271 October 2020

RECREATION WALKING and CYCLING TRAILS

New Zealand Walk:

Castle Hill - a walk through huge boulders New Zealand Walk:

Exploring the scenery of the Far North

OCTOBER 2020 ISSUE NO 271

News:

Te Araroa partners with Walking Access Commission

New Zealand Walk:

Ducks, Gnomes and Dinosaurs

NZ $8.50 inc GST

New Zealand Walk:

Nydia Track - something for everyone www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Walking New Zealand, issue no 271- 2020

1

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2 Walking New Zealand, issue no 271 - 2020

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CONTENTS

Issue 271 - 2020

2 Pak - A - Roo Walking Jacket 3 Contents 4 Walk Talk 6 New Zealand Walk: Ducks, Gnomes and Dinosaurs:

Just a normal day in the Whirinaki Conserva-

tion Park 8 New Zealand Walk: Castle Hill: a walk through

huge boulders 13 New Zealand Walk: Much loved Spraggs Bush Track reopens 14 New Zealand Walk: The Tinui ANZAC Walkway:

a memorable walk 16 News: Te Araroa partners with NZ Walking Access Commission 18 Walking New Zealand Monthly Photo Contest 20 New Zealand Experience: Our Routeburn experi- ence: Water, floods and everything else that

could go wrong 24 Lockdown Activities: Nature is good for us 26 New Zealand Walk: An Architectural Walk 28 My Favourite Walk: Along the walkway at Macan-

drew Bay 30 Cycling Tours: Trip through the tulips 34 New Zealand Walk: Nydia Track - something for everyone 38 New Zealand Walks: Exploring the scenery of the Far North 42 Te Araroa Trail: Te Araroa Northland Trust revitalised 43 Index of previous 14 issues 44 Subscription page 45 Coming Events: New Zealand 48 New Zealand Walking Tours 48 New Zealand Country Breaks 51 Event:Manawatu Walking Festival 52 Wilderness Guides

Cover Photo: Looking down on Lake Tekapo from theTe AraroaTrail. Photo by Mickael Gomes.

8

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WALKING New Zealand Published Monthly

PUBLISHER/EDITOR: Frank Goldingham: Phone 06-358-6863 CONTRIBUTORS: Judy Eva, Bob Hodgson, Barbz Lowther, Cathy Taylor, Stephen Day, Marlene K Fox, Jeff Neems, Judith Doyle, Robyn Selbie, and Jill Grant ADVERTISING MANAGER: Frank Goldingham 0800 walking (925-546) 027-274-0726 Email: walkingnz@xtra.co.nz COMING EVENTS ADVERTISING: Frank Goldingham 0800-walking (925-546) Email walkingnz@xtra.co.nz SUBSCRIPTIONS: Phone 0800-925-546 SUBSCRIPTION RATES: New Zealand Residents; 24 issues $159.00 posted, 12 issues $84.50 posted, 6 issues $51.00 posted DIGITAL $29.00, 12 issues Australia: 12 issues: $122.00 Rest of World: $138.00 NEWSAGENT DISTRIBUTION: Avato Ltd WALKING NEW ZEALAND LTD, P O Box 1922, Palmerston North Telephone 06-358-6863 - Fax 06-358-6864 E-Mail: walkingnz@xtra.co.nz

Website: www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

The information and views expressed by contributors are not necessarily agreed to by the editor or publisher, and while every effort will be made to ensure accuracy, no responsibility will be taken by the editor or publisher for inaccurate information.

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

6 Walking New Zealand, issue no 271- 2020

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Walk talk

Record numbers book the eight Great Walks

DOC is reporting record opening week results on the eight Great Walks that opened for 2020/21 bookings.

“With a 36% increase in overall bookings for all walks that opened, we couldn’t have hoped for better results,” says DOC Heritage and Visitors Director, Steve Taylor.

“Contrary to expectations—despite border restrictions and the devastating impacts on COVID-19 on so many New Zealanders—opening week bookings are significantly up on previous years. Results include a whopping 47% increase on our newest Great Walks the Paparoa Track and a 48% increase in bookings on the Heaphy.

Kiwis are being encouraged to support domestic tourism through Tourism New Zealand’s ‘Do something New, New Zealand’ campaign says Steve Taylor.

“With 92% of these bookings made by Kiwis, it demonstrates a huge domestic appetite to explore our home and connect with our natural and cultural heritage.

“Compared to the same time last year across these eight Great Walks, 6,267 bookings have been made,” says Steve Taylor.

Porirua shared path opens

Walking, cycling and scootering around central Porirua just got much easier and safer, following the official opening of the Porirua CBD–Wi Neera Drive shared path last month.

The upgraded pathway separates cyclists from heavy traffic, and completes the loop from the northern end of Te Ara Tawa shared pathway to Hagley St via Porirua Stream, the harbour’s edge and Titahi Bay Road.

It’s the first phase of the CBD to Titahi Bay Shared Path, which will connect existing pathways and improve walking and cycling facilities from Porirua CBD to Titahi Bay. Above: Associate Minister of Transport Julie Anne Genter tries out the shared path Please tell our advertisers you saw it advertised in Walking New Zealand magazine.

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4 Walking New Zealand, issue no 271 - 2020

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Walk talk Support for Te Araroa Trail in the Waikato

Wandering kiwi on the Heaphy Track

By Department of Conservation American visitors Trent Burns and partner were on recent excursion tramping on the Heaphy Track in Kahurangi National Park, ticking it off their bucket list.

While they were tramping they were fortunate enough to come across a Great Spotted Kiwi/ roroa rustling up some grub during the day. They did all the right things, not disturbing the kiwi, keeping quiet and giving it lots of space.

This is their encounter and this is their amazing footage!

My girlfriend and I recently enjoyed a stunning 5-day, 4-night excursion out on the Heaphy Track (Kohaihai to Gouland Downs and back) - truly a bucket list item for us in New Zealand. We’re Americans and have been in NZ since 5 February on working holiday visas.

On our second day, walking from Lewis Hut to James Mackay Hut, we had the unbelievable fortune of coming across a kiwi - we think a Great Spotted Kiwi.

We had stopped momentarily for a drink of water when we noticed a kiwi coming up the hill, across the walking path, and continue uphill. We kept as much distance as possible but also tried not to move or make noise. The kiwi appeared healthy and was not visibly stressed but, knowing how unusual it is to see them during the day, we wanted to bring this to DOC’s attention and share our experience. www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

The NZ Transport Agency has recently been leading a project to improve the trail definition and quality of a small section of Te Araroa (The Long Pathway) and ensure hikers use the trail rather than walking along the Waikato Expressway.

Te Araroa is New Zealand’s long distance walking trail, stretching 3,000km from Cape Reinga to Bluff. It is made up of a mixture of older tracks and walkways, new tracks and link sections which can be alongside roads. Near Mercer in the Waikato ( just south of Pokeno), the trail crosses below the Waikato Expressway and then runs alongside the road corridor for a few kilometres. This section of trail was identified as being flood prone and poorly formed.

Improving this section of the trail has involved obtaining agreement with the Department of Conservation to fund construction of a short boardwalk on their land and implementing edgeline and track renewals along the remainder of the corridor.

While the agency has previously supported Te Araroa through the construction of facilities like shared use paths, this is a purpose-built hiking improvement project alongside the state highway corridor.

Above: Before and after photos supplied by Te Araroa Trust.

Your favourite walk could win you a free subscription

We are looking for readers’ favourite New Zealand walks. Many of us go out regularly walking on a route which we class as our favourite, for a number of reasons. Perhaps because for it’s scenery, it’s safe, it’s challenging, it’s flat, it’s hilly, it’s varied, or for whatever reason.

We would like you to tell us in your own words what is you favourite walk and why. Email us a story from say 250 up to 1200 words including a photo or photos.

We will now give you a FREE subscription (six months or more, depending on the article), or extension to Walking New Zealand magazine for walks published.

You can also post an article to Walking New Zealand, Freepost 78863, P O Box 1922, Palmerston North, or fax 06-358-6864.

If sending a photo by email please make sure photos are in high resolution.

Our email address is: walkingnz@xtra.co.nz.

Please put “My Favourite Walk” in the subject line and include your name and postal address.

Walking New Zealand, issue no 271- 2020

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Rotorua Area Walk

By Cathy Taylor

podocarps per hectare whereas common native forest only has around 30.

Some of these giants are 1,000 years old and three metres in diameter. How many people with linked arms does it take to circle a trunk that size? A lot.

Podocarp is a lovely word to say, but what does it mean? Basically, a big tree that has fleshy seed cones. Why is that exciting you ask? Because these trees fed the dinosaurs. Not these exact trees of course, but their ancient ancestors.

These trees are

Ducks, Gnomes and Dinosaurs:

.

Just a normal day In the Whirinaki Conservation Park

T

here aren’t many places in New Zealand I haven’t heard of, so when a friend told me about the Whirinaki Conservation Park, I sat up a little straighter.

You’d be forgiven for not knowing it exists either and therein lies its’ allure.

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Whirinaki covers a 56,000ha area sandwiched between the central volcanic plateau to the south, the Kaingaroa Plateau to the west; and the Ikawhenua and Huiarau Ranges to the east.

In Maori, it’s known as Te Puaa-Tāne, the abundance or flowering of Tāne, our god of the forest.

An apt moniker when you consider that Whirinaki has 51 endangered species (Zealandia EcoSanctuary has 40); such as the North Island Brown Kiwi, red and yellow-crowned kākāriki, kākā, whio, kārearea, short-tailed bats to name a few; and is one of the finest examples of low-land podocarp forest left in the world.

Tucked away down here at the bottom of world, New Zealand is a young island with a relatively new historical record. We don’t have 2000 years of architectural history to offer the world.

Our natural history is our World Heritage and our podocarp forest is a world treasure.

Of the five types of podocarps trees, Whirinaki has the ‘big five.’

Kahikatea, miro, rimu, tōtara and matai. There are roughly 130

6 Walking New Zealand, issue no 271 - 2020

our last botanical link to the age of the dinosaurs and Whirinaki contributes to the last remaining 5% of this type of forest in the North Island. They tell us what dinosaurs ate, how they foraged and what nutrients they gained from their food.

Think of it like a wholefoods market for the discerning vegan dinosaur.

A British botanist called David Bellamy is to thank for the Whirinaki’s environmental renaissance. Sadly, the world lost Bellamy last December, but in his hey-day he was an all-singing, alldancing conservation juggernaut.

Imagine David Attenborough had an eccentric, garden-gnomish cousin. That’s Bellamy. Thanks to his popularisation of environmental activism our little slice of dinosaur-heaven received worldwide attention.

He got rather excited about the Whirinakis’ bountiful riches and featured it in a 90’s television show called Moa’s Ark. A heated tussle between Bellamy and local forestry companies, who sought

Above: Te Whaiti Nui A Toi Canyon.

Photo byTiny Bunny.

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Rotorua Area Walk

to fell these trees, thankfully ended with a government ban on native tree logging in 1984.

The government established the Whirinaki Conservation Park not long thereafter.

These days the park is managed, in partnership, by DOC and Ngāti Whare and boasts 155km of hiking and mountain biking trails to suit all tastes and abilities.

There’s a range of short, day walks or overnight tramps through a network of backcountry DOC huts.

Try the Whirinaki Waterfall walk or the Sanctuary Loop track, both are excellent short walks and can be done in a loop to save faffAbove: Hugging a tree in the park.. Photo by Walking Legends Below: Photo by Jamie Garrod Captive PhotoNZ.

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

ing about with shuttling vehicles.

The Waterfall Walk takes you along the inside edge of carved out canyon, the Te Whāiti-NuiA-Toi canyon, with steep-sided banks covered in a thick, mossy carpet of ferns so deep you could lie down and disappear completely.

Get as far as the waterfall and swing around via the opposite bank for a varied return walk.

This is your best opportunity to spot whio as it’s one of only eight security sites nationwide for the preservation of this delightfully weird, whistling blue duck.

Whio only choose the cleanest, healthiest rivers so seeing them adeptly navigating the bubbling rapids is a rare sight indeed.

To experience a deeper taste of this glorious time capsule of biodiversity and its stories, book a guided walk experience with Walking Legends.

As part of their 4-day Waikaremoana Discovery Tour you can visit both the Whirinaki Conservation Park and the cloud-forests of Te Urewera with a professional hiking guide and a small, fun group for a fully-inclusive hiking tour package holiday of a lifetime. www.walkinglegends.co.nz Walking New Zealand, issue no 271- 2020

7

New Zealand Walk

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8 Walking New Zealand, issue no 271 - 2020

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

New Zealand Walk

Castle Hill - a walk through huge boulders

I

By Judy Eva

n the eastern ranges of the Southern Alps, approximately an hour’s drive from Christchurch and between Darfield and Arthurs Pass is a basin bulging with huge boulders and rock outcrops, known as Castle Hill.

It lies between the Torlesse and Cragieburn Mountain Ranges in the South Island.

The rock formations are the water eroded remnants of limestone formed during the Oligocene age 30-40 million years ago when much of the present day New Zealand was covered by sea.

Maori appreciated that this place had a special magic, one that even the snows of winter could shroud. It is of spiritual cultural and historic significance to Ngati Tahu who named it Kura Tawhiti, (treasure from a distant land).

Hidden among the outcrops are 500 year old drawings tradiLeft: Walkers look so small amongst the boulders.

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Walking New Zealand, issue no 271- 2020

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New Zealand Walk

Castle Hill - a walk through huge boulders

Above: Walkers high up on the boulders.

Below: Boulders in the meadow.

tionally are said to have been left by the Waitaha the first people to travel in that area.

The hill was named due to the array of limestone boulders reminiscent of an old run down stone castle. The front of the Christchurch cathedral was made from boulders in the area.

Some of the most rare and endangered plants covered the area but were destroyed by fire 600 years ago and the land has been grazed for almost 150 years. Now the pasture is grazed by sheep and cattle on the iconic High Country Castle Hill Station.

This is the ideal place for walkers, rock climbers, photographers and those who want a really unique experience in this magical area.

It truly is a special place and one could spend all day exploring and taking in the unique landscapes.

As I wandered amongst the different tracks and boulders I was amazed at just how many of them portrayed face and animal like shapes and features, some even like gargoyles frozen in time perched on slopes and in hollows.

It feels almost spiritual.

On the very top of the hill one can see the magnificent view down into the valley and countryside below.

It was in the summer when I visited and many people were enjoying this unique experience.

If you are lucky you may even find some of the drawings.

There is a large car park just off

Walking New Zealand magazine is available at all

Freephone 0800 walking stores throughout New Zealand

10 Walking New Zealand, issue no 271 - 2020

to subscribe to Walking New Zealand magazine Only $84.50 for 12 months

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New Zealand Walk

Above: Cattle in the meadows amoung the boulders.

Right: On the limestone walk. the main road, also toilets.

Strictly no bikes, dogs and drones and the area which is open 24/7 must be respected. It is a 10 minute stroll from the car park to reach the hill.

You need good footwear to climb the rocks and care is also a factor. The tracks are easy walking and there are wide open spaces for picnics. It is a climb to reach the top but you can zig zag your way up. Time to do this walk is at your own leisure.

Please do not pick the rare buttercup which flowers in the area at certain times of the year. They are the only remaining plants that survived the fire and are critically endangered.

Castle Hill is managed by DOC and is 33kms west of the little township of Springfield.

It is truly worth a stop on your journey along SH.73. and is visible from the main road. www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

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New Zealand Walk

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Castle Hill - a walk through huge boulders Above: Elephant Rock.

Middle: An alien rock amoung the boulders.

Below: Walkers on the Castle Hill Track.

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12 Walking New Zealand, issue no 271 - 2020

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

New Zealand Walk

Much loved Spraggs Bush track reopens

T

he much-loved Spraggs Bush track in Auckland‘s Waitākere Ranges has reopened following work to upgrade the track in the fight against Kauri Dieback

disease.

Spraggs Bush is a two-kilometre track located between Scenic Drive and Turanga Road in the Waitākere Ranges.

Work began in December to upgrade the track, but the finishing touches had to be put on hold during lockdown. Following the completion of work on the track, it was officially reopened in July.

The track provides a link for locals to get around the neighbourhood and is used regularly by many of the people in the local area and gives access to a special area of the Waitākere Ranges Regional Park Left: Track upgrades.

It was not on the original track upgrade proAbove: The new boardwalk. gramme, but following public consultation, the Waitākere Ranges Local Board council acknowledged the importance of the track Chair Greg Presland agrees. to the local community and with the support of its “The opening of the track is a partners included it.

Waitākere Ward Councillor Linda Cooper is de- good example of the community lighted that the track is now open and says this is coming together and letting us know what is important to them.

“We are grateful for the local community’s feedback during the track re-opening consultation and we agree that it was important to get this track upgraded so it can once again become the vital link for the area.

“I look forward to seeing more tracks open as time progresses and thank everyone for their patience during the works. I think the results speak for themselves.”

.

another example of the track upgrade programme bearing fruit.

“While Spraggs Bush appears to be a small track, it actually provides a vital connection for local people in the area to use in their everyday lives and connects neighbours together.

“We know it is a much-loved track and are really pleased that the work to upgrade the track has now been completed and people can use it again.

“The fight against Kauri Dieback continues in the Waitākere Ranges, and this is a welcome piece of progress as more and more tracks are upgraded and open for people to use again.” www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Your favourite walk could win you a free subscription We are looking for readers’ favourite New Zealand walks. Many of us go out regularly walking on a route which we class as our favourite, for a number of reasons. Perhaps because for it’s scenery, it’s safe, it’s challenging, it’s flat, it’s hilly, it’s varied, or for whatever reason.

We would like you to tell us in your own words what is you favourite walk and why. Email us a story from say 250 up to 1200 words including a photo or photos.

We will now give you a FREE subscription (six months or more, depending on the article), or extension to Walking New Zealand magazine for walks published.

You can also post an article to Walking New Zealand, Freepost 78863, P O Box 1922, Palmerston North, or fax 06-358-6864.

If sending a photo by email please make sure photos are in high resolution.

Our email address is: walkingnz@xtra.co.nz.

Please put “My Favourite Walk” in the subject line and include your name and postal address.

Walking New Zealand, issue no 271- 2020

13

My Favourite Walk

The Tinui ANZAC Walkway: a memorable memorial walk

O

By Bob Hodgson

n the day before ANZAC day 2020, nineteen MTSC, Manawatu Tramping and Skiing Club, trampers made their way by road to Tinui via Masterton.

There, with the conditions of very little visibility, the tall, rocky peak that we were to climb was barely noticeable. Â About 2km further in the direction of Castlepoint we came to the large brown sign for the Tinui Anzac Walkway and a very informative notice Above: The top of the hill covered in mist.

Below left: The group arrives in the mist.

14 Walking New Zealand, issue no 271 - 2020

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

My Favourite Walk

way is open from November through to 25th April History - Tinui was the 1st place in the world to have a formal celebration of Anzac Day. Back in 1914 there were over a thousand single men in the area, many volunteered for service and some lost their lives (“One of which was my uncle”-Rev).

In 1916 Rev Basil Ashcroft held a ANZAC ceremony at Tinui and erected a cross. The Tinui Parish Anzac Trust established in 2010, aims to preserve the Tinui ANZAC heritage, maintain full access to the cross, monument & surrounding area.

On reaching the peak we enjoyed the misty view and reflected on its significance as a memorial. It took about an hour to walk up from the car park.

board plus a good off road car park.

Over the ■ stile, at the start of the track, there was a stash of walking sticks.

The track stretches from the Tinui Cemetery to the 358-metre high summit of Mt Maunsell, which Tinui Station landowners Kelso and Jane Rushton are in the process of donating to the trust for public access.

We walked through plantation forest, farmland and native bush peaking at the Anzac Cross and trig point at the top of the Tinui Taipo (Mount Mansell) in misty conditions. The ANZAC Walkwww.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Above: Tramping through the plantation.

Below: Evan in reflective mood at the cross.

Walking New Zealand, issue no 271- 2020

15

Te Araroa Trail

Te Araroa partners with Walking Access Commission

T

e Araroa Trust and the resources and staff. This includes Walking Acits digital mapping team, cess Comits regional field advimission have sors, and other staff. joined forces to work People walking the on the Trust’s length-oftrail will notice overtime New Zealand trail. that their experience on The two organisathe trail improves – both tions have a lot in comfrom improvements to mon. Te Araroa Trust

By Stephen Day the trail itself and to the looks after the lengthinformation walkers can of-NZ trail stretching from the get about where they are going top of the North Island to the and what they are seeing. bottom of the South Island. The Trust chief executive, Mark Walking Access Commission Weatherall, has become a compromotes outdoor access to tracks mission staff member under the and trails all over the country new memorandum. He’s excited including many sections that are about the strategic opportunities part of the long Te Araroa trail. the partnership creates.

The Trust is kaitiaki for the “We keep our independence.

3000km walking trail stretching But we now have a crown agency from Cape Reinga to Bluff. Previ- supporting us in our day-to-day ously it relied on donations and work and help with the delivery volunteer support. Now it will of our strategic plan. We will still have access to the commission’s rely on volunteers and donations.

16 Walking New Zealand, issue no 271 - 2020

Above: On the Te Araroa Trail overlooking Lake Tekapo in the South Island. Photo by Mickael Gomes.

But now those donations will go to making the trail even better rather than keeping the trust standing.”

Weatherall says the Commission and the Trust want to move more of the trail off the road and onto tracks – making it safer and more scenic for walkers.

Part of that work is securing the ongoing legal access to walk across many different pieces of land. The two organisations also want to improve the already detailed information that Te Araroa walkers have.

The support of the many other organisations that have worked closely alongside the Trust over the years continues to be critical, as are efforts to bring on new partners.

“Without the backing and help of the Department of Conservation, local councils, iwi, private landholders and others across New Zealand, we simply would www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Te Araroa Trail

not have our national trail,” says Weatherall.

This partnership frees up the Trust to invest more time in its strategic planning. “We can start to plan for our future,” says Weatherall, “and an important part of our future is making the Te Araroa experience one that more New Zealanders can enjoy.”

Weatherall says that Te Araroa has always been a trail for New Zealanders. But COVID-19 makes that even more true. Many of the people who walk the whole trail in one go were international tourists. But the hundreds of thousands of Kiwis who walk segments of the trail every year easily outnumber them.

“We call the trail the walk of a lifetime. For Kiwis that means a walk that we can complete over our lifetime. We want to give New Zealanders the chance to walk the length of our country over the course of their lives.”

Weatherall says Te Araroa can play a key role in regional economic recovery from COVID-19.

The trail drives domestic tourism.

But more importantly, it is something that communities the length of the country can be proud of.

“We own it together and it links us as a single country. It tells the story of our history, showcases our natural beauty and sets a path for our future.”

Hundreds of thousands of New Zealanders have already walked parts of Te Araroa near their home.

Many have not realised that their local walk is part of a bigger journey that continues on in both directions, north and south.

The next step is to do other small segments of the journey. www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Above top: Sunset on the Tararuas north of Wellington in the North Island. Photo by Mickael Gomes.

Above: Enjoying the view from the South Island’s Richmond Ranges.

Photo by Mickael Gomes.

An epic story by Aucklander, Lorraine Thomson, of her solo 800km trek from St Jean Pied de Port in France, over the relentless Pyrenees, across Spain, to the ancient burial place of St James – Santiago de Compostela.

Lorraine outlines her trials and tribulations, the medieval landmarks and diverse people she meets along the way.

This is a must-read for anyone contemplating the Camino adventure.

Available from the publisher: www.pegasuspublishers.com

Or directly from the author by emailing: Lorraine@LVLT.co.nz Walking New Zealand, issue no 271- 2020

17

Photo Contest

18Walking WalkingNew New Zealand, issue no -271 - 2020 18 Zealand, issue no 271 2020

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Photo Contest

Opposite page above: In July we walked from the end of Mangorei road in New Plymouth to the Pouakai tarns and got rewarded with this beautiful view on Mount Taranaki. Photo by Saskia Bloot, Wanganui.

Below left: Creatures in the shadows. A .perfect day heading from Blyth Hut to Mangaheuheu. Photo by Niki Donnelly, Te Puke .

Below right: Mercer Bay, Karekare. Social distancing in Level 2. Photo

by Kay Willcocks, Onehunga.

Above left: A group of us lucky enough to experience the surreal landscape of Farewell Spit before such experiences locked down.

Photo by Vicky Ross, Red Beach.

Above right: Annie, Sylvia and Susanna walking up to the summit of Mount Maunganui. Photo by Alex Wong, Riverhead.

P H OTO CONTEST Available from Rangitawa Publishing,

rangitawa@xtra.co.nz,

Kindle, Amazon books or order from any book store.

We are looking for the best digital photos each month depicting walking Now the time to get your digital camera out or look through your digital images and enter the

Walking New Zealand Digital Photo Contest The image could be a scenic scene, a walk on the beach with the dog, a bush walk, a street walk or anything walking that takes your fancy.

The rules are simply: there must be a person or persons walking in the picture either front, side or back on, and can be in the distance. We require an emailed image in high resolution mode, in jpeg format as an attachment, and NOT embedded in Word or in the email, and NOT a link to a website to be downloaded.

The subject line must have the words “Walking New Zealand Photo Contest” and the email must include the NAME, POSTAL ADDRESS and phone number of the person who took the photo and a small caption.

In this contest only ONE emailed photo accepted per month. Entry in the contest automatically allows us to print the image. The person who has their photo published will receive a six month subscription or a renewal to Walking New Zealand magazine of six months. If a picture is chosen for the cover page the person will receive a 12 month subscription or renewal.

Email your entries to: walkingnz@xtra.co.nz with subject line “Walking New Zealand Photo Contest”Only EMAILED entries will be accepted.

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Walking New Zealand, issue no 271 - 2020 19 Walking New Zealand, issue no 271- 2020 19

New Zealand Experience

Our Routeburn experience:

Water, floods and everything else that could go wrong

O

By Marlene K Fox

n a trip to tramp the Routeburn and Greenstone tracks 10 of us left Glenorchy on Nov 13 1999 little known to us what was in front of us, being caught in one of the worst floods in 120 years.

We caught the bus from Glenorchy to the start of the Routeburn in brilliant sunshine, our first night being the Routeburn Falls hut. Arrived in lovely fine weather. We read the DOC weather

report in the hut and saw that the weather was meant to turn rough the next day.

So preparing for that we got away early next morning as to get over Harris Saddle, being our highest point on the track, before the weather got bad. Just after leaving Harris shelter and heading down the Hollyford face, the weather turned for the worst.

By the time we arrived at Lake McKenzie hut it was pouring, and then the thunder and lightning started (It lasted 40 hours by the

time it had stopped). It continued to pour thunder and lightning all through the night.

The next day was no better, and it still rained, thundered and lightning all the way to our next stop, Lake McKellar on the Greenstone Track. Rain still continued all night, and one clap of thunder was so loud that it shook the pots on the bench.

We left early again the next morning as to get to our next hut, Above: Flooded Glenorchy with the Dart River in the background.

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20 Walking New Zealand, issue no 271 - 2020

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New Zealand Experience

Mid Greenstone, before there was too much water about. The track was under water in a lot of places and rivers were rising quickly.

Still the rain continued and didn’t seem to be lifting much at all.

After going through a lot of water, some waist deep , we arrived at the Mid Greenstone Hut. The rain thunder and lightning continued all night. We could see the Greenstone River in front of us slowly rising.

Next morning was our last day on the tramp, and we were due at the Greenstone shelter to meet the 2pm bus. We set off about 8am to give us plenty of time to get there.

All went well except for surface flooding on the track, until we got to where we were meant to go along the grassy flats in the riverbed, there was no way we could do that as water was above the track level and we could only just see the track markers so we were above the river on to higher ground keeping the trackerd markers in our view.

We sidled around the side of the hills, crossing a shingle slip which was turning into a waterfall and starting to move. With a bit of bush bashing we got back on to the track. Just past the Slyburn Hut turn off we had to take our packs off to cross a flooded waterfall, which would only have been a trickle of a stream once.

We were once again going along the track quite well when we got to another lot of flooding over the track and about thigh deep, so we crossed to higher ground, and bush bashed our

.

Above right: The Dart River in flood.

Middle right: In the township of Glenorchy.

Below right: A stream flooded running into the Greenstone River. www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Walking New Zealand, issue no 271- 2020

21

New Zealand Experience

Our Routeburn Experience: Water,

floods and everything else that could go wrong

way on higher ground back on to the track. We then crossed a footbridge which the water was flowing over the top of, and kept going then crossing the emergency footbridge by Slip Flat. On passing through Slip Flat I looked

downhill into the very flooded Greenstone River.

No way could we get past that, so the option was to turn back and go out the Lake Rere Track.

We headed away crossing another bridge over a flooded stream,

Above left: The bridge over stream at Slip Flat.

Above right: A flooded Greenstone River full of logs and debris. and then had to cautiously cross a stream which was moving fast, and then back on the track we met three other trampers who had turned back trying to do the same as us.

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We kept going, all of us a bit wet by now. We got to a waterfall just past Lake Rere turn off which was over the track and roaring

22 Walking New Zealand, issue no 271 - 2020

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New Zealand Experience

They said they couldn’t cross a river further on, as it was waist deep and fast flowing, so we were trapped.

The only option was to turn back to the little green biv, as we wouldn’t have got back to the hut we had left that morning as the flooding we had come through would have been worse.

Off we went, it was still pouring with rain, and some of the older members in our group getting a bit tired.

On arriving back at the biv we looked inside and it only slept three, and there were 10 of us.

Well at least it was a roof over our head. We all put on dry clothes and had a hot drink to warm up, by this time all the mice had vacated the biv.

About 3pm it tried to clear up even a small glimpse of sun tried to peep through. The rivers both sides of us were roaring. There was quite a bit of snow on the mountains beside us.

At least it had stopped raining and we could go outside and cook our tea. We knew that if it stopped raining for long enough that the waterfall would drop and we could get out the next day.

Now it was time to work out how we would all sleep in the little biv. Eight of us topped and tailed, one slept on a bucket by the fire, and another on the wood box. Oh what a night.

Quite a few jokes were told during the evening. At 1am it was change places and a cup of tea. No one hardly slept, except there was the occasional snore now and then.

After a terrible night’s sleep, but a fine day, we packed up and headed away, hoping to get the 10am boat, little known to us that there were major road slips and we couldn’t get the bus to meet www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

the boat anyway.

All was going well and the flooding had receded, but the track was a mess and the river full of debris.

About an hour on the journey a helicopter kept hovering over us. We kept walking and finally a man hung out of the helicopter and yelled out go back, we wondered why, but turned around and headed back.

The DOC officer and policeman came along the track to meet us, and asked if we were the 10 middle aged people having trouble getting out, as we were meant to be out the day before.

They said a big slip had washed out the end of the track and we wouldn’t get out, so it was in the helicopter, luckily at that stage it wasn’t an Iroquois.

He took five at a time. Seven minutes later we were back in Glenorchy. The flooding was really amazing from the air. On arriving back at DOC we were each allowed to make a call home to let people know that we were safe. An Iroquois got trampers out from other tracks in the area.

So it was back to the hotel to clean up and dry out.

The next story was that we couldn’t get out of Glenorchy by road, as the road was closed.

Quite an eventful few days, but a trip that won’t be forgotten.

Luckily we were all experienced trampers and would havehad enough food for two more days.

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Walking New Zealand, issue no 271- 2020

23

New Zealand Walk

Lockdown activities

With everyone staying in their bubble during the lockdown, our local streets had more people walking and cycling for physical activity and getting to the local supermarket.

Communities across the country have found creative ways to encourage more local physical exercise.

The placement of teddy bears, and later Easter egg pictures, in windows as a form of physically distant scavenger hunt have been fun for big and little kids alike. Many have used chalk on the ground to draw pictures, write words of encouragement or develop obstacle courses for local residents.

If you’ve doing anything active in your neighbourhood to encourage exercise, like walking etc, please share your story with us. Just email walkingnz@xtra.co.nz with a story from say 100 words with one image and if published you could win a free six month subscription or extension to Walking New Zealand magazine.

Include your name and postal address.

Nature is good for us

J

eff recounts how he – and his family – have benefited from letting nature in.

“Our challenge isn’t so much to teach children about the natural world, but to find ways to sustain the instinctive connections they already carry.” – Terry Krautwurst, American writer Our family is not what you might call “outdoorsy”.

We do not go camping. We definitely do not go tramping. We don’t (other than for bargains in the supermarket), and we don’t go fishing.

We certainly don’t ski, snow-

board, or do anything involving icy mountain slopes which may result in an ACC claim. Nor do we surf or go swimming, for that matter.

But we do love nature – walking along beaches collecting shells and kicking sand, watching birds out our kitchen window, a stroll along the banks of the Waikato River and the occasional walk in the forest. We like nature documentaries, picturesque natural landscapes, and the sights and smells of spring growth.

Like the vast majority of New Zealanders during the COVID-19

24 Walking New Zealand, issue no 271 - 2020

By Jeff Neems

DOC’s Communications Advisor for the Hauraki Waikato Taranaki region.

lockdown earlier this year, our family of six – two “seasoned” adults, two young women, and two small boys – was stuck at home. We couldn’t go anywhere, other than a walk around the block, a bike ride, or a leisurely walk through Hamilton Gardens.

Our daily exercise was our solace, and nature was the place we went for it – an escape from the boredom of home, a respite from the grind of trying to retain a sense of normality in very abnormal circumstances, with increasingly grim predictions emanating from every news media outlet in the land.

The lockdown experience of our family was shared by many others, and is one of the reasons the Department of Conservation has chosen Nature Through New Eyes as its theme for Conservation Week 2020.

It’s about slowing down, soaking up nature’s benefits to our individual well-being, and taking time to enjoy the natural world’s endless wonder. It’s about breathing, looking, feeling, touching and being in nature in a time when very little in our civilization seems at all certain – apart, Above: Eli (8) and Amos (6) enjoying time in nature. Photo: Jeff Neems www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

New Zealand Walk

perhaps, from nature itself.

One of our staff, an expert in Te Reo Māori, translated “nature through new eyes” for us. “He tirohanga hou ki te taiao”/“A new way of viewing nature” he delivered, taking time to point out a literal Te Reo Māori translation of this year’s theme wouldn’t have made a great deal of sense.

At the crux of all this is a simple notion – that nature makes you feel better.

Despite the fact I am very much a “city person” the Conservation Week 2020 theme resonated strongly with me. It reminded me of a commitment I gave my two boys, Eli (8) and Amos (6): I’d promised, we would go on more little forest adventures, exploring the natural world the Department of Conservation manages on behalf of all New Zealanders.

So, in early June, once safe to do so: I kept my promise, and bundled the little fellas – nervous and a little confused, as they were – into our family van and headed for Pirongia Forest Park, which I can see from my office window most days.

Reliable sources inside DOC informed me the Mangakara Nature Walk was kid-friendly, easy to access, and wouldn’t put my dodgy left knee under too much pressure.

It was a magical little afternoon adventure, punctuated by bird song, the rustle of the wind in the trees, and the gentle “woosh” of perfectly clear mountain water running down a beautiful forest

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stream. The boys dashed about excitedly, reading the little information signs, gazing at the colourful stones in the streams, and busily comparing the size of the tawa, miro and kahikatea trees to authoritatively determine which one was the largest. There was plenty of looking at the forest canopy, and one or two trees were even hugged by small loving arms.

More than an hour passed as we strolled through the forest on well-formed tracks, amid majestic native bush. Part of me didn’t want to leave, but the sun was dropping in the sky at the same rate as the temperature, the shadows of the trees were getting longer, and small stomachs were grumbling.

We’d read all the signs, compared a bunch of native trees, failed to find any fish or frogs in the streams, but we’d breathed fresh mountain air, felt the crunch of fallen leaves and pebbles below our feet, and admired the sheer green-ness of the forest.

The boys hadn’t argued once: they’d dashed ahead to read the next sign, see the next bend in the stream, or stand on the next big rock. There was a feeling of won-

Above: Boost your wellbeing by immersing yourself virtually or in local spaces if you can. Photo: Jeff Neems der and enthusiasm on their little faces that filled my heart with joy, and just for a short while, made me forget my worries and the frustrations of adult life.

As we drove down the mountain road, headed back to the city, Eli had something on his mind.

“Papa,” he asked, pausing for a moment to form his question properly.

“I liked the forest. It was really nice. It made me feel good. Can we go again?”

I must admit I was choking up a bit, unable to say too much in response.

“Yes mate,” I mumbled, “yes, of course, we can. That’s what it’s there for, to make us feel good.”

Kiwi on the Camino

by Vivianne Flintoff 900kms along an ancient pilgrimage trail in Northern Spain Available from independent book sellers or directly from author E-mail : vivianneflintoffbooks@gmail.com Web: http://www.vivianneflintoffbooks.com/

Walking New Zealand, issue no 271- 2020

25

New Zealand Walk

An architectural walk – in Wellington

O

riental Bay is full of architectual gems – you certainly don’t have to be a gung ho walker to enjoy this enchanting corner of Wellington.

Take a slow and leisurely time for this walk – say, one hour and that includes a coffee! By Judith Doyle From Courtenay Place – one of Wellington’s main transport hubs – catch the No 20 bus and get off at St Gerard’s Monastery and Church.

(Unless you’re one of the aforementioned gung ho walkers in which case you can walk up to the Monastery).

The church was built in 1906– 10 for the Redemptorists, a Roman Catholic missionary congregation. It is said to be the first church in the world to be dedicated to the Italian Saint Gerard Majella (patron saint of pregnant women). It is built (architect: John

.

Sydney Swan) in 19th Century gothic revival style of brick and plaster with a slate roof.

It has a beautiful altar of green Devonshire marble, with columns of green Galway and white Italian marble. The exquisite stained-glass windows were made in Birmingham.

In 1932 the monastery was completed (architect: Frederick de Jersey Clere) as the Redemptorists’ home. It echoed the style of the church. Built of concrete

26 Walking New Zealand, issue no 271 - 2020

and steel with a brick facing, its many-arched frontage is in collegiate gothic style.

Walk down the zigzag footpath, past many wooden houses snuggled into the hill. When you join Oriental Parade, you pass a distinctive building on your right (built 1939). With generous Above right: St Gerard’s Monastery lords it over Oriental Bay. Below left: Inverleith has sleek elegant lines. www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

New Zealand Walk

stripes of pale pink and darker pink, it has rounded window areas with window hoods. A fine example of the Moderne style, its architect Edmund Anscombe lived in its penthouse apartment.

Further along, side by side, are four fascinating but very different buildings. The first (No 294) is an endearing white Dutch-style house, built in 1920.

Next to it is an example of an English cottage revival style in brick – built in 1928 for William Kemball who was the first owner of the Embassy Theatre.

The third is in concrete and red brick in Georgian revival style. It was built in 1930 for Sir Donald McGavin, a highly-respected surgeon.

No 320 is topped by one of my architectural favorites – a fat little tower with three windows facing the sea.

And then comes Inverleith, the first high-rise (at the time) apartment block in Oriental Bay and one of the earliest in Wellington.

Now you can take a bit of exercise (not much) past some apartment buildings before reaching the long frontage of No 348–352.

Although an unsympathetic apartment has been added on top, its original frontage of arched windows and wreath decoration remain to make it special.

Walking back on the seaside, www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

pause at the Band Rotunda. It was constructed in 1917 as a platform for a relocated band structure. For many years, it provided a lookout on top, a family restaurant, and community rooms below.

Local resident, Maurice Clarke, is earthquake-strengthening it, but there are other issues connected with rising sea levels to be sorted out, so locals who are fond of this quaint structure, hope they can be resolved.

I ended my architectural walk by gazing at the ‘Seven Sisters’.

They are the remainder of an original group of nine houses designed by Wellington architect, Joshua Charlesworth (1861-1925.

Although these houses were designed following the convention and traditional style of the time, each was designed differently to create an atmosphere of indi-

vidualism. They are an unusual example of a New Zealand interpretation of San Franciscan terrace housing.

Head back to the starting point, Courtenay Place, and have a coffee at one of the coffee shops en route – perhaps the Tug Boat café.

And that’s another story.

Above left: Two interesting building styles: one is English cottage revival, the larger is in Georgian revival.

Above right: My favourite architectural feature: a tower.

Below right: Locals love their Band Rotunda.

Walking New Zealand, issue no 271- 2020

27

My Favourite Walk

Along the walkway at

T

By Robyn Selbie

he day dawns clear with a dose of crispy fresh air which stings your face and brings colour to your cheeks. Where to walk on such a morning?

Not a problem if you live on the Otago Peninsula. Since 2019 the Dunedin City Council and the New Zealand Transport Authority have been building an extension to the walkway/cycleway which leads into the city from Macandrew Bay. Twelve months on it will be possible to walk all the way from the city to see the Albatross at Harington Point.

This is my walk of choice on a frosty morning. Safe from the traffic with wonderful scenes along the harbour to enjoy, I head off; well wrapped up with my winter gear. Fortunately, I also took my camera, so I have a few photos to share.

Today the sun is low in the sky and the water simmers in the frosty light.

I set off from Marion Street

.

Macandrew Bay

intending to walk to the Cove which is about an eight kilometre return walk but I could continue to walk into the city or stop off at the Vauxhall Boat Club and catch a bus home. That is part of the appeal of this walk, you can leave your car anywhere along the way and walk as far as the spirit moves you.

The pathway is level so ideal for wheelchairs and walkers, prams, and folk with walking sticks can also enjoy an outing at their pace.

The walkway was a godsend during lockdown as it is a broad pathway, ideal for social distancing, and already asphalted most of the way around the water’s edge.

It is suitable for all forms of recreation, so you do have to share with cyclists, skateboarders, skaters and the like. Picturesque boat sheds line the walkway and provide another resting place for the Stewart Island Gulls and seagulls that frequent to harbour.

It is low tide as I walk so, I scan the shore for wildlife. The

28 Walking New Zealand, issue no 271 - 2020

pathway leads along the edge of the harbour which makes it easy to look for sea life.

Yesterday it was a high tide and a sea lion accompanied me along part of the walk, another day it was the seagulls kicking up a frenzy over the krill washed up on the shore.

Sea lions are an impressive sight as they glide through the water, a black hump arising out of the water at regular intervals expelling a lungful of air each time it surfaces.

Some way along the walkway a significant tree has been retained to allow the gulls to roost on their traditional home. The landscaping is underway here to make this a pleasant stopping place.

The path leads onwards towards a new pedestrian bridge specially built so walkers can observe the original stone walls built by unemployed labour after the Great Depression.

The new wall has been built some metres out from the original by newly trained artisans trained in building rock walls. This is a great place to stop and look towards the city. A winter haze has an interesting effect on the Above left: Views to the city from the bridge.

Below right: Figure 4: Under construction at the Cove.

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

My Favourite Walk

sunlight.

Walking further towards the city you arrive at the distinctive white gate at Stoneleigh. This was the site of the tollgate collection point. The keeper lived here and everyone who ventured down the peninsula would need to pay up in order to proceed further along the rudimentary track.

From here the walkway takes you to Challis Point with a small collection of houses. During lockdown you could spy a few favourite teddy bears peering out from the windows.

By now you are in sight of the Cove which is my destination for the day. Work is continuing at pace here by the Fulton and Hogan crew. This section has been a major construction task, heavens knows how much soil, construction fill and loads of rock have been trucked in to build up the road surface and create the walkway running around the foot of the road.

Landscaping promises an attractive stopover for lunch in the future but not today!

My trek home follows the same pathway, but the scenery changes and your gaze take in the hills of www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

the Otago Peninsula, the views across the harbour to Port Chalmers, Mount Cargill and the small settlements dotting the road towards Portobello.

I enjoy this walk anytime of the day or night. The views are stunning at any time, calm days provide spectacular reflections, and fellow walkers are a friendly lot. It is safe and well lit and at night the lights of the harbour are a bonus.

Visitors to the city could continue their journey from here to the beaches of Allen’s Beach,

the Albatross Colony or visit the township of Portobello for lunch.

The Peninsula offers other opportunities for walking so next time you visit Dunedin pack your walking shoes and enjoy our back door.

Above left: Evening view from the walkway towards the city of Dunedin.

Above right: Roosting place for the gulls. You can spot one with outstretched wings near to the crown of the tree.

Below: Seagulls chasing the krill.

Walking New Zealand, issue no 271- 2020

29

Trip through the

tulips 30 Walking New Zealand, issue no 271 - 2020

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Bikers visit Aalsmeer flower auctions on a Springflowers Bike and Barge tour.

Walking New Zealand, issue no 271- 2020 31

Cycling Tours

By Jill Grant

Jill is an Auckland based journalist and photographer

Trip through the tulips

C

32 Walking New Zealand, issue no 271 - 2020

ycling Europe’s Bike, Boat & Barge season starts every year with the Springflowers Bike and Barge tours in Holland.

Bikers get to visit the world’s largest flower auctions at Aalsmeer where early each morning, millions of flowers are auctioned off here and instantly sent out to all corners of the world.

Another treat in store is the famous Keukenhof, known as “the most beautiful Spring garden in the world”. It’s a riot of brilliant colours and a garden lover’s mecca where you can admire hundreds of thousands of tulips, daffodils, hyacinths and www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Cycling Tours

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many other flowers in full bloom.

The tulips and bulbs will still be there this year but the visitors won’t. Keukenhof cannot open at all this year due to Covid-19 but they will be publishing videos on their website www.keukenhof.nl when all the bulbs are blooming.

The park is usually open 21 March to 10 May so take a virtual trip through the tulips.

Not only are the bulbs a glorious sight to see, bikers also visit charming historic towns such as Haarlem and Ghent, plus typical Dutch villages where you can sample locally made cheeses.

In the evening they rejoin the barge in its new location for a three course dinner with fellow travellers from multi-national backgrounds.

Barges are very comfortable and take on average between Opposite page above: The Keukenhof Gardens is a brilliant show of spring bulbs and a highlight on a Springflowers Bike & Barge tour.

Opposite page below and above: Historic towns like Haarlem are visited on the Springflowers Bike & Barge tour. www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

30 to 40 passengers. They are specifically designed to navigate the canals and waterways of the Benelux countries.

These Bike and Barge tours are graded easy as most of Holland is flat, therefore anyone who has a reasonable level of fitness can do these tours. There are five day tours Amsterdam back to Amsterdam that showcase the springflowers, and longer eight day tours which go between Amsterdam and Bruges in Belgium, plus vice versa.

Dates for Springflowers Bike Boat and Barge tours in 2021 have been released.

Contact info@walkworld.co.nz www.cycling-europe.com

Kiwi on the Camino

by Vivianne Flintoff 900kms along an ancient pilgrimage trail in Northern Spain Available from independent book sellers or directly from author E-mail : vivianneflintoffbooks@gmail.com Web: http://www.vivianneflintoffbooks.com/

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P O Box 1922, Palmerston North Phone 0800-925-546 Fax 06-358-6864 or www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz Walking New Zealand, issue no 271- 2020

33

New Zealand Walk

Nydia Track - something for everyone

E

very walk on the Nydia Track, Pelorus Sound, Marlborough offers a different experience - a scent of flowering manuka, the feel of a sea breeze, sounds of tui and bellbirds, an occasional glimpse of wild pigs, deer and goats or the surprisingly rare chance of bumping into a like-minded tramper.

For the Blom family (parents Helen and Art, and young adults Nick, Maegen, Emma and Art jnr) - the Nydia Track holds many wonderful family memories and it’s a place they regularly return to enjoy and share with others.

The Blom family connection to the area began in 2015 when they purchased the remote On the Track Lodge at Nydia Bay, half way along the Nydia Track, Pelorus Sound, Marlborough.

Helen and Art had inspected the accommodation lodge only once, travelling in and out by boat as there is no road access. This meant their first walk on the track from Kaiuma Bay to Nydia Bay was very special, as it introduced the rest of the family to what would be their home and playground for several years.

Above: Looking down at Pelorus Sound from the track.

34 Walking New Zealand, issue no 271 - 2020

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

New Zealand Walk

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Family members remember the excitement and anticipation of that journey and the beauty of the native bush encountered for the first time.

Each member of the family has since explored and enjoyed the Nydia Track many times.

The 27 km track runs from Kaiuma Bay to Nydia Bay then on to Duncan Bay with walkers normally covering the distance in two easy days (five and a half hours and four hours respectively) stopping overnight at either On the Track Lodge or the DOC hut in Nydia Bay. Shuttle transfers to and from

the track and Havelock are available, as is vehicle relocation, or with a bit of organisation two groups can walk the track from either end, swapping keys in the middle.

The Havelock Mail Boat runs regularly to the jetty at Nydia Bay offering an alternate way to explore the area and water taxi services are also available.

Helen and youngest daughter Emma believe walking is the best way to discover the track. They Above: On the Track Lodge.

Below: Mountain biking is an option for the adverturous.

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Walking New Zealand, issue no 271- 2020

35

New Zealand Walk

Nydia Track - something for everyone

Above top: Looking down at Pelorus Sound from the track.

Above: The Blom family parents Art and Helen with children, Nick, Maegen, Emma and Art jnr.

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36 Walking New Zealand, issue no 271 - 2020

love the native ferns and bush, relishing views over Nydia Bay from the top of both saddles.

Helen likes to veer off the track at the top of Kaiuma Saddle, scrambling over rocks for two to three minutes to get a view of the Kaikoura Ranges (sometimes sharing the view point with wild goats).

Both agree some of their happiest times are spent walking the track with friends and family and watching how the greens of the bush change with the seasons.

Art enjoys the challenge of the track - “it’s not a walk in the park but still feels safe” and the fact he can leave the hustle and bustle of civilization behind when he heads out on the track. ‘I love entering the bush after walking through open fields...the sun when coming out of the trees and the fresh bush smell, especially after the rain”.

For a different perspective Art recommends venturing out on the track at night to watch the glow worms.

Maegen is a runner and also loves the view from the peaks of the two saddles and her advice for visitors to take their time and really look at the bush surroundings. She has great memories of seeing a stag on the track and dolphins coming right into Nydia Bay to visit.

Another draw card is the history of the region - local Maori lived there for centuries with Europeans moving into the area for timber milling in the nineteenth century.

Everyone in the family agrees that the track is best enjoyed between October and April and walkers should have a reasonable level of fitness and wear good boots as the track is uneven.

Oldest son Nick suggests this makes the track a lot more fun www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

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track and bikers need to be prepared, have good gear and be ready for a challenge as in wet weather it can be very slippery.

However, it’s also a good track to practice your technical skills - riders can take their time and On the Track Lodge offers an outdoor hot tub for guests to soothe any sore muscles.

For those who like to share their holidays with the family dog - Nydia Track does allow dogs to visit provided they are on a leash and owners apply for the easily sourced Department of Conservation approval in advance.

On the Track Lodge welcomes well behaved dogs by arrangement and can provide suitable shelter although please note dogs are not allowed indoors.

For more information on the Blom Family or Nydia Track please visit: www.stayonthetracklodge.nz https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=lackrL2jNfk (2019

.

and his advice is practical - take your shoes off when crossing the streams (there are a couple which are easy to cross) and stay dry for the rest of the journey.

Being just a two day journey means most walkers carry only a light day pack - those staying at On the Track Lodge are provided with all home comforts - meals, comfortable beds, hot showers and communal spaces including a library.

Having the mail boat passing several times a week in summer means it’s possible to opt out of half of the walk if feet hurt or the weather is inclement - alternatively walkers can choose to stay an extra night at the lodge to rest and relax (and explore the Nydia Bay area - (more on that in the next Walking New Zealand edition).

Art jnr is the speed demon of the family and loves the challenge of the five to eight hour Nydia Track mountain bike track.

“I like it because it’s not a whole day hike or bike ride; you can take your time and still have space to enjoy the rest of the day doing something else”.

It’s a Level 4 mountain bike

Above: Two walkers on the Nydia Track with one admiring a large tree on the right.

Country Calendar story) https://www.doc.govt.nz/ parks-and-recreation/places-togo/marlborough/places/pelorus-and-kenepuru-sounds-area/ things-to-do/tracks/nydia-track/

Walking New Zealand, issue no 271- 2020

37

My Favourite Walk

Exploring the scenery of the Far North

W

e spent two magicial days walking in the Far North, near Cape Reinga.

Because we d i d n ’ t wa n t t o By Barbz Lowther carry heavy packs and tents for the four day trek, from Kopuwairua on the eastern end of Spirits Bay to Te Paki Stream, on the west coast; we opted for a ’walk/drive combo’ - still seeing the same scenery, but also managing to avoid the rain.

We started off by driving to Above: Taputaputa Bay. Left: Overlooking beautiful Te Werahi Beach.

38 Walking New Zealand, issue no 271 - 2020

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

My Favourite Walk

Above right: Down on Te Werahi Beach.

Below right:. The sand dunes of Te Paki.

.

Waitiki Landing, the closest accommodation to the cape.

After unloading gear, we continued on to the lighthouse, and stood watching the interesting turbulence where the Tasman Sea and Pacific Ocean meet.

From there a well marked track led down to Te Werehu Beach, over a rocky headland, south along the sand, and back up another trail to meet with Cape Reinga Road (SH1)- a lovely walk with stunning views all the way.

Our next stop was Taputaputa Bay (sign posted from SH1) We wandered a short way along this bay as huge waves thundered in, the sky darkened and a shower threatened.

Racing back to the car we drove south to Te Paki Stream. By then, the squall had passed through, and several groups of people were beginning the climb to the top of enormous golden dunes, to slide down on toboggans, boogie

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Walking New Zealand, issue no 271- 2020

39

My Favourite Walk

Exploring the scenery of the Far North boards, or even bits of cardboard. Judging by the squeals, it was good fun.

We spent the night at Waitiki, and the following morning, drove east to Kopuwairua. It was absolutely beautiful with clear blue sky, golden sand, and long continuous waves, with spray flying high, as the waves broke

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40 Walking New Zealand, issue no 271 - 2020

and rolled gently up the beach.

There were two trails leading towards the cape along the beach, or on a vehicle trail behind the dunes, We wandered along the sand chasing spinifex seed heads, as a light breeze tumbled them along ahead of us. Long grasses and ‘bunny-tails’ grew in abundance in the dunes, and tiny seaweed plants clung to the damp sand.

After an hour we reached an estuary where extensive boardwalk took us over ponds teeming with mullet. Huge fish splashed and dashed in every direction as we Above: Boardwalk over the lagoon teaming with mullet.

Below left: Derek beside the shelter at Pandora bay. www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

My Favourite Walk

walked above them..

From here the trail led through stands of manuka and nikau before dropping us back onto the golden sand.

Pandora Bay was just around the next headland. Following a trail inland, we reached a wooden pagoda with seats, toilets, and a water tap. It was a beautiful tranquil spot for a picnic, a midway point for those returning to SH1 through a native bush track, and a camp ground for those walking the longer trail.

By time we’d had lunch, the tide was in, so we took the high path, a very steep track up and over the headland. When we reached the estuary, there were even more mullet splashing around. Oh for a net !

This time we followed the vehicle trail for half the way. On one side were dunes, the other wetlands with brilliant green grasses and reeds.

We were back to the car within five hours after a beautiful and rewarding walk.

Event

Above left: Seaweed on the beach.

Above right: At the west end of the beach before entering the bush track.

Below: Beside the vehicle track on the other side of the dunes.

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Walking New Zealand, issue no 271- 2020

41

Te Araroa Trail

Te Araroa Northland Trust revitalised

N

ew Zealand’s 3,000 km Te Araroa trail has received a welcome boost with the appointment of a new regional trust to help improve the walking experience in Northland.

Chaired by financial advisor and adventure racer Shane Knowler, the regional trust will work closely with Te Araroa Trust’s national board and chief executive to enhance the 450 km section of the trail that passes through the Northland region.

The other appointments to the Northland trust are planning consultant Robin Rawson, council iwi liaison officer Rachel Ropiha, DOC ranger Marty Ackroyd, communications consultant Linda Donaldson and trail walkers Joanne Gardner, Kerry Shanta and Mark Williams.

Te Araroa Trust chief executive M a r k We a t h e r a l l s a i d t h e appointment of the Northland trust was part of a national effort to re-invigorate Te Araroa’s regional

trusts across New Zealand.

“It’s been more than five years since Northland last had its own trust and we’re thrilled to again have a strong local presence to develop and improve relationships and coordinate our volunteers in the region.”

Mr Knowler said he and his fellow trust members were energised and looking f o r wa r d t o m a k i n g a difference. Final steps were underway to formalise the trust’s legal structure and they would then be fully operational, he said.

“The majority of walkers tend to do the trail North to South so Northland is the first stage they experience. It’s got spectacular kauri forests, Ninety Mile Beach and a lot of exposure to Māori culture and we’re looking forward to working with people and organisations across our region to make sure the experience is high quality and remains sustainable for the long term.”

The internationally renowned Te Araroa trail stretches from Cape

42 Walking New Zealand, issue no 271 - 2020

Above: Ninety Mile Beach on Te Araroa trail. Photo by Amos Chapple.

Below right: Te Araroa Northland Trust Chair Shane Knowler.

Reinga at the top of the North Island to Bluff at the bottom of the South Island. Along the way it takes in some of New Zealand’s most spectacular scenery, more than 20 towns and cities, and many significant cultural sites such as the Waitangi Treaty Grounds and Whanganui River. www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

CONTENTS for previous 15 issues SEPTEMBER 270 2020

2 Pak - A - Roo Walking Jacket 3 Contents 4 Walk Talk 6 New Zealand Walk: Palmers Track - Great Barrier Island 12 John Fensham Memoral Sanctuary - a lowland forest walk 15 New Zealand Walk: Invigorating winter tramp on the Mania Track 15 Kawerau Accomodation: Firmin Lodge 18 Walking New Zealand Monthly Photo Contest 20 Short walks to get you off the couch 23 Lockdown Activities: A morepork and the Milky Way 24 Northland Experiences: Two wheels and Shank’s Pony 28 New Zealand Walks: A week of walks on Chatham Islands 36 Event: Bay of Islands Walking Weekend - A real mix - hiking, biking trains and walks for non walkers 40 Event: Delightful dozen walks at Warkworth Weekend 2020 43 Index of previous 14 issues 44 Subscription page 45 Coming Events: New Zealand 48 New Zealand Walking Tours 48 New Zealand Country Breaks 51 Event: A great view from one of the Warkworth’s Walks 52 Wilderness Guides

AUGUST 269 2020

2 Pak - A - Roo Walking Jacket 3 Contents 4 Walk Talk 6 New Zealand Walk: Cook’s Cove Walkway to an historic monument 10 Queen Charlotte Track: Testing our limits on the Queen Charlotte 16 Lockdown Activities: Helping walkers along the way. Waitangi Regional Park.

18 Walking New Zealand Monthly Photo Contest 20 Rotorua Walks: Short walks around Rotorua 22 Rotorua Walks: Ten great Rotorua walks and trails 23 Rotorua Walks: Tarawera Trail a great nature walk 24 Rotorua Walks: Firmin Lodge 26 Bay of Islands Walking Weekend: Mana, missionaries and mayhem 28 Need2Know: Pop goes my pelvis 30 New Zealand Walk Birdlife and song highlight of Bushy Park 31 New Zealand Walk : Bushy Park sanctuary a top restoration project 32 New Zealand Walk: Curio Bay experiences 34 New Zealand Walk: Ballroom Overhang Track - Fox River West Coast 36 Need2Know: Baldwin Street steepest street again 37 Walking Access Commission: Trust saves public access to beach 38 Northland Experience: Monica cycles the Cook to Kupe Tour for a real Norhland experience 40 Need2Know: Tactical Unbanism gives cheap solutions for Auckland pedestrians and cyclists 43 High Achiever: Pre-schoolers delight at compe- tion win 44 New Zealand Walk: Big plans for walking and cycle paths along Avon River corridor 45 Coming Events: New Zealand 48 New Zealand Walking Tours 48 New Zealand Country Breaks 52 Walkers on the Tuki Tuki River Trail

ing up Mt Wash-ington.

14 Northland Experiences: The Old Chooks Tour of Northland 17 News: A billion-dollar opportunity for walkers 18 Walking New Zealand Monthly Photo Contest 20 New Zealand Walks: Bookable huts - a Summer success 23 Need2Know: Walking on private land 24 Auckland Walk: Mt Hobson Walk for panoramic city views 27 Covid-129: Travel faces a reinvention 28 New Zealand Walk: Lindsay Scenic Reserve Walk 30 My Favoutite Walk: Cardiff Centennial Walk through natural bush and farmland 34 New Zealand Walk: Beat the heat do the Donald Drift 37 Australian Walk: Burleigh Heads National Park walks 40 Auckland Walk: A ramble on Anzac Day - Point England Walkway 44 Books: God’s Cocaine - the addiction of the Camino 45 Coming Events: New Zealand 48 New Zealand Country Breaks 52 Northland Experiences

APRIL 267 2020

2 Pak - A - Roo Walking Jacket 3 Contents 4 Walk Talk 6 Great Walks: The Back Story of “The Routeburn Saga” 9 Great Walks: “The Routeburn Saga” 11 New Zealand Walk: Track a memorial to Truby King 12 New Zealand Walks: Paritutu Rock a challenge in New Plymouth 15 Book: Relentless - how a mother and daughter defired the odds 16 New Zealand Walk: Always different - The Art Deco Walk 18 Walking New Zealand Monthly Photo Contest 20 New Zealand Walk: Waiheke Island revisited - Retracing past footsteps 26 New Zealand Walk: Te Pare Reserve rich in history 30 New Zealand Walk: Tongariro Alpine Crossing one of the best one day walks in the world 36 New Zealand Walk: Wide country views from Mt William Walk 39 New Zealand Walk: Haast Pass/ Tioripatea Highway short walks 40 Australian Walk: Unique track is popular tourist attraction 42 Overseas Walks and Tours 44 Index of previous 14 issues 45 Coming Events: New Zealand 48 Coming Events: Overseas 52 Directory of Walking Groups 56 New Zealand Country Breaks 60 Great Forest Events

MARCH 266 2020

4 Walk Talk 6 New Zealand Walks: Cable Bay’s family farmland walk 8 New Zealand Walk: Eastwoodhill - the national arboretum of New Zealand 12 New Zealand Walk: Eastwoodhill offers six walks to suit all levels and abilities 14 New Zealand Walks: Four walks at Hanmer Springs in one week 18 Walking New Zealand Monthly Photo Contest 20 Overseas Walks: Norfolk Island - a magical slice of paradise 23 New Zealand Walk: Milford to Takapuna Walk 26 New Zealand Walk: Herekawa Stream and Clifftop Walk 30 Overseas Walks: Experience Australia’s newest walking challenge - Ranges to River 34 New Zealand Walk: Carter Scenic Reserve walk 36 New Zealand Walk: Walk to the stars near Napier 38 New Zealand Walk: Otari - Wilton’s Bush - with 14kms of walking MAY-JULY 268 2020 tracks 3 Contents 42 Overseas Walks and Tours 4 Walk Talk 44 Index of previous 14 issues 6 New Zealand Walk: Queen Char- 45 Coming Events: New Zealand 48 Coming Events: Overseas lotte Track - Here we come!

10 New Zealand Walk: Walking 52 Directory of Walking Groups 56 New Zealand Country Breaks the Track 60 Manawatu Walking Festival 11 New Zealand Walk: The Queen FEBRUARY 265 2020 Charlotte Track - 4 Walk Talk why walk it when you can ride?

13 Lockdown Activities: Walking and 6 New Zealand Walks: Top picks to explore this summer biking around Papamoa - Train-

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

9 Auckland Short Walk: St Johns Bush Walk a short nature walk 10 New Zealand Walk: Waikato River Walking Track 12 New Zealand Walk: Te Koutu Park - a delightful walk 14 New Zealand Walk: A taste of the Old Coach Road 16 New Zealand Walk: Pakihi Track reopened for the summer season 17 New Zealand Walk: Motukiore Island Walk for great views 18 Walking New Zealand Monthly Photo Contest 20 New Zealand Walk: Beach walk Pukerua Bay to Plimmerton 22 Need2Know: New digital maps help people explore outdoors 23 Overseas Walk: Feet dangling over the Lysefjord 28 New Zealand Walk: Ongaonga - a village steeped in history 30 New Zealand Walk: Banks Track - New Zealand’s first private walking track 37 New Zealand Walk: Lake Panorama, Henderson and Kiwi Esplanade Walkway 38 Need2Know: International Marching League encourages may walking bring us together 39 Event: Manawatu Walking Festival now in sixth year 41 Training: Exercise programme tips 42 Overseas Walks and Tours 44 Index of previous 14 issues 45 Coming Events: New Zealand 48 Coming Events: Overseas 52 Directory of Walking Groups 56 New Zealand Country Breaks 60 Manawatu Walking Festival

JANUARY 264 2020

3 Contents 4 Walk Talk 6 Te AraroaTrail: Family of seven takes on 3,000km trail 8 My Favourite Walk: Spoilt for choice in Wellington 12 New Zealand Walk: Tarawera - a legacy to up hold 16 Australian Walks: Five Hinterland hikes to take your breath away 18 Walking New Zealand Monthly Photo Contest 20 New Zealand Walks: Two clubs and two tracks 22 Overseas Walks: Walking with Fat Betty on the Coast to Coast 27 Overseas Walks: Dolomites - King of the alps 28 Overseas Walks: Walking paths on Niue Island 35 New Zealand Walk: Shine Falls Hawkes Bay’s highest waterfall 35 New Zealand Walk: Kamahi Loop Track to Falls and Heays Access Road 36 Overseas Walks: Walking through the Deserts and Canyonlands of the USA 39 New Zealand Walk: Te Henui extension a rustic and interesting stroll 42 Overseas Walks and Tours 44 Index of previous 14 issues 45 Coming Events: New Zealand 48 Coming Events: Overseas 50 Te Araroa walkers urged to take The Trail Pledge 52 Directory of Walking Groups 56 New Zealand Country Breaks 59 Green Prescription 60 Manawatu Walking Festival

DECEMBER 263 2019

3 Contents 4 Walk Talk 6 Te AraroaTrail: New walking season marks start of Te Araroa odyssey for many folk 7 Te AraroaTrail: Walkers take to the Te Araroa Trail for many reasons 8 NZ Shared Pathway: Pathway between Petone and Wellington now in planning stage 10 Overseas Walks: How to spend 48 hours in the Gold Coast hinterland 12 New Zealand Walk; A day taking two walks in the Totara Reserve 14 New Zealand Walks: Five Kerikeri waterfall walks 16 NZ Shared Pathway: Another link opens in city’s coastal path 17 Book: New Zealand’s Native Trees 18 Walking New Zealand Monthly Photo Contest 20 Club to celebrate birthday by gifting track to Pukekohe 22 Overseas Walks: Carnavon National Park walks were magical 29 NZ Shared Pathway: Cambridge to Hamilton pathway construc-

tion begins 30 Overseas Walks: Rhodo heaven in Annapurna 36 NZ Adventure: Retirees go for their final tree-top adventure 39 New Zealand Walk: Oakura Seaside Beach Walk 42 Overseas Walks and Tours 44 Index of previous 14 issues 45 Coming Events: New Zealand 50 Coming Events: Overseas 52 Directory of Walking Groups 56 New Zealand Country Breaks 59 Green Prescription 60 Manawatu Walking Festival

NOVEMBER 262 2019

3 Contents 4 Walk Talk 6 My Favourite walk: East, West home’s best 8 Books: Day walks in New Zealand, The 50 Best Bird Watching sites 8 Readers View: What is in a name?

10 New Zealand Walk: Walking Stars in Wellington 11 Need to Know: New Zealand postage stamps celebrate Te Araroa Trail 12 Event: Tenth year for popular walking festival 14 Event: Great Forest events going strong 24 years on next year 15 My Favourite Walk: 35 years from 3 day tramps to 3 day walks 16 Great Forest events 17 Poem: The saga of Milford Track 18 Walking New Zealand Monthly Photo Contest 20 Australian Walks: Walking at Uluru a land rich in indigenous culture 22 New Zealand Walk: Rata Street Loop Track 23 Need2Know: What have you got planned for Get Outdoors Week?

29 New Zealand Walks: Mahu Whenua Trail network delights tourists and locals 30 New Zealand Walk: Te Aro Piko a meandering path 32 New Zealand Walk: Maude Track leads to Mangakotukutuku waterfall 34 Overseas Walks: Walk castle to castle on Czech’s Greenways Trail 41 Overseas Walk: 10 reasons to hike in Austria 42 Overseas Walks and Tours 44 Index of previous 14 issues 45 Coming Events: New Zealand 50 Coming Events: Overseas 52 Directory of Walking Groups 56 New Zealand Country Breaks 59 Green Prescription 60 Walking New Zealand Shop

OCTOBER 261 2019

3 Contents 4 Walk Talk 6 My Favourite walk: Nugget Point short walk is a classic 9 Subscription page 10 New Zealand Walks: Five great day walks from Christchurch 12 My FavouriteWalk: Emily’s visit to Emily Falls 12 New Zealand Walks Two walks in Peel Forest 14 Overseas Walk: Walk Ireland’s poignant National Famine Way 16 New Zealand Walk: Mt Cargill for magnificent views of Dunedin 18 Walking New Zealand Monthly Photo Contest 20 New Zealand Walks: One Tree Hill a jewel in Auckland’s Cornwall Park 26 New Zealand Walks: Walking to the ‘Centre of New Zealand’ 29 Need2Know: Take me to the river 30 Overseas Walks: South Africa’s Bushmen, Bergs, Battlefields and Big Five 36 Event: Toi’s Challenge is a lovely hard run or walk 38 New Zealand Walks: On the trails in the Bay of Islands 42 Overseas Walks and Tours 44 Index of previous 14 issues 45 Coming Events: New Zealand 50 Coming Events: Overseas 52 Directory of Walking Groups 56 New Zealand Country Breaks 59 Green Prescription 60 Walking New Zealand Shop

12 New Zealand Walk: Tunnel Beach’s sculptured coastline 15 Te Araroa Trail: Numbers walking on trail increasing 16 New Zealand Walk: Atiwhatu Hut walk popular in Tararuas 16 Mt Favourite Walk: Atiwhakatu Hut Walk attracts many types of walkers 18 Walking New Zealand Monthly Photo Contest 20 New Zealand Walks: Legs eleven with Warkworth Walks 2019l 22 New Zealand Walk: Bay of Islands best kept secret 26 New Zealand Great Walk: Humpridge Track to be a NZ Great Walk 28 Need2Know: New track database has over 300 walking trails 28 Overseas Walk: Caloundra Coastal Walk a leisurely scenic walk 31 Overseas Walk: Eight days to Everest Base Camp 39 Quick facts on Trekking Everest Base Camp 40 Need2Know: Consider these 5 things before tackling a winter tramp 42 Overseas Walks and Tours 44 Index of previous 14 issues 45 Coming Events: New Zealand 50 Coming Events: Overseas 52 Directory of Walking Groups 56 New Zealand Country Breaks 59 Green Prescription 60 Taupo Marathon events

AUGUST 259 2019

3 Contents 4 Walk Talk 6 My Favourite walk: Kaimai Ranges offer many walking attractions in a diverse forest of caves and birdlife 12 New Zealand Walk: Stewart Island with the lovliest public road in the country 14 Shared Pathway: New bridge links city to Massey and Linton 18 Walking New Zealand Monthly Photo Contest 20 Shared Parthway: Cycling the Karangahake Gorge section of the Hauraki Rail Trail 24 My Favourite Walk: Ratapihipihi Scenic Reserve - a sub tropicial rail forest 28 New Zealand Walk: Belmont magazine walk with relics of World War 11 30 New Zealand Walk: Belmont Regional Park a walkers paradise 33 New Zealand Walk: Kapiti Island 34 High Achiever: Perth to Melbourne in 80 days 36 New Zealand Walk: Three generations in Waiohine Gorge tramp 38 New Zealand Walks: Vineyard walks a feature of Bay of Island Walking Weekend 39 New Zealand Walks Two walks in Peel Forest 40 Need2Know: Top 10 things to pack for a day walk or hike 42 Overseas Walks and Tours 44 Index of previous 14 issues 45 Coming Events: New Zealand 52 Directory of Walking Groups 56 New Zealand Country Breaks 60 Taupo Marathon events

JULY 258 2019

3 Contents 4 Walk Talk 6 My Favourite walk: An estuary walk in our Deep South 8 New Zealand Walk: Beveridge to Arataki Path 10 Great New Zealand Trek: Great NZ Trek ends at Bluff after 14 years 12 High Achiever: Four day trek ends with a Duke o f Edinburgh Gold Award 16 Overseas Walk: Machu Picchu - a treasure to cherish 18 Walking New Zealand Monthly Photo Contest 20 My Favourite Walk: Waitahinga Dam trails revisted 22 My Favourite Walk: Walking the Crossey-Massey Loop, Hunau Regional Park 26 Event: The Bay of Islands Walking Weekend where the walking is wonderful and the welcome is warm!

SEPTEMBER 260 2019 28 Te Araroa Trail: Over 1000 walkers 3 Contents this season completed the trail 4 Walk Talk 6 My Favourite walk: Lush native for- 29 Event: Striders events 30 Overseas Walk: Table Mountain est and stunning views a feature of North Egmont walks

- one of the ten wonders of the world 34 Overseas adventure: Rail trails cycling in the Clare Valley 39 my Favourite Walk: Coastal views highlight of new cleared trail 40 My Favourite Walk: Tawatawa Reserve walking tracks 45 Coming Events: New Zealand 52 Directory of Walking Groups 56 New Zealand Country Breaks 59 Green Prescription 60 Taupo Marathon events

JUNE 257 2019

3 Contents 4 Walk Talk 6 Te Araroa Trail: Lessons from walking the Te Araroa Trail 12 Need2know: DOC’s top five wildlife photography tips 14 New Zealand Walk: Wellington City to Sea Walkway 16 Need 2 know: Great Harbour Way to be funded 18 Walking New Zealand Monthly Photo Contest 20 My Favourite Walk: Barrett Domain walkls have bush, wetlands with a rural outlook 24 Northland Experience: Hiking Cape to Cove: Cape Brett to Whangaroa Harbour to mag-nificent kauri 30 Overseas Walk: Walking Cornwall’s South West Coast Path 35 Need2know: Shared path planned across Tararua Ranges 35 Need2know: Funding boost for Hawkes Bay trails 36 Overseas Adventure: Vietnam - for adventure, history and culture 40 Overseas Walks: Ten top spring gardens to visit in Cornwall 42 Overseas Walks and Tours 44 Index of previous 14 issues 45 Coming Events: New Zealand 50 Coming Events: Overseas 52 Directory of Walking Groups 56 New Zealand Country Breaks 59 Green Prescription 60 Pak-A-Roo Jackets

MAY 256 2019

3 Contents 4 Walk Talk 6 My Favourite Walk: Lake Rotomanu Walkway 10 New Zealand Walks: Many tracks lead up Mount Parihaka, Whangarei 14 New Zealand Walk: Bush Chapel Walk 15 Need 2 know: Mokihinui River catchment land to be added to Kahurangi National Park 16 NZ Shared Pathway: Waiuku Trail milestone reached with first sodturning event 17 NZ Shared Pathway: Waiuku advocate wins outdoor access champion award 18 Walking New Zealand Monthly Photo Contest 20 Overseas Walks: A glimpse of Patagonia 24 Northland Experience: Magical experiences on the Cook to Kupe tour 31 Australian Walks: Decidedly deciduous: Colourful bush walks in Victoria 32 Event: Festival’s interesting walks attracted many 34 New Zealand Walk: Cape Kidnappers Track 39 New Zealand Walk:Matiatia to Owhanake Bay walk 40 Event: Back to the future at Christchurch’s Marathon 42 Overseas Walks and Tours 45 Coming Events: New Zealand 52 Directory of Walking Groups 56 New Zealand Country Breaks 60 Pak-A-Roo Jackets

Walking 2020 Walking New New Zealand, Zealand, issue issue no no 271 271-- 2020

43 43

44 Walking New Zealand, issue no 271 - 2020

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Coming Events

NEW ZEALAND

SEPTEMBER 2020

1 Lincoln Road Runners Tuesday Night Run and Walk, Lincolon 1 Malvern Road Runners Tuesday Night Run and Walk, Darfield 2 Ellesmere Road Runners Wednesday Night Run and Walk, Leeston 2 The Rat Race in Milford, Auckland

Please note that because of the Covid-19 lockdown some events advertised in New Zealand may be rescheduled, posponed or cancelled.

3 Rolleston Road Runners Thursday Night Run, Rolleston 5 Kaikōura Whale Run, Kaikoura 26 Rotorua Marathon, Rotorua

OCTOBER 2020

3 Aoraki Mt Cook Marathon, Half Marathon, 10K and 5K, Mt Cool Village 3 Cole Murray Cape Kidnappers Trail

Run, Clifton Beach Hawkes Bay 3 Great Barrier Island Wharf to Wharf,, Great Barrier Island 16-18 Bay of Islands Walking Weekend, Russell, Northland 17 Pink Star Walk: Christchurch, Christchurch 17 Rotorua Ekiden - Team Marathon Relay, Rotorua 17 Santoft Forest and Beach Half Marathon, Santoff Forrest near Bulls 18 Crater Rim Ultra, Christchurch.

PAUSED 18 Gizzy Trail Run Series: Eastwood Hill Arboretum, Gisborne 18 Jennian Homes Bay of Islands Fun Run/Walk, Paihia 18 MTF Silverdale Get Moving Festival, Auckland 18 Omokoroa Coastal Challenge, Tauranga 18 Run Auckland: Millwater, Auckland 18 Wild Auckland: North East, Auckland 24 Kaikoura Mountains to the Sea, Kaikoura

24 Ross Goldtown Fun Run and Walk, Ross 24 Twizel Hard Labour Weekend, Ben Ohau Station, Twizel 25 Back Paddock Lake Off Road Challenge, Central Hawkes Bay 25 Cromwell Half Marathon, Cromwell. PAUSED 25 Huntly Half Marathon, Huntly 26 Rotorua Marathon, Rotorua 31 Devil’s Dash, Bottle Lake Forest Christchurch 31 Mission Mt Somers, Staveley, Canterbury 31 Pūtauaki Prince & Princess of the Mountain, Kawerau

NOVEMBER 2020

1 Auckland Marathon, Auckland 1 City to Surf and Surf to Surf, Tauranga 1 In the Footsteps of the Marines, hareroa Farm, Near Paekakariki 1 The Nelson Half Festival of Running, Nelson 4 Corporate Challenge 5K: Christchurch 6-7 Taranaki Steelformers Around the

Pohangina Downhill walk Pohangina - 14kms from Ashhurst - Manawatu

BAY OF ISLANDS WALKING WEEKEND

Islands – Vineyards – Iconic Cape Brett Kayak & Walk – Bike & Walk – Night Walks Sail & Walk - 18 guided walks All ages and capabilities.

Small walking groups up to 20 people.

Explore the history, culture & natural beauty of the Bay of Islands, on a fun social weekend.

Saturday 7th November 2020 Downhill Walk: 8.00am -12 noon

Take a shuttle bus ride to the top of Ridge Road for an easy walk through 6 kms of farmland and native bush back to the township to County Fayre for a light lunch.

Early bird special: Adults $15.00 Childre $5.00, under 5’s free.

Buses every 45 minutes.

Book on website: https://countyfayre.wordpress.com/upcoming-events/

A “Must Do!” on all walkers lists the website for full details 16, 17, 18 See www.boiwalkingweekend.co.nz OCTOBER Phone 021 122 9307 2020 LIMITED NUMBERS, BOOK NOW! www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

You can now view and enjoy the latest issue of

Walking New Zealand

magazine online for $2.50 at

http://www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Walking New Zealand, issue no 271- 2020

45

Coming Events

NORDIC WALKING

4 4 4 4 4 4

Upper body workout while walking Burn 40% more calories Less impact on joints Release tension in neck and shoulders Improve posture and breathing Fun to do, easy to learn, for all ages

Classes in Greater Auckland, Hamilton, Tauranga, Whakatane, Hawkes Bay, New Plymouth, Wellington, Kapiti and Christchurch

Mountain, New Plymouth 7 Pohangina Downhill Walk, Pohangina, Manawatiu 7 Feilding Marathon and Roy Lamberton Memorial Half Marathon, Feilding 7 Lochmara Lodge Half Marathon, Queen Charlotte Track, Marlborough 7 Pink Star Walk: Wellington 7 The Taniwha on the Waikato River Trails, Whakamaru Mi-Camp, Waikato 7 Woodbury Hill Country Challenge, Orari Gorge Station, Woodbury, South Canterbury 8 Boulder Bay Classic Trail Run, Taylors Mistake Beach, Canterbury 8 Coastal Classic MTB & Trail Run at Taieri Mouth, Otago 8 Sri Chinmoy Pegasus Bay Classic, Bottle Lake Forest, Christchurch 11 Corporate Challenge 5K: Wellington 13-15 Warkworth Walks. Walks worth doing, Warkworth 14 Alpine Lodge Loop the Lake Trail Run, Lake Rotoiti / St Arnaud, Nelson Lakes 14 Eukanuba Tails & Trails, Riverhead Forest, Auckland 14 Pink Star Walk: Auckland 14 Rimutaka Rail Trail Fun Run and Walk, Kaitoke, Upper Hutt 14-22 Get Outdoors Week - throughout New Zealand 15 Round the Bridges, Hamilton 15 Ashhurst 2 Esplanade, Ashhurst

Domain, Manawatu 15 Wild Auckland: Tāpapakanga, Auckland 16 Pohangina Downhill Walk, Pohangina, Manawat 20 WAI2K, Tauherenikau Racecourse, Tauherenikau 21 New Zealand Sotheby’s International Realty Queenstown Marathon, Queenstown 21 Valley Ultra 57km, 24km &10km, Craigieburn, Southland 21 Northland Waste Kerikeri Half Marathon, Okaihau to Kerikeri 21 The Molesworth Run, Molesworth Cob Cottage, Molesworth 21 Valley Ultra, Castle Hill Village, Canterbury 21 XTERRA Trail Challenge Waihi, Dickey Flat Campsite, Karangahake Gorge 22 Greytown Rail Trail Wai Not? Tauherenikau Racecourse, Tauherenikau 22 Julians Berry Farm and Cafe Toi’s Challenge, Whakatane 22 Rotorua Running Festival, Rotorua 29 Heart and Sole Women’s Only Fun Run/Walk, Tauranga 29 The Moa Experience, Summerhill Farm, Papamoa

DECEMBER 2020

1 Harcourts Cooper & Co Beach Series, Takapuna Beach, Auckland 5 Hanmer Holiday Homes Alpine Marathon, Lake Tennyson to Hanmer Springs 5 Pauanui Half Marathon, Pauanui,

EXPLORE. DREAM. DISCOVER.

@trekforlifenz

Do you love exploring? Have you dreamt about discovering NZ? Come and join us on the TREK FOR LIFE A unique experience that helps to raise funds for our First Response and Rescue services.

It is a week long adventure - six days of trekking (with a rest day in the middle) travelling an average of 25-35km per day.

You can expect to see some amazing, untouched and unique perspectives of Aotea Aotearoa!

STAGE TWO Rawene to Pouto

We are also looking for volunteers!

20th to 28th March 2021

Visit www.trekforlife.org.nz to register

WALK. BIKE. RIDE. VOLUNTEER

46 Walking New Zealand, issue no 271 - 2020

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Coming Events

9 Aotearoa Ultra Marathon, Christchurch 16 Good Home Taranaki Off Road Half Marathon, New Plymouth 16 Ian Priest Memorial Hutt River Trail Events, Hutt Valley 16 Waiheke Wharf 2 Wharf Fun Run, Waiheke Island 17 Eighth Continent Marathon and Half Marathon, Auckland 17 Women’s Half Marathon, Mangere, Auckland JANUARY 2021 30 Tussock Traverse in Tongariro Na3 Southern Muster Trail Run, Wational Park, The Chateau, Tongariro naka National Park Coromandel 5 The Kepler Challenge and Luxmore Grunt, Lake Te Anau 8 Omaha Half Marathon, Omaha, Auckland 6 The Gazuntite Trail Run/Walk, Atiu Creek, Tapora, Auckland 12 Raglan Karioi Trail, Raglan 12 Run the Vines Paritua, Hastings 13 Canterbury Half Marathon, Pegasus, Canterbury

Kiwi on the Camino

by Vivianne Flintoff 900kms along an ancient pilgrimage trail in Northern Spain Available from independent book sellers or directly from author E-mail : vivianneflintoffbooks@gmail.com Web: http://www.vivianneflintoffbooks.com/

FEBRUARY 2021

13 Buller Gorge Marathon, Half Marathon and Team Relay, Lower Buller to Westport 13 The Great Lake Relay around Lake Taupō, Taupo 14 Coatesville Half Marathon, Coatsville, Auckland 20 Ruapehu EXPRESS & Old Coach Road Trail Walk/Run, Horopito to Ohakune

21 Brendan Foot Supersite Round the Bays, Wellington 28 Christchurch Motorway Half Marathon, Christchurch 28 Ports of Auckland Round the Bays, Auckland

MARCH 2021

5-7 7th Annual Manawatu Walking Festival, Palmerston North 6 Foundation Clinic Mauao Half Marathon, Mt Maunganui 20 Te Houtaewa Challenge, Ninety Mile Beach 20 Surf2Firth Bush Marathon, Coromandel 20-28 Trek for life Aotearoa, Stage 2 , Rawene to Pouto 21 Les Mills City2Surf Fun Run, Christchurch

APRIL 2021

10 Great Forest Events, Waitarere Beach, near Levin 11 ASB Christchurch Marathon, Christchurch

8AM SUNDAY, 22 NOVEMBER Stunning bush, beach and clifftop trail around Whakatāne and Ōhope.

ENTER ONLINE www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

www.sporty.co.nz/whakataneahc Whakatāne Athletic and Harrier Club

whakatane.com

Walking New Zealand, issue no 271- 2020

47

NEW ZEALAND WALKING TOURS

NEW ZEALAND WALKING TOURS

GREAT COUNTRY BREAKS NORTHLAND

Two or Three Day Unguided Coast Walk Whangarei Heads, Northland, N.Z.

Private and public tracks, ocean and harbour beaches Return to new, purpose-built accommodation each night Fabulous, fresh food Only three hours from Auckland CBD Check out our specials on-line

Phone: 09 434 0571

www.coastwalks.co.nz

WAIHEKE ISLAND

Walk Waiheke Island PULSE OXIMETERS

FOLDABLE HIKING POLES

Fingertip Pulse Oximeter The fingertip Pulse/Oximeter can be used to measure oxygen saturation and heart pulse rate through the finger. Monitor respiratory conditions, pre and post exercise, and pre and post operative conditions.

Foldable Hiking Sticks

3 day 3 night Walking Holiday from $875 per person

* Breathtaking coastal paths

and bush tracks * Delicious food and wine * Relaxing accommodation * Book now for summer 2019/2020

vicki@iwalkwaiheke.co.nz www.iwalkwaiheke.co.nz

TARANAKI

Only

$89.00

* * * * *

plus $7.00 P&P

Available now from:

Adjustable from 51cm-110cm Folds into 4 sections Compression feel Comes with handy bag Made from Aviation Aluminium

$39.95 plus $7 Shipping

Walking New Zealand Shop P O Box 1922, Palmerston North Phone 0800-925-546

Walking New Zealand Shop

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Order online:

Dave & Carol Digby Ph: 06-765-7482 Fully licensed owner/operators (since 2001)

TRAMPING - CYCLING - TRANSPORT

Available now from:

P O Box 1922, Palmerston North Phone 0800-925-546 or email walkingnz@xtra.co.nz.

You can now view and enjoy the latest issue of Walking New Zealand magazine online for USD.99c at http://www.pressdisplay.com/pressdisplay/viewer.aspx

48 NewNew Zealand, issue no issue 271 - 2020 48Walking Walking Zealand, no 271 - 2020

Country Breaks

the place to promote for more customers contact Frank Goldingham walkingnz@xtra.co.nz 0800-925-546 (walking)

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

GREAT BARRIER ISLAND

GISBORNE

GREAT COUNTRY BREAKS NELSON

4 Tongariro, Day Waikaremoana, Hiking Coromandel Tours

* Heaphy Track * Abel Tasman * Cobb Valley * Old Ghost Road

Great Barrier Island

‘Carry less, enjoy more’

*Best Trails, Greatest Views *All Inclusive *Small Groups, Small Packs *Professional Guides *Boutique Accommodation *Delicious Meals, NZ Wines

Come explore with us! www.kahurangiwalks.co.nz

Phone 03 391 4120 CANTERBURY

www.walkinglegends.co.nz

Please tell our advertisers you saw it advertised in Walking New Zealand magazine.

WAIRARAPA

ROTORUA

Unique walking experience over private farmland and Wairarapa Coastline, with two or three day options. Awesone scenery, rustic accommodation and delicious meals. For further information visit www.oruiwalk.co.nz

Whareama Coastal Walk Fully catered 2 or 3 Day Walking Adventure over private farmland and isolated Wairarapa coastline.

Phone (06) 372 3722

www.whareamawalk.co.nz

Please tell our advertisers you saw it advertised in Walking New Zealand magazine.

WAIRARAPA

WAIRARAPA

MARLBOROUGH

KAIKOURA COAST TRACK Awesome 2 days getaway to go home refreshed

Discover new landscapes Farm accommodation Bags transferred daily Hike into nature

03 319 2715 www.kaikouratrack.co.nz

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Walking New Zealand, no 2712020 - 2020 49 49 Walking New Zealand, issueissue no 271-

MACKENZIE/South Canterbury

GREAT COUNTRY BREAKS

STEWART ISLAND

A unique four days walk or mountain bike ride in idyllic South Canterbury

MARLBOROUGH

Quality Picton accommodation at great rates.

Phone 03-685-4848 Email: info@walkfourpeaks.co.nz

STEWART ISLAND

Please tell our advertisers you saw it in Walking New Zealand magazine.

SOUTHLAND

Package deals available.

Make us part of your plan.

Book direct and save.

Ph 03 573 7116 www.tombstonebp.co.nz

email tombstonebp@xtra.co.nz STEWART ISLAND

You can now view back issues of Walking New Zealand magazine,

two issues back from the latest, FREE at : http://issuu.com/walkingnewzealand.

* Freedom $245 * Prime $545 * Guided $1695

MARLBOROUGH

MARLBOROUGH

The Villa Backpackers Lodge Celebrating 25 years of awesome!

• FREE ultrafast WiFi • Spa, storage & much more • Very central • Queen Charlotte Track specialists

Always book direct for the best price!

Email: stay@thevilla.co.nz Ph: 03 573 6598

www.thevilla.co.nz

New Zealand, issue no 271 -no 2020 50 Walking 50 Walking New Zealand, issue 271 - 2020

THINK SAFETY THIS SUMMER OnlyOnly $449 SPECIAL SPECIAL $479

including including P&P P&P

ACR ResQLink PLB 375 ACR- ResQLink PLB - 375

Includes Free gifts with purchase including FREE 167 pice 1st aid$449 kit, LED torch, Only P&P SPECIAL HD Pouch ACR ResQLink PLB - 375and more!

Includes Free giftsawith Have Safepurchase and Happy Summer

COVER ALL YOUR BASES

$15 - 1 day

$15 - 1 day Now available in 41 outlets 3 days $40 -7 Available for sale/hire $30 $30 3 -days $15 $40- -17day days Farm Safe and OSH are now pushing$30 for for every week after $40 7 COVER ALL YOUR BASES $30 3 days $30 for- every week after all farmers who work on their own to $30 for every week after Now in 41inoutlets your first week of hire haveavailable one of these their safety kit COVER ALL YOUR BASES AvailableNow foravailable sale/hire in 41 outlets Ph (03) 226 6341 Farm Safe andAvailable OSH are nowfor pushing for sale/hire or (027) 412 2925 all farmers who work their to pushing for Farm Safeon and OSH own are now all farmers who work on have one of these in their safety kittheir own towww.locatorbeacons.co.nz have one of these in their safety kit

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

MARCH

7th

5, 6, 7, 2021

Inspiring walks for families to trampers

There’s so much to do in the Manawatu * Walk the Sunset Beach Walk starting at Foxton Beach ending with Fish and Chips at Himatangi. * Walk over the new walking bridge near the Esplanade

* Forest & Bird guides will explain the history etc on the Manawatu Gorge Walk ending at a cafe.

* Have family fun walking the Tawa Loop Walk in the Manawatu Gorge. * See magnificent views over the Manawatu from the Ruahine Ranges.

* Take a working farm walk in the beautuiful Pohangina area ending with a picnic lunch.

* Walk with a guide around the many interesting murels and sculptures around the city. * Take a walk on a working farm in the Horowhenua. * Take a Night Walk by the Manawatu River. * .... Plus so much more!

Bookings open in November at www.mwf.org.nz

Bookings Essential www.mwf.org.nz www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Walking New Zealand, issue no 271- 2020

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52 Walking New Zealand, issue no 271 - 2020

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz