273 DECEMBER 2020

RECREATION WALKING and CYCLING TRAILS

DECEMBER 2020 ISSUE NO 273

New Zealand Walk:

Punakaiki gateway to dramatic limestone country

New Zealand Walks:

Four P’s in a pod!

Paku, Pauanui, Parakiwai, Puketui New Zealand Walk:

Overseasa Walks

A walk every day with the

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Paekakariki Escarpment Trail for magnificent views

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Walking New Zealand, issue no 273- 2020

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2 Walking New Zealand, issue no 273 - 2020

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34 CONTENTS Issue 273- 2020

2 Pak - A - Roo Walking Jacket 3 Contents

4 Walk Talk

6 New Zealand Walk: Punakaiki Gateway to dramatic limstone country

13 Walking Access: Walking from town to town

14 New Zealand Walk: Audrey Gale Reserve beautiful

in all seasons 16 New Zealand Walk: Snow Daze Golden Crown Ridge Ruahine Forest Park

26

18 Walking New Zealand Monthly Photo Contest

20 New Zealand Walk: Mangatangi Track walk with

great view points

22 New Zealand Walk: Doug Walker Memorial Walk- way popular 24 New Zealand Walk: Four P’s in a pod! Paku, Pau-

anui, Parakiwai, Puketui 26 Te Araroa Trail: Paekakariki Escarpment Trail for

magnificent views

30 Overseas Walk: A walk every day with the Norwe-

gian Coastal Express 34 Overseas Walks: Lamma Island paved wilderness walkways

20

39 New Zealand Walks: 100km Coast to Coast Walk 42 Subscription Page

43 Index of previous 14 issues

44 Coming Events: New Zealand 48 New Zealand Walking Tours

48 New Zealand Country Breaks 51 Wilderness Guides

52 Event:Manawatu Walking Festival

Cover Photo: A young family enjoying a walk on a farm track in the countryside.

WALKING New Zealand

30

Published Monthly

PUBLISHER/EDITOR: Frank Goldingham: Phone 06-358-6863 CONTRIBUTORS: Judy Eva, Bob Hodgson, Stephen Day, Alex and Jenny Davies, Barbz Lowther, Daniel Haddock, Shena McGregor, Mike Giri and Phillip Donnell 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: Ovato 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.

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6 Walking New Zealand, issue no 273- 2020

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Walk talk Tākaka shared path opened

A new footbridge and shared path on SH60 between Tākaka, the Golden Bay Community Health Centre, and the popular Paines Ford recreation area was opened by Mayor Tim King recently.

Funded by Waka Kotahi, the 2.5km path will provide a safer environment for people who walk, bike and scoot this busy stretch of highway. It will be sealed for 2km between Tākaka and the Community Health Centre, and then unsealed to Paines Ford.

The project included the replacement of an old footbridge, which was too steep and narrow to be used by mobility scooters or by children on small-wheeled scooters. It was also difficult for people with push-chairs and less fit cyclists – sometimes forcing them onto the state highway alongside motorists, including heavy vehicles and campervans.

It is expected that the path will encourage locals to use different types of transport.

Above: WSP Designer, Peter Kortegast on the new footbridge beside SH60.

Corrections

The gremlins must have got into the November issue! The Nydia Track is in Marlborough area, not near as shown by the red dot in the central North Island.

Vicky Ross apologises for stating in the article on the Waipu Cove Walkway that ‘The Tasman Sea crashes on the rocks....’

It was actually the Pacific Ocean crashing.

Available from Rangitawa Publishing,

rangitawa@xtra.co.nz,

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4 Walking New Zealand, issue no 273 - 2020

Te Ara Tupua moving forward

The NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi is working in partnership with mana whenua on the design of Te Ara Tupua, the Wellington to Hutt Valley walking and cycling project (Ngā Ūranga ki Pito-One section).

The project has just lodged applications for resource consents under the COVID-19 Recovery (Fast-track Consenting) Act, with a final consent decision expected by early next year.

Casey Hut open again

A popular overnight opportunity in Arthur’s Pass National Park is available once again thanks to two generous donors.

The newly-built, 12-bunk Casey Hut offers trampers and mountain bikers a fantastic place to stay among the kiwi, kea and rare kākāriki that live within the beech forests and alpine vegetation of Arthur’s Pass.

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Walk talk

Rotorua Cyway complete

The remaining part of the Rotorua Cyway, the Utuhina shared path, was completed recently to improve access and safety for those with reduced mobility; create space for young families with prams, scooters or bikes; and provide space for people cycling to move about more freely.

The existing trail that wound its way alongside the Utuhina Stream received a facelift, with flat sections of the track resurfaced with tinted concrete and lime chip in the sections closest to the stream and magnificent redwood trees.

Rotorua’s shared path network supports the district’s Urban Cycling Strategic Plan that aims to provide the community with safe and enjoyable riding facilities. Funding for the programme was shared between Rotorua Lakes Council, Government and Waka Kotahi.

The shared path network aims to connect people to where they want to go and promote biking as an attractive and convenient form of transport.

Below: Before and after at Utuhina Stream.

New walking track for Glenorchy road lookout

Travellers will soon be able to enjoy stunning views across Lake Wakatipu and learn more about the history of the area near Bennetts Bluff thanks to a joint project involving Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC), the Department of Conservation Te Papa Atawhai (DOC) and Kāi Tahu.

Work has begun to create a new safe viewing area along the Glenorchy-Queenstown road. QLDC is building a formed parking area for cars, campervans and buses, a public toilet, and a picnic area. DOC is creating a new walking track from the car park to a scenic viewing platform.

QLDC General Manager Community Services Thunes Cloete said it was a good example of how local partnerships can enhance both public amenities and the cultural value of locations around the district.

“Once Council has built the core infrastructure, Kāi Tahu and DOC will continue working together to develop the historical and natural aspects of the lookout for the benefit of visitors and the local community,” he said.

“The aim is to create an area that is not only safer for road users but also a space where people can learn more about what the area means for today’s community and those that have gone before us.”

Construction is expected to continue until March 2021. A new slow vehicle passing bay was created earlier in the year to allow for the closure of the existing bay during construction. The existing pull-off areas at Bennetts Bluff will remain open over the busy Christmas holiday period.

Your favourite walk could win you a free subscription

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Walking New Zealand

magazine online for $2.50 at

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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 273- 2020

5

New Zealand Walk

Punakaiki gateway to

dramatic limestone country

.

6 Walking New Zealand, issue no 273 - 2020

Punakaiki is the base from which from sandy beaches and rocky coa moody rivers, to spectacular alpin Lowther and Dereck stayed a wh enjoyed the friendly hospitality t www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

H

New Zealand Walk

aving to change plans when the Paparoa Trail closed due to a slip, we decided to stay in the area and By Barbz Lowther do day walks.

Punakaiki turned out to be the perfect place.

The scenery is spectacular, the walking easy and interesting; and the geology absolutely fascinating.

It’s a karst area with high limestone cliffs, towering above underground caves, and sinkholes, formed by water running through soluble limestone.

We based at Punakaiki Beach Camp, just down the hill from the pancake rocks for which Punakaiki is famous.

Our first day was spent exploring these rocks on Dolomite Point. From the shops, a short walk winds through native bush, then nikau and coastal flaxes as it reaches the coast. Here limestone cliffs have been worn by weather and sea, leaving holes and stacks resembling layered pancakes.

At high tide, water explodes out of these holes flying high in the air.

It’s easy to take too many photos !

Five minutes down the road, a Left: The famous Ballroom Overhang.

Below left: One of the many wood pigeons.

h to explore the natural wonders of the Paparoa National Park – astlines, through lush subtropical rainforest overhanging magical ne tops there is something here for everyone to discover. Barbz hile and make Punakaiki their destination for a few of days and the West Coast is famous for. www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Walking New Zealand, issue no 273- 2020

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New Zealand Walk

Punakaiki gateway to dramatic limestone country

8 Walking New Zealand, issue no 273 - 2020

wooden staircase leads to the cavern, again eroded by water and constantly changing.

There are glow worms further in, but they were a bit hard to spot with many people using torches.

About two kilometers north, Truman Track led through nikaus, ferns and flax to a marine reserve.

At the top of the bay, sandstone cliffs have been eroded to form sea caves at their bases, and further along a waterfall trickled down onto the beach.

The stony beach slopes down to a shelf of rock pools amongst large boulders. At low tide these are fascinating. Clinging to the base of the boulders were hunAbove: Pancock rocks at Dolomite Point.

Below left: The Fox River near Dilemma Junction. www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

New Zealand Walk

dreds of large orange starfish, as if gathered for a meeting. There was tiny shark stranded on the rock shelf as the water receded.

We stayed marvelling at nature until sunset, then wandered back to camp.

On day two we walked a loop walk, up the Pororari River to Cave Creek, and back down Bullock Creek Road. The Pororari River track started really close to camp, so no transport was needed.

This gorge track is quite spectacular.

A well formed and maintained track runs beside the river with limestone cliffs and bluffs towering on either side. The water was crystal clear with deep green pools.

Friendly robins hopped all around, so close to our feet at times we almost stepped on them.

The bush was so pretty with nikau, pungas, large broadleaf trees and lots of ferns and moss.

After an hour the track reached river flats and divided. A path to the right led over a saddle to the Punakaiki River.

We continued over a swing bridge, following the inland pack track, originally built by gold miners in the 1860’s. The ground was smothered in mosses lichens and ferns , while above, beech, kamahi and rimu dominated.

Fat wood pigeons sat gorging themselves on berries and wekas hurried by.

After crossing several bridges we reached a grassy clearing where a monument stood, in memory of the 14 lives so tragically lost in 1995 when a viewing platform collapsed at Cave Creek resurgence. A half hour walk on Above right: Swingbridge over the Poropari River.

Right: Limestone cliffs at Panakaiki. www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Walking New Zealand, issue no 273- 2020

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New Zealand Walk New Zealand Walks

Punakaiki gateway to dramatic limestone country

good track took us down into this deep gorge.

At the bottom was a dry river bed with enormous mossy boulders. After heavy rain a torrent Above: The Fox River with its rocky rages through the creek, emergbanks. ing from a complex underground Below middle: Starfish at Truman cave system.

Track.

This whole area is full of sinkholes, caves, waterfalls, shafts and underground passages so it’s wise to stay on marked tracks. It was an eerie place.

We retraced our steps to the clearing, and continued north along the inland pack track, as far as Bullock Creek Road. Although

10 Walking New Zealand, issue no 273 - 2020

a vehicle track, the scenery here was spectacular with tall nikau, native orchids, tarns surrounded by flax and above it all, towering limestone bluffs.

We wandered down the road taking lots of photos, until with three kilometres to go, we were offered a ride by a couple from the camp. It didn’t take much thought to accept the lift, admire the scenery from a seat, and spend the time gained in the tavern garden. The end of another lovely day.

On Day three we walked up the Fox River to the Ballroom Overhang. The first half hour was along a well marked trail through braided dry river bed, with stands of nikau, manuka and flax.

Just past the turn-off to Fox Cave, was a wide river crossing.

From there the trail became undulating, frequently climbing and dropping to negotiate bluffs. The trees were bigger here, mainly kamahi and southern rata.

We saw two little black goats who stopped to stare curiously at us, but further on we met a culler, so their hours were numbered.

In two hours we reached the

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

New Zealand Walks

Above: A marine reserve.

Opposite page below left: View from Pororari Hut. Below middle; Looking down on the Pororari River.

Below right: Near the end of the Paparoa Trail.

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

junction with Dilemma Creek, and from here walked in the river, crossing and re-crossing several times to reach ‘The Ballroom’.

Although it was quite hard walking on slippery uneven stones, it was well worth the half hour scramble. The rock face was like a sculpture of giant waves. It

was awesome.

As we headed back, the sun was reflecting off the silica in the rocks making them sparkle. We pocketed a souvenir each before returning to the river mouth.

The next day we walked up to stay in Pororari Hut, the last one on the Paparoa Trail. We took the

Walking New Zealand, issue no 273- 2020

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New Zealand Walks

track through the Pororari River gorge again, because it was so pretty. After the junction with the pack track there is a climb for a few kilometres following bluffs over the river.

Then the trail is undulating through tall beech, and northern rata. There were loads of wood pigeons most with exceptionally bright plumage. They were too contented to move, and we could stand within a metre of them.

As we gained elevation there were many windfalls where tall trees were lying in a tangled mess, damage left by cyclones in 2014 and 2018.

Punakaiki gateway We had a break by a swing to dramatic limestone bridge with a lovely swimming country hole, before continuing uphill to Above: The sun setting at the hut. the hut by early afternoon. What a Below left: The Pancake rocks at serene place to be. It’s a lovely hut with a superb location and a wide Dolomite Point.

Below right: The track near the hut. deck offering magnificent views

12 Walking New Zealand, issue no 273 - 2020

of the bluffs across the valley.

We were lucky to have a clear sunny day and could just see the hut at moonlight tops. Only two of us were walking, but by 7.00pm, eight bikers had joined us, and we all sat to enjoy a magic sunset from the deck.

The next day was an easy meander back down. At the junction, instead of repeating the Pororari Gorge section, we took the bike trail over the saddle, and across the swing bridge into the Punakaiki River Valley.

It seemed warmer and was an easy end to our Paparoa walk. We were back to the ice cream shop in Punakaiki by 3 30pm.

It was a really lovely five days in this area, and I would recommend it to anyone who wants to see some of New Zealand’s most beautiful bush without carrying a heavy pack.

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Walking from town to town

R

ecently the BBC asked cases, the paths exist in theory its readers if they would but not reality, such as unformed know how to walk from legal roads that we have not built.

Leeds to Manchester.

There are several of these “We live in a time when our near the Orari River as it phones will show us the passes close to quickest route to almost Geraldine. anywhere - if we are drivOn the other ing, that is. Walking? Well, hand, the towns that’s a different matter,” it of Clyde and Alnoted. exandra are connected.

Part of the British govThey are linked by the ernment’s official transport stunningly beautiful Miladvice amid the COVID-19 By Stephen Day lenium Track along the pandemic has been “walk, Clutha River. Residents if you can”. It helps down both and tourists can easily commute infection and congestion and it between the two towns. improves people’s health.

And, further north, a cycle path However, as the BBC notes connects the towns of Paekākāriki “once you venture away from your and Raumati South through Queen local neighbourhood, it is not al- Elizabeth Park. School students use ways obvious how to find the best the path every day to get to Kāpiti walking route to a nearby village or College from Paekākāriki. From - if you are feeling adventurous - a there a shared path continues on neighbouring town or city.” from Raumati South to Peka Peka.

Britain is littered with walking When the next stage of the expresspaths – many well-known but oth- way is complete, it will continue ers are not so straight forward. It is from Peka Peka all the way up to now mapping all those walks and Ōtaki. That is a total distance of showing the network that allows 34km connecting eight towns and modern-day walkers to get from villages. place to place avoiding roads.

The Walking Access CommisNew Zealand has many small sion’s online mapping system towns that were previously a day’s records all these formed walkwalk apart and are now 20 min- ing tracks and trails as well as utes’ drive apart. Geraldine, for unformed legal roads, esplanade instance, has many beautiful tracks strips along the sides of rivers and in around its township, but no ob- lakes, and other public access. vious walking path for people to There is a lot of public access that get in or out of the town. Maybe New Zealanders are not aware of. a kayaker could find their way to But there is still not enough that Temuka along the Waihī River. For we could follow the British governmost, though, the way in and out ment’s lead and encourage people of town is along the state highway. to walk or cycle where they can.

In many instances around New We will have good public outZealand, the paths used to ex- door access when people have the ist. You can see remnants of the choice to move by foot and bike paths our ancestors cut. In some around the country safely, off mawww.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

jor highways.

It is not realistic for most people to travel between towns on foot or bike. In big towns and cities, it is often not even realistic to travel across suburbs to buy groceries and return home within the day.

But this manner of travel - by foot - should be a realistic choice for people if they choose it. To make it happen we need more than individual walking tracks. We need to develop networks of trails that link communities together.

We are doing that work around New Zealand in places like Taranaki, Pākari and North Waikato.

The best way we can do that is getting involved with and supporting our local trail groups. These groups do the demanding work creating and maintaining trails.

But they also create the architectural framework that turns our dreams of a network of trails into reality.

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Walking New Zealand, issue no 273- 2020

13

My MtFavourite FavouriteWalk Walk

Audrey Gale Reserve beautiful in all seasons

T

ucked away at the bottom of a hill is a delightful 5 acre reserve probably not that well known if you don’t live in New Plymouth.

It is a very popular for dog lovers, walkers, swimming, picnicking, rock climbing, and paddling.

There is also spread around the park nets on stands for those that wish to play a game called disc golf.

Audrey Gale is a large park located beside the Waiwhakaiho

By Judy Eva

River. Audrey Gale was involved in local politics. She was the first woman to chair a committee of the New Plymouth City Council on which she served from 1956 to 1977.

As chair of Parks and Reserves (1965 to 1977) she made a marked impression on the city. She became president (1966) and a life member of the N.Z. Institute of Parks and Recreation Administration in New Plymouth and in 1989 this New Plymouth Park

14 Walking New Zealand, issue no 273 - 2020

(formally known as Merrilands Domain) where she swam and played as a child was renamed after her. She died on the 27th July 1992.

The New Plymouth Borough water supply scheme was opened in 1883. It consisted of a weir (now removed) on the southern end of the Domain.

A concrete and earth water race then led 4-500 metres downstream to a pumping station which lifted the water to the circular concrete reservoir on what is now the playing field of the park. The concrete remains of the pumping station was unfortunately damaged by contractors working in the area in the 1980’s The large picnic area in the domain was called the Old Water Above left: Part of the domain.

Below right: One of the walks along the river.

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

My Favourite Walk

Works Reserve until 1989 when its name was changed to Audrey Gale.

Some evidence of the old water works can be found tucked away in the far east corner of the park.

When first commissioned in 1883 the works pumped enough from the Waiwhakaiho River to service the fast growing town of New Plymouth.

Take in the beauty of this amazing park and native bush in a riverside setting.

There are two barbecue areas with purpose built fire places and summer houses, ideal for summer picnics. You must supply your own wood. There are also toilets.

This delightful park has open areas for dogs and children to play in and lovely old bush walks for those that prefer such. There are many little tracks leading to different parts of the park, some beside the river.

There are signposts in the park warning of certain dangers such as the river which is quite often flowing fast and dangerous depending on the weather.

There is a large parking area overlooking the river where there are little areas for paddling.

In all and all this park has something for everyone.

It is the winter when my sister and I walked through it, and it is beautiful in all seasons.

If you are visiting New Plymouth it is a delightful peaceful place for short walks.

The reserve is situated on Mangorei Road opposite Smith Road. The entrance is by the Merrilands Domain Sports Club buildings and sports ground. It is signposted from the entrance on the footpath.

The walk takes about an hour but longer if you wish to linger and spend more time. www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

■

Above right: Relic of the old water works machinery.

Middle below: The domain surrounded by trees.

Below bottom; Parking area in domain.

Walking New Zealand, issue no 273- 2020

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My Favourite Walk

.

Snow daze: Golden Crown Ridge Track, Ruahine Forest Park By Daniel Haddock

T

he grass was crunchy from a hard frost as a group of 11 from the Heretaunga Tramping Club boarded the truck in Havelock North, for the Golden Crown Ridge Track in the Ruahine Forest Park, Hawkes Bay. The effects of the frost were evident as all the wineries had sprinklers spraying their vines as we cruised through Maraekakaho.

Turning onto Kereru Road,right

onto Big Hill Road and then onto Mangleton Road, there was little traffic and good road conditions.

The Ruahine Ranges had some snow on the tops but the visibility was good.

The 55 km. journey ended with a 1.5 km bounce across the paddocks and yes, someone had to jump out of the truck to open and close a few gates.

Parking in a paddock with a few very friendly horses, we Above left: Enjoying one of the last steep climbs, Photo by K. Morgan Above right: Climbing towards the ridge.

Below left: Gearing up for the journey.

16 Walking New Zealand, issue no 273 - 2020

geared up for the journey. The wind was cold and strong and outer clothing layers were prevalent as we started towards Masters Shelter. The shelter was built in 1977 in memory of Lester Masters, replacing the earlier hut (1952).

Back then the road was 14 kms. away, so the shelter would have been greatly appreciated by hunters and trampers.

We looked at the displays and maps including hut locations on the shelter walls and headed off for the steep, two to three hour climb to the ridge tops.

Despite the gusting winds (measured by Colin,trip leader, at 107 kilometres at the Pohatuhaha Trig, 1368 metres), the route was www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

My Favourite Walk

Tramping Socks

well-sheltered most of the way and the sun continued to grace us with its warmth.

Starting out through manuka and kanuka, then up a series of rocky knolls, we trekked upwards on what DOC branded as an “Advanced Tramping Track”.

Outer clothing layers were taken off especially during the climb.

Views along the way were Above: A well-earned rest, waiting for the truck.

Below left: At the crossroads, choosing to go to Sentry Box Hut.

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

worth the effort, however. Some of us were grateful when Graeme eventually asked for a “cuppa” stop according to ‘union regulations’. The beech forest enveloped us later as we continued towards the ridge.

Our lunch break, alongside a stream and protected from the wind, offered the first close-up view of the extensive snow-cover.

Pushing on, the trail now featured ankle-deep snow. Reaching the top of the ridge, eight of us decided to complete the loop through to Sentry Box Hut. The remaining three descended towards the truck. They eventually drove around to pick us up a few kilometres further up Mangleton Road.

The downhill track for most was a gambolling descent through the snow-covered trail before it faded and the brown-dirt trail reappeared for the last stretch to Sentry Box Hut. It really was two to three hours up and for some only an hour down. For the experienced trampers, it was just another day in the wilderness office. I certainly tottered slowly down the hill but hopefully can still learn new tricks.

Besides it was a great way to immerse yourself in the beauty of Aotearoa and forget about outside issues for awhile.

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Walking New Zealand, issue no 273- 2020

17

Photo Contest

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 s u b j e c t l i n e “ Wa l k i n g N e w Z e a l a n d P h o t o C o n t e s t ” Only EMAILED entries will be accepted.

18 Walking Walking New issue no no 273273 - 2020 NewZealand, Zealand, issue - 2020

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Photo Contest

PHOTO CONTEST Opposite page above: “On earth as it is in heaven”. Walking on the Christchurch Port Hills on a warm spring day in October, with paragliders soaring above us. Photo by Colleen Link, Rolleston, Christchurch.

Below: Mark silhouetted under the Moria Gate Arch while standing next to the Oparara River after our five day hike through the Heaphy Track. Photo by Roger Griffiths, Maeroa, Hamilton.

Above: My husband, and others, walking the track up to St Paul’s Rock, Whangaroa The view is spectacular, and well worth the climb.

Photo by Barbara Anderson, Cambridge.

Below right: Walking the lakeside walk at Lake Hawea, Central Otago. Photo by Robyne Selbie, Dunedin. www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Walking WalkingNew NewZealand, Zealand,issue issueno no273 273-- 2020 2020

19

My Favourite Walk

Mangatangi Track walk with great view points

L

By Mike Giri

ike many Kiwis, we were also getting sick and tired of staying home due to Covid-19 lockdown. Our defensive system, Level 4 for complete isolation from March 24, finally relaxed to Level 1 on 9th June. Now we could feel free to wander around so I started thinking of resuming my nature walking again.

On the morning of 14th June, my son Sudeep and I decided to go for a long nature walk as we normally did.

At breakfast table, we chose to go to popular tramping route in Mangatangi near Mangawhiri, where I had not been before. We looked it up through the Google map, where exactly the area is, and

how to get there.

After light lunch we started with our usual walking equipment and water bottle at 12:30pm. We took SH 1 from Penrose, and from Pukeno we took SH2 to Mangatawhiri, then to Kaiaua Road, and to Workman Road, which led us to Ara Drive.

After driving along this road, and crossing a bridge over a small stream, we saw a signpost information about a walking track, called Mangatangi Trig Track, which would be 13.5 km long and would need seven plus hours to Mangatawhiri Reservoir. However, this track was closed due to Kauri dieback.

We drove further towards the dam along the side of a stream for about five minutes. We reached the

car park with some sign posts and toilet facilities. The uphill road was closed for visitors’ cars.

We walked along the road for about 10 minutes to the top of the dam.

At the top we could see the structure of the dam, and Mangatangi Reservoir on the other side. The inaugural information was engraved (17 Sept 1977) on the stone .

In the reservoir, I saw two pillars, the one close to us was for water spill, and the one behind was valve tower 78 m from its base in the middle. The level of water was way too low for the season as a result of past summer long draught in Northland.

The area was beautiful with forest covered green hills with blue water of the reservoir. There was a family of five with two kids enjoying the area.

On the top of the dam a semicircular gravel road is constructed for service vehicles. On the other side massive soil deposition enforced and naturalised the dam with green grassy slope.

Across the dam there is a visiAbove: Mangatangi Reservoir Dam Inauguration Stone. Behind is the excess water spill pillar.

Below left: Semi-circular rim of the top of the dam.

Below right: Antenna equipment at the peak (Mangatanui 487m) just by the side of the Trig.

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My Favourite Walk My Favourite Walk

tors’ centre with information about the dam and surrounding area.

We, then, continued our walk along the Ara Drive. It was quite interesting, zigzag uphill road with thick forest on both sides. This is the road connecting with Moumoukai Valley Road on west side.

That road continues and meets Waterline Road that takes to Upper Mangatawhiri Reservoir, which is also a quite sizable reservoir.

After walking about 50 minutes from the dam, there was a diversion on the left side to go to the Above left: Manuka blooming near the rest room near the car park.

Above right: Heath Wild Flower (Erica lusitania).

Below left: Mike walking towards the peak.

Below right: Mike on the other side of the dam showing the grassy slope.

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peak. We took this road. After about 150 meters there is a wide, levelled space where cars can be parked, when it would be open for private cars. Then, we continued uphill on the gravel road.

Thereafter, the gravel road, although driveable, was steeper at times and water lodged at places.

We walked for about 25 minutes and made it to the top, where some telecom equipment and solar batteries were installed. Just behind this was the trig with altitude (487 m) written on it. We took sometimes to rest, enjoy the scenery, looking around and taking photos.

This area falls within Hunua Ranges Regional Park (HRRP) and lies in southern end of the park.

Although the Hunua Range is covered by luscious green vegetation, this range often refer to as the poor cousin of the more visually spectacular Waitakere Ranges. The Mangatangi Track, with its trig at 487m, offers one of the best vantage points in the park, with views extending over the Firth of Thames to the Coromandel Range.

The area is important watershed for the reservoir, so the green vegetation was thick and luxuriant, at places groups of kauri trees were growing healthy. Near the trig I saw a few NZ tree huneysucle (rewarewa), wild flower heath (Erica Lusitania), Himalayan (Leycesria

sp.) and Japanese (Lonicera sp.) honeysucles. There were other flowers blooming including manuka plants The track itself is relatively easy going, gaining 350m over the 3.5km from the Workman Road end to the summit. Major part of track was driveable road (Ara Drive) with toilet facilities available at places along the way.

I did hear a few bird songs, among which, I could distinguish tui’s sound. We also saw jungle fowl crossing our way.

The walk is easy to moderate.

We did not drink water as much because of wet weather, however, the walk was very enjoyable and pleasant. We spent a total of five and half hours and came to know yet another important land mark within HRRP, Auckland region, and therefore it is my favourite walk.

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New Zealand Walk

Doug Walker Memorial Walkway popular

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nly five minutes drive from Hastings and 15 minutes from Napier on the Pakowhai Road, on the Hastings side of the Ngaruroro River is the Douglas Walker Memo-

22 Walking New Zealand, issue no 273 - 2020

rial Walk.

A walk through the park from the stopbank entrance serves as a memorial to Mr Doug Walker, who was Chairman of Hawkes Bay Regional Council 1992-1996 when

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New Zealand Walk

he led the development of much of the flood protection work on the Heretaunga Plains.

The park was developed in the former bed of the Ngaruroro River which was diverted 500 m north in a large flood protection project completed in 1969. The Raupere Stream now flows under the old river bridge near the entrance to the park.

The park was created by The Landcare Foundation in the 1970s, with support from a group known as Friends of Pakowhai Country

Park who still get involved in planting and other projects.

Paved parking provides access through a gate to unpaved pathways and open grass areas (note that some access may be difficult for prams and wheelchairs). Features include an island, wetland, bridges, picnic tables. There is no overnight camping available.

Dogs are welcome and the park is a popular dog exercise park, where dogs are permitted to be off leash but must be under the control of their owners. Dog waste

bag dispensers are in the park and owners must remove waste.

Many of the native trees were planted by volunteer community groups and schools and there is also a small forestry block.

Pakowhai Country Park has been enhanced so that people can enjoy the countryside within easy distance of Napier and Hastings and it has good views across orchards, river and farmland. Casual paths crisscross the Raupare Stream over bridges built by HBRC staff as a team building exercise.

Opposite page top: A group on the shaded part of the walk.

Opposite page middle: Someone spots fruit on a tree.

Opposite page below photos: To do the loop there are two footbridges to cross.

Above right: This is a popular walk for families.

Below right: A busy day on the Doug Walker Memorial Walk.

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New Zealand Walks

Four P’s in a pod! Paku,

Pauanui, Parakiwai, Puketui

By Phillip Donnell

“Pod” is the Greek root for “foot”. It is also an acronym for “Perambulations of Distinction.”

Here are four such walks, all within a 30 kilometre radius of Hikuai, namely Paku, Pauanui, Parakiwai and Puketui. They are a surprise package.

Paku is the ancient volcano which dominates the entrance to Tairua Harbour. It was originally a single rhyolite dome, but has since eroded into a doubleheaded knoll.

A residence between them is aptly named “Cleavage House”.

The summit of the inner peak (192m) may be reached in less than 30 minutes, along a wellconstructed path bordered by mature karaka, kawakawa and pohutukawa.

En route there are six illustrated information panels detailing local history and geology.

These enhance the experience of the climb and provide a good excuse to stop for a breather on the way up!

takes you past a waterfall (spectacular after heavy rain) to Flat Rock, notable for its columnar lava. From here it’s a short distance back to the beach.

The Parakiwai Track, seven kilometres south of Whangamata, is one of the most rewarding halfday trips in the region. Originally used by horses trudging to the site of the Golden Sovereign gold mine, the trail is now a pleasant stroll through attractive riverside bush. Wooden bridges span all significant flows.

In 1896 the Royal Standard Gold-mining Company of London purchased existing claims and set about spending vast sums of money preparing the site, building a tramway from the Otahu Estuary and purchasing machinery.

In 1897 a new manager called a halt to proceedings after many thousands of pounds had been squandered. No gold was mined and the area was abandoned.

The walkway, tramway tunnel, mine shafts, water supply pipe and other bits and pieces are all that remain.

Ten minutes from the car-park the track passes andesite rock formations 20 million years old.

Groves of ponga, kauri rickers and nikau clothe the valley floor and hillsides.

In 80 minutes, you’ll arrive at a clearing, from which you can head either way around the Wharekirauponga Loop to the striking gorge and upper cascades. The battery site is five minutes from the clearing, and is worth fossicking. It’s only another 15 minutes to the tramway tunnel.

Explorers may set out to find the old gold-mining routes, adits, and mine entrances, or to bathe in

At the top, a plane table outlines and names the islands that are visible. There are panoramic views over the estuary, beaches, ocean, and rugged Coromandel interior.

The track up Pauanui Hill (387m) is part of a series of worthwhile walks in the Tairua Forest.

It is best to ascend the old trig route, which begins from the carpark at the southern end of the beach and soon branches off the initial Loop Track.

A steady 45-60 minute climb brings you to the trig structure, with extensive views over Pauanui beach and resort, including its unusual canal subdivisions.

From here, descend via the longer Eastern Route (one and a half hours), which also has the option of a side-trip to Storm Cove (two hours return).

A rock promontory at 200 metres elevation, and lookout at 130 metres, offer impressive vistas of Slipper Island. Eventually you reach the coast at Boulder Bay, with its small cave.

Above left: Paku from Manaia A short stint of rock hopping Beach, Tairua.

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New Zealand Walks

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either the warm spring or one of the many pools.

The Puketui Valley ushers the visitor into the Broken Hills Recreation Area, an increasingly popular holiday hideaway in a beautiful river gorge setting.

Follow the Tairua River to either the “bridge” or “road-end” carparks, whence there are many opportunities for walking, swimming, canoeing, fishing, rafting, bird-watching, photography, picnicking and camping.

Between 1895 and 1915 Puketui was a bustling gold-mining settlement, and was also logged for kauri. Plans were duly prepared for a permanent town on the site of the present campground, but were abandoned when mining tailed off.

Relics from the past still exist within easy access. Of particular interest are the Golden Hills, Broken Hills and Government Battery walks (all less than 30 minutes), the Water Race tunnels and a two to three hour circuit embracing the 500 metre-long Collins Drive tunnel, punched through the hill in a fruitless attempt to find a quartz reef, and for which you will need a torch.

Experienced trampers may venture further to Paton Stream Dam, now collapsed, and onto the main range (Hihi trig).

This quartet of walks combines fascinating human history with memorable natural scenery. It has the added advantages of proximity to all the facilities of popular resort towns, and the ability to see a wide range of features in a compact area.

If you have a hankering to undertake these walks, Footsteps Aotearoa NZ would be pleased to make it possible. Contact them: footstepsanz@gmail.com, 021 172 3244, 07 544 9509.

Above left: Tairua Estuary and township from Patu.

Below lef t: A water fall near Government Battery.

Below right; Pauanui from Paku.

Fact File

Access: Tirinui Crescent (off Paku Drive), Tairua; South End car-park, Pauanui; Parakiwai Quarry Road (off SH25); Morrison’s / Puketui Valley Road (off SH25).

Grades: Easy to moderate.

Maps: Topo50 series: BB35 Hikuai, BB36 Whangamata.

Further Information: DOC Visitor Centre, Kauaeranga Valley, Thames, ph.07 867 9080, Email: kauaerangavc@doc.govt.nz; Tairua Information Centre, 223 Main Road, Tairua, ph.07 864 7575, Email: info.tairua@ xtra.co.nz; Whangamata Visitor Centre, ph.07 865 8340, Email: enquiry@whangamatainfo.co.nz

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Te Araroa Trail

Paeka Track

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akariki Escarpment k for magnificent views

By Barbz Lowther

W

Te Araroa Trail

e recently had a free day in Wellington. The skies were blue, and it wasn’t too windy, so we caught the train to Paekakariki and walked the escarpment trail back to Pukerua Bay. This walk is part of the Te Araroa Trail which extends from Cape Reinga to Bluff. It was magnificent!

All the way along there were coastal views, with the railway line far below, and the sea shimmering in many shades of blue. interesting info’ boards along the way told the history and geology of this area, and showed how the movement of the Australian and Pacific tectonic plates have shaped what we see today, and continue to alter it.

Although there are hundreds of steps, they are very well planned Left: Looking south from the track. The trail here goes over a rail tunnel, with SH1 below.

On a clear day the South Island can be seen.

Below: The halfway mark 5km.

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Te Araroa Trail

Paekakariki Escarpment Track for magnificent views

in a series of zigzags and sets of wooden steps, followed by sloping trail to another set. It was easy to climb. Around every corner was yet another spectacular view.

Several patches of bush along the way gave protection from the wind, which became progressively stronger. In places the vegetation was all blown to a 45degree angle, showing how fierce the wind can be.

We crossed one swing bridge easily, but by time we reached the second, the wind had picked up, and the bridge was rolling and swaying – quite an experience and not for the faint hearted. We then realized why it is recommended that children do not walk this track.

A little further on, a recent slip had left a very narrow pathway to sidle over, with stones rolling down the cliff side as we went.

We arrived back in Pukerua Bay in time for the 3.00 pm train back to Wellington.

It was an awesome day and I would thoroughly recommend it for anyone of reasonable fitness, over the age of 10.

A b ove : S t o p p i n g t o v i e w Kapiti Island. Below left: The settlement of Pukerua Bay can be seen top left with the Main Trunk Rail line and SH1 at the bottom right.

Below right: A recent slip on the track.

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Te Araroa Trail

Paekakariki Escarpment Track The Paekariki Escarpment

fact file Track runs from Paekākāriki to Pukerua Bay, taking in sweeping views of the spectacular Kāpiti Coastline and the region’s famous Kāpiti Island.

Heading south, the trail starts by following the Kāpiti railway line then veers uphill and across privately-owned farmland. You’ll climb 220 metres above sea level and navigate steep narrow pathways on what is one of the highlights of the Te Araroa Trail. The Escarpment Track can be walked in either direction but most choose to walk from north to south.

Families of all ages regularly enjoy this trail, but it is not recommended for the faint-hearted: you’ll scale around 1,200 steep steps, navigate narrow pathways across ridgelines, and traverse two swing bridges.

Getting there You can access The Escarpment Track from either Paekākāriki or Pukerua Bay, both an easy one hour journey from Wellington by train or vehicle. Follow the signposts to the start of the trail. The walking distance from station to station is 10km.

Train timetables are available from the Metlink website and tickets can be purchased onboard with cash.

Know before you go Amenities • T o i l e t s a r e a va i l a b l e a t Paekākāriki Station on weekends and in Paekākāriki village during daylight hours. There is also a toilet at the Pukerua Bay shopping area that is open all week.

• Basic supplies can be purchased from Paekākāriki and

Pukerua Bay. •Parking is available at the Paekākāriki and Pukerua Bay train stations.

• Seating is available along the trail, along with interesting interpretive signs.

Get prepared • Pack adequate food and water for the journey.

• Take warm waterproof clothing and durable footwear, along with plenty of sunscreen.

• Take walking sticks if you’re not used to prolonged steep ascents and descents.

• Check the track status on the Te Araroa website.

• Get an up-to-date weather report from the Metservice website before setting off.

• If using the Train, please have enough cash for a one-way ticket $3.50 between Pukerua Bay and Paekākāriki.

Be aware • This trail is steep, narrow and exposed. People with vertigo are warned against doing this walk.

• Keep to the marked track as it crosses private property and DO NOT enter the rail corridor or you may risk getting a $20,000 fine.

• The track is adjacent to operating farmland, so no dogs or cycling are permitted.

Above: Fighting the wind at the second bridge.

Middle: Negotiating the steps with the road way below.

Below: A shady section near the start of the track at Paekariki. www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

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Overseas Walks

A walk every day with the

A

By Alex and Jenny Davies

Hurtigruten ship leaves the port of Bergen, Norway at 9.30 pm every day of the year on a schedule that takes it to 33 ports, arriving at the last of these, Kirkenes on the Barents Sea, after five and a half days of sailing.

It returns to Bergen visiting the same ports, but manages its schedule so that what one misses in the hours of darkness northbound is experienced on the five and a half days going south.

In remarkable contrast with ocean cruising, passengers have the opportunity to walk ashore every day of the trip, with a different experience on every occasion.

Our ship arrived and left each port precisely on time. If walkers stray too far and for too long they will find catching up with the ship very expensive, so it seemed a good idea for us to take hikes with the ship’s “expedition team”. Being last up the gangway was then a lot less stressful!

have, we would have time to climb a steep series of steps to Aklsa (189m) for a good view of the city, its architecture and its watery surrounds. We are grateful for his offer, and for getting us back to the ship before she sailed!

Trondheim, Day 2

We have nearly four hours, so we make our own way ashore, walk along the banks of the river where old wooden warehouses line the banks as far as the Old Town Bridge, and up to Kristiansten Fortress for a view of the city.

The fortress is over 300 years old, serving its purpose in battles against the marauding Suedes.

On the way back, we discover a “bicycle lift” embedded in a steep footpath leading up the hill from the bridge. It is the first and only one of its kind in the world, and would be a useful addition to our cities with hills that limit the use of pedal power.

Ålesund, Day 1

Because we have taken some of the day to cruise the spectacular Hjørundfjord and step ashore at a village, we have reduced time in this small city. Ålesund was rebuilt on three islands after a devastating fire over 100 years ago, in Art Nouveau style.

Our guide Sondre suggests that in the hour we Below left: Ålesund is surrounded by sea and islands. Our ship Nordlys is docked below our viewpoint, and will sail soon.

Above: Wooden storehouses dating from the 18th century on both banks of the River Nidelva in Trondheim, looking towards the Old Town Bridge, with the spire of the cathedral beyond.

Bodø Day 3

By the time we have reached Bodø, we have crossed the Arctic Circle. There is heavy cloud and a bit of rain, but Sondre thinks we’ll get an interesting climb, and a reasonable view, from Keiservarden at 366m.

After a short taxi ride, a small group of us walked 1.2km from the road end, past two lakes, and climbed a stairway of big rock slabs to the summit.

It’s just clear enough to see back down to Bodø, and

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Overseas Walk

Norwegian Coastal Express across, through the mist, to the sharp peaks of the Lofoten Islands towards which we are heading in the evening. It’s been an invigorating walk and we feel we have earned dinner, with a beer brewed up here in the Arctic.

photos anyone took today.

Below left:: A parish church nick-named “Arctic Cathedral” across the strait from Tromsø, seen over the bow of our ship. Here, we attended a midnight concert on the return voyage.

Honningsvåg Day 5

As we tie up to the wharf in Honningsvåg, our objective today is easy to see; there is a steep hill and a massive ridge right behind the town.

Honningsvåg is on the southern coast of Magerøy Island, with road access to North Cape. It also has road access to the south, through a 6.8km undersea tunnel.

With a bit over 3½ hours to explore, Sondre and a group of five cross through the town and climb the bluff with views back to the port, our ship, and the coastline to the south. There are colourful patches Above: Our guide Sondre points out features from of wildflowers and massive rocks decorated with prolific lichens. the Keiservarden summit above Bodø.

At the summit of Storefjell (360m) we see fingers of land pointing to the ocean in all directions. BeObscured in the rain as we approach Tromsø yond the high land to the north lies North Cape, is Mt Floya, the destination for today’s scheduled the northernmost piece of land in Europe, only walk.

Despite the weather, Sondre is leading a group up to the 671m summit but although we have dressed appropriately, we decline, and opt for a city stroll instead.

The city centre is on a small island, with a special character and plenty to see, and shelter when the rain intensified. The expedition returns wet and cold. On a good day, the view over the city and mountains beyond is spectacular, but not in the

Tromsø Day 4

2080km from the North Pole. Nowhere else on earth is walking this close to either of the poles as easy as this! We descend some rough slopes into a valley leading back to the town, in good time to board and get sailing again.

Above: On the slopes of Storefjell on Magerøy Island, looking north to Barents Sea and the North www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

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Overseas Walks

A walk every day with the Norwegian Coastal Express and gardens, and fences have been built to exclude them. Soon we are back at the jetty ready to sail into the sunset.

Above left: Members of our party crossing the granite plateau near Kirkenes, looking north to Bøkfjorden.

Kirkenes Day 6

It is a mild day with clear blue skies, and we have 3½ hours for a walk near Kirkenes, the turning point of our voyage, and as far east as St Petersburg and Istanbul!

With two guides, Sondre and Haakon, about twenty walkers set off to a rocky plateau overlooking the town, and the fjord we had sailed into that morning.

To the east, a river indicates the border with Russia. We follow paths that wound around small lakes surrounded by birch trees showing early autumn colour, and cross over massive ice-worn granite sheets strewn with boulders left by the last glacier.

Sondre gives us an alternative explanation for these boulders; at night, trolls amuse themselves by throwing them at one another. One of several local stories told as we enjoyed hot drinks and biscuits.

Above: Time for a hot drink and a snack as we contemplate the view of Hammerfest.

Stokmarknes Day 8

Hiking ashore today is limited to crossing a wharf and visiting a museum.

In the morning we have sailed between the islands of Westerålen to pause at Stokmarknes on the island of Hadseløya. It was here in 1881 that the founding father of Hurtigruten, Richard With, established his steamship company that led to the first ship on the Norwegian coastal service, Vesterålen, sailing in 1893.

The interesting collection is, we discovered later, Below: Construction of the Hurtigruten Museum at Stokmarknes.

Hammerfest Day 7

Passing in the night sailing north, we did not see this northern outpost of the petrochemical industry.

The sign at the wharf announces that this is the world’s most northerly town. Gas is piped ashore and LNG is shipped worldwide. From the escarpment above the town we can look down on the port and the industrial installations.

We are being led by a local guide Jeana along the Gammelveien, the original road in to Hammerfest.

Our hike takes us round the hill behind the town, On the way we encounter two reindeer grazing unconcerned among the rocks. These animals present a problem when they wander into the streets

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Overseas Walks

in temporary premises, and will soon be housed in the ship, the original Finmarken, now in dry dock beside the wharf. There will then be opportunity to explore the interior restored in its original style of the 1950s.

Above: The Arctic Circle globe, as we sailed by, with Hestman Island (568m) beyond.

king threw his hat in the air to stop an arrow from killing a beautiful woman fleeing from a horseman.

Our walk followed the path of the arrow through the hat. The horseman remains set in stone as Hestman Island, on the Arctic Circle, just as the other characters are preserved as mountains along he coast.

Our voyage ends two days later back in Bergen.

Yes, we did skip a walk ashore on the last day!

We are most grateful to our guides, who told stories and gave explanations in “lectures” on board.

They explained “Friluftsliv”, a specially Norwegian concept of bonding with nature and the need to get out and enjoy it, walking or snowshoeing, whatever the weather.

This ingrained appreciation of the outdoors is set in law by an Outdoor Recreation Act. Thanks also to Hurtigruten and its remarkable service that enabled us to experience Friluftsliv for ourselves.

Brønnøysund Day 9

Today there is a special destination; a hat-shaped mountain with a hole right through it.

Amazingly, it is easy to walk through the giant passage 160m long and 35m high through the granite from one side of Torghatten to the other.

On the wharf at Brønnøysund, we join a busload of others keen to reach the mountain, climb to the hole and walk through to a view of many small islands and the open sea beyond.

No logical explanation seems plausible so we might as well believe the story of how the troll

You can now view and enjoy the latest issue of

Walking New Zealand magazine online for $2.50 at

Above: Walking through a mountain. www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

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Overseas Walks

Lamma Island paved wilderness walkways

I

By Shena McGregor

was invited to my niece’s wedding, held in Hong Kong at the end of November, 2018. I debated this for some time thinking that one week was too short. It turned out to be a good time frame.

Flying out from England were my sister, my brother-in-law and their other daughter. We all met at the airport, our flight from New Zealand arriving within half an hour of the one from England.

My niece found an apartment for the four of us on Lamma Island, a pleasant 25 minute ferry ride from Central Hong Kong.

Above left: A pavilion on Lamma Island.

Below left:Walking trail on Lamma Island..

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The island is very popular with commuters and tourists on weekends.

It has a very laid back feeling due in part to there being no vehicles on the island apart from emergency vehicles and motorbikes (with a trailer attached) used in the construction industry or delivering food stuffs from the ferry to shops and restaurants.

Watch your back as the drivers often drove at break neck speeds.

Therefore many people use bicycles for getting around. At the ferry there are bike racks for maybe a couple of hundred bikes. There is also a height restriction of three stories on any buildings. My kind of place!

The weather was very similar to the weather we had in New Zealand at the time I left. I departed New Zealand in drizzle and there was steady rain when I arrived in Hong Kong. There was intermittent rain over the next two days.

The temperature was pleasantly warm. I had packed one pair of jeans which I didn’t wear, just lived in shorts. The morning of the wedding the rain only just held off.

There are lots of walkways on Lamma Island, with the majority being paved. These were put in by the Gerkas. It seemed very strange to be walking in a wilderness area on mainly concrete or cobbled paths.

At several places there were pavilions in the style of a Chinese temple. These were places of shelter, rest and sometimes they had BBQs. At some of them there would be a vendor selling much welcome drinks or ice-blocks. Most of the paths we followed were of a reasonable gradient with some very steep inclines thrown in to keep you honest.

Unfortunately some of the beaches were not a pretty sight as www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Overseas Walks

there was lots of rubbish littering them. I hope this was due to the typhoon that had been through six weeks prior to our arrival and not to a lack of concern for the environment. (There were recycling bins in town).

One of our walks took us past the Kamakazee Caves, where the Japanese hid their speed boats during WW2. There was water in the caves with lots of debris; needless to say we didn’t venture in.

Another day’s walk was to the south east of the island. We had lunch on a giant rocky outcrop. We met an elderly Chinese woman and Above: Below left: Walking a pipeline track on the Dragon’s Back Trail. Below right: A reservoir on the trail .

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Overseas Walks

Lamma Island paved wilderness walkways her husband (neither spoke any English) who showed us the fine art of balancing on one leg. She took many photos of us perfecting this trick.

After lunch we split into two groups; my sister and brother-in-

law walking to Sham Wan Beach (I nicknamed it Turtle Beach) where they were sung to all the way down by the Chinese woman. (The beach is closed to the public from the 1st June -31st October, this being the time when the turtles come ashore

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and lay their eggs).

My nieces and I climbed part way to Mt. Stenhouse (353 metres).

This is a little used, narrow dirt track, with a couple of signs near where it leaves the main path with the occasional piece of ribbon tied to bushes by fellow hikers.

Most of the time the scrub was knee height and some areas it was above head height. Our biggest concern was the snakes. There are several types of snakes on the island (Bamboo snakes, Cobra, Green Viper, Rat Snakes, Python), most of them being poisonous.

One of my nieces and I were yelling out “Go away snakes, no more snakes” and beating the bushes.

Our yelling and bush beating must have done the trick.

There were amazing views from the rock outcrop where we Above left: Our small, multi-national group on the Dragon’s Back Trail.

Below left: Giant boulders on the way down to “Turtle Beach”.

Below right: Descending from the wind turbines on Lamma Island.

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Overseas Walks

Above left: Watch out for those motorbikes .Above right: On the Dragon’s Back trail

stopped, some of them back to mainland Hong Kong with its sky scraper dominating landscape.

We took a different route to Turtle Beach to meet up with my sister and brother-in-law, clambering over huge boulders that looked like a giant had tossed them around.

My last two nights in Hong Kong I stayed with a friend of my nieces, also on Lamma Island, her apartment being a 25 minute walk from the ferry.

She belongs to a small hiking group and on the Saturday we joined three others. This meant an early start of 6.00am; not so good for her after a week of work, We caught the 7.40am ferry, then an underground train almost to the end of the line where we joined a long line to get onto a double decker bus.

We alighted from the bus at Shek Kou for a five hour walk on the Dragon’s Back, part of the 50

kilometre Maclehose Trail.

Another bus had just dropped off its passengers at the start of this arm of the trail. We moved into top gear to get past this large

group of ambling tourists.

Once in front, the crowds thinned out, and at times there were just the five of us, a multinational group consisting of one

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Walking New Zealand, issue no 273- 2020

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Overseas Walks

Lamma Island paved wilderness walkways

Queen Charlotte Track walking packages Let us arrange it all for you Includes: • Private, en suite rooms • Luggage transfers • Restaurant meals available • Daily packed lunches • Pre-trip briefing • Private Land Track Pass • Information kit and map Locally owned and operated family business based in Picton

Natural Encounters Walks www.natural-encounters.com info@natural-encounters.com Ph: 021 268 8879

38 Walking New Zealand, issue no 273 - 2020

kiwi (yours truly), one Brit, one Canadian, American and one local. We had lunch by a waterfall, with not a skyscraper in sight.

We walked by two reservoirs. I saw a side of HK that not many tourists would see. I was told that if at any stage you want to get off the trail there are many side tracks to take you to by bus, which the two of us did towards the end of the walk, leaving the group to carry on and finish the trek.

It was on our way to get a bus to the very popular seaside village of Stanley that we saw the house of the second richest person in HK. His fine mansion sat resplendent on top of a ridge, on a very large piece of land and unfortunately for him, rather exposed after the recent typhoon.

On my last day in HK my niece and I got a double decker to Victoria Peak (552 metres). The bus ride in itself is an experience as many roads were not built for buses; there are steep drop offs, the top of the bus often brushing trees with the driver having to often stop when another bus was coming down the hill.

I was horrified when my niece pointed out a shopping mall as we got off the bus, as this Victorian-era environment was spoiled by our modern day indulgences.

We walked the three kilometres around the peak, the path having been put in during the Victorian era around a very steep hillside.

For the trip back to Central we walked down a very steep path. At the base a woman asked about the path to the top, to which my niece replied that it was a challenging walk.

Hong Kong I didn’t find a very attractive city, but I was very pleased to have been introduced to some out-of-the way places; a view of the city that not many tourists would see. I was certainly amazed at some of the trails and small hamlets we came across.

This is what I love so much about going to a new place, being shown around by a local and getting off the tourist trail.

Staying on Lamma Island gave me a totally different perspective to life in Hong Kong, as I’m sure I wouldn’t have got the same out of my visit if we had stayed on the mainland.

You can now view and enjoy the latest issue of

Walking New Zealand

magazine online for $2.50 at

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Northland Experience

100km Coast to Coast Walk

A

Northland firm is excited to announce that they have created the perfect Coast to Coast Walk in Northland.

Their Coast to Coast tour takes you from Russell in the Bay of Islands on the east coast to Rawene in the Hokianga on the west coast across the Far North of the North Island or vice versa.

You will traverse approximately 100kms, take in ferry rides, bush walks, historical sites, geographical phenomenon’s, country towns and bush tracks.

With the bulk of your walk on the diverse and picturesque Pou Herenga Tai Twin Coast Cycle Trail.

The first day you arrive in the Bay of Islands and stay in Russell,

a charming village with beautiful eateries, historical sites, lookouts, and stunning beaches! What more could you want?

Normally you would stay in Arcadia Lodge B&B or Bellrock Lodge, both are luxurious and a wonderful way to start your walk with fabulous views.

Walking out of town you join the Russell to Paihia Coastal Walk, which is a mix of boardwalk through mangroves, native bush, and sea views.

Arriving in Opua, you stay at the Marina Cove where you can enjoy your own private deck and stunning views of the Bay of Islands.

The great news about all this – is that your bags are transferred each day. You only carry what

you need!

Day 2 is a short stroll past the marina and then you are on the Pou Herenga Twin Coast Cycle Trail for 11km to Kawakawa.

It’s a flat walk, with plenty to see, an estuary, many bridges including the famous Taumarere Long Bridge.

If you are there on a Friday, Saturday or Sunday you can catch a vintage train the last 4 km into Kawakawa. That day you are driven a short 10 minute drive back to stay at Marina Cove for a second night.

Day 4, a car transfer back to Kawakawa which is a fascinating town. Filled with places to Above left: Rachel at Okiato.

Above right: A group at the Wairere boulders.

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Walking New Zealand, issue no 273- 2020

39

Northland Experience

100km Coast to Coast Walk eat and Northland’s largest art gallery – The Kings Theatre. It is famous for its toilets and now the Te Hononga community hub.

The toilets were designed by Friedensreich Hundertwasser, who lived just out of Kawakawa and the hub is based on his work.

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The next 16.km are interesting, past marae, through rolling farmland and over the twin suspension bridges at Tuhipa From here you are picked up and taken to Kaikohe, to stay at the beautified restored old BNZ bank – now called the Left Bank.

You can check out Ngawha hot springs or just relax in the pure luxury of your room! Lovely restaurant downstairs for dinner or breakfast.

Day 5 is a transfer back to where you left the trail to walk back to Kaikohe for another 16.5km for a 2nd night at the Left Bank.

Day 6 you walk from Kaikohe to Okaihau encountering a tunnel, lake, and beautiful rural vis-

40 Walking New Zealand, issue no 273 - 2020

tas, before arriving in the village of Okaihau, for some great coffee and food from Kiwi Kai or old fashioned lollies and real fruit ice cream from Settlers Way. Relax, enjoy, and then walk the last 2km to Okaihau Rail Stay. Vintage railway carriages that have been transformed into boutique accommodation. All in all, a total of 16km.

The seventh day walking takes you 12km down through the Above left: At the Wairere boulders.

Above right: The Ranui boat that takes you from Horeke to Rawene.

Above below right; Mangungu Mission Station, at the end of the cycle trail, where you get on the Ranui www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Northland Experience

beautiful Utakura Valley, with breath-taking views, a gorgeous river that meanders beside the trail you will have pure appreciation for the wonderful countryside we have in NZ. Pick up is from Snows Farm, a lovely picnic spot.

Day 8 is a short transfer back to Snows Farm to walk 13km to the other coast Yes! You are at the Hokianga Harbour and have walked from the east to west coast. Arriving in the settlement of Horeke.

The Hokianga is the second largest natural harbour in New Zealand. One of the most historically significant areas for Maori, it is the part of Aotearoa where Kupe first called home.

Horeke, Kohukohu and Rawene are among the oldest European settlements in New Zealand.

Today the region has the feeling of being relatively undiscovered.

You can be picked up or walk to Wairere Boulders which is a further 7km, no harm in a ride – after all you have just walked Coast to Coast.

Wairere Boulders is a true hidden gem – people from the Far North don’t even know about it.

The walking trails through the bush and Wairere Boulder Valley allow visitors to get close to nature and discover these amazing rock formations.

When the days are hot you can take a dip in the bush pool swimming hole or hire a kayak and paddle through the valley and out into the Hokianga Harbour.

Enjoy dinner and breakfast at the Boulder B&B – a wee treasure.

Day 9 and we are travelling down the harbour on a beautiful boat that had originally been used in 1945 for ferrying returned World War II servicemen to the

Rotorua Convalescent Hospital But first we walk down to Mangungu Mission House which is the end of the Cycle Trail. It is a peaceful spot with incredible views.

Mangungu is where the largest signing of the Treaty of Waitangi in the country took place, with over 70 chiefs adding their assent before a crowd of up to 3,000 people.

It is from here we hop on our boat and cruise up the Harbour to Rawene.

Staying in one of the B&Bs there. Rawene is a small place but boasts two great cafes, Clendon House, a puzzle shop and art galleries.

Breakfast is included each day. Dinners and lunches are not included in the price, other than where stated.

Fully organised and booked and further support if needed along the way. If you fly in, we will collect you and drop you

.

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

NORTHLAND

Above right: Rachael stops to take in the scenery back at Kerikeri airport.

Included in your walk is luggage transfers from Russell to Rawene, some shuttles to and from accommodations to ensure walks are within the max daily limits, accommodation, breakfast, ferry rides where needed.

Accommodation options are only indicative of the type we will be organising and will depend on date and availability.

If you prefer to have longer walks each day, this is very easily organised, of course you can add on some activities at either end as there are plenty of options and the team at Northland Experiences can organise it for you.

For more info: 0800 245 364 / 021 122 9307 hello@northlandexperiences. co.nz www.northlandexperiences. co.nz ADVERTORIAL

EXPERIENCES

Walking New Zealand, issue no 273- 2020

41

42 Walking New Zealand, issue no 273 - 2020

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

CONTENTS for previous 15 issues NOVEMBER 272 2020

2 Pak - A - Roo Walking Jacket 3 Contents 4 Walk Talk 6 New Zealand Walk: An amble by Lake Hakanoa 9 New Zealand Walk: A trail that reconnects us to the Waikato River 10 New Zealand Walk: Tongariro Alpine Crossing: best one day walk in NZ 16 New Zealand Walk: Time to explore Nydia Bay 18 Walking New Zealand Monthly Photo Contest 20 Australian Walk: Five of the top walks in Melbourne 22 Te Araroa Trail: Te Araroa Auckland Trust plan to enhance walking experience 24 New Zealand Walk: “Views to die for” on Waipu Cove Walkway 27 New Zealand Walks: Seven day walks around Queenstown 30 Overseas Walk: Whitburn to South Shields in the north east of England 34 New Zealand Walk: Hahei Beach to Cathedral Cove full of history 38 New Zealand Walks: Track work making strides in Auckland regional parks 38 New Zealand Walks: Walk New Zealand before you walk the world 40 New Zealand Walk: Rotorao Island an unique island sanctuary 42 Subscription page 43 Index of previous 14 issues 44 Coming Events: New Zealand 48 New Zealand Walking Tours 48 New Zealand Country Breaks 51 Wilderness Guides 52 Event:Manawatu Walking Festival

OCTOBER 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 Conservation 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 experience: 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

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

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

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

MAY-JULY 268 2020

3 Contents 4 Walk Talk 6 New Zealand Walk: Queen Charlotte Track - Here we come!

10 New Zealand Walk: Walking the Track 11 New Zealand Walk: The Queen Charlotte Track - why walk it when you can ride?

13 Lockdown Activities: Walking and biking around Papamoa - Training 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

ing 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 MARCH 266 2020 56 New Zealand Country Breaks 4 Walk Talk 6 New Zealand Walks: Cable Bay’s 59 Green Prescription 60 Manawatu Walking Festival family farmland walk 8 New Zealand Walk: Eastwoodhill DECEMBER 263 2019 - the national arboretum of New 3 Contents Zealand 12 New Zealand Walk: Eastwoodhill 4 Walk Talk offers six walks to suit all levels 6 Te AraroaTrail: New walking season and abilities marks start of Te Araroa odyssey 14 New Zealand Walks: Four walks at for many folk Hanmer Springs in one week 7 Te AraroaTrail: Walkers take to the 18 Walking New Zealand Monthly Te Araroa Trail for many reasons Photo Contest 20 Overseas Walks: Norfolk Island - a 8 NZ Shared Pathway: Pathway magical slice of paradise between Petone and Wellington 23 New Zealand Walk: Milford to now in planning stage Takapuna Walk 10 Overseas Walks: How to spend 26 New Zealand Walk: Herekawa 48 hours in the Gold Coast Stream and Clifftop Walk hinterland 30 Overseas Walks: Experience Australia’s newest walking challenge 12 New Zealand Walk; A day taking - Ranges to River two walks in the Totara Reserve 34 New Zealand Walk: Carter Scenic 14 New Zealand Walks: Five Kerikeri Reserve walk waterfall walks 36 New Zealand Walk: Walk to the stars 16 NZ Shared Pathway: Another link near Napier 38 New Zealand Walk: Otari - Wilton’s opens in city’s coastal path Bush - with 14kms of walking 17 Book: New Zealand’s Native Trees tracks 18 Walking New Zealand Monthly 42 Overseas Walks and Tours Photo Contest 44 Index of previous 14 issues 20 Club to celebrate birthday by gift45 Coming Events: New Zealand ing track to Pukekohe 48 Coming Events: Overseas 52 Directory of Walking Groups 22 Overseas Walks: Carnavon National 56 New Zealand Country Breaks Park walks were magical 60 Manawatu Walking Festival 29 NZ Shared Pathway: Cambridge to Hamilton pathway construcFEBRUARY 265 2020 tion begins 4 Walk Talk 6 New Zealand Walks: Top picks to 30 Overseas Walks: Rhodo heaven in explore this summer Annapurna 9 Auckland Short Walk: St Johns Bush 36 NZ Adventure: Retirees go for their Walk a short nature walk final tree-top adventure 10 New Zealand Walk: Waikato River 39 New Zealand Walk: Oakura Seaside Walking Track Beach Walk 12 New Zealand Walk: Te Koutu Park - a delightful walk 42 Overseas Walks and Tours 14 New Zealand Walk: A taste of the 44 Index of previous 14 issues Old Coach Road 45 Coming Events: New Zealand 16 New Zealand Walk: Pakihi Track reopened for the summer season 50 Coming Events: Overseas 17 New Zealand Walk: Motukiore 52 Directory of Walking Groups Island Walk for great views 56 New Zealand Country Breaks 18 Walking New Zealand Monthly 59 Green Prescription Photo Contest 60 Manawatu Walking Festival 20 New Zealand Walk: Beach walk Pukerua Bay to Plimmerton NOVEMBER 262 2019 22 Need2Know: New digital maps help 3 Contents people explore outdoors 4 Walk Talk 23 Overseas Walk: Feet dangling over 6 My Favourite walk: East, West the Lysefjord home’s best 28 New Zealand Walk: Ongaonga - a 8 Books: Day walks in New Zealand, village steeped in history 30 New Zealand Walk: Banks Track The 50 Best Bird Watching sites - New Zealand’s first private walk- 8 Readers View: What is in a name?

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

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

SEPTEMBER 260 2019

3 Contents 4 Walk Talk 6 My Favourite walk: Lush native forest and stunning views a feature of North Egmont walks 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 of 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!

28 Te Araroa Trail: Over 1000 walkers this season completed the trail 29 Event: Striders events 30 Overseas Walk: Table Mountain - 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

WalkingNew NewZealand, Zealand,issue issueno no273273 2020 - 202043 43 Walking

Coming Events

NEW ZEALAND

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

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

4 Corporate Challenge 5K: Christchurch 6-7 Taranaki Steelformers Around the 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 11-29 Waiheke Walking Festival, Waiheke Island 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

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27 FEBRUARY 2021

Breathtaking Views on Stunning Private Land.

Conquer the Peaks in Sunny Hawke’s Bay! WALKING OPTIONS SOLO OR RELAY TEAM 3 PEAKS (55 KMS) SOLO TWO PEAK TIKI TOUR (37 KMS) SOLO ONE PEAK EXPLORER (18 KMS)

Phone 0800-925-546 for bulk prices

Availablle now at

FREE GIANT BEER (over 18s only) TRUCKLOAD OF SPOT PRIZES RUNNING & MTB CATEGORIES

www.triplepeaks.co.nz Find us on

• 15 sports modes, walking, running, cycling, swimming, yoga, hiking, climbing, rope skipping, basketball, badminton, tennis, football, treadmill, spinning and dancing • Intelligent sleep monitor function - measures your sleep quality • Well appointed communication tool - receive calls, message, calendar and notification of App • Excellent wristband performance - remote camera, anti-lost function • Life waterproof (sweatproof dustproof) • Available colours: Black or Blue • Compatible OS Android 4.4 / iOS 7.1 and above system • Standby time 5-10 days Charging time 1-2 hours • Connects to Yoho Sport app from Play Store or Apple Store

Price only

39.95 or 2

for $65.00 plus $7.00 P&P

Walking New Zealand Shop

@TriplePeaksHawkesBay

44 Walking New Zealand, issue no 273 - 2020

P O Box 1922, Palmerston North - Phone 0800-925-546 Fax 06-358-6864 or email walkingnz@xtra.co.nz. www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Coming Events

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, 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

23 Mount Run, Mt Maunganui 12 3 Bridges Marathon, Wanganui 12 Speights West Coaster Trail Run & 23 Ultra Easy & Big Easy Mountain Runs, Luggate, Otago Walk, Bethells Beach, Auckland 12 Run the Vines Paritua, Hastings 13 Centre Hill to Mossburn Downriver Fingertip Pulse Oximeter Dash, Mossburn, Southland The fingertip Pulse/Oximeter can be used 13 Canterbury Half Marathon, Pegato measure oxygen saturation and heart sus, Canterbury

JANUARY 2021

3 Southern Muster Trail Run, Wanaka 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 16 Good Home Taranaki Off Road Half Marathon, Lake Mangamahoe, New Plymouth 16 Wine Run, Burnham, Canterbury 17 Eighth Continent Marathon and Half Marathon, Auckland 17 Women’s Half Marathon, Mangere, Auckland

pulse rate through the finger. Monitor respiratory conditions, pre and post exercise, and pre and post operative conditions.

Only

$89.00 plus $7.00 P&P

Available now from:

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

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

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 273- 2020

45

Coming Events

NORDIC WALKING

24 Harcourts Cooper & Co Run Devonport, Devonport, Auckland 30 Tussock Traverse in Tongariro National Park, The Chateau, Tongariro National Park 31 Vine Run at Pegasus Bay Winery, Wiapara Valley, North Canterbury

FEBRUARY 2021

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

5-14 Downer New Zealand Masters Games, Whanganui 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 27 MCL Construction Triple Peaks Hawke’s Bay 28 Christchurch Motorway Half Marathon, Christchurch 28 Ports of Auckland Round the Bays, Auckland

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

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

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 273 - 2020

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Walking New Zealand, issue no 273- 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

TARANAKI

FOLDABLE HIKING POLES

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

TRAMPING - CYCLING - TRANSPORT

HIKES THROUGHOUT NZ

* * * * *

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

$39.95 plus $7 Shipping Available now from:

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

www.walkingnewzealand.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 Walking New Zealand, issue no 273- no 2020273 - 2020 48 Walking New Zealand, issue

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, issue no 273202049 49 Walking New Zealand, issue no 2732020

MACKENZIE/South Canterbury

GREAT COUNTRY BREAKS

STEWART ISLAND

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

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

STEWART ISLAND

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

SOUTHLAND

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

STEWART ISLAND

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 2723-no 2020 50 Walking 50 Walking New Zealand, issue 273 - 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

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Walking New Zealand, issue no 273- 2020

51

7th

MARCH

Northland Experience

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 or tramp over the a farm hills 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 52 Walking New Zealand, issue no 273 - 2020

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz