13. 30/3/2011. Hikers. Seacliff. Russell Road, Enchanted Forest. Leaders: Marjorie and Bruce.
Twenty-two hikers set out up Russell Road at Seacliff at about 1000 on 30 March 2011 after parking near the gates of the Truby King Reserve. After approximately 1 km we opened the double Cyclone farm gates on the left and followed a track to a concrete fertilizer store area for topdressing. We then climbed the knoll north of this to have morning tea, north of Guilds Hill, with a view down to Doctors Point and Purakaunui.
View of Purakaunui from near Guilds Hill. (Bruce pic)
Wendy, Peter, Lex, Fred. (Bruce pic)
After morning tea we proceeded up Russell Road and opened the gate tied by string and a chain which was straight ahead (not the padlocked gate on the right which leads to a residence). We proceeded along this 4-wheel-drive section of Russell Road and then, when the track finished, another 150 metres to a paddock on the left over the brow of the hill where we had a view of Maori Peak below us on the right, Mt Watkin, and the surrounding valleys and hills.
Mt Watkin, Maori Peak. (John pic)
Retracing our steps, we proceeded back down Russell Road for lunch, at 1220, at the site of the Seacliff Asylum.
Lunch. (John pic)
After lunch we toured some of the asylum remains and the Enchanted Forest including the bluestone wall at the northern end of the asylum site where the sinking of the foundations began,
Bluestone wall. (John pic)
the remains of the Medical Superintendent’s house,the Admission Unit, and Clifton House.
Remnants including foundations and a brick chimney at the site of the main asylum building. (John pic)
We noted the heritage apple collection that has been established by the Truby King Reserve Committee which is available, according to the web, for foraging by both locals and visitors. Some of the apples were sampled. We looked out for the Magnolia tree, noted by Janet Frame, in Faces in the Water, to be the pride of the hospital, but did not spot it. Possibly the DCC, who administer the reserve, may be able to signpost it eventually.[(But you can click here for a view of it from another tramp – the tree) and The plaque] We returned to the cars at 1415 having had the benefit of a warm day, with blue skies and no wind, to appreciate the tranquil rural setting. – Marjorie and Bruce.
Tea break at top of Russell Road. In front: Elaine, Angela, Barbara, Bill
At Seacliff, turn left up Russell Road. Park cars at gates. Truby King Reserve sign.
Walk up road and beyond to ridge. past macrocarpa trees is a paper road to end of gorse. Turn right off road to bypass below gorse on right. Beyond and down to right at rocks find a marked track down through trees to split rock. Get permissions.
24 hikers arrived at Seacliff for an enjoyable hike on a pleasant calm day.
Cars were parked on the side of Russell road outside the gates of the Truby King reserve. Peter, Ian’s son and local resident was there to lead us as we hadn’t done this walk for a considerable time. He led us up the road and yet further up to the top of the ridge to see great views on the other side. Over, and down a paddock to avoid heavy gorse and we were on a FWD track leading gently NE to yet a better view NE to Puketapu and NW to Mt Watkins,
Mount Watkins in distance. Lesley, Peter, Fred
as well as the flats behind Karitane. Then it was down and across to the bush lining the ridge on whose other side Split Rock was hidden. But just before we did that, Joyce invited us to enjoy an early lunch on some accomodating rocks in most enjoyable calm sunshine.
Lunch above Split Rock. Wendy, Bill, Joyce, Pat, Chris, Jean
After that, it was down through the bush following markers through a twisting route to eventually arriving at the rock. Some took the trouble to clamber to its flat top to enjoy magnificent sights up and down the coast. After that, a very careful descent down the side of this huge rock revealed the split halfway down.
Several daring souls squeezed through, others electing to avoid the claustrophobic confines of the 20 odd metre journey. Then it was carefully further down the steep track,
past the rock’s bottom face and on down and across some bush to arrive at a netting fence through which a small gap allowed one at a time to squeeze through into an open grass paddock. A graded 4WD track took us a short distance down to the coastal road where we turned right and walked single file back along towards Seacliff. Opposite Peter’s place we climbed a rise and over a style Peter had built to walk up a track, stepped where necessary to eventually emerge into the wonder of the Reserve, with a beautiful round garden before us to admire. An old concrete bridge on our left introduced us to an ascending grassy road that took us past the foundations of Dr Charles Moore’s house, a bit sunken, but with steps down to the basement still intact. Further yet up the road and we admired the brass plaque inscribed with Janet Frame’s account of a walk, including fond reference to the magnolia tree just behind it. Further up yet and we arrived at a more carefully mown area at the top, centre-pieced with two magnificent spreading elms. The range of wonderful trees around us is beyond description but a huge eucalyptus and a grove of giant pines must be mentioned. A short walk and we were through the gates and back in our cars. Thank you Joyce and Lesley and Peter too for a rewarding day out. – Ian
11. 26/7/2006. Hikers. Enchanted Forest. Easy. Leaders: Jim & Thelma, Graham
No. 67 on old hardcopy list of 113 club tramps. “Swampy – Jim Freemans – (J Roy) Summer”
10. 12/07/2023. Trampers. Westside of Flagstaff. Grade 3. Leader Lynley.
10 brave souls came out to fight the elements. Thank you to John Fitzgerald helping me to do the tramp as I was unable to get recce done in time. Starting at the top of Spiers Road on to a scruffy piece of farmland we had amazing views over Dunedin.
Dressed for the cold. Photo & caption Pam
We passed a lovely rock wall made by Ben Rudd with a steep climb through flax and scrub. We joined Flagstaff then down to Ben Rudd shelter for a well-earned morning tea.
Among the flax on Spiers Track. Photo & caption PamMorning Tea at Ben Rudd’s hut. Photo & caption PamOne of many “stone walls” built by Ben Rudd (1870’s). Photo & caption Pam
We proceeded to Possum track on to McQuilkans Track where found a sunny spot for lunch.
Lunch enjoyed on McQuilkans Track. Photo & caption Pam …and up on to Swampy Ridge Track. Photo & caption PamThis stream was crossed multiple times. Photo & caption Pam
Missing out on rain, we had a few snow flurries looking like fairy land but very cold on top of Flagstaff. A good day had by all 6 hrs in total.
And it snowed. Photo & caption PamNo shelter here to regroup. Photo & caption Pam
Lynley.
9. 24/08/2022. Trampers. Westside of Flagstaff. Grade 4. $5. Leaders: Gwenda and Yan.
Gwenda and I did the recce for this tramp, scheduled for late July, in mid July. So we were a little concerned that all the rain we’ve had recently hadn’t changed the condition of the tracks and the creek crossings too much.
It was raining steadily as Pam Cocks, Gwenda and I drove towards the Bull Ring, wondering if we would have to cancel again and thinking of more sheltered tracks. However, when we met the rest of the group there seemed no doubt in anyone’s mind that we should go ahead with the planned route.
Our leader Gwenda and group (photo & caption Helen)
So 17 of us walked up the fire break road which leads to the beginning of Jim Freeman Track.
Geologist Brett explaining how those rocks got here (photo & caption John)
Our optimism was well founded and by the time we had morning tea the clouds were clearing and the rest of the day was sunny and pleasant.
Morning tea at Flagstaff Swampy Ridge track- ready to head down to Jim Freeman’s track (photo & caption Pam)
The downhill section of Jim Freeman Track was quite muddy and a bit slippery.
“Down hill from here” we were told ! (photo & caption Pam)
I think we were all glad we’d brought at least one pole and Lyn put on her crampons which looked really effective, especially on those tricky tree roots. No-one came to grief and although the creeks were running a little higher we all managed to cross without incident.
We then joined Possum Busters and the steady climb of McQuilikans, where some members had ‘track cleared’. Earlier in the day some of us had noted how slippery the footing is if the flax leaves are left on the track.
Lunch among tussocks and flax (Maungatua’s in the distance) (photo & caption Pam)
We stopped for lunch near the top of McQuilikans where the bush gives way to more open and flaxy terrain.
That On top of the world feeling (photo & caption John)
The pigs had obviously been foraging along much of the lower part of the track. As we hit the Firebreak for the second time the wind had picked up. Some of us took the direct route back to the Bull Ring, while others completed the loop walking the Flagstaff/Skyline walkway.
Amazing detail on this 1973 work of art (photo & caption John)
Gwenda set a cracking pace belying any concession to her age.
Our special tramp up and over Maungatua today had to be postponed due to the rain.
But 7 keen trampers turned up at the carpark, and weren’t going to be put off by a little dampness, so we substituted a tramp to Whare Flat, doing a circut taking in Possum Busters, Lower Swine Spur, and Smithys Tracks.
We set off in very light rain, from the south end, to explore most of Possum Busters, which is a bush track.
Some of the great bush. (Gordon pic and caption.)
By smoko time the rain had gone, and we stopped in a small trackside clearing for refreshments.
Quick morn. Tea. (Gordon pic and caption.)
There was no hurrying today, and we were able to enjoy the great variety of trees and ferns as we wended our way.
Eventually we came to the Swine Spur Track, …
Heading back on the loop. (Gordon pic and caption.)
… and followed it down to have a leisurely lunch …
Lunch at lake Whare. (Gordon pic and caption.)
… at Lake Whare.
The lake. (Gordon pic and caption.))
The final leg was on Smithys Track, with some climbing to do. Not hurrying, we came back on Possum Busters again, which left us with a 20 min walk back to the cars, where we arrived at 1.30 pm. 8 km was the distance we had covered on our very enjoyable tramp this day.
The light rain had re-appeared by no, and got heavier as we returned to Mosgiel, where it was teeming down. A visit to Blend was very welcome, and enjoyed by all.
Today’s group had seen first hand the great track clearing that Neil Morrison and his helpers have been doing in the area.
On Swine Ridge (Neil’s highway). (Gordon pic and caption.)
Thanks Neil and Co. – Arthur.
7. 30/10/2019 Trampers. Porkys/Jim Freeman Leader: Arthur
A well planned tramp!!!
Previous days there had been some heavy rain and Arthur took on the task of planning a good tramp, even with a bad weather report for the day. He decided to take us on reasonably dry tracks. The Jim Freeman track was the choice. We wandered along a pleasant track finally reaching Ben Rudd’s shelter for morning tea.
Photo and Caption Gordon – “Smoko in Ben Rudd’s shelter”
The track then headed up to the ridge to meet the Flagstaff Swampy track. The sun was shining with a steady breeze.
Photo and Caption Gordon – “Heading up the firebreak”Photo and Caption Gordon – “Steep bit before lunch”Photo and Caption Gordon – “Lunch among the flax and tussocks
We followed Porky’s track down to Possum busters track and finally back onto the Jim Freeman track – there were a few damp spots! And back to where we started.
Photo and Caption Gordon – “Bruce Campbells Rhododendron dell”
Coffee was planned for Blend. We were all having our coffee and snacks when an enormous gust of wind came with heavy sleety rain which blew a tree over next to Blackstone coffee bar. This provided the icing on the cake!! Plenty to look at and plenty of advice while it got cleaned up.
Photo and Caption Dave – ” Fallen tree in wind gust provides entertainment”
Well planned Arthur!!!Dave
12. 26/10/2016. Both. Round tramp from near Lake Whare. E+. Leaders: Trampers.
Circult Route Map per Nike app, courtesy Ian.
The Hikers wished to inspect the work that had been done over the last couple of years by the Track Clearing Group, from our Club. Today’s tramp gave them that opportunity.
The clouds remained low all day, but it wasn’t cold, and no rain to be unpleasant.
A combined group of 20 Hikers and Trampers departed Mosgiel on time, and travelled up past Whare Flat and parked a little way up Rollinsons Road.
The plan was to do a circuit, taking in the following tracks (or parts thereof) – Swine Spur, Possum Busters, Smithys and the Lake Whare Loop – all being in the bush below, and to the south-west of Swampy.
If possible, it is always best to do the hard work first, so it was up Swine Spur at the start. This is an uphill track, gently up in the swampy “cutty grass flats” area at the bottom, and again further up.
The bush area halfway is the worst, with several good uphill scrambles to contend with. After negotiating this it seemed like a good idea to have morning tea …
Morning tea. (Helen pic and caption.)
… and let all have a rest.
Continuing up the ridge we were out in the open, but the low cloud restricted any view. Very soon we came to the junction with Possum Busters, where we could admire the excellent track signs that Ian Hebbard had made – they would be at every junction that we came to on today’s tramp.
We turned right now onto Possum Busters track which still trends slightly uphill for a little before following the contour and descending later. The track was in good order although it crosses a couple of creeks and there were several very wet swampy patches …
Through the mud. (Helen pic and caption.)
… to negotiate.
We passed the bottom ends of Porkies Track, and later McQuilkans.
(By the way, you can find a map of the day’s travels on page 5.08 in Antony Hamel’s book. Not all tracks are named on his map.)
Soon after passing McQuilkans we had to cross Sligos Creek twice and were soon at the next track junction.
Once again we turned right, now on Smithys Track. It is an “interesting” track with many changes of direction, and is somewhat rougher with several steep, …
Helping up. (Helen pic and caption.)
… but brief climbs or descents, requiring care. We took our time, there being no rush.
At twelve, we came to a suitable lunch spot. There was room for all to sit beside the track where it was more open to the sky. Quite pleasant in fact.
Lunch consumed, it was onward once more. Along and down. We passed the top end of Steep Track, before eventually turning right to find Lake Whare.
Overlooking Lake Whare. (Ian pic and caption.)The lake. (Helen pic and caption.)
Nice tracks to walk along in this area. One duck moved quietly across the placid waters as we arrived at the lake for a brief rest spot.
Not far now. Around the Lake Whare Loop track, we saw the stone ruins (house?) and the stone wall. Only a few hundred metres more and we emerged onto the road back at our cars.
The whole group had successfully completed the day’s tramp, although it would have been tough for those more acclimatised to street walk. But WELL DONE everyone. And I hope you had all appreciated the track clearing that our members had done.
My special thanks to Neil M., in fact to both Neils, for tagging along at the back to keep the troops moving today. Bruce’s machine records the day’s distance at 6.63 km.
As all the Hikers’ tongues were hanging out, a fast trip to Wal’s …
Coffee. (Helen pic and caption.)
… was needed to revive them, the Trampers joining them as well. – Arthur.
Several of our regular members were away on grandparent duty for the school holidays and for other reasons, resulting in only a small group of 7 out for our weekly tramp.
After parking at the Bullring, we walked up the firebreak 4WD track to the highest spot where we had morning tea with a view. Some clay parts of the track had been rather greasy on the way up.
A further five minutes took us to the top of the track down to Ben Rudd’s Shelter, which we inspected …
Ben Rudd Shelter. (Margreet pic and caption.)
… before continuing down the Jim Freeman track.
The tracks down to the Shelter, as well as the Freeman track were rather overgrown in places and greatly in need of a trim up – someone had made a start though.
Due to the track conditions – it was also a bit wet and slippery because of the recent rain – we had to take our time. In fact, it was very slow work going down Jim Freeman.
At the bottom we turned right to follow the Possum Busters track for the next leg of our journey. Someone had been along here recently and trimmed some ferns as well as doing some spade work in places. Possum Busters goes along for a bit before trending up-slope. We were making good time here but I was concerned about the time lost earlier downhill, so decided that it was time to go to “Plan B”.
It was with considerable apprehension that I told the group we would shorten our tramp and go up Porkies Track instead of Swine Spur. I knew everyone would be hugely disappointed – and they were! It transpired later that there had been a conspiracy to ensure that the leader did not reach the top of Swine Spur first! The plot was foiled.
And so it came to pass that we ascended Porkies.
Sign. (Margreet pic.)
Someone had recently made a very good job of clearing this track. As we climbed gently, as the track does, I’m sure that I heard several comments behind me, to the effect that “This is too easy, I wish we had gone up Swine Spur instead, etc, etc.” But perhaps I was mistaken.
It was time for lunch when we came to the Swampy Ridge 4WD track at 12.25 p.m. The group spread out a bit, each to find a good sheltered spot out of the cool wind. But it was lovely and sunny.
Within 30 minutes we were on the move, facing towards Flagstaff and home. The track, Swampy Ridge, was a little wet and muddy in places.
We had some good views now, noticing that there was some snow on the Rock and Pillar, and on the Lammermoors. Briefly the “Taieri Pet” showed itself, although small in size, behind Middlemarch.
We turned off to join the Pineapple Track and followed it to the summit of Flagstaff.
Flagstaff. (Margreet pic and caption.)
A cold wind was blowing here so we didn’t linger long to enjoy the scenery.
View from the top. (Margreet pic and caption.)
Down hill into the cold wind for 20 minutes brought is back to the Bull Ring at 2.20 p.m.
We had travelled 11.6 km and had a good day’s tramp, with a good variety. The weather had been ideal – an almost clear, sunny sky, with a westerly wind which hadn’t really bothered us. But we were lucky – within 2 hours of finishing, a southerly storm had arrived – wind, rain, cold, the lot! – Arthur H.
GPS map of route and caption, courtesy Ken. Swine Spur Swampy Ridge McQuilkans Possum Busters.
There were 4 trampers on today’s tramp into Possum Busters territory. We started by climbing all the way up Swine Spur to the Swampy Ridge road, with a stop for morning tea at the junction with Possum Busters. We then walked along Swampy Ridge Rd. to the top of McQuilkans track, where we had a short break before going down there, & back across the creek onto Possum Busters track, where we turned right, & walked up to the junction with Porkies track, where we had lunch. Then we walked all the way around Possum Busters, past where we had morning tea, & out to Rollinsons Rd. above the locked gate. It was then just a short way back to the cars that were parked further down by the bridge.
A good walk after yesterdays track clearing effort, & an opportunity to see what lies ahead of us for track clearing the rest of Possum Busters, & the bottom end of Swine Spur. – Ken.
GPS of route, courtesy Ken. Flagstaff McQuilkans Possum Busters (Ken pic and caption). Walked 8.6km; 3.5km/h; 2h 28min. Climbed 390m.
Starting at the Bullring, we made our way up the walking track to the top of Flagstaff. We took this route in preference to the 4WD track as it has had a dozer over it to cover up the fibre optic cable that hides, or was supposed to be hiding, under it’s surface. However, in the past, it has been quite visible in various places, all the way up to Swampy Summit, due to water erosion.
After having morning tea at the Rock Bivvy, we walked along to the joining track, which takes you over to the track leading up to Swampy Ridge Track. This had also been attacked by the dozer, & was VERY muddy & slippery, sending some of us into skiing mode on the downhill sections. I think we all made it along to the top of McQuilkans Track without falling over in the treacherous conditions.
We had a short stop here to discuss what we would do for the rest of the day, & it was decided to go down McQuilkans & find somewhere to have lunch in the sun. So we set of down this newly cleared track [thanks Green Hut Group]] had lunch at a semi-dry/sunny spot,…
Lunch stop (Ken pic and caption)
…then negotiated the creek crossings to end up on Possum Busters track. Here we decided to head out onto the Flagstaff/Whare Flat Rd. walk up there to the bottom end of Big Rock Track, & go up there to Ben Rudd Shelter. We found the entrance to the track, where Ian H had put in a sign, but it wasn’t long before we lost the track, & despite a bit of a search for the correct way up, we gave up, made our way back to the road & walked up there back to the Bullring.
The weather was perfect, with hardly any breeze, & a good temperature. Although a short walk, it was enjoyable. – Ken.
Only Doug turned up for the leaders to escort around the route. We had cleared the Jim Freeman on the recce so it was a quick climb up with morning tea by the Ben Rudd turn-off.
Then it was along swampy ridge to arrive at the McQuilkan descent.
View from McQuilkan prior to entering manuka woodland
Down the McQuilkan and a turn right at the Possum Busters, denoted by the track sign faintly mis-titled “Possum Hunters”. Up, around and across to join the Swine Spur crossing. It was a pity the manuka trunk holding one of Les Murcott signs had recently fallen over. Lunched there.
A left-turn and down the lower Swine Spur ridge before the plunge off to the right into the bush. A track badly overgrown in one particular place especially, but still marked enough to follow. Finally it was down and out of the bush onto the extensive tussock swamp and across the old stone wall. We reached ingenious bridge of Les’ track-clearers, up into bush, out again into tussock and then a final swing left up into the bush onto what is now all called ‘Smithies’.
Crossing tussock swamp at bottom of lower Swine Spur
A winding down and up walk until we reached the junction with the lower McQuilkan and then out to the road, passing the bottom of Jim Freeman again. FWD enthusiasts have made quite a mess of the exit, turning it into a bog. – Ian
Bogged entrance off Whare Flat road
3. 14/9/2005 Swampy Circuit: Possum Hunters, Possum Busters, Swine Spur, Swampy Ridge, Fire Break, Jim Freeman. Leaders: Ian, Hazel
Entered at lower McQuilkans, climbed Jim Freeman, along Swampy Ridge, descended upper McQuilkans, around Possum Busters, down lower Swine Spur, across to Smithy’s (formerly Possum Hunters) to rejoin lower McQuilkans and back out to road.
4. 7/7/2021. All. Street Art followed by Mid Winter lunch at the Wharf Hotel. Leaders Chris, Gwenda, Clive and Faye
12 Hikers and 24 Trampers met at the Wharf Hotel for Street Art walks around Dunedin.
The trampers headed off to the Vogel Street area and take away drinks from Heritage Coffee in Jetty Street.
They then made their wandering way, via Moray Place and Bath Street, to the University area.
Stunning colours (photo and caption Helen)More bright colours (photo and caption Helen) Love the tui (photo and caption Helen)
There was time to view the University Library’s Colin McCahon painting “Waterfall Theme and Variations”,
Painting at the Otago University Library (photo and caption Helen)
the Castle Street Lecture Theatre’s wonderful mural and
Students at Otago University (photo and caption Helen)
some of the campus sculptures before returning via the rail bridge.
The group on Otago University campus (photo and caption Helen)
The hikers headed to the downtown area over the rail bridge before making their way back to the Wharf Hotel via the Vogel Street area. Morning tea was enjoyed midway at the Vanguard Café on Princes Street.
Jill Dodd and Jay organised a lovely mid-winter lunch to follow which was enjoyed by 50 members of the club at the Wharf Hotel. There we also enjoyed a great slideshow of photos from trips over the last 6 months, put together by Clive and John.
Lunch at the Wharf Hotel (photo Chris)
Chris
3. 3/7/2019. All. Midwinter Street Art walk and lunch. Leaders: Clive and Heather.
Some were small. (Clive pic and caption.)There was a lot to see at 76 Vogel Street. (Clive pic and caption.)(Helen pic.)(Helen pic.)(Helen pic.)(Helen pic.)(Helen pic.)(Helen pic.)Lunch at The Wharf Hotel. (Clive pic and caption.)
2. 6/7/2016. All. Street Art Walk. Midwinter Lunch. E. Leaders: Bev, Judy and Alex.
31 members gathered at the Wharf Hotel car park and set out for a fascinating walk around Dunedin streets, viewing some of the amazing street art adorning our buildings’ walls.
First stop was just along the foreshore where mulled wine was served, (courtesy of Elaine and Judy), really hitting the spot on a coldish morning. Then it was up and across the over-bridge to Jetty Street, to Princes St and Manse St. The back entrance to the Scenic Hotel provided a look at the spectacular Cloud Catcher mural.
Cloud Catcher. Oops Just cut “the catch” off. Dash!
We did wonder just how the artist managed to hang up there to do this amazing work.
A short puff up Rattray St, to Dowling St and then up to Tennyson St,
Got “the catch”! but too far away really. City view from bottom of Tennyson Street.
down View St (glad it wasn’t up), across Moray Place, through the car park and along the alleyway to the Octagon. This alleyway is full of excellent art work, well worth browsing through. From here it was around the Octagon, down Stuart St, and along to Queens Gardens, before crossing to Vogel St again, and over the bridge back to the Wharf just after midday. Thank you Bev for organising this and turning out in spite of a miserable head cold.
Here we found the rest of the crew gathered, raising the number to 62, a great turn out. It was pleasing to see so many ‘senior’ members in attendance.
After birthday greetings to Margaret and Adrienne, Judy ran a short quiz, testing observational skills from the walk. Thanks to Eric for his help, and for the chocolates donated. Judy then read her ‘Ode to the Club’. (Attached [at the bottom of the Club’s History page] if you want to read it for yourselves!).
Congratulations and thanks to the hotel staff, who took orders and prepared and delivered meals so efficiently and promptly. This was much appreciated – the blue cod was great! While some indulged in dessert, the ‘Four Jolly Tramping Mates’ presented two songs, ably led by Bruce.
Thanks boys, you did well!
The Mates/boys. (Adrienne pic.)
All in all this was a really successful day, with everyone relaxed and happy, enjoying the food, the company and the entertainment. – Judy and Bev.
1. 15/7/2015. Hikers. Street Art Street Walk. E. Leaders: Lance and Lois.
iPhoto GPS of route
It was another of the Lance and Lois’ well-planned, well-commentated walks. We surprised them with our large group, numbering 31, crowding up at street corners and filling pedestrian crossings, but they coped. Beginning at Unity Park lookout, we first walked down Eglington Road to the former Montecillo property being developed for new housing. Lance told us the driveway in was a solid 8 inches thick concrete slab!) We then returned out to walk down through the Town Belt by way of of the ‘Steep Street’ track, stopping on a grassy slope…
Morning Tea stop
…for morning tea just above the zig-zag steps.
The steps are of those awkward sloping kind, enforcing either a stretched stride or two tiny ones per step. Anyway we arrived a bit up Maitland Street above Carroll St, to enter an unobtrusive lane that led into a large centre-of-the-block grassy area that led us diagonally through to Stafford St. Having enjoyed this delightful mid-block section, we turned down Melville St to Carroll St to view the former St Andrews Church. Lance had already prepared us at our morning tea for this visit. He had told us of Rutherford Waddell’s greatest sermon of all time at this church on the ‘sin of cheapness’, where the Minister had declaimed against the sweated labour of the Dunedin seamstresses of the time, a clarion call that was to bring about far-reaching legislation reform of working conditions. So we viewed the historic church which has in more recent times been used by the Word of Life Pentecostals, and since 2001 by the Coptic Orthodox Church. We rounded the large old Bell Tea Co building corner into Hope St and up again to Stafford St to walk down it to our first street art, the Haast Eagle.
Chinese artist DALEast represents New Zealand’s extinct Haast Eagle and is reflective of his unique style which presents the frenetic shape of animals and people as if they have been constructed out of shards of metal. On Stafford St
We continued down and across to the corner of Princes and Jetty streets to view the “Riding Dreams” mural.
“Riding Dreams” by Pixel Pancho demonstrates a complex interweaving of the human form, flora, and metal to create the surreal image of a ‘not quite human’ boy riding a fantastical metal horse reflecting his fascination with 1950s robots.
Around the corner, “Love is in the air” on Bond St was delightful.
Polish artist Natalia Rak’s mural entitled “Love is in the air” is characteristic of her cheeky, playful and hyper-realistic style and reflects her passion for bold colours.
I could go on. We went hither and thither, as you can perceive from he route map, far too much to list here. This reporter can recommend such a stop-go walk, studying buildings, renovated and old, treading pavements some, no doubt we had never planted foot on before.
Just two more ‘works of art’ now, and lunch at First Church before heading back up the hill.
First the waka and steam-punk submarines exiting a fish’s mouth. (Quietly: But aren’t the sails billowing backwards?)
Maori waka and a steam-punk like submarine emerge from a fish’s mouth in this piece by Phlegm. On Vogel St.
Our lunch at First Church.
Panorama of lunch on seats in First Church grounds.
And finally, an art work in Rattray St.
“Chasing the Thin White Cloud” , three stories high is the largest work to date of Fintan Magee.
Then up Maclaggan St and High Street and back to the cars.
Thanks to Lance and Lois for a carefully thought out day.- Ian
(Grateful acknowledgement to Dunedin Street Art Trail information.)
Meeting at a suitable parking spot on the Taieri Mouth road at the start of Mount Allan forestry hike 12 brave members set off for a pleasant walk in bright sunshine. As Pine trees had been removed it gave a different feeling from our previous hikes. Great views and an understanding of how rough the hills really are for planting. First stop after a good climb was morning tea break.
“.Morning tea in the sun.” – Photo and Caption Clive
Everybody relaxed. Onward up and down until we reached Big Stone Road .
Before- Aug. 2019 photo.” – Photo and Caption Clive“After – now – trees felled.” – Photo and Caption Clive
Lunch time.
“Lunch at Big stone/Daphne Road.” – Photo and Caption Clive
Down the road until we met the next track and into the forest again. From here it is mostly down hill with more great views until we arrive back at car park.
“A weather station on the way down.” – Photo and Caption Clive
Coffee at Brighton Beach shop with relaxed chatter including meeting Dot and Chris who had just completed there own walk. 12 kilometers in total .New member was welcomed and had a good day. Good company and enjoyable.
Liz and Alex.
18. 22/5/2019. Hikers. Forestry walk Kuri Bush. Dave and Liz.
A little bit nippy for a start
Start of the day. Liz pic and caption.)
but 2o hikers and 3 Ramblers set off what was to be a pleasant gradual climb amongst pine trees and bush.
(Kevin pic.)
A 9.50am morning tea was taken with sun shining brightly which warmed all and accepted. From here the Hikers took the Daphne Road
On pine needle carpet. Easy on the feet. (Kevin pic.)
and Ramblers the Isobel Road. The Hikers continued until reaching Big Stone Road
Lunch. (Liz pic and caption.)
and then onto the downward trip via Katherine Road. The Ramblers did very well reaching the top of Isobel Road and then down Katherine Road. Total distance for Hikers was about 12 Kilometres. Off to Brighton Beach Cafe went very weary but happy Hikers and Ramblers. Thanks to all Liz and Alex.
17. 16/5/2018. Hikers. Daphne, Big Stone and Kathleen Roads. M. Leaders: Alex, Jim and Betty.
pine needle carpeted walk into the forest. (Clive pic and caption.)On the way to the top. (Phil pic and caption.)Lunch on Big Stone Rd. (Phil pic and caption.)Homeward bound along Big Stone Road. (Clive pic and caption.)
Conditions were a pleasant cool day for the hike in the Allanton Block of Wenita Forrest south of Brighton. The majority of 22 hikers stopped off at the Brighton Cafe for refreshments on the return trip to Mosgiel.
It was a successful late change to the planned hike.
Betty & Jim
16. 17/6/2015. Hikers. Daphne, Big Stone and Kathleen Roads. M. Leaders: Alex, Liz and Dot.
GPS of route, courtesy Bruce. 12.2 km. [N.B. Bruce has commented on the interesting difference between the 2012 (q.v. below) and 2015 Google maps. – Ed.]The Google map for yesterday was taken in 2015 and was a little different from that from Ken’s report in 2012 with imagery taken on 17 Sept 2011.
June 17 Map with named roads. (Bruce pic and caption)iPhone GPS of route showing kilometers, courtesy Ian.
About twenty Hikers did the now more customary route of climbing the Daphne Road’s gentler but longer route and descending by Kathleen Roads shorter but steeper. We morning-teaed in the sunny spot at the foot of Daphne Road where the Club has always stopped, and lunched
Lunch on a sunny level. (Looking back along the road).(Ian pic and caption.)
on a level stretch of the road, but still some distance from the top. Older members, presumably familiar with the route found they had failed to recollect the many gully dips on the road. They also appreciatively noticed the rubbish collection by the top gate had been cleared. …W-e-l-l perhaps not all!
Made for each other. (Ian pic and caption.)
Reaching the top of Kathleen Road, a substantial number struggled around and under the closed and apparently locked gate before Les noticed that it was not locked at all. … Sigh.
It was yet another good-weather Wednesday, tempting some to to wonder whether a Higher Power must look after the Club. (Well, it was colder on Tuesday and Thursday promised snow.) Admittedly a cold breeze had driven us into woollen hat and gloves when we emerged from our cars, but this eased in the shelter of the forest and in the patches of sun the trees permitted us from time to time. It was a great Winter’s day tramp and a great location – a metalled road rather than a sloshy paddock or slippery track. (Pity the poor trampers! – see their report.)
Mention must be made of the occasional great views of the coast and down gullies that we stopped to enjoy from time to time.
A misty vista in the ‘dista’, looking up the coast from Kathleen Road. (Ian pic and caption.)
It was further remarked that tramps like this get us to see the other sides of properties that mere car travellers never get to appreciate.
So, thank you leaders, for a well-reconnoitered and led tramp. We were well looked after, with thoughtful stops for regrouping. – Ian.
15. 13/2/2013. Hikers. McLeods Farm. Leaders: Wendy and Peter.
14. 22/8/2012. Trampers. Daphne Road, Big Stone Road, Kathleen Road. Medium. 12 km.
GPS of route, courtesy Ken. We did 11.7 km at 4.7 km/h.
13 . 4/7/2012. Both. Daphne Road, Big Stone Road, Kathleen Road. Medium. 12 km. Leaders: George, Lex.
Morning Tea at bottom of Daphne climb. (Ian pic and caption.)
12. 27/8/2009. Trampers. Queen Street, Highland Street, Big Stone Road, Kathleen Road, Isobel Road, beach return. Medium Leaders: George, Hazel.
Starting at the home of George and Elizabeth, George and Hazel led us along to the corner of Queen Street and up across several paddocks to reach Highland Street where we sheltered from the wind for morning tea. Once we reached Big Stone Road, we paralleled it on a forest track just across the fence, which was much more interesting, if slower, than walking the road. We were amazed to see the extent of forest harvesting on the other side of the road, cleared, replanted and now for sale as lifestyle blocks.
Maori forestry recently harvested.
Later we came across a couple of pig skins on a fence.
George inspecting a pig skin.
Shortly after passing the McLaren Gully Road turnoff on our right we turned off onto Kathleen Road on the left and then again on the right into Isobel Road where we stopped for lunch.
Lunch sheltered from the wind. Doug, George, Ria.
Isobel Road provided a pine-needle-strewn softer surface for walking down to the coast. There we joined the beach, nice and firm on an ebbing tide, but oh so loooong to get back to Brighton and the cars again. 18 km in all, and were we glad to reach the cars again!
There were only six of us, three of whom from Mosgiel who, vehicle-less as it turned out on this occasion (Doug would have gone back for his car had he been required to), depended on first-time visitor Susan who was surprised into having to provide the transport to Brighton, but who most graciously provided it. – Ian
11. 6/8/2008. Both. Margaret Road, Katherine Road. Medium. Leaders: Dot M, Chris.
10. 15/3/2006. Hikers. Margaret Road, McLeods Farm. Easy+. Leaders: Bill & Pat, Dot T
9. 29/6/2005. Hikers. Margaret Road, Katherine Road. (Brighton). Leaders: Chris, Dot B.
8. 18/6/2003 Hikers. Kathleen Road, off Taieri Mouth Road. Easy Leaders: Joan and Dot
7. 25/7/2001. Alt. Margaret Road, Katherine Road, Kuri Bush. Leaders: Dot B, Joan H, Chris H
6. 18/2/1998. Big Stone Road from Margaret Road to McLeods. Leaders: Ray and Diana.
5. 14/5/1997. Big Stone Road from Margaret Road via McLeods to Coast Road. Leaders: Dot B, Joan H, George.
4. 10/7/1996. Margaret Road, Big Stone Road, McLeods. Average. Leaders: Graham, Eric and Dot.
3. 30/11/1994 Margaret Road, Wenita Forestry, Big Stone Road. Medium. Leaders: Eric & Dot, Joan H, George
2. 4/8/1993 Big Stone Road to Smooth Hill to Kathleen Road – return beach. Leaders: Eric & Dot, George, Chris
1. 8/6/1988 Kathleen Road from Big Stone Road. Lots of pines and the ocean. Leaders:
8. 21/04/2021. The Gap. Leaders: Arthur Heenan, Peter Horrell
Eighteen Tampers set off from Mosgiel at 8.00 am and travelled to Waitati and drove up through the forestry to the start of Yellow Ridge track. Led by Arthur Heenan and Peter Horrell, we set off in great weather conditions, with a clear sunny day with little wind and the recent dry conditions making the track as good as possible It was a steady walk to the hut for morning tea and then up to Yellow Ridge.
“Time for a rest – morning tea.” – Photo and Caption John
“Which way? – Photo Peter
“Destination reached.” – Photo and Caption John
“No sign of rain.” – Photo and Caption John“Me at the top!” – Photo and Caption Peter.“The gap rocks.” – Photo and Caption John
At 860 metre above sea level the trig station gave stunning views out to Karitani ,Blue Skin Bay, Mt Cargill and Swampy, as we topped the first ridge we could see through Silverpeaks, Hindon, right through to the Wind Turbines above Lake Mahingarangi, a spectacular piece of country.
“Amazing views.” – Photo and Caption Peter“Panorama – as far as the eye can see.” – Photo and Caption John“Homeward bound stop.” – Photo and Caption John.
The 14.5 km walk was hard due to the elevation, with some steep climbs and some gorse to wade through and the final climb back to the cars certainly gave us all a good workout.
Peter
7. 13/3/2019. Trampers. Green track/ River Track. Leader: Neil.
Eleven trampers left Bush Road at 8 o’clock keen to get to Green Track arriving at 8:50 am – well worth while having the early start. 200 meters up Green track we turned onto Miners Direct, down past the end of Eucalypt Ridge and down to Waikouaiti South branch about 3/4 hr later. Turned right and went downstream, but missed the crossing place just past the blackberries, where some were busy sampling them. 10 minutes later we were in the creek because of bluffs, so after some discussion it was decided to cross to the true left
.Crossing river. (Helen pic and caption.)
and bush-bash up-hill
Bush bashing to the track. (Helen pic and caption.)
till we came to the track, which we did, arriving at 10:25 and so morning tea break was gratefully received by 11 weary trampers.
Morning tea on the track. (Helen pic and caption.)
The object of some trampers was to reach the bottom of Rosella Ridge by lunch time. This was achieved by 7 trampers at 12:30 pm. Four had wisely decided to return to the cars earlier, 2 via Eucalypt Ridge, and 2 visited Possum Hut by mistake before returning to the bottom of Miners Direct.
The track from morning tea to lunch was somewhat harder being more overgrown, less defined and not so easy walking, resulting in several members having trouble remaining upright. Another aspect of this walk that was commented on was the amount of bird life and bird song that was evident.
The return walk took about 2 1/2 hours, arriving at the cars at 3 :30pm. Two took the new track up from the bottom of Miners Direct to the road and commented on the easier gradient all the way. A real credit to the Green Hut Track Group who did the rerouting.
The result of the earlier start was now evident as we had time for coffee at Waitati before the place closed
.
Overall, a day’s tramping enjoyed by all. – Neil.
The rain started as we left Mosgiel, but despite this, it wasn’t cold and the eight trampers were VERY DETERMINED to go tramping.
The cars regrouped at Waitati, and ONWARD was the only option – no one wanted to cancel. So it was up Double Hill Road and Semple Road to Mountain Road. A key allowed us through the locked gate and we drove up to, and parked at, the beginning of the Tunnels Track. The rain continued.
Our plan was now just to do a short tramp. It was very dark in among the trees as we descended the track, some wag asking for the street lights to be switched on!
After twenty minutes we came to the old gold mining tunnels …
At tunnels…no one home. (Phil pic and caption.)
… where we had a stand-up morning tea. No one was electing to sit on the wet ground. A N.Z. robin kept us friendly company here, which was nice.
From the Tunnels we followed the old water race to the main track, and then descended to the South Branch of the Waikouaiti River which was up a bit and a little discoloured.
At South Waikouaiti Branch. (Phil pic and caption.)
No use going further in the rain, so it was uphill back to the cars to finish at 11.15 a.m.
We had travelled slightly less than 4 km, and all had greatly enjoyed our little excursion, which had taken one and a half hours.
Surprisingly, the tracks were not slippery, even on the steepest bits.
Into the cars and to Blueskin Nurseries for hot drinks, before returning to Mosgiel.
Eight trampers had decided that a little but of rain was not going to spoil their day, even if it was a shortened tramp. Thanks to all participants. – Art.
5. 11/2/2015. Trampers. The Gap, via Yellow Ridge.
GPS Yellow Ridge to The Gap, courtesy Ken. We walked just on 12km We climbed 1000mtrs. ave speed 3km/hr moving time just over 4hrs. Stopped time 3hrs max elevation 700mtrs.
A good number of 6 trampers, & one visitor + dog turned out for the 8:30 start for the tramp to the Gap via Yellow Ridge. 4 members of the group had not been there before, so it was a bit of an experience for them. We started by walking down to the tunnels, for the ones that had not seen them before, then it was along the old water race back onto the main track, where we had morning tea…
Morning tea break. (Ken pic and caption)
…at the grassed area before crossing the Waikouaiti River, & then climbing the steep track up to the new Philip J Cox hut for a breather.
We then carried on towards the Gap, but two of the new members were starting to struggle a bit by now, & as we approached the last couple of climbs up to the Gap, they decided that they would find a nice spot for lunch, & then go back down to the hut & wait for us there. The rest of us carried on to the Gap, where we had lunch,
Lunch at the Gap. (Ken pic and caption)
& admired the views.
View looking north from Gap. (Ken pic and caption)View looking South west from Gap. (Ken pic and caption)View looking South-West from Gap. (Ken pic and caption)
A quick trip was taken up to the trig on the northern side of the Gap to say we had been there, & then it was on with the packs, & back the way we had come. We caught up with the others at the hut, just a few minutes after they had got there, so an extended break was in order for refreshments,…
At Philip J Cox hut on the way back out. (Ken pic and caption)
…& another breather before the steep decent into the Waikouaiti River again.
At this time, one of the group decided that he would start off down the track, thinking that he had told somebody that he was leaving, & it was not until we all got about 15mins down the track that I noticed he was not in our group, & asked where he was. We stood around waiting, thinking that he was still behind us, but in the end I asked our fittest member if he would go back & check. While he was doing this, we decided that the others would go down to the bottom, & see if he was down there, while I stayed to wait on the member we had sent back up the track. All this took approx 1/2 hr to accomplish, so we knew we would be a bit late getting back to the cars. As it turned out, the missing member was at the bottom waiting for the rest of us to arrive, & was very apologetic for his mistake.
We took another break at the grassed area…
Resting at Philip J Cox hut on the way out. (Ken pic and caption)
…before we tackled the last climb up the steep track back to the cars. We had decided beforehand to go out the north end of Mountain Rd. as the road is in much better condition at that end. However, when we got to the last locked gate, we couldn’t unlock the padlock with the key that was given to us by City Forests, so it was about turn & drive all the way back to the south end & down to Waitati.
The weather was good, with no wind, & not too hot, & the low cloud that we observed when driving in was non existent when we got to the Gap. This is probably one of the harder tramps that we do, & is one that I might forgo in the future, although I managed it quite well, a result I put down to drinking Gatorade, & more fluids than I normally do on a tramp. – Ken.
4. 14/11/2012 Tunnels Track, Yellow Ridge, The Gap, Gap Ridge
GPS Yellow Ridge to The Gap, courtesy Ken. We climbed just over 1000mtrs. ave speed 3km/hr moving time just over 4hrs. max elevation 668mtrs.
Four intrepid trampers gathered at the Bush Rd. car park before setting off at 8:30am on an adventure that 3 of us had never done before. The fact that Dermot had managed to get a key from City Forests for the gates on Mountain Rd. saved us about 9km of walking time, as we were able to drive right to the start of the Tunnels track. We set off down this track at about 9:30, & went to explore the tunnels themselves, a new experience for 2 of the group. Arriving at the grassy area at the bottom by the river, we had morning tea, & then set off across the river, without getting wet feet, & started the relentless climb up Yellow Ridge. On reaching the new Philip J. Cox hut, we had a short break to regain our breath, admire the hut, it’s fixtures & facilities. {We even swept the floor when we left]
Ready for the next part of the trip. (Ken pic and caption)
The next task was to get to the Gap for lunch, however remote this possibility seemed as, the track actually goes past it, instead of towards it for a while, & you start to wonder when you will be getting closer.
Nearing the top with The Gap showing. (Ken pic and caption)
At this point, one member of the group decided that he would go back to the hut & wait for us there. We eventually did get to the Gap,
Sign at the top. Thank God for something to lean on. (Ken pic [taken by Heb] and caption)where we had lunch, then a short walk up to the trig on the top of the Northern part of the Gap,
Trig above Gap north rock. (Ken pic and caption)
where the views are magnificent, despite the lowering cloud/fog that had been hanging around all day. We then retraced our steps, carefully, due to the slippery nature of parts of the track that were very steep. Someone commented ” why didn’t they just provide a ladder” !! We stopped again at the Phipip J. Cox hut to have another drink, & to pick up our other group member, who we discovered had left a note for us, saying that he had left the hut 1/2 hr ago, & was making his way slowly back to the car. As we travelled back to the river, & up the Tunnels track, he had left numerous arrow signs, & the time that he had drawn them in the soft ground. So we knew how far in front of us he was, & when I arrived at the car, he had only been there about 3 minutes or so.
Everybody agreed that it was a worthwhile trip, & even although it’s a bit of a ‘gut buster’ it’s worth doing, but the early start, & the gate key is a must if you want to get home at a reasonable time. We made it back to the Bush Rd. car park just after 5pm, & I was home by 5:30pm. – Ken.
3. 20/2/2002 Tunnels Track, Yellow Ridge, The Gap, Gap Ridge Leaders: George, Ian, Hazel
Mountain Road, Tunnels track, Yellow Ridge, the Gap.
On Monday 4 Feb 2002, George Haggie, Hazel Leslie and Ian Fleming receed the route for the Taieri Recreational Tramping Club. We left Green Island meeting point at 8.30. On George’s prompting we drove further north and entered Mountain Road at Merton and drove 17 kms back to the Tunnels Track DoC sign on a good well metalled road arriving there a 9.30. The south branch of the Waikouaiti River was shallow enough but the track up to the manuka scrub was in poor condition with a large slip crossing it.
Once in the trees conditions improved greatly and it was most pleasant all the way to Yellow Hut which we found to be in poor condition inside. A DoC sign recommended going any further for experienced trampers only due to Silver Peaks notoriously changing weather conditions.
Beyond the hut we were into large tussock which being largely dry was not too much trouble to wade through although we walked more by faith than sight through the sea of tops, confirming we were still on the track with our feet. in many cases.
The route does a left-hand semicircle on a broad ridge. We lunched at the Gap at 12.15 in a very slight smirry rain but under dry rock overhang.
Returning, the tussock, now wet was much more difficult to push through, with the wet leaves lying lower onto the track, tangling our feet and tripping us up. The notorious steep never-ending climb back up from the Waikouaiti to Mountain Road keeps getting longer with more rest stops as one ages.
We got back to the car at 3 pm and continued round Mountain Road, now striking many potholes with several spots so severe as to be almost impassable. This part was 13 km from Tunnels Track to Waitati. The sandy road metal contrasts with the rock metal on the northern part and although a few kms shorter and with many main highway kms eliminated is not to be recommended at the moment. Returned home just on 5 pm, having driven 103 kms.
2. 23/2/2000. The Gap via Yellow Hut. Leaders: Margaret and Les, Ian.
1. 12/11/1997. Tunnels Track to Yellow Hut and Gap. Leaders: Les and Margaret, Claude.
No. 41 on old hardcopy list of 113 club tramps. “Holmes Track. Pine Hill. Farms. Year Round”
26 km from car park.
13. 21/4/2021. Hikers Pigeon Flat. Leaders: Betty and Jim Finnie.
Sixteen of the 21 hikers assembled at Nichols for refreshments after a 10 – 11 km hike. The weather was remarkably kind. The parking of the vehicles on the Waitati Valley Road worked well, followed by a 3.8 km up hill hike to the Leith Saddle & crossing S H 1, then following to the end of the Pigeon Flat Road.
“Posing on the Bridge of SH1. Truckies tooting at the ladies who were waving back enthusiastically.” – Photo and Caption Michael.“Lunch on Pigeon flat road.” – Photo and Caption Michael.
We then crossed 2 Farm properties & the Waitati Stream back to the cars.
“Nobody fell in the creek!” – Photo and Caption Michael.
The land owners were thanked for the privilege of allowing us on their properties.
Leaders Betty & Jim Finnie
12. Hikers Report for Waitati on 30/10/2019.
Twenty three hikers took welcomed refuge at the Blue Skin Cafe from the forecast down pour that struck our party a short distance from the cars. The hike was commenced in pleasant hiking conditions on the board walk to the west of Orokonui Lagoon from the Doctors Point Road.
Photo and Caption John – “I’ve seen friendlier skies”
Photo and Caption John – “I think I’ll have a muffin with my coffee today” Photo and Caption John – “Good to be back!”
From there it was a morning tea stop by the substation. From there we had foot paths to the Waitati school where it was hoped that a person from the Blueskin Resilient Communities Trust
would provide information on the schools addition of their solar panels, the BEL solar power buy back scheme & their involvement with the Eco House Build that is to be displayed at the Home &
Living show on the 2nd & 3rd of November at Forsyth Barr stadium. This house was constructed by women. It was due to attending to the final details of the Eco house that the BRCT were unable to oblige.
Photo and Caption John – “Enjoying the Opeke track”
The next point of interest was half way up View St we came upon a couple attending to fitting new number plates to a car. The woman who was obviously very proud of this just completed conversion of this vehicle to pure electric. (EV) The bonnet was lifted to show the very neat functional set up which had a range of 140 kilometres. She just had to have a photo of the car & amp;
group. At the top of View St we crossed a sheep paddock to the top of the Waitati cemetery.
Photo and Caption John – “So much History”
Photo and Caption John – “Old meets new”
Apart from the final downpour it was a pleasant stroll completing the eastern Orokonui Lagoon walkway to Doctors Point Road up to Opeke for lunch & return to the cars.
Photo and Caption John – “These are the good old days!!”
Leaders were Betty & Jim Finnie
11. 25/9/2019. Hikers. Pigeon Flat and Waitati. M. Judy K.
This was a new hike for the Club, pioneered by Jim and Betty Finnie and Judy Knox.Prompted by curiosity about how far the Pigeon Flat Rd went, we explored one day and by a mixture of good luck and ancient history (Judy taught one of the land owners 50 years ago!) the track down to the Waitati River was discovered.With owner Michael Lee’s permission, an afternoon was spent clearing gorse and broom to openthe track down the fence line.
17 hikers set off from the car park at the top of the motorway in a freezing wind with a forecast of rain and snow, but luckily this didn’t arrive. Down the Pigeon Flat Rd the wind was at our backs and morning tea on the roadside was quite sheltered.
(John G. pic.)
No-one was keen to linger, so it was on and over the motorway bridge, then ten minutes along to the junction with the paper road and a left turn onto a farm track.Ten more minutes took us to the locked gate, where Michael Lee had shown us the hidden key during the recce.Much easier than our scramble over it the first time!
After a regrouping at the farm sheds a right turn was made through two gates, across the paddocks and down to the bush.Another gate, then the fence line was followed for about 20 minutes,on our beautifully cleared track (thanks to Jim’s new chain saw), …
Track clearing on an earlier occasion. (Judy K pic and caption.)Jim and chainsaw. (Judy K pic and caption.)
… to another fence crossing. A sharp left to follow the lower fence where cattle had churned up a few muddy patches, then we crossed the fence again and descended to the river. It was a bit early for lunch, but too nice a spot to ignore, so there we stayed.
(John G. pic.)
After lunch and still a bit too cold to linger, we crossed the river (most with dry feet) for the short step climb up the paddock on side to the Waitati Valley Road. From there it was a long but pleasant trudge up the road back to the cars which were reached about 1.15pm. Our coffee stop was at Emersons.
(Judy pic.)
Special thanks to Michael Lee and Donna (Waitati side) for permission to cross their land. – Judy K.
10. 13/2/2008. Holmes Track, Pigeon Flat. Leaders: Peter and Wendy.
4. 12-16 April 2021. Borland Trip. Leaders: Raewyn and Phil Keene.
Day 1
At last, after a few weeks of planning, and watching weather reports etc. we were underway, and all before 9am on the day!
After 2 hours of driving we emerged through the forest at the Dunsdale reserve, at 1 minute past the estimated time on Raewyn’s manifest; this proving to be an ongoing source of feedback as we completed each part of the day and week. A pretty impressive lineup of cars too, and the groundsman cutting the lawns had to move on until we had departed.
We were walking by 11.30am up the true left side of the Dunsdale stream, to emerge at Forks Flat clearing, before crossing a bridge and returning down the true right side, where there were some impressive matai and other podocarp trees.
“The Team on Dunsdale loop.” – Photo and Caption Gordon
Back by 12.30pm for lunch at the various picnic tables and away at 1pm, on time!
Some topping up of petrol at Winton was followed by one of those road trips where all roads lead to Clifton Suspension Bridge, except when you have too much chatter in the vehicle, miss a turn off and end up nearly at Mossburn for a venison pie….. with one vehicle down Peter gave an interesting outline, on the Bridge, of the ups and downs of the Manapouri Project. The major down being the adverse effects on the Waiau River and it’s life force and downstream communities. Having communicated with the errant vehicle we moved on up the Southern Scenic Route turning off near Blackmount onto the Lake Monowai Rd and up to Borland Lodge. Black skies into the west were foreboding….. We all settled in quickly and hey presto the first of 4 lovely evening meals was whipped up and devoured, in anticipation of some hard tramping ahead. After searching the web pages of the weather gods, it was decided we would start with the easier of the 4 main walks on the agenda.
Day 2
South-North Borland to Lodge
“Map of North Borland to the Lodge.” – Photo and Caption Ross
Up up and away on time at 9am, with the bulk of the group opting to do the South ‘n’ North Borland/Rock Bivvy return to the Lodge, whilst Raewyn’s group did Lodge to South Borland return. With help from the smaller group, we ferried everyone to a drop off on the Saddle Rd, and set off across, down and through fields of moss carpets and crown ferns at the base of high limestone cliffs.
“Passing by Sandstone bluffs.” – Photo and Caption Ross“South Borland Limestone cliffs” – Photo and Caption Gordon
Along the way we were accompanied by tomtits, fantails and the odd Robin or two.
“A friend on the track!” – Photo and Caption Gordon
We morning tea’d on a high bank overlooking the South Borland stream, with views of Mt Titiroa in the foreground.
“Morning tea on a bank overlooking the South Borland stream.” – Photo and Caption Helen
From here we turned off, walked across a swing-bridge over the stream, and carried on to what has to be the best rock bivy in the world?
“The big rock bivy” – Photo and Caption Dave
Along the way we had an interesting chat with Fiordland’s Robin Hood, who was hoping to get a deer with his bow and arrow! We lunched sharpish at the rock bivy, then returned down the North Borland and over the swing-bridge, turning left to follow the track above and alongside the main Borland River back to the Lodge. The babbling brook was quite large in places, and oh those deep pools must be home to some gigantic trout? We returned to the lodge over the swing-bridge on the Pig stream, past lots of emergency shelters, erected by school pupils as part of their outdoor training activities. In parallel, Raewyn’s group (or rather Keith’s harem?) set off from the Lodge just after 10am once the ferrying of hikers and cars was complete. Walking in reverse of the above, they enjoyed their walk through the moss covered forest and Keith too was interested in those trout pools (even to the extent of standing beside a tree to peer into the depths, to later discover it was overhanging the stream with no roots below!). Final destination was the turn-off spot above, and once they discovered that no-one was waiting to return with them, they had lunch back further on the track around a previously used campfire. Sandflies were biting, so the journey back was soon started.
The only first aid required was to Jan’s shoe which lost its sole.
Everyone’s efforts were rewarded by another lovely meal, a great social atmosphere with lots of board and card games underway. But earlyish to bed to ready for the day ahead, this time on the Borland Bivy to Green Lake and return walk, and hopefully on the Mt Burns Alpine tarns walk.
Day 3
Borland Bivy to Green Lake return – Mt Burns Alpine Walk
“Green and Island lakes walks.” – Photo and Caption Ross
A perfect split of people to vehicles meant Phil’s group was away sharpish at 8.20am, arriving through the mist to a clear Borland Saddle, where some time was taken to take in the views and anticipate the Alpine walk on our return later in the day. Then on down the Grebe Valley side of the Saddle to find ample parking under the pylons near the entrance at the bivy. A slightly wetter forest than on day 2 meant the yellow carpet had given way to a rich green, and we bobbled along through a low saddle, then down and across a large but boggy clearing.
“Bobbling along on a boggy clearing.” – Photo and Caption Phil
Bang on 10.00am we had morning tea, either in the edge of the forest or around patches in the sphagnum moss.
“The sphagnum moss.” – Photo and Caption Pam
On through another low forest saddle, this time with a picturesque tarn surrounded by sharp colours, not unlike a geothermal pool. The bush and tussock tracks were more pronounced than at the time of the recce, thanks no doubt to the pitter patter of hunters feet through the roar period, and no wonder with hearing regular bugles all day long, and a bit later on, some Kea squawking. The next tussock clearing was on another scale, vast wonderful high red tussock, and drier under foot and eventually we entered another short forest walk and came to the junction with the Island Lake track. Everyone was travelling well, so we agreed to stay together and box on. We were immediately met by a good old fashion ‘grunt’, requiring good breathing spots about each third of the way up; it didn’t quite look this steep on the map! Having ascended we travelled along the ridge, but with 3 hours gone and still wanting to do some of the Alpine walk later in the day, the majority of the group opted for lunch. The famous five moved (rumoured to be running?) on to the edge of the Green Lake, descending and ascending the quite steep ridge.
“The runaway 5 at Green Lake.” – Photo and Caption Ross
The majority returned to the Island Lake track and went down to the outlet, catching up with the famous five an hour and a half later, allowing for a nice group photo with the lake in the background. Island Lake was rumoured to be the most picturesque on the day?
“A View of Island Lake.” – Photo and Caption Gordon“The group who walked in search of the lakes.” – Photo and Caption Gordon
From here we returned at a solid pace back to the cars, visualising the best spot to put our bush hut close to nearby tarns, and guessing where those roaring stags were. An inspection of the bivvy found an entry in the hut book from Raewyn’s group, who had completed part of the walk. Their three cars left later and also stopped at the saddle for a look. Still a little misty, they headed down to the pylon park and walked through the forest to the first clearing on the Green Lake walk to view the valley. Too boggy for morning tea there, they back tracked to find a dryer spot in the forest. Back to the cars, they drove on another 5kms to the Grebe Valley lookout where the mist had cleared for a great view down the valley. Also stopped there were a couple of deer hunters using modern technology to look for deer down below. Discussion developed and soon a few binocular sets were out, deer seen and photos taken. From there they returned to the Saddle for lunch, ventured through the Goblin forest and completed the Alpine Walk up far enough to enjoy the spectacular scenery.
This was the point Phil’s group returned to, and most went above the bush line to enjoy the big picture, which was pretty good!
“On the ridge looking down to a natural tarn.” – Photo Karen
On down the Saddle road and returned to the Lodge for more, well you know, great food and socialising but noticeably most sneaking off to bed a little earlier than the night before.
Day 4
Mt Eldrig ascent/descent
Lodge to Lake Monowai and return Mt Eldrig:
A close to even split for either walk, with 15 ready and willing at 8.45am to head for Mt Eldrig (an unofficial name, there is a Loch Eldrig in Scotland. Eldrig has become synonymous with deer trapping, named after a 10 th century monk Aelric who dug trenches to lead deer into net traps). With just 3 vehicles the steep ascent and parking arrangements up the pylon road was easily achieved, and off we went through quite an overgrown entrance, but the track settling down to one of steady to steep beech track, some fallen logs and bogs, and large rocks making it a little difficult to navigate; fortunately DOC had placed more numerous -markers on the trees. We morning tea’d right on10.00am where we had some great views but also had to seek some shelter from a strong NW wind. Another 45 minutes saw us emerge above the bush line onto
steep tussock/bog country with the track progressively giving way to poled markers. We followed these for another half hour, where 3 of the group decided to rest, awaiting the return of the main
group. They carried on and up and around to come to a significant white granite outcrop, providing spectacular views into and beyond the Borland valley, as well as to Te Wae Wae Bay,
Lake Monowai and the Takitimus, and up to the forward peak of Eldrig.
“A significant white outcrop” – Photo and Caption Phil
“The lunchtime team on Eldric.” – Photo and Caption Phil
We took some group photos, with two folk returning to the other 3 and then on down to a car and back to the Lodge. The remaining 10 had a good lunch break and then over the next hour and half ascended/descended this forward peak, through lovely alpine herb-fields, gentians, with some Edelweiss flowers seeking shelter at the base of rocks; this brought forward the inevitable song from the Sound of Music and we could hear the ‘echo’ albeit at a much higher and tuneful pitch, from Raewyn’s group the day before on the Alpine Walk just over the hill! Finally all 10 ascended to admire the views, and the 1000m vertical drop a few metres behind us.
“Atop Mt Eldrig into the West.” – Photo and Caption Phil‘The first Mexican wave on Eldrig’ – Photo and Caption Phil
Group photos, into the west, and into the east were taken before we made the steady, steep, slippery descent, with one or two slightly embarrassing moments along the way.
Lodge to Lake Monowai:
With Raewyn overseeing, Esther & Pam led 18 on the track from behind the lodge and over Burnt Ridge. Different forest again, gave way to a couple of boggy areas, then a climb up to the ridge for morning tea. Onward across the ridge and down the other side with a few narrow and/or steep areas to negotiate before coming out on the flat. Following the clear markers, the walk travels through broom etc and then along the pine forest edge to the main Monowai road. A 1km walk along the road comes to the main car park & boat ramp at Lake Monowai.
“The boat harbour area of Lake Monowai” – Photo and Caption Gordon
The boat harbour area of Lake Monowai – Photo Gordon
Meantime, a few of the team had stayed behind, so they drove two cars round to the same spot to join them for lunch. Lunch was under the beech trees at quite damp picnic tables with the lake below. After lunch, a stroll to the flood gates and group photo with the lake.
“Group Photo at Lake Monowai.” – Photo and Caption Raewyn
“Borland lodge to Lake Monowai” – Photo and Caption Raewyn
A few opted to return by car, the rest were led back by Esther & Pam (thanks ladies).
During the evening meal breaks Judge Mellish outlined an extensive list of sins that everyone had committed during the days, except himself of course! He had spies everywhere, resulting in the singing of Happy Birthday to Ross. Helen thanked the leaders and their teams for the great meals, while Esther expressed thanks to Raewyn and Phil for the organisation of the week and made a presentation from the group. To which Raewyn and Phil say thanks again to everyone for making it a successful foray into Fiordland. This part of Fiordland, apart from the power lines and road, is close to what it has always been, and provides a sense of adventure for those who encounter it on it’s terms. Phil encapsulated this by reading Wendell Berry’s lines from “the ancient fear of the unknown”
“Always in the big woods when you leave familiar ground and step off alone into a new place there will be, along with the feelings of curiosity and excitement, a little nagging of dread. It is the ancient fear of the unknown, and it is your first bond with the wilderness you are going into”.
Day 5
Ah parting is such sweet sorrow – An orderly departure unfolded with the camp being left spick and span; it was heartening to see many follow Raewyn’s final manifest, with many visiting Rakatu Wetlands where we encountered Mark Sutton, the project manager and a board member of the Game Bird Habitat Trust, who had received our blog on the Takitakitoa wetland – small world. Also just like a run on the bank in days of share market collapse, there was a run on Venison pies at Bracken Hall in Mossburn, the quality of the pies passing the test of all who ate, and ate…..
Raewyn and Phil
3. 6/11/2004.Mt Burns. Leader: Ian Fleming. 45 min return
A short track leads from the Borland Saddle car park (the summit of the Borland Road) through the bush to the open tops of Mt Burns. Numerous tarns and superb views make the area particularly attractive.
Borland Saddle. Mt Burns Tops. Pat, Brenda
Lunch. Wendy, Shirley, Arthur H
Facing climb on way out. Tom? Wendy, Brenda, Bill, Shirley
Steeply down under overhanging cliff. Only Pat recognizable.
Pool. The furtherest upstream we got.
2.Mt Eldrig Route to Bushline. Mo 7/4/03-Fri 11/4/03 Leaders: Ian Fleming. 4-5 hrs return.
Sign posted off Borland road. Follow the main pylon access road. The track starts at the end of this road. A steep climb for approximately 2 km (1.5 hrs) following a well-marked route to the open tussock tops. Snow poles mark the route onto the slopes of Mt Eldrig.
Brenda. Mt Eldrig
Arthur. Mt Eldrig
Ian Mount Eldrig summit
Last Day. Brenda, Peter, Bill Ian, Nancy, Tom, Pat, Dorothy, Wendy, Arthur, Shirley
Mo 7/4/03-Fri 11/4/03 Leaders: 1. Friday 27/10/1995 – Monday 30/10/1995. Combined meals. Arranged car passengers. Camp Parents: Bill and Lesley, Dot and Nelson. 33 attended.
1. 7/4/2021. Takitakitoa Wetland/Lester Harveys 90th Birthday. All. Leaders. Raewyn, Phil and Jill D
Wow, what a magical place, right on our back door, we can come here anytime, a great place to bring the grand kids……. Just some of the comments from 45 folk as we surveyed the wetland from the look out after the initial 20 minutes of walking, and listened to Steve Dixon from Otago Fish and Game wax lyrical about his office and spot for building his house, and who would disagree with him?
“We all looked at the amazing view of the wetland.” – Photo and Caption Clive
Steve clearly had done a Health and Safety assessment, having first created additional steps and boardwalk to aid access to the lookout track. He outlined the land history of the area, including land swaps, to provide an effective area for the wetland, as well as the process of creating the lake through the formation of the bund, and how flows and water levels are managed.
The area was quickly adopted by a range of water fowl and aquatic life and the mai-mai’s are available and open to junior and novice game bird hunters, principally on the opening day of the game bird season.
“Steve from Fish and Game.” – Photo and Caption Clive
Following morning tea we backtracked from the lookout and carried on, past extensive and fast growing native plantings to skirt the wetland and finally to arrive on the bund, that effectively controls water depth in the wetland at around 800mm.
“Walking around the wetland.” – Photo and Caption
We strolled and shambled across the bund, where Steve outlined the fish pass process, including the inanga (whitebait) breeding habitat.
“Looking back to lookout.” – Photo and Caption Gordon
In addition to brown teal, mallard, ‘parries’, black swan, and one or two white faced heron were also observed. Some perch maybe establishing themselves in the wetland as well. The fishermen turned their eyes to the pools….In thanking Fish and Game for their hospitality it was commented that it was great to see a vision achieved so quickly, and with the right environment and support to see how nature can quickly be re established. Thanks also to the NZ Game Bird Habitat Trust for funding .
“The water comes and goes through here! – Photo and Caption John
Folk stretched out for the return walk to the cars, with Steve providing some assistance for hitch-hikers over the last few hundred metres. Thanks again Steve.
From the Wetland car park there was a steady procession of cars headed for Momona Hall to enjoy a convivial lunch with guest of honour Lester. The chairperson of the Hall committee provided an interesting over view of the history of the Hall, and outlined in some detail the restoration efforts, principally the magnificent murals and overall presentation of the Hall. Yes a great secret that should be more widely understood and appreciated.
“We are told the history of the hall and murals.” – Photo and Caption PamLester’s 90th birthday function.” – Photo and Caption Pam
Arthur outlined to the group Lester’s work and community contribution, including to the Club and presented a card to Lester, which was followed by a fairly rousing version of Happy Birthday Lester. In his response and subsequently the cutting of his chocolate and fruit cake, the latter so expertly baked by himself, Lester managed to squeeze in quite a bit of comment, acknowledging also Mrs Harvey’s 93rd birthday as well as their 65 years of marriage. Well done!
“I made my own 90th birthday cake.” – Photo and Caption Clive
In true tramping fashion justice was done to the lovely food, to which everyone had so ably contributed.
Many thanks to all involved in making the day first and foremost such a wonderful social occasion.
3. 31/3/2021. Trampers. Maungatua Traverse. Leaders Eleanore Ryan, Heather Kirk and Arthur Heenan
One of our best tramps ever!!
26 of us were met by Richard from Good Tour Bus Company leaving at 8:25am and driving an hour up to the Woolshed road, past the sheep yards for 3kms (saved an uphill walk) on Horsehoof Station.
The finish is now the problem (Photo & caption Gordon Grant)
The weather was calm, with low cloud and fog in places. We set off up the access road for about 6kms to the summit at 895 metres.
On the way (Photo and caption Gordon)
Smoko was at 10:15am at the aerials, beside the boundary of the D.O.C. Reserve.
The fence into the Reserve was crossed and soon after a little detour to the rock outcrop was had to enable some to test their rock-climbing ability.
Rock Climbing (photo Pam Cocks)
We continued upwards following a faint track along the fence line, through scrub, dominated by dracophyllum. The summit in the rolling tops can now be hard to find as the trig has gone and only the base and a pole remain. This high point for us was reached at 11:30am. From here the views were truly spectacular.
Heading to the summit (Photo and caption Gordon)
This was the end of the days climbing, soon to be followed by about another 9kms down. We crossed the fence again and stopped for lunch at 12:15pm, amongst colourful, interesting plant varieties.
It was a great walk out in the afternoon, still enjoying beaut views, particularly the intricate set of channels, swamps, and lakes between Waipori and Lake Waihola, and, the Taieri river at the start of the gorge. Dunedin Airport was small in comparison to the vast Taieri plain.
View of Lakes Waipori and Waihola (photo Pam)
Continuing downhill we passed the lone rock outcrop before passing by The Three Kings rocks outcrop (which are much more of a landmark when viewed from the flood free highway). Finally, we came through a patch of native bush, including some great specimens of Beech trees. Then, rounding a bend we saw our bus was parked up waiting. We arrived to it at just after 3pm.
The bus is waiting down there (Photo and caption Gordon)
We covered about 16kms over 6 hours.
This MAUNGATUA Traverse was a first for all of us, apart from President Arthur. Our thanks to you Arthur for leading us today. Also, thanks to Heather for leading, along with Horsehoof Station Owners, the van Turnhouts at 3 Kings end and bus driver Richard Trainer.
I hope you all enjoyed this tramp as much as I did. We are so lucky to have strong bodies and good health to enjoy tramping in the hills we love.
Viewranger record of the tramp (Sarah McCormack)
19 km to Kempshall Rd.
2. 5/2/2003. All. Maungatua Traverse. Moderate. Bus. Leaders: Bob H, Ian, Lex.
1. 8/3/1995. Maungatua Traverse. Long Day. Bus at each end. Fare to be notified later. Leaders: Rob Q, George, Eric, Les W
No. 106 on old hardcopy list of 113 club tramps. “Bus Trip to Old Central Railway”
4. 3/3/2021. Combined. Daisy Bank. Leaders: Theresa White and Sara McCormack
30 trampers gathered on a beautiful mild morning at the carpark. With everyone arriving promptly we
were able to get on the bus and be away just before 8.30. We paused to pick up Heather at the top of
the hill and had a comfort stop at Middlemarch. Arriving at Daisybank we all disembarked for morning
tea in the sun.
“Leaving the bus.” – Photo and Caption John
5 hikers decided to do a shorter walk so, after morning tea, they hopped back on the bus and were
transported back towards Hyde. They started their walk from Tiroiti giving them 6km for the day.
The remaining 26 trampers set a steady pace on the rail trail towards Hyde. First evidence we were on
an old railway line was the gangers Hut called Red Dwarf Hut. We regrouped in a nice shady area which
conveniently had a toilet. A few walked down the bank to check out the river.
The next gangers Hut was at Tiroiti. This one has some information boards inside. We then crossed the
Capburn Creek bridge (built in 1897) which has been left in its original .
“If only I had my fishing rod!” – Photo and Caption John.
“Regrouping in the shade.” – Photo and Caption Helen
The next bridge to cross was Prices Creek viaduct (built 1963). Shortly after was our lunch stop in the
shade of the bank of the Prices Creek tunnel which is lined in brick. 15 trampers ventured down the hill
to check out the Taieri River Diversion before having their lunch.
“Disappearing river.” – Photo and Caption John
After lunch, just another 3km and with the wind on our backs we were blown along, arriving at Hyde
where the hikers were relaxing in the shade.
“Great tail end Charlie work Theresa.” – Photo and Caption John
The Coffee kart, which also sold ice creams, did a good trade. We all rested in the shade before hopping
back on the bus, arriving back at the car park just before 4. A lovely walk in the sunshine.
3. 3/4/2019. All. Daisy Bank -Hyde. Rail Trail. leader: Bob.
After a delayed start owing to members being given differing start times the bus finally left the car park at 9am.
The morning was crisp and clear with the roadside verges having frost on them.
We arrived at Daisy Bank in time for morning tea on a calm sunny morning.
Morning tea at Daisybank. (Helen pic and caption.)
48 members set off towards Hyde on the rail trail that was excellent to walk on.
On the way. (Gordon pic and caption.)
We stopped for lunch by the Taieri River 6km into the 11km walk.
Viaduct and lunch stop. (Helen pic and caption.)
At the tunnel…
Prices creek tunnel entrance. (Gordon pic and caption.)Prices creek tunnel.(Gordon pic and caption.)
…some of the more energetic members went down to the river to see the 50 mtr diversion of the river through rock so they could mine for gold on the then dry river bed.
Surveying the diversion channel. (Phil pic and caption.)
We arrived at the Hyde Cafe at 2.30pm for an ice cream or a drink or both.
Finish and ice creams. (Gordon pic and caption.)
We left there at 3pm arriving back in Mosgiel just after four oclock.
Thanks to Richard Tranior of Good Time Tours for his excellent service.
– Bob & Peter.
2. 29/3/2011. All. Daisy Bank – Hyde. Rail Trail.
GPS of Railtrail route, courtesy Ken.
Bob’s bus was big and comfortable. Thanks to one or two club members rounding up extra passengers, numbers travelling managed (just) to reach the 30 needed to pay for it. We arrived at Daisy Bank at ten past ten so decided to start the walk with morning tea.
Morning Tea, under what shade was available. (John pic)
With Bev willing to play the role of back-marker, we were able to set off at our own times, at our own paces and with whomsoever we cared to link up.
A warm nor-wester tail-wind comfortably tempered what might otherwise have been too hot a day. But so vigorous was its assistance at times, it was difficult to maintain a dignified walking-pace.
The viaducts were great. This one, awesome.
Prices Creek Viaduct. (Ken pic)
To the left of the tunnel entrance was the following interesting notice.
Tunnel sign (John pic)
Ken, who in a previous life had worked with DoC, and had hammered some of the nails into the previous viaduct, on two – yes, two – occasions was willing to escort companions close-by at the time, down to the Taieri River diversion channel referred to in the above notice.
Diversion inlet. Can just see the outlet. (Ken pic)
Diversion outlet. (Ken pic)
Tunnel Entrance. (Ken pic).
Yours truly was willing to cast all photogenic illusions aside to grace a tunnel alcove with human interest.
Tunnel alcove. (Ken pic)
The cafe at the end did a roaring trade accommodating a big club spend-up. The day was still relatively young, and we were in no hurry to get back on the bus, so we didn’t, for a restful long while.
Hyde Hotel Cafe.
At long last, we were back on the bus and headed back to Dunedin through a surprising band of rain at one point. A good day out, well-enjoyed by all. – Ian
20/5/2009. Hikers. Daisy Bank to Hyde. Rail Trail. (Cancelled. Weather wet, windy. Middlemarch road closed. Snow.) Leaders: Neil, Evelyn C.
No. 20 on old hardcopy list of 113 club tramps. “Powder Ridge – Long Ridge. J Roy. Year Round.”
No. 45 on old hardcopy list of 113 club tramps. “Chalkies Return Long Ridge D Jenkins Year Round”
10 trampers set out from Whare Flat to walk up and along Powder Ridge on a fabulous Dunedin day. We enjoyed birdsong along the Silver Stream and made three creek crossings before heading up the Powder Ridge track.
“Trampers dead keen to start.” – Photo and Caption Gordon“Some of the lovely native bush.” – Photo and Caption Gordon
The track was in a great condition, and although very steep in sections, steps cut into the hill make the climb less difficult.
“View of Mosgiel from the top.” – Photo and Caption Gordon
“Nearing the top in Kanuka.” – Photo and Caption Gordon
“Up to the knob.” – Photo and Caption Gordon
The vegetation changed from mostly Kanuka and ferns to more alpine plants, then tussock as we neared the 586 m high point.
“Lunch in the tussocks at the top.” – Photo and Caption Gordon.
Unfortunately wilding Douglas fir trees are becoming established in the tussock. After lunch enjoying the expansive views we began our return trip. A knotted rope on the first steep section aided us going down ( and up!)
“Heading down on the rope.” – Photo and Caption GordonLiquid and showers not far away.” – Photos and Caption Gordon
Neil and Carol had decided about two thirds of the way was enough for them today, and turned back……sensibly leaving 3 branch arrows along the track to ensure us they were safe & well!
With temperatures reaching into the high 20’s some of us were very happy to cool our feet on the creek crossings on the return trip.
A most enjoyable tramp of about 15 km.
Jill & Karen
12. 19/10/2016. Trampers. Powder Ridge. H. Leader: Arthur.
Eight Trampers made an early start from Mosgiel to conquer Powder Ridge.
The day began sunny and pleasant, but late showers were a possibility.
Parking at the Silverstream Pump-House, we had two river crossings to get onto the Powder Ridge Track. The water was deeper at the weir, giving some wet feet. Being well prepared, they changed into dry socks for the main tramp.
After crossing Powder Creek, we soon found the bottom of the Powder Ridge Track. It was 9.25 a.m. as we started uphill. About thirty minutes of stiff climbing got us up onto the ridge itself. The gradient eases off from here on.
Now seemed like a good time to stop for morning tea and a rest combined.
A stop in nice bush. (Helen pic and caption.)
The track was in good order, for what it is, but that lower part is just about ready for some track clearing – quite a lot of fern fronds overhanging it.
This is a bush track which follows the top of the ridge, ascending mostly, but with the occasional level stretch, or even descending briefly. We kept going, …
Going to the top of this hill. (Helen pic and caption.)
… and were finally onto the tussock, and reached the top of the track at noon plus five. We were on top of hill 586 metres. (See the map on page 8.03 in Antony Hamel’s book.), and we could see in all directions: – Saddle Hill and Mosgiel, Maungatua, the Lammermoors away in the distance, Mt Allan, Mt John, Lamb Hill, Pulpit Rock (the pulpit stood out clearly). Round further, – was that Mopanui away over there? – Swampy, and Flagstaff closer by.
It was the best spot in the world to sit down in the tussock and have our lunch. The sun shone down brilliantly, and no wind to contend with.
Lunch time. (Helen pic and caption.)
While others rested and recuperated, …
Bruce resting and a lovely view. (Helen pic and caption.)
… the leader did a short recce of the route down to the Long Ridge Track which was visible just below.
At 1.00 p.m. the return journey began, back the way we had gone up. After a while the clouds began to assemble above and later still a light wind appeared.
We kept moving, mostly going down now, but with a stop now and then …
Judy on a lovely bit of flat track. (Helen pic and caption.)
… to rest and regroup. Care was taken going down the steep portion at the bottom, and all were safely back to the Powder Creek junction by 3.20 p.m. where we had a snack/refreshment stop.
No sunshine left now, and a distant peal of thunder had been heard, we headed for the cars. Crossing the Silverstream, wet feet were ignored. Five minutes away from the cars, there was a mighty clap of thunder very close indeed.
But we beat the rain! Very large rain drops began falling as we drove out of the car park. Two km down the road, the rain pelted down, but had stopped by the time we were back to Mosgiel.
Our day’s tramp had covered 14.45 km (thanks, Margreet); the altitude gain must have been close to 500 metres.
The leader would be the first to admit that it had been rather a tough day for him, after the recent battle with the dreaded lurge, and was very pleased to return to the cars. The rest were just as pleased too, and can be very proud of themselves in achieving the day’s objective.
The leader was very gratified to hear that the whole group had thought that it had been a very good tramp, and had been enjoyed too.
Thanks to all. – Arthur.
11. 17/6/2015. Trampers. Powder Ridge.
Powder Ridge 2. GPS of route, courtesy Ken.
Having changed the days tramp from what was advertised, 6 of us set out for Powder Ridge. Only 2 of the group had done this tramp before, so were looking forward to a good day.
The Silverstream was very low, so there was no problem with wet feet on the 3 creek crossings encountered on the way to the start of the Powder Ridge Track.
We had morning tea at the Powder Ridge track sign, & spent some time here discussing computers, & anti-virus programs. Then it was up the steep, & still slippery 20 min. section at the start of the track, before the gradient eases off, & the going gets a lot easier. A well earned rest was taken before we carried on along the ridge.
My objective for the day was to get to the point where Powder Ridge joins up with Long Ridge, but even although we kept walking till 12:45pm we didn’t actually make it that far before I decided to stop for lunch, & turn back, as I didn’t want to be getting out too late in the day. So, we lunched in a relatively dry spot, with a smattering of sunshine,
Lunch stop. (Ken pic and caption)
then packed up & headed back out again. Progress was much quicker going out, due to it being mostly downhill, but we had to be very careful on the steep parts, which were still very slippery, as one member found out, not once, but 3 times. Luckily no injuries were sustained, so we had a short break at the bottom for a drink, then made our way back to the creek crossings. It was here that one member just had to get some water in their boots, I suppose it was inevitable that it would happen. The rest of the way back to the cars was uneventful, & we arrived back at the carpark just as the last of the hikers was leaving.
From the attached GPS route, you can see how close we got to my objective, so maybe another 1/4 hr. would’ve been enough to get there. – Ken.
10. 12/11/2014. Trampers. Powder Ridge.
Starting from the Pumphouse, we crossed the creek & made our way along to the broken weir to cross over to the Powder Ridge track. The first part of the track was quite muddy, but it got better as we gained altitude on this well maintained track.
We stopped occasionally to take in the views as we went up. On reaching the top we decided to have lunch there …
Lunch at top of Powder Ridge (Ken pic and caption)
… as the views were very good.
The clouds were starting to gather as we left our lunch spot, & a light shower of hail came through shortly after. Another shower of rain hit us as we got down near the bottom, but the sun was shining again when we reached the car.
It is now possible to walk all the way up to Pulpit Rock via this route, & the top end of Long Ridge. – Ken
9. 3/1/2012. Trampers. Powder Ridge from base, return.
GPS of route, courtesy Ken.
Five hardy trampers, & Finn the dog, decided to try their luck on Powder Ridge, after having a discussion over the phone about where to go. We left the car park at Whare Flat Pump House about 9:25 a.m. & made our way across the Silverstream over the old weir, & along the Powder Stream track to the junction with the Powder Ridge track , where we had morning tea. We then started the rather steep climb up Powder Ridge, until we reached the point where Powder Ridge swung across a small saddle to reach Longridge, & it was here we stopped for lunch amongst the tussock & scrub, in the sunshine.
Lunch on Powder Ridge. (Ken pic and caption)
Looking towards Pulpit Rock from Powder Ridge. (Ken pic and caption)
After lunch it was decided to abandon our packs, & make the short walk over onto Longridge, just to say ‘we had been there’. The view from there was quite good.
Looking back down Long Ridge from Powder Ridge. (Ken pic and caption)
We then retraced our steps back to the cars, arriving back around 4:10 p.m., having covered 14.6 km, & climbed over 500 mtrs.
Everybody agreed that it was a worthwile tramp, & enjoyed the day, although it was perhaps a bit steep for some, & I think there were some tired bods at the end. – Ken.
8. 15/10/2008 Trampers. Chalkies, Boulder Hill Track, Long Ridge, Powder Ridge triangle. Leaders: George, Ria
It was the longest tramp on the club’s programme. Six of us did the 7.5 hrs triangular circuit: one side being from the Chalkies to along the Boulder Hill track; the top side being Long Ridge; the third being down Powder Ridge.
First then, was to ford the Silverstream by the pump house and climb steeply up the left Chalkies track to reach the limestone ledge for morning tea a bit after ten.
Then just a little further up to the top and across to bypass the Powder Hill trig
Mosgiel. Saddle Hill, part of which pic forms the header of our homepage.
and then down and across to locate the Boulder Hill track to take us along to Long Ridge. The wind-blown fallen pine branches which we had to negotiate were too numerous to count.
The long trek up Long Ridge was broken by a 12.30 p.m. stop for lunch a short way past the zigzag which we had passed on our left. Then it was on and up …
One of the humps on Long Ridge
… along the (heavily overgrown fortunately with broom rather than gorse) track to finally reach the connection on the right with the top of Powder Ridge. The old fence-line route is overgrown but a marked route a little further up around a bend in Long Ridge led back to make for an easy climb to the fence at the top.
From there it was down the Powder Ridge,
Track scene on Powder Ridge
Track scene on lower Powder Ridge. Ria.
fortunately well cleared but still taking 2 hours before turning right at the Powder Creek Track junction, crossing Powder Creek, then the old concrete weir across the Silverstream, and so on down across the swing bridge and the ford by the Pump House to reach the cars again. – Ian
7. 13/7/2005. Trampers. Powder Ridge, Long Ridge, Chalkies. Leaders: Lex, Doug J.
6. 15/10/2003 Mountain Road, Pulpit Rock, Long Ridge, Powder Ridge. Silverstream. Car shuttle. Green Hut track pics only. Leaders: Lex, Ian
Up from Mountain Road. Lex, Arthur, Evelyn
Green Hut track. Pat
Green Hut site. Lex? Ian, Arthur, Doug.
5. 23/1/2002. Leishman – Powder Hill – Long Ridge – Powder Ridge
4. 17/9/1997. Powder Ridge and return. Leaders: Joyce, Eleanor, Wendy.
3. 9/4/1997. Boulder Hill Return via Ridge return Hamiltons Farm. Leaders: Nelson and Dot, jack R.
2. 19/2/1997. Powder Ridge – Long Ridge – Chalkies Leaders: Jack R, Doug and Myrie.
1. 27/2/1991. Powder Ridge to Long Ridge and return. A good bush tramp with a few steep parts. Harder. Leaders: George, Diana, Ray, Nel.
7. 24/2/2021. Hikers. Chingford Park. Leaders John and Dave Roberts
On a balmy overcast Dunedin morning, 23 hikers met at the Dunedin Botanic Garden top car park.
From here we walked across Lovelock Ave onto the serene Lovelock Bush Track (where wild deer used to graze 130 years ago.
“Larnach’s tomb visit.” – Photo and Caption John
The track took us through to a sealed downhill footpath alongside the old Northern Cemetery. After a brief stop to admire Larnach’s Tomb (a small scale reproduction of First Church architecture), we meandered downhill to have morning tea at the Thomas Bracken (writer of our National Anthem) lookout.
“Inspecting Larnach’s tomb.” – Photo and Caption Jenni
“Morning tea with a view.” – Photo and Caption John
Next it was back up the hill to the cars, then a brief walk down to the Mediterranean Garden, before our 11 am visit to the, 6.2 million dollar, Dunedin Botanic Garden Propagation Building, opened in 2015.
“Some uphill around the botanic gardens.” – Photo and Caption John
“Inside the propagation complex.” – Photo and Caption John
Here we were met by Alice Lloyd-Fitt who capably explained the history of the building’s development and it’s functions, both for the Botanic Garden, and the preservation of many endangered plant species. We were then led on a tour of the premises .We visited separate greenhouses, each maintaining specific microclimates, to suit plants
adapted for arid desert, tropical forest, through to sub Antarctic Island climates. The variety of plant life, and complexities of their maintenance requirements, was mind blowing!
“Which one would suit my garden?” – Photo and Caption John
Following this visit lunch was enjoyed at the Azalea Garden.
“Lunch on the green.” – Photo and Caption John
Then it was into the cars for a quick trip down North East Valley to Carr St, and from here, a walk along the side of Lindsey Creek on the Hospice Track.
“Three happy hikers.” – Photo and Caption John
This took us to the old Palmer’s Quarry site where Alex told us an interesting tale of , a”Ghost watcher”, who still does maintenance in the area, and has the keys to the old brick building at the quarry entrance . (Complete with horseshoes in the windows.)
“More talking than eating.” – Photo and Caption John
“Enjoying the Chingford top track.” – Photo and Caption John
“Tale end Charlie at the back.” – Photo and Caption John
From here a quick walk through some more back streets led us to Chingford Park, where we ventured round the top loop track, before a hasty return to the cars, to be at the Oaken Cafe’ by just after 2.00 pm.
An enjoyable day had by all. Dave and I would like to thank all who attended for contributing to such a great way to spend a “balmy” Wednesday.
Bus to Beaumont. Drive up Manuka Ridge to locked gate.
Short climb to top. Road along top. Locked gate to Microwave 1.5K;M/W to trig 3K.
Track down ridge.
NB. AT TRIG ON SMALL HILL, TURN SHARP LEFT AND STEEP CLIMB TO AND PAST TRIG.
then farm land to Crookston. Track to bus pick-up at Crookston 6K Total 16K. Seek permissions.
2. 10/2/2021. Trampers. Blue Mountain trip. Leaders Helen and Phil Morris
We knocked it off!! 17 Taieri Recreational trampers bounded up the Gully, leaving the car park in damp, windy, but improving weather conditions.
“The group of us ready to go.” – Photo and Caption Gordon
Not knowing what we were in for, we started up the track, the ferns and other coverage had grown since Dave had tramped it a few months ago, and going in early part was slow going, with some parts on hand and knees, but mood was chirpy, as the track improved, but the climb was upwards continually.
“Onwards and upwards through towering beech trees.” – Photo and Caption Gordon
We came to a stream crossing which required good concentration, with a good climb 30 minutes through magnificent beech forest and very little birdlife sadly.
“Are we on the track???” – Photo and Caption Ross
With a good 75 minutes walking it was time for morning tea to recharge energy levels and the odd question of how far to top. The reply was sorry a good
hour and a quarter. After 30 minutes of chatter, it was packs on and off we clambered through
some nice ground cover for 20 minutes, then some real grunty climbs , stopped the talking,
everyone showed encouragement to those needing it. Remember a lot of society, half the groups age, would have turned back long ago. We continued, a long time had passed, before the light at end of the tunnel through mist in the
bus , YES!! flax and grasses with a waratah with a white plastic cover in the rock. Sadly a strong wind blowing mist over the sign telling us it was 14km and 5 hr trek to the bottom of whiskey gully or option b, 1hr down a gully back
joining the track we came up.
“We made it to the top.” – Photo and Caption Gordon.
After clambering up to this sign it only took about 4 minutes to decide that these were bad options, due to hands freezing from the cold wind whipping through us, we took pictures of the first 7 at top and then the next hardy ladies who made up the next group, well done crew, 17 hardy trampers all made the top of Black Gully, fantastic job!! With decision made, we descended back down for 15 minutes to a lunch spot, Well Earned. After a food recharge we returned down the nice forest, mainly beech below manuka.
“Happy trampers!” – Photo and Caption Ross.
This was when it hit us, how steep the climb to the top was, it became quite a hard drop for 45 minutes but the group chattered and took in the magic bush and forest, most take for granted. With stream crossing done we showed the spirit that bonded the group back through the overgrowth at the early part of trek, completing tramp bang on 5 hours, being approx. 8.9kms of hard out tramping, well done all. Back to base where we could clean up and begin nibbles and well earned drinks before we would enjoy the company of Helen’s younger brother Jeff at the family farm, Crookstown originally named by her parents.
Pre pre dinner drinks!” – Photo and Caption Helen.“Friendly chat with drinks and nibbles.” – Photo and Caption Gordon“BBQ amazing meal.” – “Photo and Caption Helen.”
We had meat, potatoes, salads and pudding prepared ready for all. We arrived at the farm, no brother there, but we bowled on in, sorted salads , potatoes and started up barbeque to cook meat, ten minutes on Jeff (brother) and his son James arrived back from milking cows, happy to see group and knowing his food for tea was being cooked. As all was ready, Jeff’s wife Margie arrived home , she was welcomed as the feast began, then believe it or not the sun shone and completed a great day. It was a great feed, followed by a tasty pudding. It was a great night, nearly completed, but young Jill Reid was not going to let the night stop there, with a cheeky grin she asked Jeff one last request , would you sing a song or two before we going, Jeff did not need too much persuasion, the entray from his latest CD was a song about his youngest son Ben called “That’s Ben”. He told us in his earlier singing years how the names in America, such as Arizona, Alabama, made well known songs this is where the idea came to sing a song he wrote also from CD, Down over Crookston, their family farm, with a round of applause the lucky audience asked for one more request, which he was happy to sing, and told us how Garry Morris American Country and Western star, had made famous, the song, “Take Him Home” from the famous show Les Misirables, and he if he could remember all the words, sang it to perfection, what a fantastic surprise to a special day, whoohoo what an end to a special day!!
“Jeff singing.” – Photo and Caption Helen
(Anyone wanting the CD can be purchased for $15 Helen can organise purchase). On return to camp the kids of the group played on the camps swings slides, roundabouts, a nightcap then zzzzz.
“Big kids playing up before it gets dark!!!”- Photo and Caption Gordon.
The final day on Thursday, saw a few sore bodies, Camp at Black Gully tidy, we left, morning coffee at Top Nosh, with no lack of get up and go, we got to car park, then set off tramping through fabulous bush to the flowing waterfall at whiskey gully.
“Relaxing at ‘Nosh” in Tapanui.” – Photo and Caption Helen.“Whisky gully falls in all their splendor.” – Photo and Caption Ross
Some of the men took a drink from mug left on the pole, the water was pure, gold coloured being leached from lichen and leaves and chilled to perfection. After lunch we returned, to carpark, then walked up to lookout, no mist, the view of hills and Tapanui.
“A very happy bunch at Whisky Gully lookout.” – Photo and Caption Gordon
The three days had ended, some took off home others called in at Whitechapel Church to view antiques etc, note the owner had won a stage of tour de France in the 1960s.
Well done Taieri Recreational Tramping Group, special people, special times!!
2. 7/02/21. Racemans.Hikers Leaders Jenny Finnerty and Bob Heenan
I went to pickup my friend (who will remain nameless)and she was still in her night attire and quite obviously not coming! My thoughts went to a plan B hike because of the inclement weather but by the time I arrived at the car park everyone one was keen to carry on and do Racemans/Tunnel track.
Bugga!!! The said friend was coerced in to coming so was picked up (dressed) and off we went to Whare Flat. All 13 eager souls and 1 friend set off through the ford and over the swing bridge and onto the track with a few with squelching feet.
“Setting off in the rain.” – Photo and Caption Clive.
“Wet feet to start.” – Photo and Caption Clive.
Track was really good with some clearing been done.
There were only a few mucky bits due to the rain which was getting harder by the minute.
“Morning tea in the rain.” – Photo and Caption Clive
It was good having some strong trampers to help us ladies through a couple of tricky bits. Thanks guys.
“Ground too wet to sit.” – Photo and Caption John.
“Why is there a puddle in the bottom of my pack.” – Photo and Caption John“No wonder my pack’s name is Tardus.” – Photo and Caption John
After about an hour or so it was decided to shorten the hike and for go lunch because it was fair persisting down.
“Down the slippery slope.” – Photo and Caption Clive
It didn’t seem to dampen any spirits because we all enjoyed it, even the friend(I think).
“The wobbly bridge to finish.” – Photo and Caption Clive.
It was definitely one walk to remember!
Jenny and Bob
PS. Thanks Jan for your track knowledge and a great reccy.
4. 27/1/2021. Trampers. Lamb Hill. Arthur and Peter.
Today 19 Trampers led by Arthur Heenan and Peter Horrell travelled to Hinden and completed around 14 km of farm tracks and paddock on Lamb Hill Station.
This Tramp took us through some magnificent scenery, starting by the Taieri and looking across at some of the Taieri Gorge railway on the opposite bank and you have to marvel at the workmanship of those early settlers who constructed the railway in such challenging conditions taking 11 years to get to Hinden , due to the difficult terrain and the recession in the 1880s cutting the work force from 700 to 30 for a period of time, but they persevered.
Morning tea was at 3 OClock Creek by the bridge.
Smoko. (Gordon pic and caption.)
The recent flooding was evident here with debris 3- 4 metres above the bridge. As we headed up the track
A very steep climb after morn. tea. (Gordon pic and caption.)
we got to see great views of the rocky outcrop formations,
The window. (Helen pic and caption.)
and the creek below showed how powerful the flow of flood water had scoured all the rocks clean in the valley below.
As we tramped higher we passed a shady face with all the tussocks in full flower. The countryside is responding to the rain. As we opened out onto the table top of pasture the farmland was quite stunning, to be so green at such an altitude.
The wind was getting up as we reached our lunch stop high on a rocky outcrop
Lunch out of the wind. (John pic and caption.)
looking down on the Taieri Railway
Rugged country. (John pic and caption.)
with views from two spots of two of the rail bridges and rock formations behind us sculpted by wind, water and time.
As we headed down we were soon out of the wind and overall it was very pleasant, and not too hot. The tracks have some steeper ups and downs with the recent rains making the schist base loose in places coming down hill.
A medium tramp with stunning scenery.
We called at the Hindon Railway station on the way out for a group photo at the stone statue
‘1,2,3 Woof woof’. (Phil pic and caption.)
of a sheep dog erected in recognition of the contribution of working dogs who made farming the land possible.
Eleven of us travelled up to Hindon in fog/cloud which obscured all views. However it was clear down in the Taieri Gorge where we parked beside the combined road/rail bridge.
Neils number from right, 1, 2, and 3 so we don’t get them mixed up. (Helen pic and caption.)
We began our tramp by walking across the bridge and onto Lamb Hill Station and then following the Taieri River upstream.
A morning tea stop was taken at 10.15 on the river bank,
Morning tea by river and train line. (Helen pic and caption.)
and just as we prepared to move on, the Taieri Gorge Train went past, going up the other side.
Taieri Gorge train. Some waved to us. (Helen pic and caption.)
After crossing Three O’Clock Stream it was uphill for some time, the clouds obligingly shading us from the sun to give very pleasant conditions as we expended energy.
When the farm road reached the top, a weak spot in the fence under the long row of pine trees allowed us onto a high knob …
Knob at top of tramp. (Margreet pic and caption.)
… with a great view down into the Taieri Gorge at the mouth of Deep Stream.
We came to the farm sheds (on the McFee Block) at 12.15, where we met the manager for a good catch up.
The cloud quickly dispersed now and we ate our lunch in brilliant sunshine beside a shed. It was the place to be as we could look across at the main block of Lamb Hill and much further.
An unhurried lunch …
Lunch at top by farm sheds. (Helen pic and caption.)
… was taken (why would anyone want to hurry from such a great spot?) before turning for home. A slightly different route was followed until it was onto the farm road for the downhill bit, the same we had ascended on earlier.
Down and down in the sunshine, along the riverbank, across the bridge and we were back at the cars.
Distance for the day was the tiniest tad under 13 km, but it should be noted here that the leader and one un-named person actually did 15 km in retrieving a forgotten camera from our lunch stop!
It had been a most enjoyable ramp, and one to be done again. A good turnout of 11 trampers also added to the enjoyment of the day.
Thanks to all. – Art.
2. 1/10/1998 Hindon railway left side Lamb Hill Station. Wenita Permit. George
1. 20/3/1996 Hindon railway – left side Lamb Hill Station Leaders: Doug & Myrie, Mary Y, Denise
