276 MARCH 2021

RECREATION WALKING and CYCLING TRAILS New Zealand Walk:

MARCH 2021 ISSUE NO 276

Take a hike on these great Auckland walks this summer New Zealand Walk: Branch Road Walkway New Zealand Walks:

Blue Pools Walk -

once an ancient Maori route

Mt Aspiring National Park

New Zealand Walk:

Terrace Walk -

Franz Josef

Photo Contest winners

NZ $8.50 inc GST

New Zealand Walk:

Alexandra to Clyde River Track attracts both walkers and cyclists www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Walking New Zealand, issue no 276 - 2021

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2 Walking New Zealand, issue no 276 - 2021

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CONTENTS

Issue 276- 2021

2 Pak - A - Roo Walking Jacket 3 Contents 4 Walk Talk 6 New Zealand Walk: Tauranga to Okere Falls on a

shared trail 10 New Zealand Walk: Branch Road Walkway - once

an ancient Maori route 14 New Zealand Walk: Blue Pools Walk - Mt Aspi-

tring National Park 16 Cycling Trails: New section of Alps2Ocean Cycle Trail opens 17 New Zealand Walk: Hollyford Track reopens 18 Walking New Zealand Monthly Photo Contest 20 Need2Know: Motu: Magnificent isolation 24 New Zealand Walk: Alexandra to Clyde River Track - attracts both walkers and cyclists 27 New Zealand Walk:The Terrace Walk, Franz Josef 28 Auckland Walks: Take a hike on these great Auck-

land walks this summer 30 New Zealand Walk: Gebbies Pass to Packhorse Hut 32 New Zealand Walk: Kahikatea Country - the Pehi-

tawa section of the Te Araroa Trail 34 NZ Cycling Trail: The diverse Kaikoura Trail 35 Shared Pathway: Shared Kaikoura pathway con-

nect loop 36 Event: Back to the future for ASB Christchurch events 38 New Zealand Walks: Mangatoi Walkers tackle the

Coromandel walks 38 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 Cover: Members of the Mangatio Walkers on one of their walks in the Coromandel. Photo by Lyn Hooton, Papamoa.

WALKING New Zealand

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Published Monthly

PUBLISHER/EDITOR: Frank Goldingham: Phone 06-358-6863 CONTRIBUTORS: Phillip Donnell, Judy Eva, Barb Lowther. Lyn Hooton and Yvonne van Eerden 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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14 Walking New Zealand, issue no 276 - 2021

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Thrifty helps keep Te Araroa walkers moving

Thrifty is helping to keep New Zealanders moving on our national walking trail as the Official Vehicle Partner for Te Araroa Trust.

By providing transport and vehicle support to the Trust, the car rental company is freeing up funds for us to maintain and improve the 3,000km route from Cape Reinga to Bluff.

We want to thank Thrifty for its support, which is right on time for the busy summer months when trail walking is particularly popular.

Thrifty has helped Kiwis explore our beautiful country for many years, so we are thrilled to bring them on board as a Gold Partner.

To mark the partnership, Thrifty is offering two deals for Te Araroa walkers. The first of these is a 'Stressfree travel' deal allowing you to hire a car with no airport, credit card or excess fees, and drive as much as you like with unlimited kilometres. Or become a Blue Chip member and save 15% off the daily rental rate and $5 off either the Reduced Risk or Stress Free cover options. Terms and conditions apply.

Thank you, Thrifty for helping Kiwis both on and off the road.

Zebra crossings get more white in their stripe

A new pedestrian crossing marking aims to make zebra crossings safer for pedestrians by widening the stripes of white paint from 300mm to 600mm in line with best-practice in Australia. The white stripes are what makes a crossing stand out and by making them wider, they become more visible to drivers.

The formal gazette notice with the technical details includes guidance for an interim design for councils wanting to retrofit their current zebra crossings in advance of new ones.

4 Walking New Zealand, issue no 276 - 2021

Work starts on Stage Three of Wānaka Lakefront Development

Work on Stage Three of the Wānaka Lakefront Development Plan began on 1 February 2021, which will see the implementation of Te Ara Wānaka (a shared pathway) for pedestrians and cyclists along Lakeside Road, and a separate boardwalk along the lake’s edge.

QLDC Community Services General Manager, Thunes Cloete was excited to see Stage Three coming to life, saying that once finished, the ecological and accessibility improvements realised along the lakefront would be something Wānaka’s community could be proud of.

“We consulted on a Concept Plan for this site in June 2019 and received overwhelming support for its direction and what Stage Three aims to achieve,” Dr Cloete said.

“Once finished, wide scale native planting will run from Bullock Creek through to the Marina, working to maintain the area’s rugged and natural look while also providing an injection of native flora and fauna.”

Stage Three’s main contractor Blakely Construction planned to stagger work on different features of the site, delaying construction of the boardwalk until after April to avoid any disturbance to nesting and breeding Grebe in the area.

Wānaka Community Board (WCB) Chair, Barry Bruce was looking forward to watching Stage Three’s plans and designs becoming reality, noting that the underutilised land from the Marina through to Bullock Creek would become a real destination for both locals and visitors to the town.

“Both pedestrians and cyclists will be able to move through the area with a greater level of safety and ease once work on Stage Three is complete,” Mr Bruce said.

“Residents and visitors will also have new spots to sit and enjoy a picnic on the lakefront, and yet another vantage point from which to enjoy some of the best views in Wānaka.”

Work on Stage Three of the Wānaka Lakefront Development Plan is set to be concluded in August 2021. www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Walk talk

Encouraging more walking and cycling in Dunedin

Waka Kotahi is delivering two separate multi-milliondollar shared path projects with huge potential to encourage more people to walk and cycle in Dunedin.

Scheduled for completion in the next couple of years, the two shared paths on opposite sides of the Otago Harbour will provide great walking and cycling experiences that will motivate people to get out of their cars and onto their feet or bikes.

The centrepiece of the $31million SH88 Dunedin to Port Chalmers safety improvements project is the construction of the final 5km leg of a shared walking and cycling path between Dunedin and Port Chalmers. Scheduled to open in mid-2022, the path will offer a safe alternative for people walking and cycling to using State Highway 88, which is the busy main road freight route to Port Otago.

Directly across the harbour, work is progressing well on the final stages of the $63million 14km Otago Peninsula Connection, a Dunedin City Council project co-funded by Waka Kotahi. A 6m wide harbour reclamation includes a shared walking and cycling path, a new sea wall, and raises the road. This will provide protection from storm events and sea-level rise on the main road link between Dunedin and the Otago Peninsula. Road shoulder widening has created the space for a 3m wide shared path.

Above: An unbeatable harbourside walk – a section of the new shared path between Dunedin and Macandrew Bay. Photo by: Dunedin City Council You can now view and enjoy the latest issue of

Walking New Zealand magazine online for $2.50 at

http://www.walkingewzealand.co.nz www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Stay safe on Taranaki Mounga this summer

Visitors to Taranaki Mounga and Egmont National Park are being urged to prepare properly as a busy summer season looms for the popular North Island destination.

With international travel thwarted by COVID-19 and related border restrictions, the Department of Conservation (DOC) expects many New Zealanders will be venturing into Public Conservation Land during the summer holiday season.

Dave Rogers, DOC’s New Plymouth-based Senior Ranger Recreation/Historic, has spent more than four decades working on and around Egmont National Park and Taranaki Mounga, and is urging people to plan carefully ahead of any visits.

“Taranaki Mounga is a fabulous environment for recreation and we’re looking forward to hosting visitors – but we need people to be properly prepared, equipped with the right gear, and be realistic about what they can achieve during their visit.”

Dave Rogers says visitors need to ensure they choose the right trip, walk or tramp for their fitness and experience.

“Most search and rescue operations on the mounga are a result of people being either poorly equipped, poorly informed, or poorly prepared.

“A search and rescue operation puts more people at risk.”

Dave Rogers’ says other key pieces of advice for people visiting Egmont National Park and Taranaki Mounga are: Choose the right trip for you. Learn about the route and make sure you have the skills for it.

Understand the weather. It can change fast. Check the forecast and change your plans if needed.

Pack warm clothes and extra food. Prepare for bad weather and an unexpected night out.

Share your plans and take ways to get help. Telling a trusted person your trip details and taking a distress beacon can save your life.

Take care of yourself and each other. Eat, drink and rest, stick with your group and make decisions together.

“Check the DOC website and pop into one of our visitor centres for up to date weather and track conditions before you set off. Be prepared to turn back if conditions change or you are unsure,” he says.

“We want all visitors to the mounga to get home safe so they can share the stories of their adventures with others.”

People planning to stay in Egmont National Park should also ensure they have checked the availability of huts and bookable accommodation, he adds.

Visitors to all DOC sites and visitor centres are also urged to use COVID Tracer App QR codes when they are displayed.

Walking New Zealand, issue no 276 - 2021

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New Zealand Walk/Cycle

By Barbz Lowther

Tauranga to Okere Falls on a shared trail

W

ith the recent completion of a new link from Stevenson Road in Papamoa East to Kaituna River Bridge, there is now walking /cycling trail extending from Tauranga to Okere falls in Rotorua.

Although some parts are cycle paths along roads, and not so good for walkers, much of the trail is through reserves and beside waterways, and can be equally enjoyed by walkers. These parts are a perfect

place for families because the track is wide, flat and safe.

Starting from the waterfront in Tauranga, a path leads across Matapihi Rail Bridge, and follows Matapihi Road for 6 kms to Maunganui Road. This is a lovely undulating rural road, with awesome views over the harbour, and maybe a train going past.

After a set of lights to the left of the roundabout, bikers go through

6 Walking New Zealand, issue no 276 - 2021

Bayfair Car Park and onto Girven Road. The second road on the right is Grenada which has a bike path In just over 3 kms you will reach Pacific View Road, and the entrance to Wairakei Reserve. is about 150 Above: Matapihi Rail Bridge in Tauranga. Below left: One of the many lagoons in the reserve.

Below right: This is easier than biking.

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

New Zealand Walk/Cycle

which are raced here quite often.

It is easy to do a loop walk or cycle of any distance that suits you within this reserve.

After 3 kms there is a fork. The left path goes to Papamoa Plaza. The right leads over a little bridge to Gravatt Road, across the road, and behind the shops to Domain Road. Here you will find a set of traffic lights especially for bikers.

Wairakei Reserve continues for another 3 kms, (intersected by two roads) to Parton Road.

This whole reserve can be equally enjoyed by walkers and bikers, and is especially good for

.

metres to the left.

This is a good place for walkers to join the trail. It is a very pretty section with lots of pohutukawas in flower, shrubs and native grasses. This trail continues for 4 kms intersected by Evans Road and Hartford Avenue, also good places to join.

From Evans Road, there is a track on both sides of the waterway, which widens to form lagoons - home to lots of birds. Kids can have fun spying eels from the many little bridges, and watching remote control model yachts,

families.

From Parton Road, the bike path runs for 5 kms beside Te Okuroa Drive, and although not so interesting for walkers, it is fascinating to see the farmland being fast swallowed up by houses.

At Stevenson Road the new gravel trail leads to Kaituna River Bridge,

Above: left: and below right: Birds in the waterway.

Above right: Walkers along the trail.

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Walking New Zealand, issue no 276 - 2021

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New Zealand Walk/Cycle

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New Zealand Walk/Cycle

and a bike track heading south beside the Eastern Link expressway – not a good section for walkers.

Continuing for 7 kms you reach an enormous roundabout. Cross the road behind the Maori carving, and follow the concrete path t o Pa e n g a r o a .

From Paengaroa, bikers planning to do the Kaikokopu Trail, head up Old Coach Road, turning right. into Roydon Downs Road and left into Ridge Road. (About 17 kms).

At the top of the road is a car park, where walkers can enjoy a lovely wander through native and pine forest for 4 kms, and along a farm road, with remnants of old farm buildings for as long as they wish.

The bike trail continues through Roydon Downs Reserve, and along

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Above left: Wairakei Reserve in Papamoa where we joined it off Pacific View Road. Above right: Families enjoying the track.

Below left: The last bit of farmland before housing smothers it all.

\

Liechenstein and Maniatutu Roads for 13 kms to reach SH 33, 900 metres from Okere Road. This short section of State Highway is narrow and windy so do take care.

Turning down Okere Road the trail crosses a foot bridge over the Kaituna River outlet, and Okere Falls cafe is across the road.

Walkers can enjoy the well signposted walk to the falls – not only beautiful, but with lots of interesting history.

This is a lovely trail to explore with something for everyone. Check it out this Summer.

Walking New Zealand, issue no 276 - 2021

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New Zealand Walk

.

A wander around Waiorongamai Valley

By Judy Eva

Branch Road Walkway - once an ancient Maori route

O

n the second of November County Fayre Cafe in the Pohangina, Manawatu, hosts an annual public walk down the Branch Road Walkway.

Walkers of all ages are bussed from there starting at 8 30am with other buses at half hour intervals to the top of the walkway which is up the steep rutted gravel Ridge Road to begin the 6ks walk through a mixture of farmland and bush and back down to County Fayre for lunch.

My sister and myself chose this particular one, the reason being that downhill sounded just the ticket for us.

There was a very keen crowd of people of mixed ages keen to experiAbove : Open farmland.

Below left: Signpost at start of walk.

10 Walking New Zealand, issue no 276 - 2021

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

New Zealand Walk

ence this popular walkway, some of whom had not heard of it including ourselves until it was advertised.

There were several shuttle buses to take us to the very top of the anticline between the Pohangina and Oroua Valleys on Ridge Road to the start.

Upon reaching the top we were met with a beautiful view over farmland and ranges and met by a lovely local lady by the name of Mary who gave us a very interesting talk on the history of this area before we set off for the long walk back down to County Fayre.

Branch Road follows the ancient Maori route, the Ahimararama Track from the Hawkes Bay into the Rangitkiei Valley.

In the very wet and cold November of 1848 William Colenso and two Maori guides struggled up the Ahimararama Track from Pohangina on the way into Oroua and then up the Rangitikei and across the Mokai Patea to Taupo. After three weeks there they returned to Ahuriri across the Rangitikei Plains.

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Above: View of the farmland steep grade track.. Below left: Into the bush..

Walking New Zealand, issue no 276 - 2021

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New Zealand Walk

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Branch Road Walkway - once an ancient Maori route Before the settlers came to the valley wild cattle roamed the hills.

Roadmen from Pohangina were kept busy clearing many slips.

In 1920 the Finnis Bridle track was widened to provide an alternative route surplanting the Branch Road as the main route into Pohangina.

When you look at the rugged valley’s and hills you wonder how anyone could survive the trip that Willian Colenso and his two guides achieved in that very harsh era.

We started the walk through the farm gate (signposted) and down the track toward the farmland valley. As everyone was free to walk at their own pace and we were not in a guided situation were able to stop and enjoy the views and take photos without holding others up.

I must admit we were blown away by the beautiful scenery and the views of the surrounding valley below were nothing short of magnificent. It crosses hilly uplands giving views of the Tararua and Ruahine Ranges and on a clear day you can see Mt Ruapehu. As it was cloudy not visible.

Not far into the walk we passed a wooden seat called The loving Seat which had a layer of mould and damp on it due to the weather, cer-

tainly wasn’t living up to its name.

The scenery changing to a treefern gully, across more farmland into some magnificent bush consisting of cape ferns, tall ponga trees, silver ferns and different varieties of native trees, rewarewa, mahoe and many more species including a cacophony of bird song.

Further down a memorial seat which was too wet to sit on and time for a short break and a drink.

The sound of birds again was a joy to listen to and as we made our way further down the track into the pine forest even that had a beauty of its own. There was a sense of silence, stillness and tranquillity in there. It was almost peaceful and soothing.

Further down we passed Skull

Above: Walking through the pine trees. Below right: Skull Corner in the pine forest.

12 Walking New Zealand, issue no 276 - 2021

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

New Zealand Walk

Corner, past a stand of lovely macrocarpa and onto a steep zig zag track, around the Silver Poplar Gully out of the pines which then joined a track across private farmland which was more or less toward the end of the walk as we had reached the end of the gully and back onto flat land.

We had to stay close to the boundary fence following the arrowed markers which eventually took us to the gate onto the lower Branch Road, then the Kuku Road exit where we crossed a small stream over the road and made our way slowly back to Finnis Road and to the County Fayre Cafe where we were greeted by a group of lovely local ladies with welcoming hot soup and buns.

We were more or less the stragglers as most of the other walkers had mostly been in front of us on the track and were already back at the cafe and enjoying the hospitality of the local people.

I must admit that the day out was

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most enjoyable, fine weather, the organized walk, the scenery, the friendliness of the locals and the whole experience was fantastic. I would encourage any of those who love walking and tramping to put this beautiful scenery changing walkway on their list. It took us approximately about three hours to complete the walk given that we kept stopping to take photos, admire the scenery and take our time.

This walk is open all year round except in the lambing season and I suggest that you do it with company or one other person, as you need to leave a vehicle at both ends of the walkway.

One at the start and one at the end otherwise it means walking back up the 6ks to collect yours. A good idea would be to leave the end of the walk vehicle outside the County Fayre Café in Finnis Road, then take the other vehicle to the top of Ridge Road to start the walk collecting the

first vehicle using the one left at the finish.

I would grade the walk as medium due to uneven, zig zag, downhill, slippery, and steep grades. A walking pole may assist some who are not confident on downhill walks. The track is easy to follow and where needed there are stiles and signs.

Probably not that good in wet winter weather.

Branch Road Walkway is approximately 40 minutes drive from Feilding. We used our G.P.S. to get to County Fayre, 976 Finnis Road which was a great help. The address is Ridge Road to get to the start of the walk and is located not far from County Fayre Café, which was until some years ago the offices of the Pohangina District Council.

No dogs permitted on this walk.

Above left: End of walk, Kuku Rd and back to County Fayre Cafe.

Below left: The County Fayre Cafe.

Walking New Zealand, issue no 276 - 2021

13

New Zealand Walks

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Blue Pools Walk - in Mount

N

estled among mature beech and podocarp forest, the Blue Pools in the Mount Aspiring National Park of deep, clear water flowing into the Makarora River offer a moment of tranquillity.

Situated on the SH6 between Wanaka and Haast this is one of the Department of Conservation’s best short walks.

An easy short 3km return walk through mature beech and podocarp forest leads to these natural wonders of pure glacial water

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14 Walking New Zealand, issue no 276 - 2021

gathered from the mountains.

Travel through open flats for spectacular mountain views and enjoy the coolness of the beech forest to a swing bridge over the Makarora River.

Continue on a boardwalk to the second swing bridge, which is the viewing platform over the Blue Pools. Cross this bridge for great views up the river gorge.

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Aspiring National Park bers allowed have been reached.

Return to the parking area on the same track.

The Blue-Young Link Track continues on from the Blue Pools bridge.

Getting there: From Wanaka, drive north on the Haast Highway (SH6) to Makarora township.

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Continue along the highway for This walk can be a great stopabout 12 km. The track starts from ping off point when driving from the Blue Pools carpark off SH6, Wanaka through to the West Coast. opposite Cameron Flat campsite.

From Haast on the West Coast Above left: The Blue Pools. DOC photo drive south for about 72 kms on Above right top: A well formed SH6. The carpark is on the right. track starts at the carpark.

This is classed as an easiest short Above middle; The large carpark walk taking about an hour return. can get very full on busy days.

No dogs are allowed.

Walking New Zealand, issue no 276 - 2021

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New section of the Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail open

n December a new off-road section of the Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail was opened, moving riders safely off State Highway 83.

The Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail is the longest of the 22 Great Rides in New Zealand spanning 315km from the Mackenzie District, which is recognised as a Dark Sky Reserve, to the Waitaki District, an aspiring UNESCO Geopark.

The new section creates a safer ride for all to enjoy. It is Grade 3 (intermediate). Starting at the Sailors Cutting car park on the shores of Lake Benmore, the 16km section combines purpose-built gravel cycle trail with DOC’s Benmore Peninsula track and finishes at the

car park above Benmore Dam. The section weaves through the high country of the Waitaki Lakes District following the Ahuriri arm of Lake Benmore with deep clear waters and golden tussock providing stunning backdrops.

Great Rides, along with Heartland Rides and urban rides in towns and cities, make up the New Zealand Cycling Network. NZ TRansport Agency is working with local government and community groups to connect this cycling network across the country.

Above: On the Lake Benmore section of the trail. Photo by Southproud.co.nz Below: Alps to Ocean Trail Photo by Alps2ocean.com

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16 Walking New Zealand, issue no 276 - 2021

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New Zealand Walk

Hollyford Track reopens

T

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

.

he popular Hollyford Track, Fiordland National Park’s only major low-altitude track was officially reopened, the DOC just befor christmas 2020.

The 56km, four-day (one way) track, which was badly damaged during a three-day storm in February 2020, is now open for people keen to experience a backcountry adventure.

DOC’s Southern South Island operations director Aaron Fleming says this is the last of Fiordland’s major multi-day tracks to be reopened since the storm.

“It’s fantastic to have the Hollyford Track at a stage where it can be safely reopened to people with the appropriate backcountry skills.

“This area has a rich and varied history and is an important feature of Te Wāhipounamu—Southwest New Zealand World Heritage Area—as it encompasses the Ngāi Tahu pounamu trail link to the West Coast and fascinating tales of human endeavour.”

Key repair work has been completed to the track and structures which received extensive damage, Aaron says.

However, there are some changes.

“The repair work has been completed to allow the safe opening of the track for people with moderate to high level backcountry (remote areas) skills and experience. Some bridges have been removed or not replaced, so there are new warning signs in place on the track and at huts to advise trampers of the unbridged streams that may become impassable in heavy rain.”

Trampers will also need to start their tramp 3 km earlier this season with the final repairs to the Hollyford Road expected to be complete in April/May 2021.

“This last section of road has been extensively damaged by river erosion and repairs, led by NZ Transport Agency and the Southland District Council, are ongoing.

“People wanting to access the Hollyford Track can safely walk from the new carpark at Girder Creek to the track start. This trail will remain in use

while repair work is carried out on that final 3 km section of road.”

While the Hollyford Track has reopened, all side-tracks accessed from the Hollyford Road below the Lake Marian carpark remain closed.

Technical and safety assessments of these tracks and their structures are ongoing.

Trampers should check the DOC website for current information about the track (including any alerts) as well as obtain a weather forecast for the duration of their trip before heading into the hills, Aaron says.

“It’s fantastic to have another great option for trampers to explore just in

time for summer. The track can’t be booked in advance so plan ahead, let someone know before you go, check the weather and track conditions and make sure you take the necessary food, water, clothing and equipment and have fun exploring your own backyard.”

The Hollyford Track was among the 78 tracks damaged in the February 2020 floods, including the iconic Milford Track and Routeburn Track, both also reopened late last year..

Above right: Entrance to the popular Hollyford Track, now reopened after flood damage.

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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

Above: On the photo are my daughter Danielle and son-in-law Andre who were on their honeymoon and we were lucky enough to accompany them on this walk.

Wiebke Ashby, Wellington.

Below: The Invercargill walk group walked up Canaird Road to Roberts creek in February. The road was washed out in lots of places due to the southland floods so not accessible by bus. Beautiful views. The Roberts creek flows into the Matura river. Photo by Heather Westrupp, Richmond, Invercargill.

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.

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18 Walking NewZealand, Zealand, issue - 2021 Walking New issue no no 276276 - 2021

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Photo Contest

PHOTO CONTEST

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Above: Members of the Air New Zealand Outdoors Club admiring one of the sculptures at the Auckland Botanic Gardens in Manurewa. Photo by Jo Alexander of Henderson.

Below left Little trampers Veronika and Valentina getting back from Cape Brett Hut on Cape Brett Track, Northland. Photo by Olga Levanova, Meadowbank, Auckland.

Below right: Annie strolling down the street in Mardin, Turkey. Photo by Alex Wong, Riverhead.

Walking New Zealand, issue no 276 2021 Walking New Zealand, issue no 276 - 2021

19 19

Need 2 Know

Motu Kaikoura: Magnificent isolation

O

By Department of Conservation n the outer edge of the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park/ Ko te Pātaka kai o Tīkapa, there is an island that is quietly, gently, regaining its mauri/life Eighty metres off the west coast of Aotea/Great Barrier Island is playfully described by Rod Miller, Chair of the Motu Kaikoura Trust, as “twice as big as Tiritiri Matangi, and twice as rugged.”

The island initially made headlines in 2003 when it came up for sale as public debate blew up over plans for a $10m glass building in memory of Sir Peter Blake.

At the time, Herald reporter Brian Rudman made the suggestion that Motu Kaikoura would be a more fitting memorial, writing, “Blake’s dream was to save endangered parts of the planet for future generations and to educate the youth of the world about the fragility of the eco-system.

Where better to start than at home on Kaikoura Island?”

The public overwhelmingly supported the idea to purchase the island for restoration and public enjoyment, and the motu/island was eventually bought for the people of New Zealand by the government (via the Nature Heritage Fund), ASB Charitable

Trusts, Auckland Regional Council and Auckland local authorities. It was opened by the Prime Minister at the time, Helen Clarke, on 7 May 2005.

Located on the western side of Aotea, 90km from Auckland, Motu Kaikoura (previously known as Selwyn Island) is 564 hectares in size, making it the seventh largest island in the Hauraki Gulf.

The triangular shaped island forms the natural harbours of Ports Abercrombie and Fitzroy, providing sheltered, deep water anchorages for the Above: Overlooking the bay. :Photo courtesy of the Motu Kaikoura Trust

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Need 2 Know

Above left: Old Selywn Island map.

Above right:Tour around the island prior to the opening.. Photos ourtesy of the Motu Kaikoura Trust boaties that flock to Aotea in summer.

Mimicking its parent island, Motu Kaikoura offers a remote wilderness and island experience quite different from the more sheltered inner Hauraki Gulf islands, with rocky outcrops, steep forested gullies, and the aforementioned sheltered, crystal-clear blue water bays.

Changing hands

As with most islands of the Hauraki Gulf, the island has a long history of occupation. Māori occupation began formerly with Ngāti Tai and latterly with Ngāti Rehua, for which the island’s seafood resources were immensely valuable. To this end Ngāti Rehua established two fishing pā, Motu Karaka and Pahangahou, on

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prominent headlands.

The island then passed into European ownership in the early 1850’s, changing hands more than twenty times in 150 years. Despite the clay soils and the tempestuous climate of the outer Hauraki Gulf, it was mostly used for farming, but notably was once a deer farm, and was used briefly as a wilderness retreat, resulting in various chalets being built.

During World War II, a 6-inch Howitzer gun was mounted on the southern side, while an observation post and bunker were constructed on the northern edge.

ing by deer and goats over the last 150 years had left much of the island devoid of its original forest vegetation.

But pockets of native bush remained in gullies and on the outer edges of the island, while mānuka and kānuka scrub were popping up on the bare land, naturally beginning the island’s long natural journey back to regeneration without a policy of replanting. As such, the decision was made to gently guide the island back to its former state, with initial efforts focused on removing deer and cats (goats were eradicated in 1993), before starting on rat control.

The Trust has successfully reduced the rat population to a level under 6%, A review in the early 2000s found with ship rats virtually unrecorded for that sporadic farm clearing and graz- 18 months. A great result considering

Healing begins

Walking New Zealand, issue no 276 - 2021

21

Need 2 Know

Motu Kaikoura: Magnificent isolation the island’s proximity to Aotea/Great Barrier Island.

Surveys of flora and fauna in the late 2000’s recorded 26 native bird species living or visiting the island, 12 of which were seabird and shorebird species including Cook’s Petrel, reef heron/matuku moana and the Caspian tern/taranui.

Kākā frequented the bush, while banded rail/moho-pererū were found in the wetlands. As for flora, pōhutukawa and coastal natives made up the coastal fringe, and natives such as kauri, kohekohe, taraire, tawa, nikau, puriri and ngaio were found in gullies on the southern and eastern parts of the island.

Love at first sight

For Rod and Rosalie Miller, farmers near Warkworth (north of Auckland), it was love at first sight. The couple already had a keen interest in conservation, converting 60 acres

of their 200-acre farm to native bush, and quickly saw the potential of the island after visiting it on their aero club’s Cessna 172.

The Motu Kaikoura Trust was formed not long after, with Geoff Davidson, followed by Harry Doig, and now Rod Miller at the helm, Rosalie as Secretary, and a team of dedicated and experienced volunteer Trustees to manage the island as a scenic reserve.

Since then, the Trustees have created and begun enacting the Motu Kaikoura Scenic Reserve Management Plan and Biodiversity Management Plan. Significant milestones include deer and cat eradication, keeping the rat population to levels under 6%, and pine tree removal to allow for the regeneration of native bush.

The Trust has also upgraded facilities on the island through grants so that visitors have safe access to the island via the airstrip, wharf and floating pontoon, and can enjoy the

benefits of hot water, 3G, and flushing toilets. But the showpiece of the island is, without a doubt, the stunning Motu Kaikoura Lodge created by Strachan Group Architects and installed by Architecture+Women, which has gone on to win numerous awards.

The Lodge replaced the previous one destroyed by arson, and fulfils the need to accommodate research workers, volunteers and public visitors, and enable education initiatives.

To manage the predator control and various activities involved in keeping the facilities operational, the Trust also employs a contractor, Clint Stannard, who works alongside his wife Jacinda and children, sharing island and home tasks between one another. They have lived and worked on the island for nine years, putting the couple’s backgrounds in environmental management to excellent use.

The Stannard family initially began volunteering on the island while sailing around Aotea/Great Barrier Island, after completing a voyage across the Pacific on their yacht. Asked what conservation gains they have witnessed over the last decade, they respond, “We have taken much pleasure in watching regeneration in areas of the island that have changed from grass to native bush in the short time we have been here. A great reward is being in the presence of kākāriki/New Zealand parakeet, which arrived after working so long to get rat numbers down to such low levels.”

Another devotee of the island is resident volunteer Nick Mitchell. As Above left: The Stannard family. :Photo Courtesy of the Motu Kaikoura Trust

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Need 2 Know

■

a pilot, Nick first visited the island twenty years ago, and after dropping off Trustees, thought to himself that this was a place he would like to return.

A stalwart of the outer Hauraki Gulf, Motu Kaikoura offered itself as a haven within it, and six years ago he sailed his new yacht to the island. Nick performs various maintenance tasks for the Motu Kaikoura Trust to offset his use of facilities.

Asked what he loves about the island, Nick responds, “When Buzz Aldrin stepped on the moon, he described it as “magnificent desolation”. When I hopped out at the airstrip and everyone buggered off, I felt “magnificent isolation”, and wanted to get a tent and stay there.” As for Rod and Rosalie Miller, we think the 464 flights they have clocked up to the island since, speaks for itself!

Creating a legacy

Sir Peter Blake’s kaupapa to protect our precious green and blue spaces and educate youth about our environment is coming to fruition on Motu Kaikoura.

As the bush slowly regenerates, it is providing habitat and food for a range of native species, while its low predator numbers mean that species from nearby predator-free islands are gradually relocating to the island.

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Above right: Motu Kaikoura lodge. :Photo courtesy of the Motu Kaikoura Trust The Trust also encourages and facilitates school children and tertiary students to participate in outdoor and conservation activities on both land and sea. Refurbishment of the six chalets has been completed and Bradshaw Cove Homestead is underway,to accommodate school and youth visits.

Meanwhile, youth development organisations such as the Spirit of New Zealand, which empowers young New Zealanders to reach their potential through the challenge of the sea, are regular visitors.

The Trust also has a Heads of Agreement with Hillary Outdoors whose students frequently use Motu Kaikoura for their activities.

Getting/staying there

You can visit Motu Kaikoura by boat or air, and enjoy a range of accommodation options. There are several walking tracks that take in the panoramic views found on the ridgelines, regenerating bush and WWII relics.

We highly recommend you take a trip to Motu Kaikoura, the island bought for the people, to experience the “magnificent isolation” it offers.

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Walking New Zealand, issue no 276 - 2021

23

Shared Pathway

Alexandra to Clyde River Track attracts both walkers and cyclists

T

he Alexandra to Clyde River Track a walking and cycling trail is suitable for the whole family. The trail takes you along the true right bank of the powerful Clutha Mata-au River between Alexandra and Clyde.

The distance is 12 km one way and is suitable for a ftness beginner.

Expect to see walkers and joggers out for their daily constitutional. The trail is suitable for wheelchair and pushchair access in parts. Cyclists are asked to be aware of the blind corners, and to give way to walkers.

Mainly flat with one or two boardwalks and bridges nearer Alexandra, this well surfaced trail is special no matter the season but Above top: At the carpark at Alexandra The start of the track to Clyde with the track to Roxburgh at the top. Second from top: Great views of the Cluther River from this open space.

Third from top: Entertainment along the way. Clutha Valley Hobbits beside the track.

Below left: One of the many bridges along the way.

24 Walking New Zealand, issue no 276 - 2021

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Shared Pathway

especially good in the height of summer when the dappled shade from the willow trees is appreciated.

From the Alexandra end, start at the car park on Poplar Crescent, signposted 300 metres along Earnscleugh Road from SH8. Alternatively, you can start from the Alexandra Bridge if that is more convenient.

The trail follows the river upstream through the historic Earnscleugh Tailings.

This area was extensively dredged in the early 1900’s and yielded tons of gold. It was hard, noisy work compared to the peaceful place it is today.

You might notice the marked changes in the gravel heaps reflecting the improvements in dredge technology and you also might notice scattered through this wilderness some remaining artefacts.

Above right: Cyclists on the track Second from top: Walking through a shaded area. Third from top: You are always close the the mighty Clutha. Below left: Two bridges close together. Below right: Some parts of the track are on boardwalks.

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Walking New Zealand, issue no 276 - 2021

25

Shared Pathway

Alexandra to Clyde River Track

Above top: Two cyclists stop to enjoy the scenery. Above: The track is popular with walk, runners and cyclists.

26 Walking New Zealand, issue no 276 - 2021

This area is special and regarded as an ‘outside museum’ so please admire but do not touch. The Tailings are protected and are on conservation land.

Linger for a while in the delightful historic township of Clyde – it is well worth a visit. Take time to browse the local shops, stop for an ice cream or a coffee from a local cafe before commencing your journey back to Alexandra, either back along the river track, or you can link to the Otago Central Rail Trail.

The rail trail is a shorter, more direct route (only 9km) taking you past orchards, vineyards and farmland. Orchard Gardens and Hintons Estate Cellar Door offer a leisurely break enroute or just take time to admire the stunning views of the Old Man Range.

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

New Zealand Walk

The Terrace Walk

.

T

he Terrace Walk at Franz Josef provides a good introduction to the rainforest of the Glacier Region of the West Coast as well and an opportunity to see glow worms after dark - it’s a great option with children.

This easy walk winds a short way along the bush-clad terraces at the south end of the village.

The trail is relatively flat until the last few meters, when it winds uphill and becomes somewhat rocky.

This walk leads you through a flat section of Wild West Coast podocarp forest before you start a gradual ascent up a line of gold mining tailings.

You will be able to see the remains of flumes and water pipes just before the small wooden bridge that crosses a creek There is no access beyond the bridge due to a slip and you will need to return the way you came.

Take a torch and explore this walk at night to see glow-worms in the forest, especially under and around large fallen trees alongside the track.

The walk starts off State Highway 6, at the southern end of Franz Josef village near the ‘Our Lady of the Alps’ church on the left hand side of the road heading south towards Fox Glacier.

The track entrance has a very small parking area, but there is plenty of parking in town just a short walk away. No dogs are allowed.

The distance is 1.8km return via the same track. It is classed as an easy 30 minute short walk.

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Above: The gravel track is mostly flat for the first part. Below right: As the track climbs it gets very stoney..

Walking New Zealand, issue no 276 - 2021

27

Auckland 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.

Take a hike on these great Auckland tracks this summer

There’s nothing like a good old hike. Fresh air, beautiful vistas, native bush and wildlife – what more could you want?

Well known for its long walks and back country activities is the rugged Waitākere Ranges Regional Park.

However, due to kauri dieback disease, we need to find alternatives to embrace our adventurous side.

“The closures of the Waitākere Ranges forest and a number of higherrisk tracks in the Hunua Ranges Regional Park is about protecting our native kauri – a precious taonga – for future generations to enjoy,” says

Auckland Council’s Head of Parks Mark Bowater.

“If you are considering a trip into any of our parks across the region with native forest, don’t be the one to spread kauri dieback disease. Please remember to scrub and spray your footwear and any equipment at all hygiene stations you encounter and stay on the open tracks.”

Here are some alternative hikes in Auckland: Above: One Tree Hill.

Below: Waiheke Isalnd - just a 35 minute ferry ride from the city of Auckland.

“A nature lover’s paradise” “This place is truly amazing” “A must see in autumn” P: 06 863 9003 E: enquiries@eastwoodhill.org.nz A: 2392 Wharekopae Rd, RD 2, Ngatapa, Gisborne

www.eastwoodhill.org.nz

28 Walking New Zealand, issue no 276 - 2021

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Auckland Walks

Coast to Coast Walk

The Coast to Coast walk is a 16km hike across Auckland from Waitematā to Manukau. It takes you through landscapes shaped by the Auckland volcanic field and 600 years of Māori occupation, through some of our finest natural and built heritage areas, offering panoramic views along the way.

Te Ara Hura Waiheke Is

Explore Waiheke’s coastline, pass through native bush and visit historical sites, all in a day’s walk on Te Ara Hura. A 100km network of walking tracks, Te Ara Hura is the perfect way to explore Waiheke Island and get away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Choose between a day trip or multi-day adventure, there’s a great range of walks from short and easy through to the more challenging. All tracks are connected so you can start at any point, finish wherever you want and go in any direction.

.

Watercare’s Coastal Walkway

Spend a few hours exploring the Watercare Coastal Walkway. This 7km walkway winds around the Manukau foreshore between Ambury Regional Park and the Ōtuataua Stonefields and is perfect for a weekend walk. Keep an eye out for eastern bar-tailed godwit, pied oyster catcher, banded dotterel and a range of other birds you may spot along the way.

Rangitoto Summit Track

Catch a ferry over to the iconic Rangitoto Island and hike to the top of the maunga (volcanic cone). Rangitoto is the largest and youngest of the cones and craters in Auckland’s volcanic field. The island is also steeped in Māori history – it was used as a lookout over the Hauraki Gulf in times of war and as a parrot reserve. If you want a longer walk, the Coastal Track from Rangitoto Wharf to Islington Bay Wharf takes about 5 hours return.

Visit the Auckland Council website for more walks and outdoor activity ideas in Auckland. www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Above top: On the Watercare Coastal Walkway around Manukau Harbour.

Above: Looking out towards Rangitoto Island from Tamaki Drive.

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Walking New Zealand, issue no 276 - 2021

29

My Favourite Walk

.

By Yvonne van Eerden

Gebbies Pass to Packhorse Hut

A

small group of the Sunday Trampers walked to the Packhorse Hut, part of Te Ara Pataka/Summit Walkway 30 minutes from Christchurch. . It is approximately 5.8 km one way taking about two hours and then of course you have to make the return trip.

You can walk further to Mt Herbert and beyond and over to Kaituna Valley and Orton Bradley Park.

It was a very nice sunny day again and we parked safely out of the way of the logging trucks which were active in the area. The views were again absolutely spectacular. The track has

30 Walking New Zealand, issue no 276 - 2021

changed quite a lot as a lot of the trees have been cut down. It is still a great walk to do.

As we started we could see the Packhorse Hut roof, unbelievable really that we were going to walk that far, sometimes you think it is impossible but off we went. We were soon climbing but we were in no hurry as we had all day.

We had our morning tea at a nice view point and then carried on up amongst where all the trees had been cut down. We also had to climb over some trees that had been blown down in one of the storms, this was quite safe and rather fun, something different on a walk!

Further on we came to our usual group of rocks where we always have a little fun taking photos. A little further on there are the volcanic dyke rock formations in lines coming down the hill.

We enjoyed a very nice lunch inside Above: What a view over Lyttleton Harbour!

Below lef t: Pointing to the Packhorse Hut in the distance. www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

My Favourite Walk

Gebbies Pass to Packhorse Hut

the Packhorse, it is very tidy and clean and has a very big log burner with plenty of wood as it can still get very cold at night.

The hut has nine bunks and you need to book for the hut. It is definitely well used by trampers and cyclists.

After lunch we headed back, normally we do go further but thought we would have a reasonably easy day so we headed off the way we came up and it is always a little different going back as you can still see things that you never saw on the way up.

We had a very good time and felt we had a good work out for sure. We returned to Christchurch after a fantastic day out.

Above: Walking among the pine trees.

Below left: Photo time at the rocks!

Belkow right: The Packhorse Hut.

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

The Gebbies Pass to Packhorse Hut track is located in Banks Peninsula area in the Canterbury region This is the easiest track to Packhorse Hut.and is part of the Te Ara Pātaka/Summit Walkway.

The distance is 5.8 km one way and allow two hours one way for this walk that is classed as intermediate.

No dogs allowed..

This is the one of three and the easiest track to Packhorse Hut. It is marked with orange-topped poles.

From the car park, take the marked track below the logging road. Soon it crosses open paddocks with lovely views over Lyttelton Harbour/ Whakaraupō. When you leave the paddocks and encounter the logging road for the second time, do not walk along it – make sure you cross over the road to enter the pine forest.

The track climbs through the forest, eventually re-emerging into open land, then skirts below the Remarkable Dykes volcanic rock formations. The track ends at the historic Sign of the Packhorse Hut. This section of the track is maintained by the Christchurch City Council.

Getting there:The track starts near the crest of Gebbies Pass Road on the Lyttleton side, where there is a small car park. This is a 30 minute drive from Christchurch.

Know before you go: The track is suitable for people with moderate backcountry skills and experience. It’s rough and steep in places.

The track is exposed to all weathers. It can be windy, cold and prone to low cloud in poor weather.

Water and a non-flush toilet are only available at the hut.

Walking New Zealand, issue no 276 - 2021

31

Te Araroa Trail

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Kahikatea Country The Pehitawa section of the Te Araroa

P

ehitawa is a 12.5 kilometre track from Waitomo Village in the north to Te Kuiti in the south. It does not traverse any areas within the conservation estate, but has gained significance as part of Te Araroa (“The Long Pathway”), which now enables hikers to walk the entire length of New Zealand.

We experienced it as a walk of contrasts: town and country vistas, forest and farmland habitats, public and private land, native and exotic flora/fauna, historic and contemporary features, urban bustle and rural serenity.

The track had us puffing at times, with 150-metre ascents and descents.

It was generally easy to follow, except for a few obscure twists and turns, and well-served with stiles, marker posts, and bridges.

Leaving the northern end, we soon dropped into an open pasture basin beneath somewhat obtrusive pylons, like steel giants stalking for prey.

Late autumn colours were a welcome change from the monotony of various shades of green.

A sudden swing to the left found us grunting up a grainy goat track grasping gorse, then down to a picturesque pond complete with maimai. This was the first of three steep bush-covered hills which periodically afforded panoramic views.

After the effort of the climbs, we enjoyed pausing on the ridgelines to stare across the King Country’s rich agricultural landscape. Low, tumbled limestone hills rose to formidable volcanic summits in the distance

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By Phillip Donnell

32 Walking New Zealand, issue no 276 - 2021

— north to Pirongia, Kakepuku and Maungatautari, east to Pureora, and south to Ruapehu.

A downhill dash to a deep ditch led to loping along a level farm race before reaching the small suspension bridge over the Mangapu River, a sluggish channel with steep banks. We stood, staring silently into its murky depths, a sad reminder that the majority of our lowland waterways are now seriously polluted and unsafe for swimming.

At this point, the track entered the 18.5ha Pehitawa Forest Reserve, which is Queen Elizabeth II Trust-covenanted land (purchased in 2001) and one of the finest remaining remnants of mature pole stand kahikatea trees in the North Island, some aged around 120 years.

Although small, it is in near virgin condition and self-sustaining. We also noticed fine specimens of swamp maire, matai, titoki and pukatea, and the ground cover was in excellent condition. Such forest originally occupied 41,000ha in the Waipa Ecological District, but is now (tragically) reduced through clearance to only 158ha, onethird of it in the Mangapu valley.

It was therapeutic to lie on the ground gazing into the towering treetops, while listening to tui, kereru, pukeko and shining cuckoo. This reserve was the highlight of our day.

Once “out of the woods”, the rocky outcrop of Oparure Pa came into view, an ideal lunch-stop. We then crossed the sealed road (of the same name) and climbed briefly to two stiles.

Just 50 metres north-east of here we discovered two old trees, a British holly and a pohutukawa, within the

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Te Araroa Trail

grounds of a nearby residence. They stand as symbols of a fascinating story of utu, shrewd politics and even humour, namely Te Kooti’s rescue of a survey party kidnapped by Maori chief Mahuki in 1883. The rescue was a ploy to curry favour with the government for his pardon.

From the two trees, it was just three kilometres to the finish – through paddocks, across Gadsby Road, then over undulating terrain and a rather roundabout rising route to trig point 263 overlooking Te Kuiti. The trig marks the site of Motakiora, a fortified pa constructed in the 17th century by Rora, a son of Maniapoto. It stands like a sentinel above the town.

Continuing beyond the trig, we scrambled down through a pine plantation atop Brook Park, which also contains wood-lots of gum and black walnut, along with the Blackman conifer collection of over 300 species.

It was a pleasant spot to recline on the thick carpet of autumn leaves and bask in the afternoon sunshine, accompanied by eastern rosella and Australian spur-winged plover. The

. reserve’s Red Trail, then Blue Trail, guided us to exit on SH3, adjacent (happily!) to a well-appointed café!

It is unlikely that Pehitawa will ever become one of the most popular sections of Te Araroa, but it does have enough notable features to make it a worthwhile investment of time and energy. In particular, it offers the chance to sample a unique forest type that once covered extensive areas, but has been largely destroyed.

Such opportunities are few and far between, at least in the North Island, and should therefore be prized.

If you have a hankering to undertake this walk, Footsteps Aotearoa NZ would be pleased to make it possible.

Contact them: footstepsanz@gmail. com, 021 172 3244, 07 544 9509.

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Above: In Kahikatea Country.

Fact File

Access: Northern end: I km along Fullerton Road, off Te Anga Road just before Waitomo Village.

Southern end: Brook Park, off SH3 on the northern outskirts of Te Kuiti.

Grade: Moderate.

Time and Distance: 5-6 hours (12.5 km).

Map: Topo50 series: BF53 Te Kuiti.

Further Information: www.teararoa.org.nz; DoC Te Kuiti Office, 78 Taupiri Street, ph.07 878 1050, Email: tekuiti@doc.govt.nz

Walking New Zealand, issue no 276 - 2021

33

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oosely following the perimeter of the Kaikoura plains and skirting the Kowhai and Hapuku Rivers, the Kaikoura Trail features trails that are as diverse as the scenery.

Cycle the entire loop or hop on and cycle a section.

It’s too easy to pass through Kaikoura without stopping to explore.

The Kaikoura Trail takes you on a pleasant cycle tour of the district and gives you the chance to explore some of the places you don’t see from the highway.

Suitable for most riders (some single trail sections are intermediate grade), the trail circles the Kaikoura plains on a mix of single track and quiet country roads.

The climbs are gentle with the optional Mt Fyffe carpark section climb-

ing to just under 200 metres. Many entry places on the trail make it easy to choose and cycle a part if you don’t have time for the entire circuit.

The Kowhai and Hapuku single trail sections meander through some beautiful clumps of bush, the Hapuku has a stand of impressive mixed size totara trees. There is often fantails and other birdlife to keep you company on your journey through the river bush sections.

Some parts of the Kowhai and

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Above: On a quiet country road.

Below: The trail goes beside a pine forest.

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34 Walking New Zealand, issue no 276 - 2021

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Shared Pathway

Shared Kaikoura pathway connects loop

A

new section of shared pathway for people walking and cycling in Kaikōura is now open. The section runs alongside SH1 into South Bay and completes the Kaikōura Cycling Club’s 48km biking loop track.

This track runs all the way from Kaikōura township to the Hāpuku River, along the Kowhai River, and back to the town.

The section was completed as part of the North Canterbury Transport Infrastructure Recovery (NCTIR) Alliance improvements work following the Kaikōura earthquake in 2016.

Hapuku trail are intermediate grade, always ride within your ability.

Mt Fyffe and the Seaward Kaikoura Range watch over you for the entire trail, and you will get many glimpses of the ocean as you make your way around. The trail works equally well in either direction.

The Kaikoura Trail is continually improving, much of the work being done by the Kaikoura Cycling Club Trail Team.

Enjoy your tour of Kaikoura.

Below right: Kaikōura Mayor Craig Mackle and the NCTIR team cut the ribbon on the stretch of shared path.

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 276 - 2021

35

EVENT

36 Walking New Zealand, issue no 276 - 2021

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

EVENT

Back to the Future for ASB Christchurch’s Marathon events

I

n 2020 the ASB Christchurch Marathon will step back in order to move forward. For the first time since the earthquakes, participants will run on the traditional two lap course, and for the first time ever, the event moves to the earlier date of April 11th.

This is a continuation of the ASB Christchurch Marathon’s personal rebuild following the earthquakes. In 2011, the event was forced out of the central city event to the outskirts of Christchurch, first to Lincoln and then to Christchurch Airport.

In 2015 the organisers brought the event back into the central city, basing it at Cathedral Square. In 2017 ASB Bank came on board as the principal sponsor, and in 2019 the event returned to its traditional race base at the Christchurch Town Hall.

In 2020, of course, everything including the ASB Christchurch Marathon was interrupted by Covid-19.

“That was a big hit financially for the event,” says race director, Chris Cox, “But it also gave us some time to consider the future.”

Since returning to the central city, Cox and his crew had been working with local authorities to reclaim the traditional course. It took some time, but in 2019 the event returned to its Town Hall race base, and now in 2021 they finally return to the pre-earthquake race route.

“The course concept is very important,” says Cox. “Parts of it still run on the historic 1974 Commonwealth Games route, which was the inspiration for this event.

That route is widely accepted as the fastest in New Zealand, but it is also very scenic and takes in iconic Christchurch areas such as Hagley Park, the Avon River, Oxford Terrace and the Town Hall. So it has everything!”

The only thing the ASB Christchurch Marathon hasn’t had, in fact, is good weather. The past four years have all seen bitter wind and rain. But that too is about to change.

“The ASB Christchurch Marathon has always been Queen’s Birthday Weekend, but terrible weather in recent years has really impacted participation. The numbers just have not built back to those pre-earthquake levels, so we decided the event needed to be at a nicer time of the year. So 2021’s 40th anniversary will be on April 11th.”

“With the traditional course but a new date, it really is a case of back to the future,” laughs Cox. “Taking that further, we’re really pleased to have ASB returning for its fifth year as the naming sponsor, and to announce a new charity partner in Trees That Count.”

Trees That Count is a nationwide native tree planting initiative established by the Project Crimson Trust.

CEO Adele Fitzpatrick says “Our breath-taking forests are part of the New Zealand experience, highly val-

.

ued by Kiwis. From the Great Walks to our local reserves they provide us with places to exercise in, spend time with our families or simply to marvel at. We’re thrilled to be the charity partner for Christchurch Marathon and funds raised will enable us to extend our support to planting groups in the Canterbury region.”

Since it came on board as naming sponsor of the marathon, ASB has contributed each year to the local community through various initiatives. This includes its 2017 initiative ‘Run back the Tracks’ where the distance run by race entrants correlated to funding from ASB to help rebuild running tracks through the Port Hills, following fire damage earlier in the year.

ASB head of Community and Sponsorship Mark Graham says partnering with Trees that Count was a perfect fit.

“We’re incredibly proud to be the major partner of such an iconic Christchurch event, and to be able to give back to the community by working with Trees that Count to replant areas of Christchurch.

“Trees donated will be used to help restore the Avoca Valley in the Port Hills. The Valley is on the doorstep of Christchurch City and borders Rāpaki Track which has more than one million visitors a year,” says Graham.

Race day for the 2021 ASB Christchurch Marathon is Sunday 11th April. Entries are open now at www. christchurchmarathon.co.nz

Opposite page: Entrants in the last Christchurch Martaon at the start line. www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

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P O Box 1922, Palmerston North - Phone 0800-925-546 Fax 06-358-6864 or email walkingnz@xtra.co.nz. www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz Walking New Zealand, issue no 276 - 2021

37

New Zealand Walks

Mangatoi Walkers tackle the Coromandel walks

R

■

By Lyn Hooton

ecently some members of The Mangatoi Walkers spent several days based at Coromandel doing a different walk each day.

The first day we walked the famed coastal walkway about which much has been written.

Next day we climbed the Matamataharakeke Track which starts at Waikawau. It started as a gentle climb following a surprisingly clear stream after the recent rain.

We must have crossed the stream about a dozen times,Managtoi Walkers tackle the Coromandel walks but it was not an issue. The track then started to rise sharply and by the summit we were all breathing very heavily.

A fork in the track took us to a paddock with a cairn in it overlooking Waikawau Beach, our starting point, and further out to Great Barrier and Great Mercury Islands. Such a lovely view.

We descended down Ridge Track which was Above: Great views from the top of the Kaipawa Track.

Left: Time to stop for a breather on the Coastal Walkway..

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38 Walking New Zealand, issue no 276 - 2021

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New Zealand Walks

much shorter but very steep and had some gravelly steps to negotiate. It was very well maintained. We opted to use the flood emergency track at the bottom to exit this very enjoyable walk.

The next day we did the Kaipawa Trig from Kennedy Bay Road to Whangapoua Road. The track is only about 6 kms long but the terrain is extremely undulating from the Kennedy Bay end and did need great care after the heavy rain.

The views were stunning overlooking both Coromandel on one side and Waikawau on the other. We travelled through beautiful regenerating bush initially but after the trig the track was much dryer and exposed. It was a real delight when the trig came into sight and that is where we met two others of our team who had started from the Whangapoua end.

We did encounter a nasty huge windfall on our descent which required a team effort to circumnavigate. The day finished nicely with a swim at New Chums Beach before returning to base at Coromandel.

Above right: The group at the trig.

Middle left: Crossing a stream on the Matamataharakeke Track. .

Below right: The group on the Matamataharakeke Track. .

Matamataharakeke Track

The Matamataharakeke Track is part of the original Waikawau to Kennedy Bay route used by gold miners and loggers. It goes up the main ridge past a series of lookouts giving views over bush covered hills to coast and islands. Begin at the back of the Pump paddock at the Waikawau Campsite, crossing over a stile next to the Matamataharakeke Stream. Allow three hours for this 6.5km loop advanced tramping track. No dogs allowed.

Getting there Waikawau Bay is 42 km north of Coromandel town. The track starts opposite the Waikawau Bay Conservation Campsite Office at the top of the Pump paddock. www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Kaipawa Trig Track

The Kaipawa Trig Track is an advanced tramping track through regenerating forest that takes about one hour 30 minutes to the trig. The track in the Coromandel Town area connects Kennedy Bay Road and Whangapoua Road. It takes you through regenerating native bush to a trig situated halfway between the two roads. Discover spectacular views over Coromandel coastline and Hauraki Gulf.

Getting there: Access the track from Kennedy Bay Road summit (opposite Tokatea Lookout) up a steep track past a relay station, or from Whangapoua Road (SH25) via an old benched mining road and vehicle track. No dogs are allowed.

You can now view back issues of Walking New Zealand magazine, two issues back from the latest, FREE at : http://issuu.com/walkingnewzealand.

Walking New Zealand, issue no 276 - 2021

39

40 Walking New Zealand, issue no 276 - 2021

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

CONTENTS for previous 15 issues FEBRUARY 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 Festivall

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

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

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 ever y 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 walking experience 24 New Zealand Walk: “Views to die for” on Waipu Cove Walkway 27 New Zealand Walks: Seven day walks around Queenstown 30 Overseas Walk: Whitburn to South Shields in the north east of England 34 New Zealand Walk: Hahei Beach to Cathedral Cove full of history 38 New Zealand Walks: Track work making strides in Auckland regional parks 38 New Zealand Walks: Walk New Zealand before you walk the world 40 New Zealand Walk: Rotorao Island an unique island sanctuary 42 Subscription page 43 Index of previous 14 issues 44 Coming Events: New Zealand 48 New Zealand Walking Tours 48 New Zealand Country Breaks 51 Wilderness Guides 52 Event:Manawatu Walking Festival

OCTOBER 271 2020

2 Pak - A - Roo Walking Jacket 3 Contents 4 Walk Talk 6 New Zealand Walk: Ducks, Gnomes and Dinosaurs: Just a normal day in the Whirinaki Conservation Park 8 New Zealand Walk: Castle Hill: a walk through huge boulders 13 New Zealand Walk: Much loved Spraggs Bush Track reopens 14 New Zealand Walk: The Tinui ANZAC Walkway: a memorable walk 16 News: Te Araroa partners with NZ Walking Access Commission 18 Walking New Zealand Monthly Photo Contest 20 New Zealand Experience: Our Routeburn experience: Water, floods and everything else that could go wrong 24 Lockdown Activities: Nature is good for us 26 New Zealand Walk: An Architectural Walk 28 My Favourite Walk: Along the walkway at Macan- drew Bay 30 Cycling Tours: Trip through the tulips

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

SEPTEMBER 270 2020

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

AUGUST 269 2020

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

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

MAY-JULY 268 2020

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

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

13 Lockdown Activities: Walking and biking around Papamoa - Training up Mt Wash-ington.

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

APRIL 267 2020

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

FEBRUARY 265 2020

4 Walk Talk 6 New Zealand Walks: Top picks to explore this summer 9 Auckland Short Walk: St Johns Bush Walk a short nature walk 10 New Zealand Walk: Waikato River Walking Track 12 New Zealand Walk: Te Koutu Park - a delightful walk 14 New Zealand Walk: A taste of the Old Coach Road 16 New Zealand Walk: Pakihi Track reopened for the summer season 17 New Zealand Walk: Motukiore Island Walk for great views 18 Walking New Zealand Monthly Photo Contest 20 New Zealand Walk: Beach walk Pukerua Bay to Plimmerton 22 Need2Know: New digital maps help people explore outdoors 23 Overseas Walk: Feet dangling over the Lysefjord 28 New Zealand Walk: Ongaonga - a village steeped in history 30 New Zealand Walk: Banks Track - New Zealand’s first private walking track 37 New Zealand Walk: Lake Panorama, Henderson and Kiwi Esplanade Walkway 38 Need2Know: International Marching League encourages may walking bring us together 39 Event: Manawatu Walking Festival now in sixth year 41 Training: Exercise programme tips 42 Overseas Walks and Tours 44 Index of previous 14 issues 45 Coming Events: New Zealand 48 Coming Events: Overseas 52 Directory of Walking Groups 56 New Zealand Country Breaks 60 Manawatu Walking Festival

JANUARY 264 2020

3 Contents 4 Walk Talk 6 Te AraroaTrail: Family of seven takes on 3,000km trail 8 My Favourite Walk: Spoilt for choice in Wellington 12 New Zealand Walk: Tarawera - a legacy to up hold 16 Australian Walks: Five Hinterland hikes to take your breath away 18 Walking New Zealand Monthly Photo Contest 20 New Zealand Walks: Two clubs and two tracks 22 Overseas Walks: Walking with Fat Betty on the Coast to Coast 27 Overseas Walks: Dolomites - King of the alps 28 Overseas Walks: Walking paths on Niue Island 35 New Zealand Walk: Shine Falls Hawkes Bay’s highest waterfall 35 New Zealand Walk: Kamahi Loop Track to Falls and Heays Access Road 36 Overseas Walks: Walking through the Deserts and Canyonlands of the USA 39 New Zealand Walk: Te Henui extension a rustic and interesting stroll 42 Overseas Walks and Tours 44 Index of previous 14 issues 45 Coming Events: New Zealand 48 Coming Events: Overseas 50 Te Araroa walkers urged to take The Trail Pledge 52 Directory of Walking Groups 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 Te Araroa Trail for many reasons Photo Contest 20 Overseas Walks: Norfolk Island - a 8 NZ Shared Pathway: Pathway magical slice of paradise between Petone and Wellington 23 New Zealand Walk: Milford to now in planning stage Takapuna Walk 10 Overseas Walks: How to spend 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 opens in city’s coastal path stars near Napier 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 22 Overseas Walks: Carnavon National 48 Coming Events: Overseas 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 construc-

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

NOVEMBER 262 2019

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

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

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

OCTOBER 261 2019

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

Walking New Zealand, issue 275 - 20214141 Walking New Zealand, issue nono 276 - 2021

Coming Events

NEW ZEALAND 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

28

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

13 Tarawera Ultramarathon, Lakefront Reserve, Rotorua 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

20-21 MARCH 2021 20-21

2021

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

NEW ID115 PLUS Activity Tracker, Heart Monitor

Easy to use activity tracker, that’s at a great price with so many features Tracks steps, distance walked or ran, calories burnt, heart rate monitor, sleeping monitor, alarm clock, etc

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Walking New Zealand Shop

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

42 Walking New Zealand, issue no 276 - 2021

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Coming Events

The South Island’s premier marathon event.

Wgtn’s biggest multisport event

10k, 42k, 21k, un a’F Kids Mar

1 APRIL 1 Y A D N U S

elcome w s r e k l Wa

SUNDAY 28 MARCH Walkers welcome Enter at: www.poriruagrandtraverse.co.nz

Enter at: www.christchurchmarathon.co.nz

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You can now view and enjoy the latest issue of Walking New Zealand magazine online for only $2.50 at http://www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Walking New Zealand, issue no 276 - 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

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

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

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 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 Available from Rangitawa Publishing,

rangitawa@xtra.co.nz,

Kindle, Amazon books or order from any book store.

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.

Only

$89.00 plus $7.00 P&P

Available now from:

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

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Saturday 10KM WALK OR RUN

2o March 2021 OR 21KM

rating

Celeb

our th

25

Event

DRESS UP. LIVE MUSIC. WINE TASTING.

REGISTER NOW ROUNDTHEVINES.ORG.NZ 44 Walking New Zealand, issue no 276 - 2021

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Coming Events

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Walking New Zealand, issue no 276 - 2021

45

Coming Events

Wellington’s premier marathon event.

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)

SUNDAY 27 JUNE

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

www.triplepeaks.co.nz Find us on

@TriplePeaksHawkesBay

You can now view and enjoy the latest issue of

Walking New Zealand magazine online for USD.99c at

http://www.pressdisplay.com/pressdisplay/viewer.aspx

42k, 21k, 10k, Kids Magic Mile

Walkers welcome Enter at: www.wellingtonmarathon.co.nz

EXPLORE. DREAM. DISCOVER.

@trekforlifenz

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

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

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

STAGE TWO Rawene to Pouto

We are also looking for volunteers!

20th to 28th March 2021

Visit www.trekforlife.org.nz to register

WALK. BIKE. RIDE. VOLUNTEER

46 Walking New Zealand, issue no 276 - 2021

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Coming Events

10 Lap the Lake, South Lake Mavora, 11 Pay What You Want Tauranga Half Southland Marathon, Matua, Tauranga 10 Partners Life DUAL on Rangitoto 17 Mt Oxford Odyssey, Coopers Creek and Motutapu Islands, Auckland Carpark, Canterbury 10 Radix XTERRA Rotorua Festival , 25 Arrowtown Autumn Festival Fun Blue Lake, Rotorua Run, Arrowtown 11 Mizuno Auckland Waterfront Half MAY 2021 Marathon, Mission Bay, Auckland 1 Hanmer Four Square Half Mara11 ASB Christchurch Marathon, thon, Hanmer Springs, Canterbury Christchurch 1 Southern Lakes Half Marathon, Cardrona Valley, Wanaka 1 T42 Central Plateau Trail Run & THINK SAFETY MTB, Owhango, Central Plateau, THIS SUMMER North Island including including Only $449 P&P SPECIAL 8 57th Rotorua Marathon, Rotorua SPECIAL Only $479 P&P ACR ResQLink PLB 375 8 Saint Clair Vineyard Half Marathon, ACR- ResQLink PLB - 375 Includes Free gifts with purchase including FREE 167 pice 1st aid$449 kit, LED torch, Only P&P SPECIAL St Clair Vineyasrd, Marlborough HD Pouch and more!

ACR ResQLink PLB - 375 15 New Zealand Sotheby’s InternaIncludes Free giftsawith Have Safepurchase and Happy Summer tional Realty Hawke’s Bay MaraCOVER ALL YOUR BASES $15 - 1 day thon, Hawkes Bay $15 - 1 day Now available in 41 outlets $30 3 days $40 7 days Available for sale/hire 22 Whitianga Half Marathon, Whitian$30 3 $15 $40- -17day days Farm Safe and OSH are now pushing$30 for for every week after ga $40 7 COVER ALL YOUR BASES $30 3 days $30 for- every week after all farmers who work on their own to Now in 41inoutlets haveavailable one of these their safety kit COVER ALL YOUR BASES

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Walking New Zealand Shop

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

Walking New Zealand, issue no 276 - 2021

47

GREAT COUNTRY BREAKS

ROTORUA

NORTHLAND

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4 Tongariro, Day Waikaremoana, Hiking Coromandel Tours

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Walking New Zealand Shop

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

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

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

Great Barrier Island

HIKES THROUGHOUT NZ

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

HIKES THROUGHOUT NZ

www.walkinglegends.co.nz HIKES THROUGHOUT NZ

48 Walking New Zealand, issue no 276- no 2021276 - 2021 48 Walking New Zealand, issue

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 276 2021 49 Walking New Zealand, issue no -276 - 2021 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 276 -no 2021 50 Walking 50 Walking New Zealand, issue 276 - 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 276 - 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 276 - 2021

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz