275 FEBRUARY 2021

RECREATION WALKING and CYCLING TRAILS

FEBRUARY 2021 ISSUE NO 275

New Zealand Walk:

Happy holiday humping New Zealand Walk:

A wander around Wairorongomai Valley

New Zealand Walks:

Hidden treasures in Wai-O-Tapu Valley

New Zealand Walk:

Seven walks on Mt Somers

Photo Contest winners

NZ $8.50 inc GST

New Zealand Walk:

Locals proud of Kawatiri Coastal Trail www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Walking New Zealand, issue no 275 - 2021

1

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CONTENTS

Issue 275- 2021

2 Pak - A - Roo Walking Jacket 3 Contents 4 Walk Talk 6 New Zealand Walk: A wander around Waioronga-

mai Valley 11 Te Araroa Trail: New partnerships keep track of

walkers on trail 12 New Zealand Walk: Hidden treasures in Wai-O-

Tapu Forest 15 Need to Know: Advantages of replacing fizzy

drinks with water 16 New Zealnd Farm Walks: Hill farm walks in the Rangitikei 18 Walking New Zealand Monthly Photo Contest 20 High Achievers: Volunteers add value to Mt

Somers experience 22 New Zealand Walk: Seven walks on Mt Somers 24 New Zealand Walk:Locals proud of Kawatiri

Coastal Trail 26 New Zealand Walks: Plan your next adventure

with New Zealand Walks 29 High Achiever: Award to Mangawhai builder of

walking tracks 30 New Zealand Walk: Happy holiday humping 37 Book: Enhanced access grant supports bikepack-

ing Aotearoa book 38 Need2Know: Enjoying the outdoors responsibility 40 Subscription Page 41 Index of previous 14 issues 42 Coming Events: New Zealand 48 New Zealand Walking Tours 48 New Zealand Country Breaks 51 Wilderness Guides 52 Event: Manawatu Walking Festival

30

24

Cover: A hiker stops bedside a pretty waterfall beside the trail..

WALKING New Zealand Published Monthly

PUBLISHER/EDITOR: Frank Goldingham: Phone 06-358-6863

6

CONTRIBUTORS: Judy Eva, Bob Hodgson, Stephen Day, and Phillip Donnell, Barb Lowther and Claire Woodhall 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

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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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5 Walking New Zealand, issue no 275 - 2021

3

Promoting Fiordland to Kiwis

The ‘Fiordland - Beyond Belief’ campaign was launched last year, targeting domestic travellers now and positioning Te Anau as ‘base camp’, while opening the eyes of international visitors to the fact there’s more to Fiordland than Milford Sound.

Destination Fiordland manager, Madeleine Peacock, says the challenge was to find a positioning that reflects all the region’s majesty and helps drive visitation by making Fiordland an authentic and unmissable part of Aotearoa.

Peacock adds that ‘Fiordland - Beyond Belief’ applies to everything on offer from the people who call Fiordland home to the quality of experiences, accommodation and food, and a deep sense of connection with the environment .

‘Doubtful and Dusky Sounds, the Great Walks and Lakes Te Anau and Manapouri have to an extent been hiding in the shadow of Milford Sound, however these areas are equally as impressive.’

Planting day for the Waipu cycleway a success

About 80 people turned out last year to help plant over 2,000 natives on the newest section – Stage 3 of the Waipu Cycleway, a community-led project part funded by Whangarei District Council.

The Waipu Cycling and Walkway Trust established the cycleway to connect Waipu and Waipu Cove. Stage 3 is in the middle of the 9km trail between McLean and Cullen roads which is also used by Te Araroa walkers.

People of all ages and abilities were present. It took just over an hour to complete the planting.

This section of the Waipu Cycleway was made possible through the generous gifting of an easement over farm land where the main road has a difficult and dangerous road section for cyclists. The outcome is an unexpected bonus - with great views of the estuary, Bream Bay and the offshore islands.

Birds, including the rare Fairy Tern can be seen, and trail users are already happy. Families that turned out talked about the wonderful legacy they were creating for their kids and future generations.

Phone-guided game and walking tour in Sydney launched Sydney-based tour operator Ultimately Sydney has launched a new ‘post-pandemic experience’ – a city exploration game. The phone-guided activity was created during the lockdown in partnership with Questo, the platform for city exploration games.

The game in Sydney is a mix between an outdoor escape game, a treasure hunt and a safe city tour.

Users walk around town following on-screen instructions inside the Questo app and solve puzzles and discover popular and lesser-known places and local stories.

‘Our city game helps locals rediscover their city and spend quality time outdoors; and takes tourists to Sydney’s top and hidden landmarks as they discover local stories in a fun way,’ says Helen Fraser, founder

4 Walking New Zealand, issue no 275 - 2021

of Ultimately Sydney.

The first Sydney city game starts at Customs House where players play the role of an ex-convict trying to make a new life for himself in 19th Century Australia.

The game takes them on an interactive 2.6km walk to 15 places with an estimated gameplay time of 124 minutes. At each location, players answer questions and solve challenges based on their immediate surroundings. The game can be played at any hour, 365 days a year and costs A$12.99 for access on two devices of 124 minutes. .

You can now view and enjoy the latest issue of

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magazine online for $2.50 at

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Walk talk Awseome views in Taranaki

Award for developing walking tracks around Twizel

Shaun Norman received an Outdoor Access Champion Award in Twizel last year. The award recognised his significant and lasting contribution to public access to the outdoors in in the Aoraki Mt Cook region.

For the last 50 years Shaun Norman has worked as a mountain guide and shared his passion for the outdoors with his Aoraki Mt Cook community through public talks and other methods to encourage people to engage with nature.

In recent years, he has developed a network of walking trails around Twizel including the production of a free walking map, markers and signposts to teach people about the history of the town.

He has also recently completed the creation of the Upper Waitaki Hydro Project Heritage Trail and established a climbing wall in Twizel to allow people to safely build the skills they would need to fully explore the Aoraki Mt Cook region.

The awards are an annual event organised by the New Zealand Walking Access Commission Ara Hīkoi Aotearoa. Chief Executive Tumuaki Ric Cullinane says the awards celebrate people and community groups around the country who are developing trails and making it easier for people to experience the outdoors.

Above Shaun Norman (left receives his award from Ric Cullinane, (right).

Available from Rangitawa Publishing,

rangitawa@xtra.co.nz,

Kindle, Amazon books or order from any book store. www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

The Pouakai Crossing Trek track upgrade project on Mt Egmont is under way, in 2020, with boardwalks and steps going in on 15 kilometre length, says Ian McAlpine, Taranaki.

This day trek is through some awesome environment and scenery, including the Pouakai Tarns. This trek is well worth a trip to Taranaki this summer. This trip can be made over one, two or three days for the people who wish to have it as an expedition with two Department of Conservation huts. The Egmont National Park welcome you, says Ian. Above top: Glenys Grant at the Pouakai Tarns.

Below: Ian McAlpine (Santa) and Santa’s helper Glenys Grant waving from the summit of Mt Taranaki.

You can now view and enjoy the latest issue of

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5

New Zealand Walk

By Barbz Lowther

A wander around Waiorongamai Valley

T

he Kaimai Ranges stretch from the Karangahake Gorge in the north, to the Mamaku Plateau in the south, separating the Bay of Plenty from the Waikato.

Mt Te Aroha is the northern most peak, and four kilometers from here, is the Waiorongomai

Valley – one of my favourite spots for walking.

The history of gold mining in this area has left many tracks, following historic horse pack tracks, and tramways. Gold was found here in 1881 and to bring quartz from high in the valley down to the stamper battery, a tramline was

6 Walking New Zealand, issue no 275 - 2021

Above left: The information board at the start of the track.

Above right: One of the sharfs into the stope.

Below Left: Walking along the Piako County Tramline.

Below right: Following the markers.

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

New Zealand Walk

built by the Piako County in 1883.

Branching off the tramline were three inclines – Fern Spur, May Queen and the longest, Butlers. By 1884 Waiorongomai township had three hotels, 10 shops and a school.

An Information board at the car park shows a map of the trails in this area, all well marked and maintained.

Above left: Terry - glad he doesn’t have to come up the May Queen every day to work.

Above right: Head frame and winding gear at the top of Butlers Incline, the oldest remaining incline.

Right: Crossing a stream on the high level track on the way up to Quartzville.

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Walking New Zealand, issue no 275 - 2021

7

New Zealand Walk

Above left: Winding gear on the May Queen Incline.

Above right: All that remains of Hardys Hut - a piece of history slowing disappearing.

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Recently a group of us went to explore ‘The Stope’ at Quartzville, high in the valley. From the car park we headed up the high level pack track for an hour, passing a couple of streams, and crossing over Butlers Incline on a little bridge, before turning left to reach the top of the incline.

A head frame and winding gear has been reconstructed to show how things worked in the past.

A few metres past here, the high level track branches off to the left and continues up past several creeks, mine shafts and little waterfalls, before levelling out at a grassy clearing on the left of the track, which is all that remains of Quarztville.

Diggers established a camp up here in the early 1900’s, with a boarding house, post office, and

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shop, but within five years the population dwindled from over 2,000 to a few hundred.

Malcolm Hardy was the last prospector to extract ore up here, and the remains of his hut can just be seen, a little further on.

From the clearing we headed up off track, following a trail marked by ribbons. We scrambled up a steep trail, past another mine shaft to reach an old bench track cut in the side of the rock.

After sidling along here for a few minutes, we had another steep scramble to reach ‘The Stope’ – an enormous hole at the end of Buck Reef. A stope is a mining excavation used to remove ore from a reef above. You can still see timber fixed to the rock to reach higher levels.

The ore was removed via a drive

Above right: An old compressor on the tramline. near the top of Butlers Incline.

Below left: A view into a stope.

Below right: One of the waterfalls by the track.

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Walking New Zealand, issue no 275 - 2021

9

New Zealand Walk New Zealand Walks

A wander around Waiorongamai Valley

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at a low level within the stope.- It is Impressive!

Because the rock in this reef was exceptionally hard, the mining wasn’t successful, but it still makes a fascinating walk. We explored the stope from three different viewpoints, before retracing our steps to the clearing.

From there we continued along the high level track for five minutes to’ Hardy’s Hut’ soon to be totally taken over by vegetation.

A short downhill walk took us to junction with the Piako County tramline. To the left is the route to Mt Te Aroha, and the May Queen incline to the rig ht.

We spent some time looking at the old winding gear at the top of the May Queen, before following it down past the remains of an old trestle bridge, to where it flattened out.

We followed the tramline back to the top of Butlers Incline, passing a huge compressor which has been beautifully restored.

To finish, we took Buck Rock

10 Walking New Zealand, issue no 275 - 2021

Above left: Starting on the high level track. Above right: Looking back up the May Queen. track, an equally interesting route, with the site of old stables, and a steep side track to the top of Buck Rock, a part of the reef. Buck Reef, is the main quartz reef, running 5 kms up the valley, and is the largest reef of its type in the world.

Continuing down we soon rejoined the tramline, and reached the car park early afternoon The loop took about five hours, including lots of photo stops. It was a really interesting day and only one of the many loops in the valley.

Waiorongomai is definitely worth exploring this summer.

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Te Araroa Trail

H215S Pedometer Digital Step Counter

New partnership keeps track of walkers on trail

T

here is a fair bit of room to lose your way on a 3,000km trail, so the Te Araroa Trail trust are pleased to announce their partners at TrackMe NZ have some exclusive offers to help keep Te Araroa walkers safe.

TrackMe has come on board as a Silver Partner of Te Araroa and offers GPS tracking and communication safety devices for people exploring the outdoors.

These devices are popular with Te Araroa walkers because you can communicate with friends and family when you want to and call on emergency assistance if you need to.

All SOS activations on a device on the TrackMe system go directly to the New Zealand Rescue Coordination Centre. There is also a 24/7 New Zealand Based Response Centre. It’s worth noting that there has already been one rescue this Te Araroa walking season using one of the devices on the Trackme System.

As part of their partnership, TrackMe has announced Te Araroa Trail walkers will receive free use of the TrackMe Pro App and TrackMe Pro @X wellbeing app on compatible GPS devices.

These apps allow you to give designated friends and family permission to view your location on a New Zealand map and to message you directly, if required, to make sure you are safe.

You will also have the option of having the trail marked on the map.

TrackMe doesn’t make these maps public for your security, but walkers are free to share them with friends www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

and family.

For those who want to stay safe and keep in touch with people while they are on the trail, there is an exclusive hire offer on the Spot Gen 3 device.

Te Araroa walkers can hire one of these devices for just $50 a month (plus initial set up fee). Get in touch with TrackMe using their dedicated Te Araroa hire form, or phone them on 0800 776 869 to claim these exclusive deals.

Last, but not least, if you purchase or hire a device from TrackMe, or sign up to TrackMe data plan, you are also getting behind Te Araroa and helping us to improve the trail experience.

TrackMe has generously agreed make a financial contribution to Te Araroa Trust for every device purchased or hired by Te Araroa walkers.

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11

New Zealand Walks

Hidden Treasures in Wai-O-Tapu

By Phillip Donnell Forest

H

oly water is usually found within the walls of religious shrines and churches, but at Waiotapu in the Bay of Plenty, it occurs in the cathedral of the outdoors.

Wai-o-tapu means “sacred waters”, and designates an area of some 3000ha of forest south-west of Rotorua.

Its inner sanctum is seldom visited, probably because it is managed by Kaingaroa Timberlands and therefore not part of the conservation estate, but for careful navigators significant treasures lie within. Here are five compelling reasons why Waiotapu is worth a visit…

The forest itself holds considerable interest, not merely for historians and botanists. Waiotapu is among the earliest sites used for planting exotic trees in New Zealand.

Originally the forest was established as a project for prison labour in 1901.

At the intersection of The Avenue and Weirs Road, we found two Douglas fir trees, planted that year by Governor General Lord Ranfurly. Northern hemisphere trees were favoured inistands of Corsican pine and larch, along with radiata pine, ponderosa pine, sugar pine, white pine, western red cedar, Lawson cypress, California redwood, and eucalyptus. Among the trees, you may spot elusive sambar deer.

Rainbow Mountain or Maungakakaramea (“mount of coloured earth”) graces the northwest corner of the forest.

From the car-park on SH5, we walked just five minutes to the first of two steamy olive-green/ aqua crater lakes surrounded by an array of geothermal vegetation.

Bare ridges of brown, orange, white, or yellow clays, and high vertical cliffs red with algae, loomed before us.

A further hour on an easy grade took us to the fire lookout tower on the summit (743m). From here we could see Mount Tarawera and Lakes Tarawera, Rotomahana and Rerewhakaaitu to the north; the Paeroa Range to the west; the Urewera Ranges and Kaimanawa Forest to the east; and Mount Tauhara, Lake Taupo and the volcanic peaks of Tongariro National Park to the south.

The Te Ara Ahi Cycle Trail now skirts this mountain and picturesque Lake Ngahewa nestles at its base.

Kerosene Creek (Hakereteke), named after its characteristic odour, has provided a meeting place for local bathers since the early 1900s.

A well-graded and benched track left the Old Waiotapu Road and followed the st(r)eam.

Hot spots and cascades with natural swimming pools under small waterfalls looked tempting, but signs warned us to keep our heads above water to avoid the meningitis amoeba. An interesting commentary on the warm streams and springs is an alternative translation of Waiotapu, namely “water under sacred prohibition”, which may refer to its noxious aspects.

Boiling mud and water is an outstanding feature of this vicinity.

Walking a circuit via Mud Volcano, Thermal and Hellsgate Roads took us past numerous examples, ranging from murky grey to almost black.

Tell-tale wisps of steam enticed us to push through the broom to see fumaroles and violently bubbling cauldrons.

Our rambles took us to what was (until 1925) the site of the largest mud volcano in the country. The original cone is now eroded and vigorously-active water and mud fill the pool. It is more readily accessed by car via an offshoot from

Opposite page: Looking down on Echo Lake.

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Walking New Zealand, issue no 275 - 2021

13

Hidden Treasures in Wai-O-Tapu Forest Waiotapu Loop Road. Take great care when near these thermal areas.

The highlight of Waiotapu is undoubtedly Echo Lake (Whangio-te-Rangi), reached from Rotorohe Road. It is a lukewarm gem cradled in the vertical white walls of its crater. Pines, Douglas fir, and native shrubs find a precarious roothold in the cracks of the cliffs and cast their reflections on the still, cloudy water.

The colour is what gets you: it’s sort of surreal — a mix between turquoise, green, grey and azure blue, with an opacity that makes the water appear solid.

As we looped the lake on a somewhat overgrown trail (marked by occasional orange blazes and tags), many spots returned a clear echo to our calls. Grey teal were a feature.

At the head, we paused to enjoy a glorious view down its full length,

Above: Looking across to Rainbow Mountain.

with Maungaongaonga (Nettle Mountain) forming a dark green backdrop.

We all just had to do the “cooowee” thing again to hear the reverberations — quite amazing and almost eerie. This lake is stunningly beautiful, particularly in autumn when the water contrasts with the gold of the larches. Onlookers feel as though they are in the Canadian Rockies. It is a shame that so few

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Need 2 Know

get to see this spectacle, superior to anything in the nearby tourist park.

Waiotapu offers the opportunity to explore outstanding natural features, using either boots or bikes.

It would be a worthy inclusion in any future Rotorua Lakes National Park!

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..

Fact file

Access: The Rainbow Mountain carpark lies on the left-hand side of SH5, 26 km south-east of Rotorua.

Waiotapu Forest may be entered from Old Waiotapu Road and Waiotapu Loop Road, both off SH5.

Signage is limited in the Waiotapu Forest, so map-reading skills are required.

Grades: Easy to moderate.

Times and Distances: Rainbow Mountain Craters Walk: 15 minutes one way (1 km), Rainbow Mountain Summit Walk 1.5 hours one way (2.5 km), Echo Lake Loop 1.5 hours (1.5 km).

Map: Topo50 series: BF37 Waiotapu.

Further Information: A permit to enter Waiotapu Forest must be obtained from Independent Security Consultants Limited (ISCL), 66 Tarewa Road, Rotorua, ph.07 347 8880 / 0800 225 276, Email: ktpermits@iscl.co.nz

Advantages of replacing fizzy drinks with water

W

e all know that beer, wine and fizzy drinks are not as healthy as

water.

And yet, many people prefer Coca-Cola over water. In fact, people in the Western world drink an average of 143 liters of sugary drinks a year. It’s quite a bit!

So what happens to your body if you replace these sugary drinks with water? The truth is that a lot, it turns out.

1. Your metabolism will improve

If you drink a glass of water on an empty stomach as soon as you wake up in the morning, your metabolism will increase by up to 30% within an hour.

Not bad, right? A 30% increase in metabolism equals 25 calories, according to a scientific study.

If you want to spice things up, add lemon to a glass of water - it will add variety to your daily routine and help you with digestion.

2. You will live more years

A glass of water a day helps you live longer, according to a new study from Lund University in Sweden. This is because an extra glass of water every day reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease, kidney failure and type 2 diabetes.

3. Your kidneys will function better

Problems with kidney stones? Water can help. There are studies that show that drinking plenty of water can prevent recurring problems in people who have previously suffered from kidney stones.

4. Your brain will function better

The brain is made up of about 85% water, so ‘feeding’ it in fluids is definitely recommended.

And because water is one of the fuels in the body’s engine, it can improve the ability to concentrate.

Other studies have found that even minor dehydration can affect the mood, memory and cognitive function.

5. You’ll feel full of energy

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Water is the best thing you can drink to fight dehydration. Losing only 2% of the water in the body can affect physical performance.

If you think about the fact that athletes lose 6-10 percent of their water content while they sweat, you can see how important it is to fill the body with water.

6. You will lose weight easier and faster

Drinking plenty of water can also help you lose weight.

This is because water makes you feel full and satiety and improves your metabolism.

You may not be able to go on a water-only diet - but it’s definitely a good way to start.

Walking New Zealand, issue no 275 - 2021

15

New Zealand Farm Walks

Hill farm walks in the Rangitikei

By Alex and Jenny Davies

W

aituna West, a small settlement on the back road from Feilding to Hunterville, is only about 30 minutes driving from Palmerston North, A side road to the east then climbs a low ridge up to a height of 600m.

Once there, there are no higher hills to block a view that sweeps around from Mt Taranaki north to Mt Ruapehu, then east to the Ruahine Range, south to the Tararua Range and Kapiti Island, and back up the coast to Taranaki. This covers much of the southern part

of the North Island, about 200km from north to south. Sarah and Angus have farmed here at “Tapuae” along the highest ridges since 1998.

Following our instructions, our party of four arrived one evening.

We parked down a hill from the far end of an airstrip and made our way down a short track to a sheltered site with an unusual assortment of buildings.

There was an old lovingly restored wooden hut, a tent on a raised wooden platform and tastefully furnished, and an open plan community kitchen, lounge and

dining space, ingeniously added on to an old tin shed now housing the bathroom.

Sarah has set it up for a ‘glamping’ experience, as well as for selfguided farm walking. She brought us delicious and bountiful meals, prepared ready for heating, barbecuing and serving.

A good fire made up for the limited shelter provided by the plastic screens and an ingenious range of recycled materials used as walls.

On both days of our walks we were entertained by frequent takeoffs and landings of a topdressing

Above A bit of a climb coming up this ridge Photo: Midge Minot Below left: The cosy camp — a cabin, a tent, facilities and two open air baths. Below right: A chance to question the farmer about the effects of the drought.

16 Walking New Zealand, issue no 275 - 2021

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

New Zealand Farm Walks

plane. This airstrip was the first one in the North Island made for this purpose.

We had to cross the strip with care to find the start of our first day’s trail, marked by a yellow tag with number 1. Following along a farm track beside the Mangatutu Stream that flows into the Rangitikei River, we were looking for a gate with tag number 2, and so on.

A printed guide also helped us keep on track. Before the stream entered a bush-filled gorge, we left it to climb up to the end of a ridge where there was an old tin hut and a hay shed. Here we could survey the views to distant horizons, and explore the contents of the lunch bags that Sarah had prepared.

There was a steady climb back along the ridge.

Before long we encountered Angus on his quad bike surrounded by a lively team of dogs. We were able to ask questions about his life in the wide open spaces, and how his stock were coping with

the severely dry conditions. He had started feeding out grain, and later we were followed by a flock of ewes, already trained and full of hopeful expectation.

At a stop near gate number 11 with a fine view to the north, but without sight of Mt Ruapehu which today was under cloud, we finished off the contents of our lunch bags.

A line of turkeys wound their way across the slope below, and a couple of goats headed off up the slope beyond the next stream, the Mangapipi.

We made our way onwards, following the goats across the stream and up to the ridge beyond. This is an extra loop to the walk, and led us to the highest point of the district. With sight-lines unobstructed from Ruapehu in the north to Kapiti in the south, it is hardly surprising that a couple of telecommunication towers are here, as well as a trig station.

Now it was back down the road

Above left: Ed at the highest part of the district.

Above right: Mt Ruapehu is 80km to the north.

Below: A snack at Nolan’s Hut, overlooking the valley of the Rangitikei River near Hunterville.

to the camp to try out the outdoor bath and to see what Sarah had prepared for us for dinner. In the evening glow and quietness we seemed a long way from anywhere but across the hills to the south we could see the Manawatu plains and the city lights.

On our second day, the low cloud to the north had lifted. The numerous peaks of Ruapehu and the shining white glaciers along the ridges separating them were now revealed.

A little further to the east, the lower and more distant dome of Ngaruhoe was also sharp and clear.

We followed the same procedure as for yesterday, finding a sequence of numbered gates, on a walk that took us up and over several ridges, with gullies where scattered bush remnants contrasted with the dry pastures. Several mahoe trees were resplendent with bright blue berries.

The loop led us back eventually to the large woolshed and yards, and further on to the end of the airstrip. A truck rolled in with a big load of fertiliser, while the operator of a double-ended loader kept the plane full between each of its frequent flights to spread its cargo over the land somewhere down in the valley.

Lunch, then a chat with Sarah and to wish her well with her enterprise, and we were off on the short drive back to town.

Ridge Top Farm Walk

A unique opportunity to combine a two-day private farm walk including 2 nights glamping.

To book or make an enquiry go to ridgetopfarmwalk.co.nz or email; ridgetopfarmnz@gmail.com www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Walking New Zealand, issue no 275 - 2021

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 275275 - 2021 NewZealand, Zealand, issue - 2021

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Photo Contest

PHOTO CONTEST Opposite Page_ Above: Dale Plumtree New Plymouth walking the track in the beautiful unique Goblin Forest at Dawson Falls Mt Taranaki. Photo by Judy Eva, New Plymouth.

Above: After doing a street and river walk in Lumsden, the Northern Southland walk group popped in to see the restoration work of an old railway carriage which will be used as a Railway Information Kiosk in Lumsden. Photo by Heather Winter, Lumsden.

Middle: This photo, taken on the Wangapeka Track is ridiculously over grown and challenging. This photo represents a multitude of waterfall crossings, this one we survived easily, others further on... not so much.... Photo by Gail Francis, Ohauiti, Tauranga.

Below : Papamoa Hills morning Perfection with Lynette De Malmanche. Photo by Niki Donnelly, Te Puke.

Below right: this photo was taken in the Patuna Chasm, Martinborough. Amazing three hour walk, only available during summer months. It has to be booked because it is on private land and transport is needed to get to the beginning. My friend and I did this in February of this year. Photo by Tony Thompson, Fairview Downs, Hamilton. www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Ouch! Sore feet while walking?

Hikers Wool is 100% New Zealand wool. Cushion your feet to prevent pain, rubbing and blisters.

Buy online or at selected stockists For more info visit www.hikerswool.co.nz Walking New Zealand, issue no 275 2021 Walking New Zealand, issue no 275 - 2021

19 19

By Department of Conservation

Volunteers add value to Mt Somers experience Mt Somers Conservation Area in the foothills of the Southern Alps features sub-alpine tussock lands, rugged bush, historic coalmines, impressive volcanic formations, and deep canyons.

The 26-kilometre Mount Somers Track winds its way through spectacular terrain, linking the popular Pinnacles and Woolshed Creek huts. The track was created in 1987 by keen locals, the Mt Somers Walkways Society, who continue to assist DOC with track maintenance.

20 Walking New Zealand, issue no 275 - 2021

Middle left: (L) Helicopter resupplying Pinnacles hut with firewood. Photo: Jan Lowe (R) Brian Cowie unloads his donated wood at Pinnacles.

Pinnacles hut warden quarters after fresh snow. Photo: Chris Dyson www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Above: (L) Mike Ziegler, Geraldine Rec-Historic Ranger, wearing his PPE for the sewerage job.

Photo: Jeff Coulter (C) Volunteer Andrew Harris heading into Pinnacles hut for another hut warden shift.

(R) Volunteer Jan Lowe carrying out a hut service at Pinnacles hut. Photo: Chris Dyson With the summer season rapidly approaching, volunteers and staff from the Geraldine and Oamaru offices have been busy preparing these huts. Volunteers Brian Cowie, Andrew Harris and Jan Lowe joined DOC staff for a day of spring cleaning and restocking the Pinnacles hut in August. The work was done during COVID-19 Alert Level 2, which included face masks required for the helicopter trip in.

Both Pinnacles and Woolshed Creek huts have volunteer hut wardens throughout the year, and Brian volunteered at both for the first time last year. His commitment is reflected in his willingness to spend time preparing the hut for summer, and to donate a stack of

firewood.

The firewood was packed into 15 bags for transport by helicopter and stacked away under the hut.

On the return trips, five tank-loads of sewage were also flown out, so the toilet is all ready for an influx of visitors. This task was one just for the DOC staff to deal with!

Recreation Supervisor Chris Dyson says the resupply and repair of the hut, the toilet pump, and the hut clean makes for a big day.

“Having volunteers involved is great, otherwise we would need staff from other areas to help. This trip is also a way to thank the longterm volunteers for their amazing contribution over the years”.

Jan has been a volunteer hut warden in the South Island for more than 20 years.

“Being a hut warden has given me a strong sense of belonging to our beautiful back country, and I’ve met people of all ages from many backgrounds,” Jan says.

“I’ve enjoyed the interaction with trampers, both local and international, sharing knowledge about the wonderful backcountry

and stunning huts... It’s difficult to share any one part that makes being a hut warden so fulfilling, but being on hand to help those in trouble and making lifelong friends have been highlights for me.”

Andrew has been a volunteer hut warden on the Mt Somers track for three years and enjoys giving back in retirement after many years of tramping.

“The best aspect of being a hut warden is meeting people in the huts, especially families and being able to help and suggest various future trips,” he says.

It is great that these volunteers are willing to lend a hand. Prior to COVID-19, approximately 30% of hut wardens in the Mt Somers volunteer programme were travellers from overseas. Chris is pleased that other Kiwis are keen to fill these gaps, joining newcomer Brian and long time volunteers like Andrew and Jan, making it possible for us all to get out and enjoy amazing Aotearoa.

“Older & Bolder”

by Judith Doyle

Published by New Holland Publishers.

Send cheque for $25 (this includes P&P) to: Judith Doyle, #3, 14 Oriental Tce Oriental Bay, Wellington.

Below left: Jan Lowe and Brian Cowie wearing PPE in the helicopter during Covid alert level 2. Photo: Jan Lowe

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Walking New Zealand, issue no 275 - 2021

21

New Zealand Walks

Seven walks on Mt Somers T he Mount Somers Track in Canterbury, provides a number of options, including for kids, for an overnight tramp with impressive rock formations, historic mines and stunning views. It links the popular Pinnacles and Woolshed Creek huts.

Here are the walking options Mt Somers Track runs from the Staveley carpark to the Woolshed Creek carpark along the northern side of Mt Somers. There are two huts on the track – Woolshed Creek and Pinnacles. The track is a two day tramp suitable for families.

For an easy overnight tramp suit-

able for children do the return walk to Woolshed Creek Hut. The track into Pinnacles Hut is more physically demanding but is still suited for family or school groups.

For a circuit trip to Woolshed Creek Hut, walk in on the Miners Track and out via Rhyolite Ridge Track.

For a more challenging circuit, walk from Sharplin Falls carpark to Woolshed Creek Hut and return via the southern face of Mt Somers.

Above: Mt Somers Track located in Hakatere Conservation Park in the Canterbury region.

Sharplin Falls car park to Pinnacles Hut

Time: Three hours Distance: 5.2 km The track climbs steeply through mountain beech forest/tawhairauriki to Dukes Knob before following Bowyers Stream to Pinnacles Hut. Allow more time if your group is not use to tramping.

The hut is named after the rock formations on the northern face of Mt Somers, formed by the cooling of very hot sticky lava flows some 90 million years ago.

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New Zealand Walks

Pinnacles Hut to Woolshed Creek Hut

Time: Three hours Distance: 6.2 km From the hut follow markers through tussock and subalpine scrub up to the Mt Somers saddle (1170 m).

It’s a steady climb to the saddle where views of the Taylor and Old Man ranges dominate the scenery.

On the descent t o wa r d s M o r g a n Stream a sign indicates a short sidetrip to view some interesting boulder features referred to as ‘caves’.

Returning to the main track, follow the markers across Morgan Stream and Woolshed Creek to Woolshed Creek Hut. From Woolshed Creek Hut, Woolshed Creek car park can be reached via Miners Track or Rhyolite Ridge Track.

.

Woolshed Creek Hut to Woolshed Creek car park via Miners Track

Time:Three hours Distance: 5 km From Woolshed Creek Hut the track rises to a high point (trig R, 934 m) with superb views of the upper Ashburton Gorge, before descending to the old Blackburn Mine.

The track then runs alongside the hand-built jig that transported coal from the Blackburn Mine to the railway wagons waiting below. At the bottom of the jig the track follows the www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

route of the tramway to Woolshed Creek car park.

Sidewinder Track

Above left: Pinnacles Hut that has 19 bunk beds, heating, mattresses, toilets - non-flush, water from tap not treated, boil before use. Bookings are required.

Above right: Woolshed Creek Hut that has 26 bunk beds, heating, mattresses, toilets - non-flush, water from tap - not treated, boil before use. Bookings are required.

Time: 45 minutes Distance: 1 km This steep hill track branches off the Miners Track. It begins with a short walk through a small pocket of silver beech that escaped the fires that swept through Ashburton Gorge.

The track then climbs steeply up to and through the tailings of the old this section of track eventually rises to Blackburn Mine. its highest point (1080 m) at the junction of the Mt Somers Summit Track.

Woolshed Creek Hut to Acland Shelter provides welcome Woolshed Creek car park shelter and rest after about 4 km (1 via Rhyolite Ridge Track hour 30 minutes) from the junction.

junction

Time: Two hours Distance: 4.6 km The route takes in dynamic scenery with regenerating mountain beech forest/tawhairauriki within a landscape of waterfalls, deep icy pools and rocky tors.

From the hut the route climbs some 500 metres to a local feature known as the Bus Stop Overhang. From here the track crosses the face of Mt Somers to link with Rhyolite Ridge Track (1 hr, 1.8 km), which follows a rocky ridge to Woolshed Creek car park.

Mt Somers Summit Track junction to Sharplin Falls car park

Time: Two hours 30 minutes Distance: 2.7 km The final steep downhill section is through regenerating forest areas but is open enough to continue to provide interesting views to the east.

Getting to Mt Somers Sharplin Falls carpark: It can be accessed from Sharplin Falls car park which is at the end of Flynns Road Staveley.

Woolshed Creek carpark: From Mount Somers township, follow AshRhyolite Ridge Track burton Gorge Road for approximately junction to Mt Somers 10 km before turning right into Jig Summit Track junction Road. Follow Jig Road to the end.

Time: Three hours 30 minutes If you intend to walk only one way Distance: 6 km from Woolshed Creek car park and rePassing around the southern face quire vehicle transport, a local service of Mt Somers through a mix of open is available - phone Marilyn Gray on grassland and forested catchments, 03 303 0809 before you start your trip.

Walking New Zealand, issue no 275 - 2021

23

New Zealand Walk

Locals proud of Kawatiri Coastal Trail

N

ever heard a single grumble, says Richard Niederer in an understated way.

Richard is the chairperson of the Trust that has just opened Pūwaha, a new shared trail from Westport to Carters Beach.

He’s referring to the West Coast community which has embraced the new trail and who are celebrating the investment in their community.

Pūwaha, 5.5 km long, is the first section of the Kawatiri Coastal Trail. The Kawatiri Coastal Trail will stretch 55km along the coast from Westport to Charleston, following in the footsteps of the Top left, middle and below: The locals including seniors, families and cyclists were all keen to try out the new pathway on opening day.

Above right: Richard Niederer on opening day.

Price

$40

Available at some Northland and North Shore Bookshops or contact Jean at: goldschmidt@farmside.co.nz

24 Walking New Zealand, issue no 275 - 2021

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ancient Māori and the 1860s gold section of the trail. miners. Pūwaha opened before “I’m not sure why, but it’s probChristmas last year. Loably because it’s their own cal workers immediately backyard. They will use it started on the next secwith their own families, tions. they can show it off. It is Niederer says the idea such an amazing and unfor the trail came from a known area the trail runs small Charleston comthrough.” munity group 15 years The Trail will be a grade ago. They had a vision to 2 family-friendly cycle build a bike trail to West- By Stephen Day trail for most ages, fitness port and thought each levels and abilities. When community along the way could it is finished it will have do a section each. accommodation, restauThe group asked Niederer if rants and cafes along the Omau/Cape Foulwind residents way. Walkers and cyclists would be interested. will join the trail at several “Seemed like a damned good access points, hire bikes, idea to us, a biking and walking transfer luggage and contrail track for us and something nect with shuttles. to attract visitors to our amazing Part of the reason for district. ‘Count us in’, we said! local excitement is the regional We talked to others from Carters economic development the trail Beach and Westport. We soon had brings. A study commissioned by an enthusiastic working committee the trust estimates the trail will representing the proposed route benefit the Buller region by $18.2 from Charleston to Westport.” million over the first 12 years.

The Charleston-Westport Coast- Building the trail is creating 30 al Trails Trust was never about a jobs, and further 100 jobs will supgroup of middle-aged lycra-wear- port the trail once it is complete. ing cyclists, says Niederer. Rather These will include people providit’s a community seeing an oppor- ing beds, food and support for the tunity to enhance and share its own bikers and walkers along the trail. backyard. And to contribute to the The trail is forecast to attract 8200 economic wellbeing of the district. users in its first full year, increasing Niederer and his committee say to 16,600 after 10 years. they have never seen such enthuBut the other reason locals are siasm, excitement and buy-in from embracing the trail is that it tells contractors and trail builders as their story. they have for building this first “This is not just a bike and walking trail, there is so much more,”

.

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

says Niederer. “The scenery, the flora and fauna and the amazing history of the district. We see this trail being part of putting Buller on the tourist map, a place for the rest of New Zealand to discover.”

Māori history in the area dates back 700 years. The Tai Poutini Pounamu Trail was a route to search for and trade pounamu. The Kawatiri Coastal Trail also follows routes that colonial gold miners trod.

The trail will highlight important historic and archaeological sites, as well as spectacular landscapes, sweeping beaches, bush and birds.

The Walking Access Commission has been helping to establish the trail. We have been supporting the Trust through the maze of paperwork and decisions needed to achieve easements and public access to this trail in perpetuity.

We’ve also provided advice and a grant to cover legal costs around the access agreements.

The trail will join the network of world-class trails on the West Coast, including the Kawatiri River Trail the Old Ghost Road, the Paparoa Great Walk and the West Coast Wilderness Trail.

Below left: The trail goes over a bridge.

Below right; This 5.5km section will be popular with walkers.

Walking New Zealand, issue no 275 - 2021

25

New Zealand Walks

Cove/Meretoto to Anakiwa, each day is different,” says Anna.

“New Zealand Walks has a oneday or multi-day guided walk or, for independent travellers, a freedom package with overnight stays in lodges and daily luggage transfers.”

Near Nelson, the Abel Tasman route is characterised by its golden sand beaches, coastal forest, emerald inlets and granite cliffs.

“This is an ideal track for families and first-time walkers. For those wanting to experience the best of the park, New Zealand Walks can arrange a one-day guided walk, or a multi-day guided or freedom package.”

Walkers keen to do both tracks can opt for the 11-day Top of the South package.

“This also includes your Picton and Nelson pre and post-walk accommodation and transport ourselves and knowing what an between the tracks. It’s a fantastic, incredible experience each one has hassle-free way to experience the been, we take great pride in offering Top of the South.” a variety of packages to suit our West Coast clients’ needs and In the Kahurangi National customising each Park is the Heaphy Track, New itinerary to ensure Zealand’s most diverse and their walk is an longest Great Walk. unforgettable one.

“This 78km must-do walk “These vary is a well-formed trail through from all-inclusive an ever changing landscape, packages, including from mountain plateaus to the lush lodge-style accommodation each nikau forests of the West Coast. We evening and luggage transfers each offer a four or five-day gourmet day, to independent packages for guided experience that really which we book your stay in iconic makes the most of the Heaphy DOC huts.”

Track,” says Anna.

For many clients, the hardest To the south, with scenery and part is choosing which walk to do history as compelling as its name, – so here is an overview of what the Old Ghost Road is a spectacular New Zealand Walks offers. five-day journey traversing the

Plan your next adventure with New Zealand Walks

I

t was the grandeur and untouched beauty of New Zealand’s landscapes, combined with a life-long love for walking, that first won New Zealand Walks owner Anna Burgin over when she arrived in New Zealand from the UK – and nearly 15 years later, she has made it her business to share that passion with others.

Originally from England’s Lake District in Cumbria, where she created many happy memories walking the fells as a child, Anna took over the reigns at Pictonbased New Zealand Walks in 2018, after working for the business parttime for four years.

Through years of walking experience and working in New Zealand’s tourism industry, Anna knows the logistics and planning that come with exploring our best tracks can be quite involved, and relishes taking the hassle out of that organisation for her clients.

“We like to think of ourselves as a ‘one stop shop’ for your next New Zealand walking adventure.

Having done many of the walks

Top of the South

When it comes to great multiday walking experiences, these regions are spoilt for choice. In the Marlborough Sounds, the Queen Charlotte Track has sea views, rare virgin native bush, heritage, and beautiful secluded lodges.

“Stretching from historic Ship

26 Walking New Zealand, issue no 275 - 2021

Lyell Range and following the Mokihinui River. Here, New Zealand Walks has a five-day guided experience.

“The walk includes mining settlements and roads from historic Above: Anna enjoying the Queen Charlotte Track. www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

New Zealand Walks

gold rush eras, and sections crafted by groups of volunteers, creating a fascinating walking journey.”

North Island While the South Island is better known for its range of Great Walks, the North Island should not be overlooked, says Anna.

At isolated Lake Waikaremoana, New Zealand Walks has a fourday hut-to-hut guided experience, designed to make the most of the lake’s pristine virgin rainforest, bluffs, waterfalls and natural hot pools.

In Tongariro National Park, in the shadow of the Central Plateau’s volcanoes, Anna says New Zealand Walks has “truly out of this world” walking experiences that pass emerald lakes, lunar landscapes and alpine meadows.

“We offer a one-day guided walk of the famous Tongariro Crossing, a three-day guided walk of the Tongariro Northern Circuit and also a three-day lodge-based guided tour of the Tongariro area, including the Crossing.”

to wild southern coast via historic viaducts high above the lush native forest. Here, New Zealand Walks has a three-day freedom and guided package.

For those seeking a true wilderness experience, Anna recommends New Zealand Walks’ three-day guided all-inclusive H o l l y f o r d Tr a c k p a c k a g e .

“You’ll begin beneath sheer Fiordland mountain slopes carved by glaciers Walking amid lofty mountain and emerge days later to the rugged peaks, alongside crystal clear rivers beauty of the West Coast – one of and through dense rainforest – it’s New Zealand’s best mountains to no wonder the Milford Track is known as the finest walk in the world.

Here, New Zealand Walks has a one-day guided walk and a four-day freedom package, “over what is without a doubt one of the most iconic Great Walks in New Zealand”, says Anna.

The nearby Kepler Track should not be overlooked, she adds, New Zealand Walks are specialists in whether it’s with New Zealand organised packages of the Great Walks Walks’ spectacular one-day guided and tracks of New Zealand. heli hike or three-day freedom With choices of guided & freedom, package. one-day & multi-day walking packages “The Kepler begins on the bush— book yours today! clad shores of Lake Te Anau and Manapouri and rises to the majestic FREE PHONE 0800 WALKSNZ (0800 925 576) EMAIL info@newzealandwalks.com tops of Mt Luxmore, with mind SOCIAL @newzealandwalks blowing views.” www.newzealandwalks.com To the south, the Hump Ridge Track stretches from sub-alpine

sea journeys.”

Finally, the Routeburn Track takes in two national parks – Fiordland and Mount Aspiring – with breathtaking mountain scenery, glacial valleys, beech forest and pristine alpine streams and lakes.

“We have a one-day guided walk and a three-day freedom package on this Great Walk,” says Anna.

Above: Picton, New Zealand Walks HQ, taken from the Tirohanga Track.

Your Next Walking Adventure Awaits!

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Walking New Zealand, issue no 275 - 2021

27

New Zealand Walks

Explore our beautiful botanical world Discover the first-rate walking tracks and spectacular scenery at New Zealand’s national arboretum, a unique park sanctuary for all ages.

Eastwoodhill offers over 25km of graded and marked walking tracks set amongst 13,000 exotic and rare trees, shrubs and climbers.

Immerse yourself in the beauty of our botanical wonderland and plan to stay - accommodation, self-contained campervan sites.

Plan your next adventure with New Zealand Walk

Above: Anna on Mt Robert, Nelson Lakes.

For a bucket-list tour of Fiordland (0800 925 576) on a shorter timeframe, New Email: info@newzealandwalks.

Zealand Walks has the Experience com Fiordland package, which spends Web: www.newzealandwalks. one day each on the Milford, com Routeburn and Kepler Tracks.

Social Media: @newzealandwalks ADVERTORIAL “Our four-night/five-day Te Anau-based package offers a wonderful insight into Fiordland - with a few extras too!

“However you want to experience New Zealand’s amazing walks, we have plenty of multiday itineraries to suit what our clients are looking for, and the Removes bacteria and protozoa knowledge and experience to make (Giardia, Crytosporidium, etc) sure your walk goes to plan. Your Filters 1,000 litres to 0.2 microns next walking adventure awaits – Drink directly from a water source, just get in touch with Anna from or from your bottle New Zealand Walks and we’ll take Ultralight, easy to use, no pumping, care of the rest!” nom chemicals Freephone: 0800 WALKSNZ Perfect for hiking, camping and emergency preparedness

“A nature lover’s paradise” “This place is truly amazing” “A must see in autumn”

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www.eastwoodhill.org.nz

28 Walking New Zealand, issue no 275 - 2021

Price

$40

Available at some Northland and North Shore Bookshops or contact Jean at: goldschmidt@farmside.co.nz

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 www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

High Achiever

Award to Mangawhai builder of

walking tracks

D

r Gordon Hosking received an Outdoor Access Champion Award in Mangawhai in December last year. The award recognises his significant and lasting contribution to public access to the outdoors in the Mangawhai region.

Dr Gordon Hosking is a leader in the Mangawhai Tracks Charitable Trust. He started volunteering with the Mangawhai Walking Weekend and was inspired to help open and develop new tracks across the area.

He works alongside and with local iwi, community members, the Department of Conservation and Council. He has defended the public’s right of access successfully in the Environment Court. He has also built a team of 70 volunteers who develop and maintain tracks around Mangawhai.

One of his projects, the creation of the Tanehaka Tracks network, received Commission funding and this network is used by large numbers of people. Through the network’s creation, improved access into the bush has allowed for more trapping.

This has enabled the Department of Conservation to successfully reintroduce a kiwi population on the land.

The awards are an annual event organised by the New Zealand Walking Access Commission Ara Hīkoi Aotearoa. Chief Executive Tumuaki Ric Cullinane says the awards celebrate people and community groups around the country who are developing trails and making it easier for people to experience the outdoors.

Tom Smith, who nominated Dr Hosking for the award, said in small districts and rural parts of the country the community must do things itself if it wants things to happen.

“So we realised as a community quite a while ago that, if we wanted to improve our lot, we have to get off our backsides and do things for www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Above: Dr Hosking award recipient (l) with Walking Access Commission Chief Executive Ric Cullinane (right) and Walking Access Commission Board member Raewyn Tipene (centre). ourselves.”

This community in Mangawhai has a strong rich heritage of fixing things and augmenting things and achieving things.

“It was actually a Project Crimson project that brought Gordon to Mangawhai. He liked what he saw and he and Tineke found a property opportunity and came and joined us.

And we’re very glad they did,” says Tom Smith.

“As you’ve seen, his whole career and his academic expertise is about forests. And he’s very much an outdoors-man, so he’s a guy who leads from the front. He’s very happy with a saw or a chainsaw in his hand and he’s got a vision about what’s possible. He’s a keen ecologist. So we are not just blitzing through a property, we are looking at opportunities and taking care of the environment along the way. So it’s a good partnership.”

“He’s just recognised as a community leader. He doesn’t push himself

forward. He’s not a loudmouth at community meetings, beating down the councillors. He’s an effective person who works creatively for his community. Very much admired.”

“Gordon and the trackies are very well-regarded in this community.

And you know we get support community-wide. It isn’t a battle because people recognise it is a major benefit to us all.”

“We’ve tended to be pretty much self-funding. We’ve had this walking weekend going for 20 years. The proceeds from that have been applied to the tracks trust. So we have not had to do an awful lot of fundraising. Volunteers have donated all the labour and people have donated materials and so on. We have not had to go outside our circle very much to get these projects going. Walking Access Commission has been one of the very few exterior organisations that we have invited to participate,” says Tom.

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Walking New Zealand, issue no 275 - 2021

29

New Zealand Walk

Happy h

Kiwi on the Camino

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

30 Walking New Zealand, issue no 275 - 2021

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

holiday humping

New Zealand Walk

Claire Woodhall

W

hen I was asked where we were going over Christmas, I replied that we were going to Tuatapere.

Having then had to explain that Tuatapere, with a population of about 1000, is on the Southern Scenic Route 86 km from Invercargill and is the sausage capital of New Zealand, the next question was invariably about why we would want to go there.

The answer to that was “humping” – in other words, we were going to walk the 3-day/2-night 55-km Hump Ridge Track – 19 km, 7–9 hours, on Day 1, 19 km, 7–9 hours, on Day 2 and 17 km, 5–7 hours, on Day 3.

The Hump Ridge Track was conceived by the local community in 1988 and this privately operated independent walk was opened by Helen Clark in 2001.

It includes beach, bush and alpine terrain, has impressive extensive areas of boardwalk and also some quite muddy areas, is

rich in European and Maori history, and offers the opportunity to see wildlife such as seals, Hector’s dolphins and keas.

We flew to Invercargill, where we picked up a rental car (at discounted rates because we would be using it for only two out of five days).

We had a leisurely drive to Tuatapere, taking in sights such as Riverton Rocks and its beaches, Cozy Nook (a cove with fishing boats and holiday cribs) and, on the other side of Tuatapere, the Tuatapere Scenic Reserve (with its giant totara trees and flowering native mistletoe) and the impressive Clifden Suspension Bridge (built in 1899 over the Waiau River).

A booking must be made before walking the Hump Ridge Track (www.humpridgetrack. co.nz).

There are several options, ranging from freedom walking (including only overnight accommodation at Okaka Hut and Port Craig Village) to guided walking (including

Opposite page: On the track to Okaka Hut on day one. Below left: Okaka Hut from the Loop Track.

Below right: The group at the start of the walk.

Some years ago we changed to a new computer system and recently looking back on the old system we found this interesting story sent in by Clare Woodhall on their group walk through the Humpridge Track in 2009 that was not published at the time. We deciied to publish it (updated) in this issue. www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Walking New Zealand, issue no 275 - 2021

31

New Zealand Walk

Happy holiday humping

You can now view and enjoy the latest issue of

Walking New Zealand

magazine online for $2.50 at

http://www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

32 Walking New Zealand, issue no 275 - 2021

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

New Zealand Walk

all meals, track transport, beds with linen, hot showers, helipacking of gear not needed on the day and a guide).

We took the guided option, with six of us in the group and our guide Nicol, who we met on the evening before we started the walk.

Our accommodation that night was in the comfortable Waiau Hotel in Tuatapere, but there are also motels, back packers and B&Bs. The bistro at the hotel served excellent meals that included fresh blue cod and, of course, Tuatapere sausages.

The next morning, Day 1, our track transport set off at 7.30am to the Rarakau Carpark. From there, we walked along Bluecliffs Beach (where we watched rare Hector’s dolphins surfing the waves) and followed the coast to Track Burn and Flat Creek.

From here, we went inland and climbed steadily up on to the Hump Ridge to Okaka Hut (890 metres).

All along the way, Nicol, not only our guide but also a botanist, pointed out features of interest, spotted and photographed tiny native orchids, boiled the billy for our hot drinks and made sure that we all got to the Hut safely.

Opposite page: Walking down a boardwalk on day two.

Below right: Relics from the past at Port Craig.

Below right: Walking through native bush on day three.

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

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Walking New Zealand, issue no 275 - 2021

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New Zealand Walk

Happy holiday humping Kathy, the hut manager, suggested a reviving and refreshing beer before walking the scenic loop track above the Hut – sandstone tors and mountain tarns and 360 degree views of Stewart Island, the ocean and the Fiordland wilderness.

Kathy was fun and humorous, but also offered sensible advice and provided us with a wonderful three-course dinner, including wine.

On Day 2, after being entertained by keas at breakfast (the main event on both mornings

34 Walking New Zealand, issue no 275 - 2021

being porridge), we traversed the undulating Hump Ridge and descended to an old logging tramway that once served the Port Craig sawmill.

We walked along the old tramway and over three viaducts, including across the Percy Burn www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

New Zealand Walk

comment, on the basis of his stiff legs and somewhat funny gait, that he must have been “humping”.

We had been looking forward to an interesting and different New Year’s Eve. However, we were so exhausted (but pleasantly so) that we were in bed by 8.30pm and not even the fireworks and the Tuatapere pipe band could wake us at midnight!

Tuatapere and the Hump Ridge also have much to offer the less energetic traveller.

There are one-day walk options, a viaduct walk, jet boating on the Wairaurahiri River to Lake Hauroko (New Zealand’s deepest lake) and a “Heli Hump”. Tuatapere also has several galleries and shops that sell local arts and crafts. And the Yesteryears Café and Museum is interesting and serves excellent coffee.

.

Here, Mandy was the lodge manager and again we were looked after admirably.

Having explored this pioneering timber village and seen once again Hector’s dolphins by the old wharf, on Day 3, we walked forest and beach sections (round Te Waewae Bay) back to Flat Creek, Track Burn, Bluecliffs Beach and the Rarakau Carpark, where our track transport was waiting to take us back to Tuatapere.

We were most fortunate with the weather – fine and calm on the first two days so that we could enjoy the views, and drizzle that turned to persistent rain on the third day; however, there was no wind, it wasn’t cold and the rain made the coastal forest look magnificent.

We spent another night at the Waiau Hotel. When one of our group went up to the bar to buy a round of drinks, a local made the Above: The Percy Burn Viaduct.

Above Right: Walking along Blowholes Beach on day 3.

Viaduct (said to be the highest surviving wooden viaduct in the world), to historic Port Craig Village. www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

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New Zealand Walk

Happy holiday humping Climbing up some well formed steps. on day three.

36 Walking New Zealand, issue no 275 - 2021

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Books

Enhanced access grant supports Bikepacking New Zealand book

B

ikepacking is a new approach to touring by bike that has taken off in Aotearoa NZ and around the world in the past decade.

New equipment and a change of mindset have opened a whole new world of possibilities. Bike packing bags, strap directly on to the bike and allow you to travel fast and light, on off-road capable bikes.

New Zealand Walking Access Commission was pleased to support the Kennett Brothers publish their just released Bikepacking Aotearoa book. Their enhanced access grants support people and organisations to promote and enhance public access to the outdoors. The grant to support the publication of this book will help more people to explore and enjoy NZ on two

wheels.

Bikepacking Aotearoa will help you get away from busy main roads. Take to the gravel backroads, cycle trails, and back-country tracks to really get away from it all and find the hidden gems that New Zealand has to offer.

For riders who are looking for adventures close to home and for bikepacking routes that can be completed in two to three days, Bikepacking Aotearoa offers a choice of 20 exciting routes that explore the most scenic parts of the country.

These routes are perfect as weekend getaways or as preparation for a bikepacking event.

As well as 20 routes, graded by difficulty, the book includes introductory chapters cover equipment

choice, bike setup, training and preparation, detailed route descriptions, maps, elevation charts, essential service listings Included is a list of Bikepacking events on offer around New Zealand, and brief summaries of 20 more rides recommended by leading bikepackers.

The H215 Professional 4 Function Pedometer The H-215, 4-function pedometer is a superb, reasonably priced pedometer that counts steps, calculates distance, calories burned and has a 12/24 hour clock.

This is the model that has sold over a quarter of a million worldwide.

It has the largest display of any pedometer we tested and is very accurate.

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Walking New Zealand, issue no 275 - 2021

37

Need 2 Know

Enjoying the outdoors responsibility This article is by Ashlyn Oswalt.

Ashlyn is an American expat who now lives in New Zealand. She’s a keen tramper and loves getting out in to nature. She shares with us some advice on how to enjoy the outdoors responsibly... njoying the outdoors is looking a little different around the world lately. While some countries are in lockdown and others are restricting activities, New Zealanders are lucky to have access to our outdoors unhindered.

Thanks to our collective efforts during the lockdown, we are able to get outdoors and explore.

Here’s hoping the freedom to move around, gather, and travel within

E

our country remain, so we can continue to enjoy the outdoors without restriction. We are expecting to see an influx in outdoor activity by New Zealanders this summer, so I have a few tips and resources to help you be a great steward to the land and a kind neighbour to those you’ll share nature with.

Plan Ahead Plan ahead and prepare is the first principle of seven in the Leave No Trace philosophy, a great building block for enjoying the outdoors responsibly.

Researching the outdoor activity you intend to do, the skill level required, estimated times, and more before you embark can mean

a more fun - and much safer - trip.

This is also a great time to gather appropriate gear, check weather, and let friends know where you’ll be and for how long.

Assess Your Skill Level It can be tempting to bite off more than you can chew when outdoors. All it takes is one beautiful summit sunrise photo on Instagram and now you’re roped into a multi-day hike up a mountain.

It’s important to be honest with yourself and assess your skill - and comfort - level before the journey.

Never slept overnight in a tent?

Above: Ashlyn on Mount Barossa Track. Photo by @ashlynoswalt

Walking New Zealand magazine is available at all

Freephone 0800 walking stores throughout New Zealand

38 Walking New Zealand, issue no 275 - 2021

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

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Need 2 Know

Maybe test it out on an overnighter close to home instead of jumping straight into a five-day adventure in the backcountry. Trust me, you’ll appreciate being honest with yourself and have a much better time because of it.

Pack Smart Whether you’re on a day walk or multi-day tramp, it’s important to have the right gear. Weather in New Zealand is ever-changing, so packing a waterproof layer, warm hat, and plenty of sunscreen in the same bag isn’t unheard of.

Be sure to understand what terrain you’ll be recreating in, as well. Is it exposed tussocklands or covered forests? Understanding the terrain - and the weather - can make all the difference in a good time and bad.

Respect Others and Be Prepared It’s important to remember you’re not the only one enjoying the outdoors, so respecting your neighbours is a crucial step to be responsible outdoors. The Tiaki Promise lists “respecting others” as one of their core values, showcasing how deeply important it is to New Zealanders.

For hut etiquette, be sure to book in now if your desired hut takes bookings. If not, purchase hut passes and either set out very early

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

to avoid missing out on a bed, or pack a tent just in case. At the hut, be sure to keep your space tidy, respect others personal space and belongings, and avoid being the party animal of the evening.

Know When to Turn Back There is a possibility for even the most seasoned outdoor enthusiast to be caught up in an uncomfortable situation outdoors. What separates the heroes from the fools is knowing when to turn back.

If you realise at any point you’re in over your skill level or weather conditions start to change out of your favour, have a backup plan and know when to bail. Paying attention to your surroundings and knowing when to turn back is one of the most essential skills of the outdoors.

Take it Easy and Have Fun Finally, remember that being outdoors is about having a great time. This year offers a unique experience for New Zealanders - to enjoy the outdoors without the crowds - so take things a little slower, enjoy your surroundings, and don’t stress about fitting it all in. After all, you’re on holiday in your own backyard, so you can come back time and time again.

Find more advice and safety information on our website: www. doc.govt.nz/parks-and-recreation/ know-before-you-go Ashlyn is an American expat who’s been living in New Zealand for a year.

She’s a keen tramper and loves getting out into nature. Follow her on Instagram to check out her future adventures.

Above: Day Hikes gear llist.

Photo

Walking New Zealand, issue no 275 - 2021

39

by DOC

40 Walking New Zealand, issue no 275 - 2021

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

CONTENTS for previous 15 issues JANUARY 274 2021

2 Pak - A - Roo Walking Jacket 3 Contents 4 Walk Talk 6 New Zealand Walk: Round the rugged rocks - Roaring Meg Pack Track 9 New Zealand Walks: Top 20 Welly Walks in the Capital 13 High Achievers: All walks of life celebrate 20 years of community talks 14 NZ Walking Access Commission: Walking the dog 16 Event: New Zealand’s larget annual multi-sport event welcomes walkers 17 New Zealand Walk: Walking along the banks of the Ohura River 18 Walking New Zealand Monthly Photo Contest 20 New Zealand Walk: Rimutaka Rail Trail for tunnels and waterfalls 21 New Zealand Walk:Rimutaka Rail Trail popular with both walkers and cyclists 23 News: Survey highlights motivations for time in nature 24 Overseas Walk: Singapore Orchid Gardens for a walk among flora 34 Need2Know: Exercise helps to reduce back pain 36 Australian Walks: Australia’s best one day walks 39 Event: Ashhurst to Esplanade Walk 40 Subscription Page 41 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

DECEMBER 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 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 Walkway popular 24 New Zealand Walk: Four P’s in a pod! Paku, Pauanui, Parakiwai, Puketui 26 Te Araroa Trail: Paekakariki Escarpment Trail for magnificent views 30 Overseas Walk: A walk every day with the Norwegian Coastal Express 34 Overseas Walks: Lamma Island paved wilderness walkways 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

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

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

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

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

2 Pak - A - Roo Walking Jacket 3 Contents 4 Walk Talk 6 New Zealand Walk: Palmers Track Great Barrier Island 12 John Fensham Memoral Sanctuary - a lowland forest walk 15 New Zealand Walk: Invigorating winter tramp on the Mania Track 15 Kawerau Accomodation: Firmin Lodge 18 Walking New Zealand Monthly Photo Contest 20 Short walks to get you off the couch 23 Lockdown Activities: A morepork and the Milky Way 24 Northland Experiences: Two wheels and Shank’s Pony 28 New Zealand Walks: A week of walks on Chatham Islands 36 Event: Bay of Islands Walking Weekend - A real mix - hiking, biking trains and walks for non walkers 40 Event: Delightful dozen walks at Warkworth Weekend 2020 APRIL 267 2020 43 Index of previous 14 issues 2 Pak - A - Roo Walking Jacket 44 Subscription page 3 Contents 45 Coming Events: New Zealand 4 Walk Talk 48 New Zealand Walking Tours 6 Great Walks: The Back Story of “The 48 New Zealand Country Breaks Routeburn Saga” 51 Event: A great view from one of the 9 Great Walks: “The Routeburn Saga” Warkworth’s Walks 11 New Zealand Walk: Track a memo52 Wilderness Guides rial to Truby King

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

- New Zealand’s first private 10 New Zealand Walk: Walking Stars walking track in Wellington 37 New Zealand Walk: Lake Panorama, Henderson and Kiwi Esplanade 11 Need to Know: New Zealand postWalkway age stamps celebrate Te Araroa 38 Need2Know: International MarchTrail ing League encourages may 12 Event: Tenth year for popular walkwalking bring us together ing festival 39 Event: Manawatu Walking Festival 14 Event: Great Forest events going now in sixth year 41 Training: Exercise programme tips strong 24 years on next year 42 Overseas Walks and Tours 15 My Favourite Walk: 35 years from 3 44 Index of previous 14 issues day tramps to 3 day walks 45 Coming Events: New Zealand 16 Great Forest events 48 Coming Events: Overseas 17 Poem: The saga of Milford Track 52 Directory of Walking Groups 18 Walking New Zealand Monthly 56 New Zealand Country Breaks Photo Contest 60 Manawatu Walking Festival 20 Australian Walks: Walking at Uluru JANUARY 264 2020 a land rich in indigenous culture 3 Contents 22 New Zealand Walk: Rata Street 4 Walk Talk Loop Track 6 Te AraroaTrail: Family of seven takes 23 Need2Know: What have you got on 3,000km trail planned for Get Outdoors Week?

8 My Favourite Walk: Spoilt for choice 29 New Zealand Walks: Mahu Whenua in Wellington Trail network delights tourists 12 New Zealand Walk: Tarawera - a and locals 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

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

Walking New Zealand, issue 275 - 20214141 Walking New Zealand, issue nono 275 - 2021

Coming Events

NEW ZEALAND JANUARY 2021

3 Southern Muster Trail Run, Wanaka 9 Ian Priest Memorial Hutt River Trail Events, Hutt Valley 9 Aotearoa Ultra Marathon, Christchurch 12 Manawatu Striders Super Seven Series, 7km & 3km, Palmerston North 16 Good Home Taranaki Off Road Half Marathon, New Plymouth

28

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

16 Glenham Trainwreck Trail, Glenham School, Glenham, Southland 16 Waiheke Wharf 2 Wharf Fun Run, Waiheke Island 16 Good Home Taranaki Off Road Half Marathon, Lake Mangamahoe, New Plymouth 19 Manawatu Striders Super Seven Series, 7km & 3km, Palmerston North 16 Wine Run, Burnham, Canterbury 17 Eighth Continent Marathon and Half Marathon, Auckland 17 Women’s Half Marathon, Mangere, Auckland 23 Mount Run, Mt

20-21 MARCH 2021 20-21

2021

Maunganui 23 Ultra Easy & Big Easy Mountain Runs, Luggate, Otago 24 Harcourts Cooper & Co Run Devonport, Devonport, Auckland 24 Parihaka Trail Run/Walk, Whangarei Falls, Northland 26 Manawatu Striders Super Seven Series, 7km & 3km, Palmerston North 30 Tussock Traverse in Tongariro National Park, The Chateau, Tongariro National Park 30 Port Hills Ultra, Christchurch 31 Vine Run at Pegasus Bay Winery, Wiapara Valley, North Canterbury

FEBRUARY 2021

2 Manawatu Striders Super Seven Series, 7km & 3km, Palmerston North 5-14 Downer New Zealand Masters Games, Whanganui 9 Manawatu Striders Super Seven Series, 7km & 3km, Palmerston North 13 Buller Gorge Marathon, Half Marathon and Team Relay, Lower Buller to Westport 13 Tarawera Ultramarathon, Lakefront Reserve, Rotorua

Proceeds to Te Mata Park

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)

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

www.triplepeaks.co.nz Find us on

42 Walking New Zealand, issue no 275 - 2021

@TriplePeaksHawkesBay www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Coming Events

Join us for

SUPER SEVENS 2021 7 weeks starting Tuesday 12 January 7km and 3km run or walk options Starting 6.15pm at YMCA, Park Road, Palmerston North $4 Individuals | $12 for a family of 2 adults and 2 children $15 for a family of 2 adults and 3 children.

'Series passes available on first and second nights: $20 for individual and $70 / $80 for families.

www.manawatustriders.org.nz Like us on Facebook

& instagram

facebook.com/manawatustriders

@manawatustriders

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Walking New Zealand, issue no 275 - 2021

43

Coming Events

NORDIC WALKING

4 4 4 4 4 4

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

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

13 The Great Lake Relay around Lake Taupō, Taupo 13 XTERRA Wellington Festival, Parkakariki 14 Coatesville Half Marathon, Coatsville, Auckland 16 Manawatu Striders Super Seven Series, 7km & 3km, Palmerston North 20 Ruapehu EXPRESS & Old Coach Road Trail Walk/Run, Horopito to Ohakune 20 Shotover Moonlight Mountain Marathon & Moke Lake Run, Ben Lomond High Country Station, Queenstown 21 Brendan Foot Supersite Round the Bays, Wellington 23 Manawatu Striders Super Seven Series, 7km & 3km, Palmerston North 27 MCL Construction Triple Peaks Hawke’s Bay 27 Walter Peak High Country Run, Queenstown 27 The Big Kid Adventure Run, Horopito to Turoa Ski Area, Tongariro National Park 17 The Goat Adventure Run, Tongariro National Park 28 Christchurch Motorway Half Marathon, Christchurch 28 Ashley River Ramble, Waikuku, Canterbury 28 Ports of Auckland Round the Bays, Auckland

MARCH 2021

5-7 7th Annual Manawatu Walking

Festival, Palmerston North 6 Foundation Clinic Mauao Half Marathon, Mt Maunganui 7 Rotorua Off Road Half Marathon, Rotorua 7 Chilltech Beach To Basin Fun Run, Whangarei 7 Waipa Fun Run and Walk, Cambridge 13 Kirikiriroa Marathon, Hamilton Gardens, Hamilton 13 We Run the Night, Mt Maunganui 14 GJ Gardner Maraetai Half Marathon, Beachlands, Auckland 14 Sea2Sky Challenge, Sumner, Christchurch 20 Kaiteriteri Gold, Kaiteriteri, near Motueka 20-21 Northburn Station 100 Miler, Northburn Station, Central Otago 20 Te Houtaewa Challenge, Ninety Mile Beach 20 Surf2Firth Bush Marathon, Coromandel 20 Round the Vines, Martinborough 20 Surf2Firth Bush Marathon, Hikuai, Coromandel 20 Pauanui Half Marathon, Pauanui, Coromandel 20 Te Houtaewa Challenge, 90 Mile Beach 20 Oxfam Trailwalker New Zealand, New Plymouth 20-21 Rotorua Walking Festival, Neil Hunt Park, Rotorua 20-28 Trek for life Aotearoa, Stage 2 , Rawene to Pouto

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

44 Walking New Zealand, issue no 275 - 2021

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Coming Events

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Walking New Zealand, issue no 275 - 2021

45

46 Walking New Zealand, issue no 275 - 2021

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Coming Events

21 Les Mills City2Surf Fun Run, Christchurch 21 Foxton Beach Fun Run, Surf Club, Foxton Beach 21 Geraldine Multi Challenge, Geraldine 27 Taihape Gumboot Gallop, 150 Wairanu Rd, Taihape 28 Whenuapai Half Marathon, Whenuapai School, Whenuapai 28 Porirua Grand Traverse, Porirua

APRIL 2021

2 Lake Hayes Run, Lake Hayes Pavilion, Frankton 3 Forest Run Fest: Autumn Edition, Bottle Lake Forest, Christchurch 10 Great Forest Events, Waitarere Beach, near Levin 10 Arrowsmith Thee Race & High Country Marathon, Mt Arrowsmith Station, Canterbury 10 Lap the Lake, South Lake Mavora, Southland 10 Partners Life DUAL on Rangitoto and Motutapu Islands, Auckland 10 Radix XTERRA Rotorua Festival , Blue Lake, Rotorua

11 Mizuno Auckland Waterfront Half Marathon, Mission Bay, Auckland 11 ASB Christchurch Marathon, Christchurch 11 Pay What You Want Tauranga Half Marathon, Matua, Tauranga 17 Mt Oxford Odyssey, Coopers Creek Carpark, Canterbury 25 Arrowtown Autumn Festival Fun Run, Arrowtown

Fingertip Pulse Oximeter

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

MAY 2021

Only

1 Hanmer Four Square Half Marathon, Hanmer Springs, Canterbury 1 Southern Lakes Half Marathon, Cardrona Valley, Wanaka 1 T42 Central Plateau Trail Run & MTB, Owhango, Central Plateau, North Island 8 57th Rotorua Marathon, Rotorua 8 Saint Clair Vineyard Half Marathon, St Clair Vineyasrd, Marlborough 15 New Zealand Sotheby’s International Realty Hawke’s Bay Marathon, Hawkes Bay 22 Whitianga Half Marathon, Whitianga

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

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

Summit your own Everest and raise funds for Sir Edmund Hillary’s Himalayan Trust.

Anywhere, anytime during March 2021 • Go solo or as a team.

Register now at www.summitchallenge.org www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Walking New Zealand, issue no 275 - 2021

47

GREAT COUNTRY BREAKS

PULSE OXIMETERS

Fingertip Pulse Oximeter

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

GREAT BARRIER ISLAND

HIKES THROUGHOUT NZ

4 Tongariro, Day Waikaremoana, Hiking Coromandel Tours Great Barrier Island

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

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

NORTHLAND

Order online:

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

www.walkinglegends.co.nz ROTORUA

Kiwi on the Camino

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

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

48 Walking New Zealand, issue no 275- no 2021275 - 2021 48 Walking New Zealand, issue

www.coastwalks.co.nz

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

GISBORNE

TARANAKI

Dave & Carol Digby Ph: 06-765-7482

GREAT COUNTRY BREAKS NELSON

Fully licensed owner/operators (since 2001)

TRAMPING - CYCLING - TRANSPORT

HIKES THROUGHOUT NZ

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

‘Carry less, enjoy more’ Come explore with us! www.kahurangiwalks.co.nz

Phone 03 391 4120 CANTERBURY

NATIONAL PARK

WAIRARAPA

Whakapapa Holiday Park 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 offee Onsite C trailer and Food

Fully serviced campground nestled in the heart of Tongariro National Park, surrounded by beautiful native trees and rivers. Plenty of bird life. We have powered sites, cabins, tent sites, backpacker rooms and a lodge that sleeps 32.

Whakapapa Village, Mt Ruapehu, Tongariro National Park 3951 PH 07 892 3897 - info@whakapapa.net.nz

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

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 - 2021 49 Walking New Zealand, issue275 no 275 - 20201 49

MACKENZIE/South Canterbury

GREAT COUNTRY BREAKS

STEWART ISLAND

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

MARLBOROUGH

Quality Picton accommodation at great rates.

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

STEWART ISLAND

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

SOUTHLAND

Package deals available.

Make us part of your plan.

Book direct and save.

Ph 03 573 7116 www.tombstonebp.co.nz

email tombstonebp@xtra.co.nz STEWART ISLAND

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

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

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

MARLBOROUGH

MARLBOROUGH

The Villa Backpackers Lodge Celebrating 25 years of awesome!

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

Always book direct for the best price!

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

www.thevilla.co.nz

New Zealand, issue no 275 -no 2021 50 Walking 50 Walking New Zealand, issue 275 - 2021

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 275 - 2021

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 Rangitikei 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 275 - 2021

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz