I thought it may be timely to provide an update following meetings of the Committee, given that in the Covid environment we have been understandably having variable turnouts, also not having all walkers leaving from Mosgiel and so missing some of the verbal updates.
It has been great to be getting back into the regular pattern of a Wednesday walk, and lo and behold the weather always seems to be fine! I certainly missed the hills in Aussie, but there were other compensations.
Firstly though, a special thank you to Betty and Jim for sharing the details of their 60th wedding anniversary with us at the car-park last week – such a wonderfully varied and interesting life together. Also, a big thanks to them for leading many walks down through the years. Betty and Jim have requested not to lead from the coming trip list, but I know they are willing to share their advice. Of course, we hope to walk and talk with them both into the future! Thanks again to them for those special chocolates last week.
Winter Trip list
This is ‘complete’ and the webteam has posted the trips to mid-June on the webpage, under ‘upcoming trips’. Please take five to see if your name appears! John Gardiner, Ross Davies and myself will look at the gradings of trips on behalf of the committee, as it has been an outstanding matter from AGMs for a year or two. We will get the full list out shortly after I have completed some wording changes to the introduction.
Note in your diary though, the mid-winter lunch is at the Mornington Tavern on 6 July and the AGM will be 18 August. Antony Hamel has agreed to speak on his upcoming revised publications on walks around Dunedin.
Note also: Winter hours start on 1 June, meeting at 9.15am for a 9.30am departure. Trampers will also note we have a track clearing day on 11 May to assist Art and Neil.
Vehicle costs
These have been assessed from a number of angles and various permutations considered by the Committee. Ross made recommendations to the Committee based on the formula on the website, but with up-to-date fuel figures (they are the most significant component) from the Ministry of Business……. AA figures are outdated, but when updated, we will do some additional work on the other variable costs and if necessary, we will adjust again.
The Committee has agreed with a proposal to cover recce costs for trips $10.00 pp and over. We consider that this will assist in ensuring recces are undertaken as well as not leaving trip leaders out of pocket. The reimbursement will be at the agreed $ multiplied by 3 (passengers). To keep the audit reviewer satisfied, we will require a simple email to the Secretary ([email protected])
advising the date and destination visited. We want to ensure that folk feel comfortable in applying for reimbursement, but note that it is voluntary.
COVID
The committee has agreed to keep the current practice of ensuring walk participants are fully vaccinated. This has worked well and we will reconsider the practice as national guidelines change.
Privacy Act 2020
We have received information prepared by the Federated Mountain Clubs and distributed to affiliated members (the club is not one). Clubs like ours are bound by the Act. The advice has been considered by the Committee and has adopted it.
We will prepare a short note for distribution to members and do a slight redesign of the application for membership form. Our Secretary will take on the role of ‘Privacy Officer’. We will ensure that members addresses are not held on the website (they are good to have for possible health and safety events, sending of cards etc), and we will need to change passwords more regularly to the restricted information on the website. Should members wish to have their information restricted they should notify the Secretary. A little more on this later!
First Aid
We are making some initial enquiries from providers to get a revision underway in order to keep this up-to-date for those interested. Again, we’ll be in touch shortly.
Many thanks, and keep getting out and about enjoying this wonderful autumn weather.
4. 09/03/2022. Trampers. Trotters Gorge. Leaders: Arthur and Pam
The skies were overcast when leaving Mosgiel at 8.45am but once over the Northern motorway it became brighter and remained like that for the rest of the day.
We met the city trampers at the Waitati store and 5 cars with16 trampers were on their way to Trotters Gorge picking up a hitch hiker ( Heather) at Palmerston before continuing on SH1 past Shag Point with spectacular vistas of Katiki beach. At Hillgrove we turned left into Horse Range Road, arriving at Trotters Gorge Scenic Reserve 10:15.
Day packs on, poles, gloves at the ready we started off by walking through the first of six stream crossings – no stepping stones here, so straight through. The small stones were quite slippery under foot.
One of 6 river crossings Caption and photo Pam
The wide formed track, which was muddy in parts, wove its way through native bush of kanuka, ribbonwood, wineberry and kowhai.
The birds were very vocal around this area- great to hear.
1km on we arrived at the University owned hut for morning tea on the veranda while John, ( a big kid at heart) enjoyed the rope swing.
Morning tea at University Hut- John enjoying a rope swing ( a big kid at heart) Caption and picture Pam
10:55, leaving the hut and the Trotters Creek area we were straight onto the un-maintained single track into the Trotters Gorge area.
The landscape changed dramatically to sheer rock bluffs which looked like limestone but are greywacke breccia conglomerate formed about 80 million years ago.
Trampers dwarfed by these amazing bluffs Caption and photo Pam
Here we saw the NZ Falcon (Karearea) flying high above the cliff and could hear the nestling’s whining sounds.
Continuing on through the eucalyptus trees we noticed the distinctive smell of its leaves- a camphoraceous smell, slightly medicinal.
Further on along the flats the track became quite swampy and after crossing a small stream we started our climb up hill.
With gloves on and walking poles ready, we made our way up the track through the overgrown gorse to arrive at the top (11:50) for lunch.
From here we could see over to Moeraki and the sea but the Pine Forests obscured better views.
Out of the gorse Caption and photo John
After lunch we headed back down the same track with ever changing views and were fortunate to get another glimpse of the falcons.
Back at the reserve we embarked on the 700m walk to the Cave.
Almost a group photo Caption and photo John
This maintained track follows a tributary of the Trotters Creek through beautiful native broadleaf forest.
On the track we came across a very large NZ Silver fern and as we approached the Cave we were greeted by a Black Fantail (Piwakawaka).
Impressive silver fern dwarfs Mike Caption and photo John
The caves had been sculptured by the river many years ago.
First glimpse of the cave Caption and photo John
Returning the same way back to the cars it was on to Palmerston -continuing on the Horse Range Road, passing through forestry and then rolling farm land to the “Coffee cup” cafe .
Here we enjoyed great coffee, cake and ice cream in the cafe court yard.
Another great day with the TRTC. Pam
3. 7/6/2017. All. Bus Trip. Trotters Gorge. Leaders; Keith, Dave and Arthur.
Hike app route map, courtesy Ian. (About a km short, due to slowness to engage the app.
It was cold waiting for the bus to arrive at the car park, which it did at 8.30 a.m. It only took a few minutes for all to embark, with their accoutrements, and we were away. The Brighton group meet the bus at Green Island, to bring the total for our day out to 41, which included 2 guests/potential members.
The sun was shining in the driver’s eyes as he gave us a smooth ride up S.H.1 before turning off. The bus stopped a short distance before the Trotters Gorge picnic ground, at the beginning of a forestry road, where the Hikers and Trampers would begin their combined tramp. The Ramblers stayed with the bus. It was just after 10 a.m.
The combined group walked a couple of hundred yards to have a brief morning tea in the sunshine. The day was sunny and cool after the morning frost, but later the cloud built up to overcast. It was ideal conditions for the tramp, which followed a main forestry road. These were pine trees, which had been planted after the area had been harvested just a few years ago. The young trees did not obscure our views of the surrounding terrain, which was good.
We followed the road in a north to north-west direction, winding around somewhat, and going…
Regroup at top of first rise. (Ian pic and caption.)
…uphill twice before descending again. The distinctive rock formations of the area could be frequently seen.
Eventually we came to a much longer uphill section, but the grade was good.
Heading up one of the long hills. (Helen pic and caption.)
A regroup was necessary at the top as the hill had sorted out the faster people.
At this time we turned onto Fantail Road, to change direction for the return half of our circuit. This was also at the highest elevation of our day, with good views out to Moeraki township and the sea.
There was a light breeze up here, so we found a sheltered spot in Fantail Road at which to stop for our lunch It was nice in the sun.
Lunch time in a sheltered area. (Helen pic and caption.)
Lunchtime over, it was only a few minutes’ walk till we left the road to begin the descent into Trotters Gorge. At first, for a short distance, the 4WD track was bare clay, steep, and a bit slippery. Once past that bit progress was good, and eventually we reached Trotters Creek. We were down in the canyon now, with ever-changing views of the rock cliffs.
beautiful rock formations. Lots and they were all different. (Helen pic and caption.)Impressive cliff, (Ian pic and caption.)
They look like limestone, but are actually greywacke -breccia conglomerate formed about 80 million years ago. About 12,000 years ago Trotters Creek was a much larger river and carved out the gorge.
Our track followed the bottom of the gorge now, with 6 stream crossings to make,
One of the six water crossings. (Helen pic and caption.)
the water being 3 or 4 inches deep at each. We reached the picnic area and the bus just after 2 pm, after an enjoyable day’s tramp.
There we found that 6 of the Ramblers were missing in action, necessitating a search party being sent out – thanks Alex, Helen and Dave. Happily they were located, on the cave circuit track, coming back out.
So, it was back onto the bus for the return to Mosgiel. The planned coffee stop on the way home had to be forgone due to the time lost finding the Ramblers – but I expect that they will be “shouting” for all next week?
The Combined Group’s circuit had covered 10.7 km, and the Ramblers had done some bush walking from the picnic area.
The day had apparently been enjoyed by all. My thanks go to fellow leaders, Keith and Dave. Also to Shona for collecting the fares, and Bob for co-ordinating the bus. – Art.
?Ramblers report of day at Trotters Gorge.
After the trampers and hikers were dropped off, the 10 of us who had opted for a shorter walk stayed on the bus while the driver drove to the pick-up spot. This took him a bit of manoeuvring. By this time we were really looking forward to a cup of tea, so we walked along the road to a nice sunny spot to sit and enjoy it. We walked back to the bus and got a map from driver which showed a bush track with a shortish loop track not too far along. The 10 of set off on this really lovely track. After a while 4 of our group opted to go back leaving the rest to carry on. We came to the loop track and decided to have a look at it as there was a cave to view not too far a long. Anyway, our loop track proved to be rather more difficult than we had bargained on being very steep up hill and very slippery with mud etc. However, having hauled ourselves up using scrub, roots or a friendly hand, to say nothing of crawling on hands and knees, we decided to carry on as we weren’t keen on returning the way we had come and hoped that the way down would be less challenging! This proved to be marginally right. We decided at about 12.20pm to have lunch sitting in the cave. The way down was slightly better but still required a lot of care. Once again we managed by sliding on backsides, hanging on to trees or whatever else presented its self, and helpful advice and hands of companions. It has to be said here that the one in front with help and advice quite a bit of the time was none other than our 90 yr old and sight impaired Molly!!
Bev and Lesley about to go down a very steep track at Trotters Gorge.
We were at no time lost, and as there were 6 of us, in no danger of not having someone to go for help if needed. We had not been given any time to be back at bus and as, in the past, a bus trip has always meant a whole day out, we didn’t feel any concern about time as it was before 3pm. We actually felt quite proud of ourselves and what we’d achieved by just taking our time and giving each other support and help. – Bev
1. 16/02/2022. Trampers. Jones Property, Matarae. M. Leaders Heather Kirk and Judy Dennison
Third time lucky! We finally had good weather for our tramp on Matarae Station in the Middlemarch area. Our thanks to the Jones family.
Usual 9 am start from Mosgiel. We drove to the corner of Young road and SH87, then turned left into Young road. Travelled for another 3 or so kms, stopping at a gateway on the right, just past the sign for Hopefield farm. From here we did a car shuttle and left 2 cars, further up SH87 at the old cottage. That way we would have vehicles for drivers at the end of the walk and avoid a very long walk on the highway. We counted 20 keen trampers.
Getting ready to set out (photo & caption John)Trampers setting off (photo & caption Pam)
There was a very autumn chill in the air at the start, and we soon found a good rocky view point for morning tea. The rocks in this area are a really stunning sight. As they loom above us with their rugged volcanic presence. Time for a cuppa, chat and to spot a few local lizards.
Morning tea stop (photo & caption John)
Then, well warmed up, we made our way down in long grass and tussock on narrow sheep trails. Down towards the swiftly flowing Sutton stream, which is lined by lovely bright green willows.
I am always impressed with the clouds and the big skies in these southern skies (photo & caption Marijke)Conga down the hill (photo & caption Karen)
We followed the twisting stream for quite some time and the shade was most welcome. We enjoyed a few scrambles over rocks near the water’s edge, and got up close and personal with some more incredible layered rocks.
Under the shade of the rocks (photo & caption Pam)All these interesting rock formations, so typical for the barren part of the world (photo & caption Marijke)
There is no distinct track to follow really. So we picked our way in a general NE direction to the irrigated crop paddock. Then headed upwards seeking shade in the willows, of the little red roofed cottage paddock. For our well-earned lunch at 12.30 pm.
Rested and keen to see more rocks, we crossed the highway by the cottage and continued on Matarae land. Through rocky tussock paddocks, finding some interesting rocks for a group photograph.
John setting up the self timer for the group photo ‘take 2’!(photo & caption Pam)Self timer worked – group photo (photo & caption John)
We walked a loop here, and were back at the cars ready to car shuttle drivers back to their cars by 2.45pm, to head home.
Panorama – Where we waited for the cars to return (photo & caption John)
An interesting 11.3 kms approx. walked – just far enough on such a warm, late summers day.
6. 09/02/2022. Trampers. Purakanui Leaders: Chris Wither and Jill Davie
With low cloud obscuring the hilltops, sixteen trampers headed to the beautiful Purakanui Inlet and parked at the Mopanui Road picnic ground. The intention had been to climb to the top of Mopanui to enjoy the wonderful views there, but the weather meant a change of plan was required.
After a 2km hike around the edge of the inlet the group stopped for morning tea.
Diane and Heather discussing the lovely Purakanui inlet from a well placed seat along the track to the township Caption and photo Marijke
We then headed up steep Purakanui Station Road to Osborne Station. From there, thanks to Peter remembering that mates from some decades ago used to hike from Osborne to the station to catch the train to school, the group discovered a great 1km long track below the railway line that led through the bush to the Osborne township.
Visiting Osborne township on the way. It has some very innovative building ideas. Caption and photo Marijke
From there we made our way through the pines and over the dunes to Mapoutahi for lunch.
Regrouped before heading to lunch at Canoe Beach Caption and photo Pam View towards Purakanui from Mapoutahi Caption and photo Pam
This was followed by the short climb to the centre of the peninsula where there were great views to be had.
Purakanui Beach stretching into the distance Caption and photo JohnCanoe Beach Caption and photo John
We retraced our steps around the Purakanui Inlet to the cars to complete the 14.3km long tramp. Chris
5. 2 February 2022. Combined trampers and hikers. Moeraki. Leaders Valerie Bell & Barbara Shackell, Jay Devlin & Bob Mitchell.
Twenty-eight intrepid beachcombers met together at an overcast Hampden Beach having carpooled up that morning – or camped overnight – and immediately had morning tea.
Getting ready to start out (photo & caption John)
Low tide was 10.54am which permitted walking along the shore including around the rocky headlands for those who preferred, or joining the Millennium Track before the headlands and enjoying the bush area through into Moeraki Village.
A third option was for those who might have wanted a shorter walk to just go as far as they felt comfortable with, and to meet back at the carpark in time to join everyone for afternoon tea at Vanessa’s on SHI in Hampden village.
Some interesting rock formations were seen along the way and not all of them boulder formation.
New boulder emerging (photo & caption John)
It was a beautiful day for the walk, not being too sunny and therefore hot, and not being so cool as to be unpleasant to sit in the playground area for lunch.
Lunch stop at the Moeraki Village playground (photo & caption Barbara)View from lunch stop across Moeraki Harbour (photo & caption Barbara)Lunch spot at Fleurs on the grass for 7 of us (photo & caption Helen)So many trampers! I’ve become ambivalent to them (photo & caption John)
At least one leader had assumed that the leading bunch of four women – who took to the headlands as though they were born to it – would continue past the two open eating establishments, past the now closed Fleurs, and up the Millennium Track to the lookout on the Hill above the bay. That leader was mistaken, as she discovered, with the miscreants arriving back at the playground having eaten their Tavern bought Fish & Chips without taking the trek to the lookout!
Beautiful beach (photo & caption John)
After lunch, we straggled out along the beach to return to the cars and enjoy an efficiently produced afternoon tea at Vanessa’s. Thanks to Dave R for the suggestion.
John’s afternoon tea (photo & caption Ady)
Depending on the fitbit or app relied on, we walked between 12-14 km.
Leaders: Jay, Bob, Valerie & Barbara
4. 2018-08-01. All. Bus trip. Moeraki. Leaders: Adrienne and Bev.
Report Combined Bus Trip – Moeraki 1/8/18
45 outdoor seekers got on the bus at Mosgiel to head to Moeraki for the club’s annual combined bus trip.
We started at the lookout at Moeraki …
Debussing at Moeraki. (Clive pic and caption.)Where we are going… (Clive pic and caption.)
… and wandered down the Millennium track with great views of the sea and Moeraki Bay.The first seal sighting included a baby seal which was eagerly photographed.A Crested shag was also seen. It was a short wander down to the surrounds of the famous Fleur’s Restaurant.Here morning tea was partaken …
Morning tea at Fleur’s Restaurant. (Clive pic and caption.)
… with lovely views of the fishing boats (known for catching blue cod) in the bay. It was a cool start but gradually the cloud cleared and the sun warmed us up.
The track followed the shoreline through trees and shrubs. On one part of the track the big slump in Moeraki was very evident which has affected some roads and properties.
We then walked down onto the beach, the tide being low, and some walkers seeing what seemed like a leopard seal. It was a pleasant walk 2km up the beach to the Moeraki Boulders.According to Maori legend the boulders represent eel baskets and food that was spilled from the loss of Arai-te-uru, one of the large canoes that came from distant Hawaiki. The Boulders are concretions consisting of mud , fine silt and clay , cemented by calcite.
After a number of photographs …
Dave I’ll just move this boulder, (Clive pic and caption.)Oops…… (Clive pic and caption.)
… some of the group headed up to Hampden beach. Erosion by the sea was very evident along the low cliffs.
Lunch was had along the beach some near the boulders …
Adi pic.
…and others at the picnic tables at Hampden Beach.
The trampers lunch at Hampden. (Clive pic and caption.)
The lure of big double icecreams at the store was too much for some.
Well deserved treat!!! (Dave pic and caption.)
They were sampled with smiles as we walked back.
We all met up at the Boulders’ carpark around 2pm and then headed down to Shag point.The drive in was past icon kiwi cribs, some originally belonging to coal miners of the past, to the boat ramp.We had a wander around the area seeing more lazing seals. There was an old coal mine that used to operate in the cliffs. This was where, years ago, Mollie went to the local school at the age of 5. At that time when the mine was operating the school had a roll of 80.10 years later when she left the school, it only had 18 students.The mine closed in the early 70’s and had shafts running underground beneath the sea as well as inland.
It was then back on the bus, with a group of great people for the trip home. Some feeling very relaxed after some good sea air!!
Thanks to President Jill for her superb organisation.
Dave M
3. 15/12/1997. Tenth Anniversary Dinner, Moeraki. People pics.
(Click to enlarge)
Sylvia Williams, Win Gibson, Audrey Heenan, Les Smith, Nancy Strang, Margaret Deuchrass, Margaret Smith, Who? Mary Maxwell, Les Wiffin, Peg Chisholm, Les Winefield, Mavis Winefield, Bev McIntosh, Barbara McCCabe, Don McCabe?
Eric Bennett, Bev Harvey, Joan Hobbs, Elizabeth Haggie, Dot Bennett, George Haggie
Murray and Eleanor Watt, Ngaire and Doug Moir
Sylvia William, Nancy Strang, Margaret Deuchrass, Peg Chisholm, Frank Weedon, Win Gibson, Shirley, Ngaire MoirMargaret Smith, Bev McIntosh, Bev Harvey
Les and Margaret Smith, Wendy Bathgate
Eleanor Watt, Les and Margaret Smith, Bev Harvey
George Haggie, Mavis Winefield, Les Winefield, Eric Bennett.
Dot Bennett, Joan Hobbs, Colleen Gamble
Barbara McCabe, Cath and Lex Donaldson
Nelson and Dot Taiaroa
Murray and Eleanor Watt
Les Wiffin, Mary Maxwell
Bob and Audrey Heenan
Bev and Ray Harvey
Bev and Ivan McIntosh
Peter Bathgate
2. Friday 22/9/1992 – Sunday 23/9/1992. Moeraki Motor Camp. 23 attended. Leaders: Bob & Audrey
1. 22-23/9/1989. Moeraki Motor Camp. Leaders: Bob & Audrey. 24 attended this weekend camp. Everyone had a great time and Audrey and Bob were thanked for a job well done.
13. 26 January 2022. Hikers. Evansdale Glen. M. Leaders: Jim and Betty Finnie
It was a pleasant sunny morning that 16 hikers assembled at the Evansdale Glen car park. The morning tea stop was in pleasant sunshine at the end of the short bush circuit that returned us to the grassy domain.
Morning tea (caption and photo Clive)
From the domain the main track took us up valley in pleasant conditions, crossing the stream 3 times…
The 1st stream crossing (caption and photo Clive)How to tackle the 2nd stream (caption and photo Clive)The 3rd stream crossed with dry feet (caption and photo Clive)
… to where a pleasant lunch break was had.
Lunch by a babbling brook (caption and photo Clive)Looking downstream at lunchtime (caption and photo Adie)The water race for the old Seacliff asylum (caption and photo Clive)Lunch stop Evansdale Glen (caption and photo Adie)
On the way back down valley conditions deteriorated and required wet gear to be donned. My wet gear consisted of a 35 gram $1.99 plastic poncho that had remained unused for six months. The donning of this unused item for the first time presented challenges that were resolved with the assistance of fellow hikers to remove my head from an arm hole and get my head installed in its correct position.
Wet from above and below (caption and photo Clive)
4. 15/12/2021. Hindon. Blacksmiths Gully. Leaders Jill Reid, Sarah McCormack, Linda Partridge, Jan Butcher.
A reasonable day dawned for our combined Christmas visit to Hindon, and about 40 people headed up George King Memorial Drive to the hall. We deposited our “plates”, wrapped up warmly, and drove to Don Graham’s gravesite on Ardachy Station.
Getting sorted (caption and photo Ross)
Don loved this challenging country & he overlooks the hills and Taieri River.
Lovely spot for a tribute stone (caption and photo John)
The hikers walked a gentle track & enjoyed the spectacular scenery.
Nice view of the hill (caption and photo Helen)The group of 19 hikers (caption and photo Helen)
The trampers headed down the hill to Blacksmiths Gully, then looped back up to the cars – about 6 km.
First impression of the vastness of the countryside (caption and photo John)Panaroma – open country dwarfs everyone (caption and photo John)Phil and Peter in their happy place (caption and photo John)Are we going the right way Jill? (caption and photo John)Trampers among the Foxgloves (caption and photo Pam)
Kevin Burke said Ian Fleming’s grace and we then enjoyed the generous pot luck lunch.
Chris Wither told us some Hindon Hall history & her various associations with it during her 38 years living at Hindon. She mentioned how mice often visited during yoga classes……and yes, one brave mouse came under the door soon after!
Lunch in the Hindon Hall (caption and photo Ross)
We greatly enjoyed Grant Shackell playing his guitar and singing along with his “blind date” Claire Currie.
The entertainers – Grant and ClaireEntertainment from Grant and Claire. Interesting woolsacks on the wall from past and present farms in the district (caption and photo Pam)
Thank you both for the wonderful entertainment, and to Jill Dodds and her helpers for organising the food etc. A very pleasant way to wrap up our tramping year!
Jill Reid
Tramper’s route
3. 2/4/2014 Both. Hindon. Machine Creek. Recently Bathgate, now Cowley Farm. Easy+ Leaders: Ian, Ken
GPS of route per Garmin, courtesy Ken.
GPS of route per iPhone app.
30 turned out for an earlier foggy, but later sunny, shorter trek over gloriously stock-free paddocks …
M/Tea in the dry away from the heavy dew on the grass. (John panorama pic)
to reach a ridge overlooking the Taieri River gorge. Wonderful views rewarded us on an autumnal day quite free of the slightest disturbing breeze. So we could just take our time and drink the prospect in.
A few of us ventured via cattle tracks down the steep slope below the ledge to the plateau below (as can be discerned from the iPhone app map) with the majority remaining quite content to laze in the sun. With plenty of time to spare, we eventually settled down for lunch, the majority again staying on the main ledge …
Lunching along the fence (John pic)
with a few taking advantage of the slope …
Lunch on slope overlooking Machine Creek. (Ken pic)
overlooking the dramatic Machine Creek gorge. All in all, an interesting resurrection of a tramp many of us had forgotten. – Ian.
2. 14/7/2004 Hindon, Machine Creek Penno farm Leaders: George, Molly
M/Tea Machine Creek
Machine Creek railway bridge, looking upstream
Machine Creek Lunch. George, Arthur, Pat, Molly, Margaret
1. 5/5/2004. Both. Hindon, Machine Creek, Deep Stream. Easy. George, Molly, Glenys P.
5. 17 November 2021. Hikers. McIntosh Bush. E-M. Leaders: Jan Yardley & Pam Clough
A good number of hikers and trampers (23 in total) travelled up to McIntosh Bush, formerly owned by Marjorie Orr and Colin MackIntosh, now owned by Marjorie’s niece, Hilary Lennox. I was unaware that it was previously owned by Eleanor and Murray Watt. Eleanor was a member of the tramping club for a number of years. Marjorie and Colin still live on the property which consists of 100 acres of native bush and mixed exotics, and a QEII-covenanted bush area.
Setting off down the track – Saddle Hill in background (caption and photo Jan)
We were guided by Marjorie, and started off down a road then up the hill past the horse paddocks. Two horses met up with us but didn’t hang around long.
Meet-up with the horses (photo and caption Jan)
We carried on down through various stands of exotic timber trees which included eucalyptus, macrocarpa, Tasmanian blackwood to a picnic area at the bottom of the gully for morning tea.
Through the Tasmanian Blackwoods (photo and caption Jan)
We then proceeded through native bush where the rare peripatus worms live and looked at a stream oozing “brown coal” seepage.
Our guide Marjorie, explaining the “brown coal seepage” (photo and caption Jan)
Climbed up through an area of pinus radiata to the top edge of the property where we had an excellent view overlooking the Ocean View area.
View from top of property (photo and caption Jan)
Walked back down to the picnic area for lunch…
Lunch at the picnic area (photo and caption Jan)
…then headed back to the cars up a very picturesque ferny bush track. Quite a narrow track with lots of wooden steps and tree roots etc. to negotiate. On the way up were numerous tree plantings named after various people associated with the property.
Colin Mackintosh on a clean-up mission (photo and caption Jan)
On arriving back at the cars Marjorie offered us a tour of her garden, accompanied by her two dogs – an unexpected extra bonus.
Finish up with the tour of Marjorie & Colin’s garden (photo and caption Jan)Group picture (photo Barbara)
We finished up a successful day with coffee at the Wooden Table in Mosgiel, and we very much appreciated the opportunity to enjoy this special property.
26. 10/11/2021. Three Kings – Heenan Road. M. Leaders: Cathy Ferguson and Sue Nichol
18 Hikers set off from double gates where we parked our cars about 9.15 on a very warm humid day.
Photo Cathy Ferguson
On a well formed farm track it is a steady climb through bush and morning tea was a stop, with views over the Taieri Plain.
Photo Cathy FergusonPhoto Cathy Ferguson
As we climbed higher there was several stops to enjoy the views of Lake Waipori, Lake Waihola and the wider Taieri.
Photo Cathy Ferguson
At the cattle yards where there was a small calf and 3 large cattle we turned right and walked up a rougher steep track until we reached the 3 Kings. Lunch stop was had at this point for a relax and a little banter.
We then headed back down the track to the vehicles. Amazing how going down always goes so much quicker.
A hot but warm day was finished with a drink at the Wobbly Goat.
25. 23/06/2021. Three Kings Trig F. M. Leaders: Eleanore and Peter
On a chilly calm morning, 23 rugged up trampers met at Heenan Road at 10:10am and headed through the gate, where we were greeted by a few cattle, who had made the track quite mucky. It is a steady climb up the farm track, enjoying views of lower Taieri at regroup stops.
By 11am we came across a sunny spot to enjoy smoko, probably halfway to 3 Kings.
Early view of the Taieri [Photo and caption John]Keeping to the farm track we continued climbing to the wooden cattle yards, then headed right up a lesser defined track, arriving at the first big rock, glistening in the sun and surrounded by smaller ones. Even though the air was very chilly, it was a good spot for photos and views.
Apparently Not the Three Kings [Photo and caption Pam Cocks]Next, keeping right, we followed the track up and around to 3 Kings, arriving around 12ish. They are 3 rocks, rather spread out, sort of in a row. There was plenty of that nasty Spaniard grass amongst Dracophyllum — common on the tops of Maungatua. Once again, we climbed on them, to take photos. Thin air up here at 647 metres!!
By now we were thinking about coffee and lunch, so we left on our way back down.
Soon after Trig F was spotted up a muddy cattle track so 16 of the group made the climb to say they had been to this trig which is slightly higher than 3 Kings at 703 metres.
Trig F has seen better days [Photo and caption Pam Cocks]Soon after, round 12:30ish, all met up on the track for lunch in the sun.
We had been given permission from land owners to visit their little hut in the bush near the cattle yards. It is really well set up, with a couple of beds, I would think many good times have been enjoyed in that hut.
Landowners Hut [Photo and caption Pam Cocks[We left the hut at 1:30pm for our downhill walk to the cars enjoying beaut views, particularly the intricate set of channels, swamps and lakes between Waipori and Waihola and also the Taieri river at the start of Taieri Gorge.
The descent [Photo and caption John]It is a nice way to end the day walking amongst the very old Beech trees amongst the native bush.
View over the Taieri Plains from below The Three Kings [Photo and caption Pam Cocks]On returning to the cars at 2:30pm, it was good to remove the muddy boots before going to Willowfield for coffee and cake. Another great outing, thanks Peter Gillespie and Arthur Heenan for great navigational skills leading us. This was the first visit to 3 Kings for some members. Good company, good friends, good fun makes us all happy.
I contacted Michelle & Steve and sent a couple of pics. thanking them for going through their property.
Eleanore Ryan & Peter Gillespie
From Strava courtesy Ross Davies
24. 14/11/2018. Hikers. Three Kings from Heenan Road. M. Leaders: Ian and Doug.
Thirty of those who weren’t away at the Hollyford Camp turned out to tackle the 4WD track up to Three Kings. Three Ramblers, who have chosen for themselves the name “The Eighties Plus” dropped back to continue at their own pace, getting ultimately as far up as the last gate on the track. The rest, with occasional rest stops and regroupings,
Morning tea with views of the Taieri. (Clive pic and caption.)
Ian explaining part of the history of the Taieri. (Clive pic and caption.) [Pointing out the original route up from Wesleydale Camp. – Ed]made it up the steadily graded track, overcoming the last very steep bits to reach the rocks high up on the Maungatua Range at its southern end by lunch time.
The day was fine and calm with only a little sharp wind up here persuading us to find our own sheltered but sunny spot for lunch. Quite a number of us were newer members and for many this was their first visit to these prominent rocks. Well done.
Lunch at Three Kings. (Ian pic and caption.)Our leaders Ian and Doug. (Clive pic and caption.)
After a leisurely lunch, it was back down the track again, this time each at their own pace now that it was a known route, and into the cars, to regather for coffee at Outram. A successful outing. – Ian and Doug.
23. 17/5/2017. Hikers. Three Kings from Heenan Road. M. Leaders: Ian and Doug.
Route map courtesy Ian. Nike pp not turned until 1km into trip so add 1km to all distances. (Ian pic and caption.)
We navigated our cars to what for the Hikers was a new entry spot. Back in 2006 the Todd Group had denied us access through the paddock next to the old Wesleydale Camp which gave us access to a lovely track through the bush above it opening to gorse leading to the FWD track above. Now, back at the bottom of a big dip in Heenan Road, there was an entry point to a parking spot up at the very bottom of that track, thanks to a hospitable owner’s permission.
Only 13 were able to turn out for the day. A first long-grassed paddock was the only steep effort, the track thereafter proving a delightfully modest steady gradient elevating us soon to impressive views over the Taieri plain. We stopped for morning tea at one such view,
Viewing the plain. (Ian pic and caption.)
but low cloud below us was beginning to condense obscuring the former clear air.
Later, where we at last emerged from the bush part of the route, we stopped to point out to newer members the old way by which we used to reach this point. Beyond here, the track now steadily steepened the nearer we got to the Three Kings. We took it slowly, with frequent rests and regroupings. Until behold, there was a new track cut right across an extensive cleared area, changing the whole aspect of what we used to experience eleven and more years ago. The new track was even steeper, but at last all got there.
We hunkered down for lunch beneath the principle rock, sheltering from a brief but wetting rain shower.
Shelter for some. (Ian pic and caption.)A clever perch. (Ian pic and caption.)
But that was it. The day remained calm, if cool. We returned back down the way we had come, all very pleased at having achieved our object. One older member expressed their delighted at achieving a return to the rocks after such a long absence, having given up all hope of ever making it again.
We stopped for coffee at George’s ‘hairy’ goat cafe, delighted to meet up there with the Trampers’ other half of the club, returned just before us.
A satisfying day. Roll on the wintry weekend ahead. – Ian.
22. 8/2/2017. Trampers. Maungatua Summit from Heenan Road. M. Arthur.
I believe this tramp was a “first’ for the club. We have been up to the “3 Kings” area many times in the past, but today we continued on to the summit.
A small group out today, only 4 of our regulars, 1 potential member and 1 guest: 6 in total.
We left the cars parked up a farm drive off Heenan Road. Our tramp began at 9.00 a.m. on the uphill farm road which goes around the south end of Maungatua, and out towards Mahinerangi.
It was a fine day, sunny but with many clouds. A cool S.W. breeze kept the temperature down.
Morning tea was taken in the last available sheltered spot, the leader being rubbished for stopping 5 minutes early though!
Up a farm track and then in to the tussock taking us up more steeply to trig “F” at 702 metres, from where we could look down onto the “3 Kings“.
Onward on a farm track, before turning off into the tussock for the last 3.25 km, single file following the fence line.
Beautiful moss. (Helen pic and caption.)
The summit was reached at 12.05 p.m. for our lunch stop. Sitting down in the shelter of the vegetation was necessary to get out of the wind. The sunny periods were very welcome as we ate and rested.
Before taking our leave, the obligatory photo of the group at the summit marker post was taken.
Arthur Carol Neil Helen and Neil. (Helen pic and caption.)Plaque on top. (Helen pic and caption.)
Just at this time the red helicopter flew over us at low altitude, our waves being returned.
Red helicopter giving us a wave. (Helen pic and caption.)
No rescue needed today, though, thankfully.
After about 2 km on the return journey we took to the farm track for the remainder. It was somewhat easier going, and also gave a little variation from the inward track.
The wind had eased early afternoon, and then changed to a southerly breeze. Showers were visible in the Balclutha-Milton direction, but were then going out to sea and not towards us.
Lower down we stopped briefly to admire the view out over the lower Taieri Plain. The whole area was bathed in sunshine, and was a real picture. The views from the top of Maungatua had been spoiled a little by all the cloud shadows on the landscape.
Back at the cars at 3.00 p.m. it had been a neat 6 hours from go to whoa. A very satisfactory day’s tramp in the leader’s opinion. Total distance was 17 km, and an altitude climb of 800 metres.
The timing was absolutely perfect!
As we sat down after ordering our drinks at “The Hairy Goat” the rain arrived!
Thanks to all who participated in the day’s very successful tramp. – Art.
21. 22/10/2014. Trampers. Three Kings. M.
This weeks tramp was to the “Three Kings” at the south end of the Maungatua’s. Six trampers travelled to McLaren Rd, drove around past the Lavender farm to our parking place just inside the farm yard gate. Jill went & got the key for us, & then drove back home again, leaving us to find our way up to the tops. The walk was on farm 4WD tracks all the way up, with just a short walk through tussock to the Three Kings where we had lunch in the shelter from a strong cold wind. Then it was a quick retreat back down again out of the wind, & back to the cars. Walked 12km; 4.1 km/h ave; 3hrs moving; climbed 690m.
The view from the top was very good, but the cold wind didn’t make for pleasant viewing. We practised our Coffee Club by calling into the Outram coffee shop on the way home where a good chat session was had. – Ken
18/10/2006 Jeff Todd of Todd Group 477 8902 (10/06). Todd Group had bought Wesleydale and paddock and allowed it to be used for army live firing! Access through all this area denied.
20. 26/4/2006. Trampers. Three Kings and Trig. Leaders: Evelyn C, Sabina.
19. 24/8/2005. Both. Wesleydale, Three Kings and option of Trig. Leaders: Ria, Irene, Val and Brian, Eleanor B.
18. 19/11/2003. Both. Three Kings from Farm sheds. Medium. Leaders: Trampers: Bill and Pat; Hikers: Les and Margaret, Carmel.
Down through Gorse. Wendy? Pat
George on rise, below Trig above Three Kings (19/11/2003)
17. 17/7/2002 Three Kings, Mill Creek, Kowhai. Spur Leaders: Bob H, Doug M, Wendy B
Long. Hard. Water. Steep down Kowhai Spur.
16. 10/7/2002. Wesleydale Methodist Youth Camp to 3 Kings. Leaders: Arthur and Barbara, Frank.
15. 22/11/2000 Leaders: Lex, Ian
14. 22/9/1999. Three Kings and Trig. Leaders: Lex, Bill H, Lesley S.
13. 12/8/1998. 3 Kings, Maungatua. Leaders: Irene, Shirley R.
12. 19/11/1997. Wesleydale to 3 Kings and Trig. Leaders Judith and Hugh, Ian.
11. 12/3/1997. Three Kings – Mill Creek Reserve – Kowhai Spur. Leaders: Bill H, Graham, Barbara McC.
10. 1/5/1996. Duncan’s Farm Road and return Kowhai Spur. Leaders: Bill H, Les S, Graham S, Doug M
9. 3/4/1996 Three Kings from Heenan Road to McLaren Road Start past Little Creek. Medium.
Seek permissions Leaders: Jack and Rosemary, Nelson and Dot.
8. 20/4/1994. Three Kings. Medium. Leaders: Margaret and Les, Ivan, Les W.
7. 6/10/1993. Mill Creek (back of the Maungatuas.) Medium. Leaders: Shirley McN, Ria L, Nel, Betty H.
6. 26/5/1993. Wesleydale Camp – uphill following 4WD track to Maungatuas. Great views. Medium. Leaders: Mary Y, Denise, Nola, Judith.
5. 9/9/1992. Wesleydale Camp to the Maungatuas. Follow 4WD Track. Average. Leaders: Joan, Betty, Jean, Diana.
4. 29/7/1992. Wesleydale Camp, up the hill following 4WD track to the Maungatuas. Lovely views. Average. Leaders: Daphne, Betty, Dave and Jean.
3. 23/10/1991. Maungatuas – Wesleydale to ‘3 Kings Rocks’. Steady up hill grade, but not a long tramp. Average+. Leaders: Nancy, Ray, Ted, Jack R.
2. 27/6/1990 Wesleydale to Three Kings. Average, if taken in easy stages. Don’t rush hill please. Leaders: George, Margaret D, Margaret B, Ria.
1. 8/3/1989. Three Kings. Good tramp up the Maungatuas. Great views of Lower Taieri. Leaders: Denise, George, Peggy.
1. 27 October 2021. Trampers. Kaka Point Ramble. E. Leaders: Karen & Gary McInnes
12 trampers travelled the 100km to Kaka Pt to arrive at the perfect time for a cuppa on the beachfront.
Morning tea at the park by the surf club (photo and caption Helen)
The weather had gotten steadily better since we had left Mosgiel so apart from a wee sea breeze, the morning stop was beautiful. We left the cars parked at the beachfront and walked up to the end of Rata street to where the nature walk began. A very good gravel track lead us on a lovely walk through various native trees.
Kaka Point (photo and caption Marijke)
We emerged at the tennis courts and walked down past the motor camp to a very new short bush track then back to the cars. Next stop was Nugget Point.
Looking at the lighthouse (photo and caption Helen)
We walked out to the lighthouse and were rewarded with vistas of calm sea and the magnificent rocks that give the Nuggets their name.
New Zealand’s rocks (caption and photo Helen)Our group at the lighthouse (photo and caption Helen)
There were lots of comments about how crystal clear and tropical the water looked.
Startling blue sea colours off the track at the lighthouse (we could be in the Mediterranean (photo and caption Marijke)
There is a small breeding colony of Royal spoonbills on one of the rocks on the walk out to the lighthouse. Lunch was a sunny spot with a fabulous view all the way up the coast. We drove back down the hill to Roaring Bay where it was a short walk down to the penguin hide.
Hidee hi trampers (caption and photo Karen)
Unfortunately not the right time to see penguins but the bay was beautiful just the same. We decided that we would add on a visit to the train tunnel at Tunnel Hill on the southern scenic route. Certainly an amazing tunnel, being the southern most tunnel in the world.
Tunnel Hill (caption and photo Marijke)Tunnel Hill info (caption and photo Jenni)
End of the trip refreshments were had at Cafe 55 in Balclutha. We had fantastic weather all day until south of Allanton where we ran into rain. Thanks to the drivers who got us there and back safely.
Minutes of the 33rd Annual General Meeting of Taieri Recreational Tramping Club held at the Taieri Bowling Club, Wickliffe Street, on 29 October 2021 at 1.30pm
PRESENT: J Dodd (Chair), J Abbot, D Bennett, K Burke, J Butcher, P Clough, P Cocks, C Crossman, W & R Davies, E Day, J Dennison, J Devlin, J Finnerty, B & J Finnie, J Gardiner, P Gillespie, G Grant, B Harvey, L Harvey, P Horrell, L Keene, R Keene, C Leach, S McCormack, K McInnes, N & C Morrison, J Reid, S&K Munro, D Roberts, N & M Simpson, M Smith, M Schofield, G Souter, T White, C Wither; A Whitson, B & J Wright, J Yardley (44 members)
APOLOGIES: P Keene, A Heenan, D Mellish, G Farquharson, D Paterson, E Ryan, B & G Shackell, P Davie, W Begley, A Ward, R Ward, N McCunn, S Carruthers, H Kirk, H & P Morris, L Partridge
MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING
Minutes of the 2020 AGM were taken as read, having previously been circulated.
Moved K McInnes, seconded D Roberts that they be confirmed as a true and accurate record. Carried
Matters arising: Nil
CORRESPONDENCE
Inward – Resignations from B & L McLean, F Deans, M & B Spittle, J Ronald
Outward – Nil
PRESIDENT’S REPORT
Jill Dodd presented the annual report on behalf of Arthur Heenan which had been prepared prior to the latest covid lockdown. It had been a successful year, with bus trips to Gabriels Gully, Rail Trail Daisybank and Sutton Salt Lake/Smooth Cone. Two well supported camps had been held, the first for the trampers at Blue Mountains, and the second for all, at Borland Lodge. Sadly we had lost two longstanding members, Doug Moir and Lesley Gowans both of whom had only recently stopped tramping. Neil Buckley and Eric Callaghan also passed away during the year. He also thanked those members retiring from the committee, C Crosman, K Munro, D Mellish, J Yardley.
Moved J Dodd, seconded P Clough that the presidents report be accepted. Carried
FINANCIAL REPORT
Financial statement for the year ended 30/6/21 was presented by the treasurer. There was a surplus for the year of $141.91. Bank balance $811.24, petty cash $4.60.
Annual Subscription – The Committee at the 30 July meeting voted to increase the annual subscription to $10. Joining fees to remain at $10. Treasurer was questioned as to whether this increase was necessary as there had been a surplus and some discussion ensued. G Grant suggested that if there was a large surplus at the end of the next financial year, a donation could be made to a project which would be of benefit to the club. A show of hands approved the decision.
Moved C Wither, seconded M Simpson that this increase be approved. Carried
Auditor – Moved J Yardley, seconded J Butcher that K Mackenzie be reappointed as auditor/reviewer. Carried
ELECTION OF OFFICERS
President Phil Keene Moved J Dodd, seconded J Wright
Vice President No nomination
Secretary/Treasurer Jenni Wright Moved J Yardley, seconded P Clough Past President Arthur Heenan
Webmaster Ross Davies
Committee: J Butcher, J Devlin, C Crossman
Moved J Yardley, seconded J Finnerty that the above existing committee members be reappointed. Carried
Moved D Roberts, seconded S Munro that J Gardiner be appointed to the committee. Carried Moved J Wright, seconded W Davies that K McInnes be appointed to the committee. Carried Moved S McCormack, seconded T White that P Cocks be appointed to the committee. Carried
Raewyn Keene read out an email which had been received from Phil Keene, the incoming president. He is detained in Western Australia due to the covid lockdown. He thanked Jill Dodd for stepping in as acting vice president, and paid tribute to outgoing president, Arthur Heenan’s long contribution to the club. He was looking forward to taking over as president once he was able to return to NZ.
GENERAL BUSINESS
Constitution – moved C Crossman, seconded S McCormack that the revised constitution be approved. Carried
Beacon contacts – Keith Munro has been appointed as a contact.
Honorariums – moved N Morrison, seconded K McInnes that $50 honorariums be paid to secretary/treasurer, auditor and webmaster. Retiring secretary/treasurer and webmaster were thanked for their contribution over the last few years. Carried
Track Clearing – Neil Morrison spoke of the track clearing being undertaken, mainly by himself and Arthur Heenan, mainly on a Monday. Fuel is supplied. Any members prepared to help to contact Neil.
Invermay Track – a walking track is being developed around the Invermay/Silverstream area. Help from any members interested in helping creating this track would be appreciated.
Identification – Lester Harvey mentioned he would like to see some sort of identification such as name tags, as it was hard to keep up with names of the increasing number of new members. Pack tags considered to cover this, and these available from secretary.
Website: Ross Davies spoke of the immense contribution Ian Fleming had made to the club with his foresight in setting up the website so many years ago. It is a very valuable resource to the club. He thanked Dave Mellish for taking over this responsibility when Ian Fleming retired. The website team now consisted of himself, Chris Wither and new administrators, Diane Paterson, Val Bell and Gail Williams
Email Address: the club’s new email address, [email protected]is to be used for all tramp notices, reports and photos.
Covid-19 – thought to be given to member’s vaccination status in regard to car pooling. The meeting closed at 2.20 pm.
Guest speaker, Dermot Mayock, gave a very interesting and informative presentation on the role and work involved with LANDSAR. He was ably assisted in this by his wife, and search and rescue dog. He was thanked by Clive Crossman, and presented with a voucher.
25. 29 September 2021. Hikers. Otago Museum and the Fashion FWD Exhibition and a Springtime Walk. M. $5.00. Leaders: Jenny Finnerty, Noi McCunn
On Wednesday 19 hikers set off on a walk, starting at Botanical Gardens and walking to the Museum park for morning tea.
Morning tea in the Museum Reserve – photo Noi
We then went to have a wander around the Fashion Gallery Trail in the Museum after which we walked through the varsity to the St David Street zig zag.
Walking through the varsity – photo Noi
Otago University Clocktower Building – photo Noi
St David Street steps – photo Noi
Things had changed since I was a kid because Arana Hall had expanded and so now there is a locked gate at the top but lucky for us a lady swiped us in and swiped us out on the other side. Had a bit of tiki tour through studentville to Dundas Street but took a wrong track but ended up at the Cemetery.
Bush track up the hill – photo Noi
Bracken View – photo Noi
Alex took us to the gravesite of the 1st white baby born in Dunedin.
Alex at the gravesite – photo Jenny
Had lunch at the Rhododendron Del and after looking around we all met up at the Croque-O-Dile for coffee.
Magnolia tree in the Botanic Gardens – photo Jenny
Another walk done and dusted thanks hikers.
P.S. Was good to see our Brighton chums and others from town. Jenny and Noi.
This week, for a little lockdown-lassitude relief, we’ve got something different for you, a game. We’ve chosen some photos at random from the Club’s activities over the last 10 months. We’ve invited Wally of Where’s Wally fame to join us. It’s hard to hide in a crowd in the outdoors, and Wally didn’t try. The idea isn’t to spot where Wally is in the photo. It is to figure out where Wally is in the world. Well not so much the world but more where he is in Coastal Otago – with one exception. Continue reading “Where’s Wally Walking #1”
We’ve chosen some photos at random from the Club’s activities over the last 10 months. We’ve invited Wally of Where’s Wally fame to join us. It’s hard to hide in a crowd in the outdoors, and Wally didn’t try. The idea isn’t to spot where Wally is in the photo. It is to figure out where Wally is in the world. Well not so much the world but more where he is in Coastal Otago – with one exception. Continue reading “Where’s Wally Walking #2”
We’ve chosen some photos at random from the Club’s activities over the last 10 months. We’ve invited Wally of Where’s Wally fame to join us. It’s hard to hide in a crowd in the outdoors, and Wally didn’t try. The idea isn’t to spot where Wally is in the photo. It is to figure out where Wally is in the world. Well not so much the world but more where he is in Coastal Otago – with one exception. Continue reading “Where’s Wally Walking #3”
