumptious ham, salads, etc as required for the duty team.
First night, settling in. Photo & caption JohnBannockburn Camp. Photo Helen
Friday 10th March
All that remained to do for those who stayed overnight was to pack up, tidy up, and head back home.
Thanks to all cooking groups for preparing and organizing meals, that were varied and enjoyable, great menus for the week.
Also to all the drivers for ferrying us to various start and pickup points, your service was invaluable and very much appreciated.
Overall our accommodation was well suited for our tramping group. Bannockburn Outdoor Trust was very obliging to our needs. I’m sure we’ll return for more adventures.
Saturday 4th March – Tramping
Day 1 – Kanuka Track plus Trail to Old Cromwell Town.
Lunches made, the tramping group (20) travelled to the Bendigo DOC Historic Reserve to complete the Kanuka Loop Track – 14kms from the Cromwell bridge to the turnoff onto Bendigo Loop Road and onto Mines Road to the carpark. The day was overcast with periods of drizzle so required jackets off and on as needed.
They are on their way. Photo & caption PhilMorning tea. Photo & caption JohnWorking out where Tarras Airport is? Photo & caption Phil
This track is 10.6km long, with elevation gain of 487vertical metres. It is a rugged trail with steep sections, but the elevation gains give you views from the Old Woman Range to the Saint Bathans. Underfoot it’s a variation of grass, tussock, rocky outcrops, with some good cover from the Kanuka and Manuka bush, Lunch was at the skyline ridge. Moving time for our tramp was just over 4 hours. Once back to the cars we drove up the hill to have a look at the relics of the old goldmining settlement of Welshtown, stone buildings and mineshafts from a bygone area. After much discussion we agreed the track rating would be 4.5.
The 3 hikers. Dave, Helen and Raewyn. Photo & caption Helen
The Hikers (3) enjoyed a walk on the track to Old Cromwell Town for coffee and return 5.2km each way.
Sunday 5th March – Tramping:
Day 2 –Kawarau River Track.
Due to rain overnight and start of Sunday morning we changed our walk to River Walk from Bannockburn Bridge up Kawarau River track (combined walk). Some walked return and others were given a lift back to camp where we had lunch. (4.5km each way) Very interesting walk which one day will join up with the carpark at the Goldfields Mining Centre.
Beautiful views. Photo & caption HelenThe long and winding road. Photo & caption JohnMorning mist lifts on another day. Photo & caption John
In the afternoon Ross took us to the Quartz Reef Point Track about 6kms up the lake from the Cromwell bridge for a brisk 30 min walk from the carpark to view the formation of diggings in the shape of leaves (herringbone tailings).
Hope this is worth it. Photo & caption JohnNo need to go to the gym back in the day. Photo & caption John
Some travelled back to Cromwell Pool for well-earned spa & swim while others visited Highland Park racetrack.
Boys and their toys. Photo & caption JohnPhoto HelenThis one took John’s fancy. Photo & caption HelenHelen laying down the law to her ‘boys’. Photo & caption Phil
Monday 6th March – Tramping. Day 3 – Bannockburn Sluicings, Stewart Town, Long Gully Loop Track
Beautiful weather for start of the day. Lunches made. We left cars at Bannockburn Camp just a short distance from School Camp and headed along Domain Road/Gibson Road to the start of sluicings and up to Stewart Town for morning tea with all of group.
High Tea under the trees at Stewart Town. Photo & caption PhilHeather’s photographic skills to the fore. Photo & caption JohnLovely old house. Photo & caption Helen
Here hikers and trampers parted ways, the hikers walking around through sluicings to Felton Road and back to carpark via coffee stopover.
Hikers at lunch at the Black Rabbit cafe in Bannockburn. Photo & caption Helen
The trampers headed further afield to complete Long Gully Loop Track 7kms, a steady uphill climb, where we stopped for lunch at the top and admired magnificent views of Bannockburn, its wineries and further down to Cromwell and Lake Dunstan. We couldn’t have chosen a better day; the scenery was amazing. Lunch over and back down steep incline to complete Loop Track, a tired but very satisfied group on completion of track.
Boundary riders. Photo & caption PhilWe did it. Photo & caption PhilA long way down. Photo & caption JohnViews of the Felton road vineyard. Photo & caption Neil
Many sore and tired muscles took refuge in the pool back at camp.
Wyn savouring Keith’s cooking. Photo & caption Phil
Neil started the evening meal with his version of grace, very apt for our group. Our yummy meal was followed by Neil’s quick wit for ‘News of the Day’ very entertaining thanks Neil. Shona and Keith arrived just in time to assist with meal preparation.
