283 OCTOBER 2021 by Walking New Zealand Ltd

RECREATION WALKING and CYCLING TRAILS New Zealand Walk:

Queen Charlotte Track:

NEW ZEALAND OCTOBER 2021 ISSUE NO 283

New Zealand Walk:

Pukeiti - a garden

It’s time to awaken your adventurous soul!

of national significance

New Zealand Walks

Papamoa’s two great recreational areas

Need2Know:

The faster you walk the better for long term health especially as you age

NZ $8.50 inc GST

New Zealand Walks:

Cobb Valley region - one of the most

interesting in the country for trampers and naturalists www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Walking New Zealand, issue no 283 - 2021

Banks Track Akaroa

bankstrack.co.nz

A multi day walk over the volcanic hills of Banks Peninsula. Cliff tops, secluded ocean bays, lush forest, tree ferns, waterfalls and birdsong. Penguins and NZ fur seals. Gaze into our magnificent night skies.

2 Walking New Zealand, issue no 283 - 2021

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

CONTENTS

Issue 283 - 2021

2 Banks Track 3 Contents 6 New Zealand Walks: Queen Charlotte Track - It’s time to awaken your adventurous soul 10 New Zealand Walk: Port Ligar a truly unique expe rience 14 New Zealand Walk: Nikau palms and sea stacks at Point Elizabeth 16 Walking Access Commission: Trust to develop and support walking and cycling trails 17 New Zealand Walks: Over 50 walks in this year’s Waiheke Walking Festival 20 Walking New Zealand Monthly Photo Contest 22 Event: Tois! Whakatane’s stunning trail challenge 24 Need2Know: The faster you walk, the better for long term health - especially as you age 26 New Zealand Walks: Cobb Vally region - one of the most interesting in the ceountry for trampers and naturalists 32 New Zealand Walks: Papamoa’s two great recreational areas 36 Subscription page 37 New Zealand Guided Walks: Guided trekking in Egmont National Park 38 New Zealand Walk: Pukeiti - a garden of national significance 42 Index of previous 14 issues 43 Coming Events: New Zealand 47 Coming Events: Australia 48 New Zealand Walking Tours 48 New Zealand Country Breaks 51 Pak A Roo Jackets 52 Goldfields Cavalcade

Cover Photo: Two happy hikers enjoying themselves on the Queen Charlotte Track.

WALKING New Zealand

Published Monthly

PUBLISHER/EDITOR: Frank Goldingham: Phone 06-358-6863, 027-274-0726 CONTRIBUTORS: Juliet Gibbons, Kelly Watson, Alex and Jenny Davies, Olivia Murray, Kim Fort, Emmanuel Stamatakis, Vicky Ross, Deborah Gedye, Barbz Lowther and Judy Eva 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; 12 issues $84.50 posted, 24 issues $159.00 posted, 6 issues $51.00 posted DIGITAL $29.00, 12 issues Australia: 12 issues: $122.00 Rest of World: $138.00 NEWSAGENT DISTRIBUTION: Ovato Ltd WALKING NEW ZEALAND LTD, P O Box 1922, Palmerston North Telephone 06-358-6863 - Fax 06-358-6864 E-Mail: walkingnz@xtra.co.nz

Website: www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

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

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

22 Walking New Zealand, issue no 283 - 2021

On your bike Wellington

Wellington’s annual cycle count results are in and the new separated cycleways are having a positive impact. More people are biking in the city and helping to reduce emissions. Latest figures show that on average 2,462 people a day biked into the city from key directions during that time. The 12,309 people recorded over the five mornings was the highest ever weekday total, and 17% on the previous highest five-day total. Weekly totals from several key intersections are up and, in some cases, are the highest to date. Some of the biggest gains are from the east, where new bike and walking paths are progressively being developed. The most significant jump was recorded at the intersection of Cobham Drive, Evans Bay Parade and Wellington Road: This year 648 people biked past this point between 7am–9am on a Tuesday compared with 423 last year. This highest daily total was 53% on last year and 67% higher than 2019. The 2,439 weekday total over the two-hour commute period was the highest ever, 44% up on the previous highest total of 1,693 recorded in 2017.

Your favourite walk could win you a free subscription We are looking for readers’ favourite New Zealand walks. Many of us go out regularly walking on a route which we class as our favourite, for a number of reasons. Perhaps because for it’s scenery, it’s safe, it’s challenging, it’s flat, it’s hilly, it’s varied, or for whatever reason. We would like you to tell us in your own words what is you favourite walk and why. Email us a story from say 250 up to 1200 words including a photo or photos. We will now give you a FREE subscription (six months or more, depending on the article), or extension to Walking New Zealand magazine for walks published. You can also post an article to Walking New Zealand, Freepost 78863, P O Box 1922, Palmerston North, or fax 06-358-6864. If sending a photo by email please make sure photos are in high resolution.

Our email address is: walkingnz@xtra.co.nz. Please put “My Favourite Walk” in the subject line and include your name and postal address.

4 Walking New Zealand, issue no 283 - 2021

Getting active during lockdown

People are getting the bikes out again or putting back on their walking shoes to keep active during this latest lockdown. Since the last lockdown, a number of shared paths and cycleways have opened across the country that will be helping many people get their daily exercise. Some that opened just before lockdown include: The Beltway cycleway in Lower Hutt a 6.5km cycleway that runs from Waterloo railway station to the River Trail at Taita. (See photo above). The Northcote safe cycle route in Takapuna – the Minister for Transport, Michael Wood, recently opened the final link of this cycling and walking route, which includes two bridges over Auckland’s Northern Motorway. These paths have been designed to have plenty of space for everyone using them, allowing you to keep socially distanced from people who are not in your bubble.

New Directory General of Conservation

Penny Nelson has been named as the new DirectorGeneral of Conservation, starting on November 1. Nelson will take over in November and will be the first woman to head the conservation agency. She takes over from current director-general Lou Sanson, who is set to finish on September 13. She has been appointed for five years. Nelson is currently deputy director-general of Biosecurity New Zealand at the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI), a role she has held since 2019. She comes with a wealth of experience behind her.Before her position at MPI, Nelson was deputy director-general of policy and trade at MPI, and deputy secretary of environmental performance, innovation and climate at the Ministry for the Environment. www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Walk talk

New wildlife tour in Exmouth

Echidna Walkabout, in partnership with Exmouth Dive & Whalesharks, are set to launch a new conservation tour in Exmouth on WA’s Coral Coast in March 2022. Guests will have a hands-on experience on-board the eight-day Island Birds and Whale Sharks tour, as they assist with wildlife surveys across a rarely visited island chain at Ningaloo Reef, swim with whale sharks, count endangered rock-wallabies and cruise Exmouth Gulf searching for dugongs. The work will assist with helping whale shark numbers to thrive. For more information and to book, visit Echidna Walkabout’s website.

Walking and cycling trial on bridge?

NZTA’s proposal for a stand-alone walking and cycling bridge has been rejected by the Government as too expensive. NZTA’s previous solution failed its wind tunnel testing. They have run out of ‘superior’ alternatives to SkyPath. NZTA is considering trialling two lanes of the Harbour Bridge for walking and cycling - but only on summer Sundays and having rejected taking a lane permanently, NZTA has no long-term solution for everyday walking and cycling across the Waitemata.

Small projects making a big difference

Small projects can make big differences for people, and one project that has done just that involved improving the way finding signage in many of our towns and cities. When people start cycling, one thing they struggle with is finding the safest route to get around. Many people think that the most obvious route is the one to take, but when it comes to cycling the most obvious roads tend to be the worst and many of our best cycle paths are hidden away and hard to find. The lack of way finding has made it harder for people to bike and to do so safely. Councils are now starting to fill these gaps, with 21 of them installing 324 signs or pavement markings, making it easier and safer for people to bike.

Brooklyn Road cycleway now permanent

The Brooklyn Road cycleway, piloted as part of Innovating Streets for People programme, will soon become a permanent addition to Wellington’s growing cycleway network, after councillors unanimously voted to make it permanent. Since it opened, more people have started cycling from Wellington CBD to Brooklyn, while the number of cars travelling on the road has decreased by 6%. 51% of people asked about the cycleway thought it made Brooklyn Road safer for all users, while 59% rated their experience of the cycleway very positive or positive. www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Walking New Zealand, issue no 283 - 2021

Queen Charlotte Track

It’s time to awaken your adventurous soul Words by Juliet Gibbons

he world has changed and the word lockdown is a new part of our vocabulary. But in these COVID times there is plenty to be thankful for as New Zealanders have continued, for the most part, to live with a normality not enjoyed in very many other places in the world. As we are forced to look closer to home for our holidays, Wilderness Guides in Picton have welcomed more Kiwis than ever through the doors of their waterfront office in the seaside port of Picton, dubbed ‘Heart of the Sounds’. “We really owe New Zealanders our thanks,” says co-owner Juliet Gibbons. She and her husband Steve say when COVID hit, they really did not know what the future would

6 Walking New Zealand, issue no 283 - 2021

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Queen Charlotte Track

hold. “We decided that endings are always followed by a beginning and so we set about creating a new reality for our kayak, hike and bike business here in Picton.” “There has never been a better time for us all to appreciate what we have on our doorstep. The Marlborough Sounds has always been a popular place for New Zealanders to visit but we have been overwhelmed by the support we’ve had from people keen to visit, particularly to walk the Queen Charlotte Track,” says Juliet. Walking is not all that is on offer here though. With 1500km of coastline to explore, stretching from just north of Kaikoura to the tip of d’Urville Island, the Marlborough Sounds is a truly remarkable sea kayaking destination. There is wilderness in abundance if you want to escape the crowds and Wilderness Guides can design a trip with this in mind with both rentals and guided trips available. www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Walking New Zealand, issue no 283 - 2021

Queen Charlotte Track

It’s time to awaken your adventurous soul

“We also provide mountain bikes for hire around the popular trails of Picton – Picton has come of age. It really is a fantastic place to stay and play.” Whichever option you choose, a great adventure is waiting for you! “This is a unique opportunity that we all have as New Zealanders to reconnect with nature – and to reshape our visitor industry with protection and enhancement of our unique environment at its core,” says Juliet. Wilderness Guides has been part of the tourism landscape in the Marlborough Sounds for 22 years this coming October. The business has weathered droughts, fire risk, Covid and more recently damage

8 Walking New Zealand, issue no 283 - 2021

to the Queen Charlotte Track in a major weather event which struck the region in July. Lockdowns have continued to provide a challenge as well. “You could say we have seen it all but the beauty of the Marlborough Sounds and what it offers for people keen to walk, kayak and bike is timeless, so we don’t plan to be going anywhere, anytime soon,” she says. Wilderness Guides invites you to explore the Marlborough Sounds and Queen Charlotte Track with them – and reckon it is time to awake your adventurous soul within. “We’re excited to show you around our backyard as soon as you are able to visit,” says Juliet. www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Walking New Zealand, issue no 283 - 2021

New Zealand Walk

Por t Ligar -

a truly unique kiwi experience

10 Walking New Zealand, issue no 283 - 2021

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

New Zealand Walk

Left: Walking over private farm land with views of French Pass and D’Urville Island. www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Walking New Zealand, issue no 283 - 2021

New Zealand Walk

Port Ligar – a truly unique kiwi experience By Kelly Watson

They say you shouldn’t leave town till you’ve seen the country, and we are blessed here in New Zealand to have some of the world’s most popular tourist locations.

If however, you are looking for something a little more personal and off the beaten track, then the Port Ligar Tour in the Pelorus Sounds is the perfect trip excursion for you. Someone who has taken part on the tour first hand is Tony Fortune, and here he shares his experience…

What made you choose the Port Ligar Tour?

I have travelled to some incredible places all around the world; from trekking the alpine regions of Europe, exploring the trails of Patagonia, and even visiting Antarctica but I had never been to this part of New Zealand. My neighbour came from D’Urville Island and always spoke about it fondly, so I decided now was the time. I called a couple of friends and they were both interested, so all three of us booked and went in May just been.

How did you find the tour?

I loved it. It was the perfect length of time and a reasonable price. The

Lef t: Tony Fortune. R i g h t : Catching blue cod for dinner.

Bottom left: Battling the elements is part of the fun. Below right: From here you can see Mt Taranaki on a clear day. accommodation was really comfortable with delicious meals and roaring fire. The others on the tour were all like minded people, including the guides, who were interested in nature and being active so it was as if we all had known each other for a long time. The weather wasn’t always perfect, but the team just adapted our days and were able to be very flexible, which made the experience seamless.

Tell us about your highlights…

I love that this wasn’t just a typical “hop on hop off” kind of tour. You had to get involved and active. My real highlight though were the visits we had with the local families and communities. There is something genuinely kiwi in the way we were welcomed into their homes for a cup of tea and homemade treat, as they shared the history of their generations, stories

12 Walking New Zealand, issue no 283 - 2021

of the land, and hopes for the future. It highlighted how small our country is, as they knew people I did and vice versa. It felt authentic, not just “for the tourists”. I also have to make a special mention of the blue cod we caught one day and then devoured for dinner. It was simply delicious – you can’t get a more fresh to the plate catch than that!

And finally, would you do it again?

We all loved our time on the Port Ligar Tour and in general the experience with Driftwood Eco Tours on the whole… so much so that we are chatting about some future expeditions we may be able to do through the Kaikoura Mountains! I would definitely recommend this particular experience for people who are keen to be active, confident trampers and nature lovers alike.

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

New Zealand Walk

Above: Port Ligar farm walk with views into the inner Marlborough Sounds. Below: Viewing the wildlife of the outer Marlborough Sounds from the deck. Below bottom: View over Admiral Bay from D’Urville Island.

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Walking New Zealand, issue no 283 - 2021

My Favourite Walk

Nikau palms

By Alex and Jenny Davies

alkers can see nikau palms on many tracks, not only in the North Island. The southern end of the Heaphy Track is famous for its palms on the edge of the ocean, but nikau extend south as far as Banks Peninsula, and Rekoku Chatham Island boasts the southernmost palms in the world. But when we set out from the end of the road at Cobham’s North Beach, not far from Greymouth, we were still surprised to be plunging into a luxuriant palm forest that swept down a steep slope to reach a wave-tossed pebbly beach. The air was full of the sound of breaking waves and the roar of stones pushed up and rolling back with the surge of the Tasman Sea. Our track followed, for much of the way, an old water race, a relic of 19th century gold sluicing. More or less level, it passed through some deep cuttings, then through more groves of nikau. It was a one hour walk to the headland at Point Elizabeth where, from above limestone cliffs, the view Above left: Nikau palms and sea stacks at Point Elizabeth. Below left: From Point Elizabeth, looking north to the Motukiekie Rocks..

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www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

My Favourite Walk

and sea stacks at Point Elizabeth

to the south followed the distant coast to the snow capped peaks of Aoraki and the Southern Alps, clear and beautiful. Below us jagged sea stacks were washed by heaving ocean waves. To the north. the rocky coastline and the edge of the Paparoa Range became lost in sea spray. Behind us another sea of harakeke, nikau and forest trees clothed the northern end of the Rapahoe Range.. The track continues round to the beach at Rapahoe but a sign announced that this was currently blocked by a large slip. It would make an excellent return trip on another day, but now it was back to the car and chances for more short walks further north along the coast while the good weather lasted. A good walk always inspires another!

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Above right: Snow along the Southern Alps, from the Point Elizabeth lookout. Below left: Heading back along the track through nikau forest.

Walking New Zealand, issue no 283 - 2021

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Trust to develop and support walking and cycling trails

By Olivia Murray

upporting Māori culture and heritage through public access: Taranaki trails connect people to the mounga The Taranaki Trails Trust, Ara Hononga o Taranaki officially launched in November 2020 with support from the NZ Walking Access Commission. The trust’s role is to develop and support cycling and walking trails that create deep connections to the mana of the Taranaki mounga, and its region and people. The trust was formed following the Taranaki Tracks and Trails Strategy which the commission helped develop with Sport Taranaki in 2019. The strategy identified a lack of a body to manage the strategy strategically and logistically. The values of Ngāruahine, Ngāti Maniapoto, Ngāti Maru, Ngāti Mutunga, Ngaa Rauru Kiitahi, Ngāti Ruanui, Ngāti Tama, Te Atiawa and Taranaki Iwi underpin that strategy. Taranaki mounga has become a legal personality, with joint responsibility shared between local tangata whenua and the government. The process of managing the trails

16 Walking New Zealand, issue no 283 - 2021

strategy includes consulting with the eight local iwi and rangatira. Together they agree on how the trail can be a space for not only exercise and wellbeing but also a journey where people can learn and understand more about the local Māori history behind the whenua. The strategy includes a project to encourage all local high school students to complete a journey around the mounga where they visit marae and learn about manawhenua, kaitiakitanga, biodiversity, history and discovery. A few miles south, the Ōpunake Loop Trail is a significant hīkoi with a new extension. Our regional field advisor supported the development of the track extension which opened this year. Taranaki Iwi wish to tell its stories along the trail to support Māori culture and heritage. We are looking at ways we can help advance this project. We have helped fund signs that highlight significant places to local hapū, such as Te Namu Pā where Wiremu Kingi Matakatea repelled 800 Waikato Māori successfully for an entire month, armed only with a single rifle.

Ouch! Sore feet while walking? Hikers Wool is 100% New Zealand wool. Cushion your feet to prevent pain, rubbing and blisters. Buy online or at selected stockists For more info visit www.hikerswool.co.nz www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

New Zealand Walks

Over 50 walks in this year ’s Waiheke Walking Festival

ockdowns may have turned our world upside down, but walking has found a new place in people’s hearts. A time for fresh air and getting out and about in our communities, but also smiles from faces that get more familiar each walk, and a wave and ‘hello’ to neighbours from a safe distance. There’s no doubting how much better we all feel when we return to our bubble after a walk. Those who live on Waiheke Island have long known they live in paradise, and one of the silver linings of closed borders has been more Kiwis coming to the island instead of their traditional winter break in the Pacific. And why wouldn’t you? A tropical island with its own micro-climate a short ferry ride from downtown Auckland. Waiheke is famous for award-winning wine and restaurants, beautiful beaches and views that simply take your breath away. In addition to this, it is fast becoming well-known for the huge network of tracks that hug the coast beneath giant pōhutukawa trees, or zig zag www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

their way through the Whakanewha ing a Māori pā site. On the beach, you can spot dotRegional Park to the chorus of tūī, terels (tūturiwhatu) in a protected kereru and pīwakawaka. area. And of course, walks can be With a rich history of Māori on Waiheke, with Europeans also settling and farming on the Island Above: On The Man’O War walk - some of which is explored in the in 2019. Festival’s story telling walks, includ- Below right: On the Awawaroa Coastal Walk.

Walking New Zealand, issue no 283 - 2021

New Zealand Walks

Over 50 walks in this year ’s Waiheke Walking Festival

18 Walking New Zealand, issue no 283 - 2021

tactfully planned to end at one of those award-winning vineyards. Now in its twelfth year, this looks set to be the best 17 days of walking events yet! Established in 2010 by an enthusiastic group of locals, the idea of the Waiheke Walking Festival, is to offer participants the chance to spend time on Waiheke Island and walk in areas not normally open to the public. Lovingly labelled the ‘world’s friendliest walking festival’, it’s about friendship, fun and getting out amongst nature, with low impact to the island’s environment. It’s important to understand locals put on this event for the love of it. The Waiheke Walking Trust is a charitable trust that exists to showcase Waiheke Island as a walking destination, and to encourage and inspire people to experience walking recreation on Waiheke and neighbouring islands. This year the Waiheke Walking Festival will take place from 5th – 21st November 2021. The 50 plus walks vary to ensure all abilities and interests are catered for. The walks cover everything from progressive food walks, photography, music, conservation, fitness, with many opportunities to walk on private land. The almost three-week schedule of walks is full of family-friendly events and caters to everyone and anyone, there’s even a silent disco! With COVID-19 now a reality in our world, planning for the 2021 Festival includes smaller numbers of walkers on each walk, and other measures to ensure government alert level protocols are followed. Obviously, Auckland will need to be at a COVID-19 level that allows the Festival to go ahead, but the organisers are planning as if it is going ahead at this point. To counter the smaller numbers of walkers per walk, the Festival is Above left: A view on one of the coastal walks. Middle left: Walking up steps in the Whankanewha Regional Park. Below left: Walking over a farm with great sea views. www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

New Zealand Walks

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

prior to opening to the public on 1 October. The 100 spots for Friends of the Festival often sell out so if you are keen, get in quick! If for some reason you can’t make the Festival but are visiting Waiheke, many great walks that are available all year round can be found at www.walkwaiheke.co.nz So, grab a group of friends, put the dates aside and use the Festival as a good excuse to become healthier and fitter, whilst having fun. Key information 5 – 21 November 2021 For more information, programme details and to book walks visit www. waihekewalkingfestival.org and outside of the Waiheke Walking Festival www.walkwaiheke.co.nz

longer in duration and some of the more popular walks are repeated more than once to minimise where possible people missing out. For those after a challenge, why not consider the five-day 100km Te Ara Hura adventure that circumnavigates the Island. All shuttle transfers are sorted and there is no need to carry more than a day pack. This is an extremely popular walk and often books out. They have a motto on Waiheke, “Slow down, you’re here” and that is what the Waiheke Walking Festival does best. Start planning your November walking adventure now by firstly considering becoming a ‘Friend of the Festival’ for $100. In return a Friend can book more walks (10 instead of six) and book two weeks

Above right:One of the walks that goes across private land. Photo by Bruce

Plested.

Walking New Zealand, issue no 283 - 2021

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

PHOTO CONTEST The image could be a scenic scene, a walk on the beach with the dog, a bush walk, a street walk or anything walking that takes your fancy. The rules are simply: there must be a person or persons walking in the picture either front, side or back on, and can be in the distance. We require an emailed image in high resolution mode, in jpeg format as an attachment, and NOT embedded in Word or in the email, and NOT a link to a website to be downloaded. The subject line must have the words “Walking New Zealand Photo Contest” and the email must include the NAME, POSTAL ADDRESS and phone number of the person who took the photo and a small caption. In this contest ONLY ONE emailed photo accepted per month. Entry in the contest automatically allows us to print the image. The person who has their photo published will receive a six month subscription or a renewal to Walking New Zealand magazine of six months. If a picture is chosen for the cover page the person will receive a 12 month subscription or renewal.

Above: Monty overlooking Lake Henry in the Ivan Wilson Park Te Anau. This is a beautiful park and has great walking tracks within the park with lovely views of both Lakes. Photo by Heather Westrupp, Richmond, Invercargill Below: Climbing up a steep section on the Routeburn Track, during the Summer of 2021. Photo by Cathy Gulliver, Taupo.

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.

20 NewZealand, Zealand, issue no 282 20 Walking Walking New issue no 283 - 2021

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Photo Contest

Above left: Walking along the Pororari River on the Paparoa Trail near Punakaiki. Photo by Robyn Selbie, M a c a n d r e w B a y, Dunedin.

PHOTO CONTEST

Above right: Kaweka forest park P h o t o by Julie Ganivet, Havelock North Below right: Walking the co a s ta l b e a c h track between Pukerua Bay and Plimmerton on the Kapiti Coast NZ. Photo taken by E d w i n P e r r y, Paraparaumu.

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Walking Walking New New Zealand, Zealand, issue issue no no 282 283 -- 2021 2021

21 21

Event

Toi’s! Whakatane’s stunning trail challenginge

By Kim Fort

or twenty-nine years, Toi’s Challenge has been a highlight of the eastern Bay of Plenty trail running calendar, featuring a spectacular mix of coastal and forest trails between Whakatāne and Ōhope. Last year, around 900 runners and walkers lined up — across the Julian’s

Berry Farm 18km Toi’s Challenge, the 1XX 18km Toi’s walk, and the Robinson’s Law 6km fun run and walk. The popular day showcases the trails of Ngā Tapuwae o Toi, the Footsteps of Toi, named after the Māori chief who ruled the area around 800 years ago. It’s a genuine multi-terrain challenge, with the 18km route including short sections of sealed path, sand, many steps, and lots of forest trail. From Whakatāne, the course twists up and down steep coastal hills and along two beautiful beaches before looping back to the start, with a total of about 800m elevation gain/descent. Aching legs are eased by stunning views of the sparkling Pacific Ocean and distant islands (take a moment to look up, it’s a truly beautiful course!) Especially from the midway point at Ōhope, you’re running or walking through one of the country’s best examples of coastal pohutukawa forest.

Above: Walking along one of the two beautiful Beaches. Below left: Entrants in the forest trail section of Toi’s Challenge.

22 Walking New Zealand, issue no 283 - 2021

The 18km Toi’s Challenge can be taken on solo, or as a team of two. The open men’s and women’s solo running records are almost ridiculously fast, just over one hour 16 minutes (Aaron Strong, 1996) and just under one hour 28 minutes (Megan Burton, 2000) Last year’s open men’s winner, Hayden Wilde, finished only 12 seconds shy of the men’s record — going by his Tokyo Olympic triathlon performance, next time Wilde lines up for Toi’s, he could well have the record in the bag. The trails are what matter most, though, and the majority of entrants take over two hours. Some are still out there after more than four hours. All of them are celebrated. Aside from the course itself, the day is wellknown for its friendly, generous vibe. “Toi’s is community-run, organised by the Whakatane Athletic and Harrier Club. It is very well supported by local business who get behind with prizes,” says William Doney, who has been event director for 10 years. “It is one of those events that gives back to all competitors. It’s the only event we know of where all finishers get juicy strawberries!” www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Event

Toi’s gives back in other ways too. For eight years, a portion of each entry fee has supported the Whakatane Kiwi Trust, which helps to nurture and protect wild kiwi in the hills the trails pass through. As the Toi’s Challenge web site states, “We are proud of the fact that Whakatane is known as the Kiwi Capital of the World”. If you’re not up for 18km, the Robinson Law 6km walk and run options offer an achievable goal for those with moderate levels of fitness. This

shorter course is also hilly, with a legburning section of steps on the bush track known as ‘The Birdwalk’, before a fast return to the start on roadside footpath. Event day in 2021 is 14 November. If there’s a good turnout, Toi’s could be marking a new milestone. “Across the events, my goal is to get at least 1000 people to take part,” says Doney. Event date: Sunday 14 November 2021, start 8am Event start/event headquarters: Rex Morpeth Park, Whakatāne.

Enter online: https://www.wahc. co.nz/tois-challenge.html before 9pm, 11 November. Registration: Saturday 13 November, 4pm-6pm; and, Sunday 14 November, 6.30am-7.30am at clubrooms next to start/finish. Late entries: taken at registration.

Abovee left: Stunning views of the Pacific Ocean from the trail. Above right: The challenge is for all ages.

8AM SUNDAY, 14 NOVEMBER Stunning bush, beach and clifftop trail around Whakatāne and Ōhope.

ENTER ONLINE www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

www.wahc.co.nz/tois-challenge Whakatāne Athletic and Harrier Club

whakatane.com

Walking New Zealand, issue no 283 - 2021

Need 2 Know

The faster you walk, the better for long term health – especially as you age By Emmanuel Stamatakis

ome of us like to stroll along and smell the roses, while others march to their destination as quickly as their feet will carry them. A new study out today has found those who report faster walking have lower risk of premature death. We studied just over 50,000 walkers over 30 years of age who lived in Britain between 1994 and 2008. We collected data on these walkers, including how quickly they think they Available from Rangitawa Publishing,

rangitawa@xtra.co.nz,

Kindle, Amazon books or order from any book store.

walk, and we then looked at their health outcomes (after controlling to make sure the results weren’t due to poor health or other habits such as smoking and exercise). We found any pace above slow reduced the risk of dying from cardiovascular disease, such as heart disease or stroke. Compared to slow walkers, average pace walkers had a 20% lower risk of early death from any cause, and a 24% lower risk of death from heart disease or stroke. Read more: Is walking enough exercise? We asked five experts Those who reported walking at a brisk or fast pace had a 24% lower risk of early death from any cause and a 21% lower risk of death from cardiovascular causes. We also found the beneficial effects of fast walking were more pronounced in older age groups. For

24 Walking New Zealand, issue no 283 - 2021

example, average pace walkers aged 60 years or over experienced a 46% reduction in risk of death from cardiovascular causes, and fast walkers experienced a 53% reduction. Compared to slow walkers, brisk or fast walkers aged 45-59 had 36% lower risk of early death from any cause. In these older age groups (but not in the whole sample or the younger age groups), we also found there was a linearly higher reduction in the risk of early death the higher the pace. What it all means Our results suggest walking at an average, brisk or fast pace may be beneficial for long term health and longevity compared to slow walking, particularly for older people. But we also need to be mindful our study was observational, and we did not have full control of all likely influences to be able to establish it www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Need 2 Know

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was the walking alone causing the beneficial health effects. For example, it could be that the least healthy people reported slow walking pace as a result of their poor health, and also ended up dying earlier for the same reason. Fast walking for some might not seem it for others. from www.shutterstock.com To minimise the chances of this reverse causality, we excluded all those who had heart disease, had experienced a stroke, or had cancer when the study started, as well as those who died in the first two years of follow up. Read more: New study shows more time walking means less time in hospital Another important point is that participants in our study self-reported their usual pace, which means the responses were about perceived pace. There are no established standards for what “slow”, “average” or “brisk” walking means in terms of speed. What is perceived as “fast” walking pace by a very sedentary and physically unfit 70-year-old will be very different from a sporty and

fit 45-year-old. For this reason, our results could be interpreted as reflecting relative (to one’s physical capacity) intensity of walking. That is, the higher the physical exertion while walking, the better health results. For the general relatively healthy middle-aged population, a walking speed between 6 and 7.5 km/h will be fast and if sustained, will make most people slightly out of breath. A walking pace of 100 steps per minute is considered roughly equivalent to moderate intensity physical activity. We know walking is an excellent activity for health, accessible by most people of all ages. Our findings suggest it’s a good idea to step up to a pace that will challenge our physiology and may even make walking more of a workout. Long term-health benefits aside, a faster pace will get us to our destination faster and free up time for all those other things that can make our daily routines special, such as spending time with loved ones or reading a good book. This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.

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Walking New Zealand, issue no 283 - 2021

New Zealand Walks

Cobb Valley region

or me the Cobb Valley was familiar in name only through the experiences of others. I really had little idea of where or what it was all about. So with five other tramping friends what else to do but discover it for ourselves. And what a special

memorable time it was. Four days of walking up, down, across and over this beautiful area in the Kahurangi National Park. The perfect weather was a grateful bonus. From Nelson airport Kahurangi Guided Walks drove us over the Takaka Hill to our accommodation alongside the Cobb River reservoir. With our

Words by Vicky Ross Photos by Deborah Gedye

26 Walking New Zealand, issue no 283 - 2021

one of the most

two guides we shared two historic houses, historic in that they replicated houses that so many of us lived in and successfully survived with only three bedrooms, one bathroom and a dinette. What? No ensuites, office or butler’s pantry? They had originally been the dam worker’s accommodation. From a sunny northerly aspect they overlooked the reservoir and dam. www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

New Zealand Walks

interesting in the country for trampers and naturalists This dam was part of the project to harness the Takaka River for hydroelectric power and in 1940 the government put in a road to the Cobb Valley. A 2.6 km tunnel from the valley was drilled through the range to meet the penstocks 596m above the power station, the highest of any power station in New Zealand. When full the reservoir is 807 m above sea level. To choose a favourite walk during our stay would be a difficult task, as www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Above:Walking up through tussock country with Lake Sylvester in the background.

New Zealand Walks

Cobb Valley region

- one of the most interesting in the country for trampers

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they all had special highlights and interesting features. From the broad meadowland in the river valley; through the softtread beech forest carpeted with ferns, lichens and mosses; up into the lighter canopied more open bush; the contrasting wide alpine landscape above the tree line with golden tussock, astelias and stoic mountain flowers amongst the rocks, all giving sensual scenic pleasure. The Alpine Meadows are the country’s richest. The rewards of steady climbs were expansive views of the distant Peel, Lockett and Arthur ranges. These www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

combined with the valleys below, Sylvester, Iron and Peel gave unforgettable hues and layers of blues under perfect skies. For freedom multi day trampers a variety of huts can be booked through DOC. These range from basic three bunks to serviced 14 bunks. We visited Sylvester, Myttons, Chaffey and of course Alabaster Cottage built in 1897. The Chaffey hut was built in 1852 by ranger and biologist Jack McBurAbove: In the beautiful Cobb Valley. Below right: Up in tussock country. Walking New Zealand, issue no 283 - 2021

New Zealand Walks

Cobb Valley region - one of the most interesting in the

country for trampers

ney. Restoration by the deerstalkers association assured authentic horizontal slab construction in 2010. Myttons hut is named after an early grazier in the river valley. The whole area is steeped in history. History of early gold prospectors, musterers, graziers, packhorse packers, hydro schemes and the asbestos mining project. Closely associated with all these was the legendary Henry Chaffey and his (eventual) wife Annie. Their forty year occupancy of Asbestos Cottage is a story of folklore propor.Above: Big skies, big country. Below left: Time for lunch. Below right: Which way should we go?

30 Walking New Zealand, issue no 283 - 2021

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

New Zealand Walks

tions. To fully understand and appreciate this unique couple I recommend the books of Gerard Hindmarsh about Kahurangi and also the earlier publication “Exiles of Asbestos Cottage” by Jim Henderson.. Birdlife was abundant especially in the valley forest. The chorus of bellbirds was music and delight to our ears and videos. Why can’t all our forests offer such treasure? Riflemen flitting and hopping up tree trunks, little bold robins tempting our cameras and even the opportunistic wekas providing

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

lunchtime entertainment. Oh for those far distant predator-free days! Our four days in unspoilt wilderness quickly dissipated once we were back on the road returning to Nelson. Thank goodness for memories and photos. However the transition was softened at the Motueka Pub watching the America’s Cup become the New Zealand Cup! Even the non Aucklanders celebrated. A fitting end to a successful and favourite walking holiday. .Above: The famous Chaffey Hut Below left: A stop at Iron Lake. Below right: Colour at Peel Lake.

Walking New Zealand, issue no 283 - 2021

My Favourite Walk

By Barbz Lowther

Papamoa’s two great recreational areas

t Papamoa (Bay of Plenty) we are so lucky to have two wonderful recreation areas in our backyard, Papamoa Hills and Summerhill Farm. Papamoa Regional Park 20 minutes from Tauranga, opened in 2004 as the first regional park outside Auckland or Wellington. It covers an area of 135 ha and has many ar-

chaeological sites, ditches, middens, Above: The views near Camp David. terracing and several Pa sites. Below left: One of the many bridges It can be accessed from a carpark in the forest area. in Poplar Lane, off Te Puke Highway. Below right: Kate enjoying the From here the track rises unrelent- scenery with the trig in the distance. ingly steeply to the trig at 224m. After an area of new planting, you and further out to Mayor, Motiti, walk mainly over open farmland Taumaihi, Whale and White Islands. The walk can be completed as a with spectacular coastal views over loop showing the different pa sites, Mt Maunganui, Papamoa, Te Puke,

32 Walking New Zealand, issue no 283 - 2021

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My Favourite Walk

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a totally amazing gift! Meeting at Poplar Lane, a group of us spent four hours wandering around both areas. It took about 45 minutes to reach the trig via the main track. There we had a good view out to sea where six boats were sitting waiting to unload at the port. After exploring the pa site we scurried down the other side because the

Above: Walking over farmland. Bott om r ight: Walking past a lone sheep with Mt Maunganui in the background. Below right: Climbing over a fence.

and is well marked. To make the treads less slippery on stiles, nails have been hammered into them in interesting patterns. While Papamoa Hills is well known and used regularly by locals, not so many are aware of the myriad of walking and mountain biking trails at Summerhill, just over the fence. Summerhill, a working farm can be accessed either from Reid Road, or over a stile just below the trig on Papamoa Hills. David and Chloie Blackley first purchased 100 ha in 1959, and subsequently added two adjoining farms to make a total of 400ha. Half is in forest, native bush and a variety of introduced species such as gums, poplar, cyprus, ash and Tasmanian blackwood. The other half is farmed mostly in sheep and some cattle. In 2004 Summerhill Recreation Farm was established, and in 2014, 126ha was gifted to a trust for the purpose of recreation and education. All donations and proceeds from the farm, are used to develop and maintain this land for all to enjoy. What

Walking New Zealand, issue no 283 - 2021

My Favourite Walk

Papamoa’s two great recreational areas

wind was icy. Climbing over the stile into Summerhill, we hugged the fence to the left, then climbed another stile in the corner of the paddock to reach the forest walk. A marked track led through native bush with some lovely punga and giant puriri, intersected at intervals, by colour coded bike trails. We stopped to look at a Mongolian Ger, which can be rented out for the night, headed down a trail to the pump house and onto the ‘Monorail’ Trail. After a break in the sun under a stand of tall white gums, we took a zig zag route to a gate leading to open pasture near a mountain bike ‘Challenge’ area, an area of hills and jumps for extreme bikers. Poled markers led us along the farm past lots of lambs, down through a gully with ponds and wetlands, then a steep climb up to Reid Road. Across the road we climbed yet another stile to the Ridgeline Track, a road section with magnificent views of the whole area and out to sea. We had a lunch stop in a sunny spot with several cut logs lying around providing perfect seating. Branching off, we followed a trail downhill towards ‘Camp David’ and Above: Nearly at the top of the Papamoa Hills. Below left: Hikoi Trampers with Mt Maunganui in the distance.

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34 Walking New Zealand, issue no 283 - 2021

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My Favourite Walk

cut through a stand of Tasmanian blackwoods. From here the track dropped into Creek Trail leading to Slippery Creek bridged, but well named. It was then gradually up hill on the blue track, all the way to Reid Road car park and another Ger. It is best to walk these trails mid week when few bikers are around, because we did use bike trails to

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

connect walking tracks, but saw no bikers. We ended the day with an easy wander over open tops to the trig and back down to our cars. Stunning views, magnificent trees, walking tracks, bike trails, picnic areas, a couple of Gers and open farmland all around, combine to make this an incredibly lovely environment. Summerhill is a beautiful place to

spend a day, and you will discover something different every time you go. A gold coin donation is appreciated. A box is at the Reid Road carpark. Above: Walking along the wetlands with lots of new planting. Below left: Entry to Summerhill at Reid Road carpark. Below right: The Mongolian Ger close to the entrance.

Walking New Zealand, issue no 283 - 2021

36 Walking New Zealand, issue no 283 - 2021

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

New Zealand Guided Walks

to experience in the Egmont National Park. We will even do trekking tours for overnight treks where we can do the catering for them. We know the best routes, tracks and places in the Egmont National Park where we can arrange to guide them, e.g. Wilkies Pools are if you are brave enough you can experience the natural water slide in the Kapuni Stream. Many track tours available, such as Mangorei Track/Pouakai Tarns, Pouakai Crossing Trek, Taranaki Crossing Trek, Mt Taranaki Mountain Day Tour, and plenty more. Also Coastal White Cliffs/Three Sisters Walk. Contact Ian on mttaranakiguidedtours@gmail.com, www.mttaranakiguidedtours.co.nz

Guided trekking in Egmont National Park

rekking, age is no barrier, it takes people to have the right attitude,and giving it a go! says Ian McAlpine. “I have been convinced after six years to restart my guiding business after shutting down my business after 30 years of being in the guiding business on Mt Taranaki and in the Egmont National Park. “During this time full-time I guided many people up Mt Taranaki and on the many Department of Conservation tracks. I found age whether on family trips, one day or multi day trips was a matter of attitude whether young persons or in their Grey Power years. Attitude comes with waking up in the morning and saying we can do that walk/ trek, planning it and doing it. “Over the years I have guided people of all ages to the summit of Mt Taranaki from a five, coming on six years old, to the oldest who was eighty-two. “As the years go by in all outdoor activities, more and more people in

Mt Taranaki Guided Tours Our guided tours are built around clients/ guests ability of time, fitness and where they wish to experience the many tours in the Egmont National Park.

www.mttaranakiguidedtours.co.nz mttaranakiguidedtours@gmail.com www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

their retiring years wish to take up more and move challenges. We have found that many of these groups of people male and female wish to be accompanied by local guides to make their experiences safer and gain more information about the environment they wish to travel. We cater the Mt Taranaki Guided tours around clients/guests ability of time, fitness and where they wish

Having trouble buying your copy of Walking New Zealand magazine? Have you found that?:

* Magazine is sold out when you get to the store! * Stores have limited space for magazines and some are cutting down on space for magazines

From now you will be able to buy a copy of Walking New Zealand magazine, for $8.50 POSTED to you each month at the same price that you would pay for it at a store. You just pay a monthly payment of $8.50 per month. * No fixed term. * You can cancel at any time.

Each month we debit your credit card $8.50 and post you a copy of the latest issue - until cancelled. Just phone:

0800 walking (925-546) or email us walkingnz@xtra.co.nz with your credit card details, name and postal address. Walking New Zealand, issue no 283 - 2021

New Zealand Walks

By Judy Eva

Pukeiti - a garden of national significance

ukeiti beside Egmont National Park in Taranaki is by reason of it’s topography and climate a unique garden. It has been formed by the completely opposite creation to that of most major gardens of the world. It had to be carved out of dense temperate rain-forest; hence there are few man made avenues. There are narrow paths, many named after foundation members snaking through the bush with bays of plantings on either side. The element of surprise is always around the next corner. For thousands of years it was unspoiled virgin rain forest. Most of the rimu were removed in a decade during logging in the 1920’s. Afterwards

38 Walking New Zealand, issue no 283 - 2021

Above: The Rainforest Centre. Below left: On one of the many walking tracks. www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

New Zealand Walks

some area’s remained forested while others were used for pasture or pine plantations. Now more than 80 years later the forest is covering the land once more. The development of Pukeiti has not always been smooth, climatic and soil factors along with possums, goats, the swamp like conditions, high rainfall and storm force winds were a challenge. When Pukeiti founder William Douglas Cook first laid eyes on the place in 1950 he was taken with its lushness and foliage. One walk through was enough. He knew he had found the right spot. Pukekiti is now an exotic rhododendron collection uniquely nestled in rain forest beside Egmont National Park. It is one of the world’s biggest and most diverse collections and explodes with the colour of hundreds of flowering exotics. It is now a garden of national significance and has become one of the country’s foremost rhododendron collections recognised globally for its diversity and unique rainforest setting also featuring a large range of garden, rainforest walks and tramping tracks. The 360 acre property passed into the stewardship of Taranaki Regional Council in 2010 and planning began on upgrades to allow the community and their visitors to take full advantage of all the special qualities. Experience an explosion of colour of hundreds of exotic flowers against a lush backdrop of forested volcanic ranges, mountain streams and bird song. Pukeiti’s giants awaken in July. The enormous flower trusses of the large leaf rhododendrons, along with The Valley of the Giants Walk, contrast with the rainforest foliage. Camellias and magnolias follow. By October, the Rhododendron Stroll explodes with colour with hundreds of flowering exotica. Complementary herbaceous plantings and bulbs enhance the display. Flowering throughout the year other rare and unusual plants provide year-round interest. There are many walking and day www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Above: The Rainforest Canopy a must walk to do.

■

Below: Spring in Pukeiti.

New Zealand Walks

Pukeiti - a garden of national significance

40 Walking New Zealand, issue no 283 - 2021

Above: Many paths to choose from. Below left: All paths are well signposted.

tramping tracks. There are a myriad of tracks and paths around and within the confines of the gardens all with information signs about the plants, birds and insects. The more adventurous ones are through the rainforest where there are remnant pockets of mature forest and some rimu trees with spectacular views of the Tasman Sea, the Pouakai and the Kaitake mountain ranges. With these particular more open tracks be prepared for changes in the weather, there are three unbridged streams that can be impassable after heavy rain, also mobile phone coverage is not reliable. If doing the Whites Track to the swing bridge it is not advisable to go any further unless you are a tramper. The length of the km’s for these tracks are on the brochures. Be prepared to spend a day walking the garden tracks, they are all signposted and well maintained, even then you will be hard pressed to do them all. The Valley of the Giwww.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

New Zealand Walks

ants walk is a fitness trail (along with other choices) is ideal for groups as well as visitors and is a 50 minute walk. The rainforest tracks are more of a challenge taking you out into a more open and rough terrain. There are maps and brochures available just inside the entrance to The Rainforest Centre with this information. The centre is in itself is a magnificent structure, within which is the Founders Cafe, delicious meals and coffee with panoramic views across the garden, rainforest and the Tasman sea. A conference room, events facilities and the Canopy Walk, with its stunning design and peerless views of the rainforest and garden, a memorable gateway to the rainforest. From the top you can take the stairs down and walk along the bush track to view the old waterwheel, an experience not to be missed. In the winter months the tracks can be muddy. Details on their website. There are treehouse trails for the kids. There are guided tours and a mobility vehicle. Toilets at the centre. Take a picnic lunch and enjoy this beautiful garden. Plenty of seats. I found the best times to visit were Spring, Summer and Autumn for colour. Take good walking shoes as the ground can be mushy due to the rainfall there. Warm clothing is

a good idea as the temperature can be cooler due to being high in the ranges. For those wanting to enjoy the walking tracks and gardens, the terrain is mostly hilly and some of the tracks are steep to climb. There is a large parking area with room for tour buses and overnight stays for self contained motor homes, free. No dogs permitted. The café is open 10 am to 4 pm June to September, every day Oct to Feb, and Wed to Sunday March to May. Phone 0800 736 222 for further

information or www.pukeiti.nz Due to Pukeiti situated in the ranges the access road is narrow, steep in parts and very winding, take care. The road is in good condition. Enjoy. There are access points around the coast from Hawera and also from the New Plymouth Address is 2290 Carrington Road, New Plymouth. Above right: In the Rainforest Canopy Walk. Below left: Map of garden walks and outer rainforest tramping tracks.

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Walking New Zealand, issue no 283 - 2021

CONTENTS for previous 15 issues SEPTEMBER 282 2021

2 Queen Charlotte Track - Wilderness Guides 3 Contents 6 New Zealand Great Walk: Great Walks myth busting 14 New Zealand Wlks: The best of Opotiki: 5 easy walks in the eastern Bay of Plenty 20 Walking New Zealand Monthly Photo Contest 22 New Zealand Walk: Sea lionsand seals an attraction at Sandfly Bay. 24 Subscription page 25 Need2Know: Indoor pathways improve people’s mental wellbeing 26 Australian Walks; Murray River Safari the latest edition to Australian Wildlife Journeys 29 Banks Track 30 New Zealand Walk: Grovetown Lagoon - a great conservation effort in Marlborough 32 Overseas Walk: Explore Rarotonga’s mountainous interior 34 New Zealand Walk: Withering Heights -Tawarau Conservation area, King Country 39 Need2Know: New lookout for Bennetts Bay now open 40 High Achievers: Thames Hospital staff scrub in Hauraki Ranges 42 Index of previous 14 issues 43 Coming Events: New Zealand 47 Coming Events: Australia 48 New Zealand Walking Tours 48 New Zealand Country Breaks 51 Pak A Roo Jackets 52 Taupo events

AUGUST 281 2021

2 Queen Charlotte Track - Wilderness Guides 3 Contents 6 New Zealand Walk: Bannockburn Sluicings NZ’s own ‘wild west’ 8 New Zealand Walk: Cable Bay Walkway for coastal views 11 New Zealand Walk/Bike: Walking and biking around Napier 18 Walking New Zealand Monthly Photo Contest 20 New Zealand Walk: Hooker Valley Track offers awe inspiring landscapes 23 Need2Know: Asking politely will protect outdoor acccess for others 24 Subscription page 25 Need2Know: Locked gates over unformed legal roads 25 Need 2Know: Walking as a sport in 1878 26 My Favourite Walk: Taking time on the Tongariro 28 Te Araroa : Q&A withTe Araroa walker and Wellington trustee John Craig 29 Banks Track 30 New Zealand Walk: Ghosts of the past: Historic trails across the Kaimai-Mamaku Park 33 Shared Pathway: Unique boardway opened in Waitara 37 My Favourite Walk: Three tramps in the Ruahine Forest Park 40 Australian Walks: Footing it in Tassie 42 Index of previous 14 issues 43 Coming Events: New Zealand 47 Coming Events: Australia 48 New Zealand Walking Tours 48 New Zealand Country Breaks 51 Pak A Roo Jackets 52 Taupo events

JULY 280 2021

2 Queen Charlotte Track - Wilderness Guides 3 Contents 6 New Zealand Walk: Comarderie on the Whareama Coastal Walk 12 Event: Walkers see the new Manawatu Tararua Highway taking shape 14 New Zealand Walk: Rotokawa Scenic Reserve - now a predator free area 18 Walking New Zealand Monthly Photo Contest 20 New Zealand Walk: Fantail Falls an easy West Coast walk 22 Subscription page

24 Virtual field trip for school children showcases Te Araroa 24 My Favourite Walk: Linderman Loop - in the historic Kaimais 28 Around the Clubs: Clubs find advantage in sharing great walks 30 New Zealand Cycle Tour: Best Dam cycling trip in the world - Busting the 315km trail from Mt Cook to Oamaru 38 Australian Walks: Alice Springs for gorges, water holes and red desert landscapes 42 Index of previous 14 issues 43 Coming Events: New Zealand 47 Coming Events: Australia 48 New Zealand Walking Tours 48 New Zealand Country Breaks 51 Pak A Roo Jackets 52 Taupo event

JUNE 279 2021

2 Queen Charlotte Track - Wilderness Guides 4 Walk Talk 6 New Zealand Walk: Ship Cove walks in old swamp forests 8 New Zealand Walk: Muruwai Walk in Coromandel 10 New Zealand Walks: Somes Island - The MIQ experience 149 years ago11 New Zealand Walk: Somes Island Track 12 My Favourite Walk: Banks Peninsula Track - an unique scenic 3 day trip 14 Need2Know: Egmont National Park tracks upgraded 16 High Achiever: Havelock man’s marathon dream of link to Picton 18 Walking New Zealand Monthly Photo Contest 20 Australian Walks: Ten best walks and hikes in Tasmania 24 New Zealand Walk: Gabriels Gully interpretation walk 26 Te Araroa Trail: Walking the Te Araroa Trail as a hotographer and film maker 30 New Zealand Walk: Mt Taranaki summit climb -not for the faint hearted 35 New Zealand Walk: Palliser Vineyard Walk 36 Directory of New Zealand Walking Groups 40 Subscription page 41 Index of previous 14 issues 42 Coming Events: New Zealand 47 Coming Events: Australia 48 New Zealand Walking Tours 48 New Zealand Country Breaks 51 ECHO Walking Festival 52 Taupo Marathon

MAY 278 2021

2 Pak - A - Roo Walking Jacket 4 Walk Talk 6 New Zealand Walk: Franz Josef - a must do 9 Need2Know: Health and Safety when crossing private farms 10 New Zealand Walks: Kaikoura - a popular spot for walkers 14 My Favourite Walk: Motorimu Shelter walk in the Tararuas 15 Event: Christchurch Walking Festival has many avenues for walking 16 New Zealand Walk: Tackling the Tirohanga 18 Walking New Zealand Monthly Photo Contest 20 Australian Walk : Umpherston Sinkhole 22 My Favourite Walk: Western Loop Walkway for bush, river and open farmland 26 My Favourite Walk: A walk around Mangatawhiri Reservoir 30 My Favourite Walk: Counter clockwise on the Tongariro Circuit 36 Directory of New Zealand Walking Groups 42 Coming Events: New Zealand 47 Coming Events: Australia 48 New Zealand Walking Tours 48 New Zealand Country Breaks 51 ECHO Walking Festival 52 Taupo Marathon

APRIL 277 2021

2 Pak - A - Roo Walking Jacket 4 Walk Talk 6 New Zealand Walk: Omarama’s Clay Cliff spectacular landscape 8 New Zealand Walk: On a clear day

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 41 Index of previous 14 issues 42 Coming Events: New Zealand 48 New Zealand Walking Tours 48 New Zealand Country Breaks 51 Wilderness Guides

you can see f o re ve r O t a w a to Otane-Wainuku Ridgeline 10 New Zealand Walk: Huatoki Domain - for a delightful walk 12 New Zealand Walk: Three coastal walks at the bottom of the South Island 14 Shared Pathway: Hikers and bikers share the Timber Trail 16 High Achievers: Te Araroa legends Ceorge Mills and Rob Firmin 18 Walking New Zealand Monthly Photo Contest 20 Shared Pathway: Little River Trail Hike it, bike it like it! 25 Shared Pathway: New off road shared path gathering use 22 New Zealand Walks: Tongariro National Park short walks to suit all fitness types 32 Te Araroa Trail: New Invercargill to Bluff section, cyclists off road 32 New Zealand Walk: Rob Roy Track reopens 34My Favourite Walk: Day walks in 52 Event: Manawatu Walking Festivall West Coast’s JANUARY 274 2021 Oparara Basin 2 Pak - A - Roo Walking Jacket 34 NZ Cycling Trail: The diverse 3 Contents Kaikoura Trail 4 Walk Talk 35 Shared Pathway: Shared Kaikoura 6 New Zealand Walk: Round the pathway connect loop rugged rocks - Roaring Meg 36 Directory of New Zealand WalkPack Track ing Groups 9 New Zealand Walks: Top 20 Welly 41 Index of previous 14 issues Walks in the Capital 42 Coming Events: New Zealand 13 High Achievers: All walks of life 48 New Zealand Walking Tours celebrate 20 years of commu48 New Zealand Country Breaks nity talks 52 Great Forest Events 14 NZ Walking Access Commission: Walking the dog MARCH 276 2021 16 Event: New Zealand’s larget an2 Pak - A - Roo Walking Jacket nual multi-sport event welcomes 3 Contents walkers 4 Walk Talk 6 New Zealand Walk: Tauranga to 17 New Zealand Walk: Walking along the banks of the Ohura River Okere Falls on a shared trail 10 New Zealand Walk: Branch Road 18 Walking New Zealand Monthly Photo Contest Walkway - once an ancient Maori 20 New Zealand Walk: Rimutaka Rail route Trail for tunnels and waterfalls 14 New Zealand Walk: Blue Pools Walk - Mt Aspitring National Park 21 New Zealand Walk:Rimutaka Rail Trail popular with both walkers 16 Cycling Trails: New section of Alpsand cyclists 2Ocean Cycle Trail opens 17 New Zealand Walk: Hollyford Track 23 News: Survey highlights motivations for time in nature reopens 18 Walking New Zealand Monthly 24 Overseas Walk: Singapore Orchid Gardens for a walk among flora Photo Contest 20 Need2Know: Motu: Magnificent 34 Need2Know: Exercise helps to reduce back pain isolation 24 New Zealand Walk: Alexandra to 36 Australian Walks: Australia’s best one day walks Clyde River Track - attracts both 39 Event: Ashhurst to Esplanade Walk walkers and cyclists 27 New Zealand Walk:The Terrace 41 Index of previous 14 issues 44 Coming Events: New Zealand Walk, Franz Josef 28 Auckland Walks: Take a hike on 48 New Zealand Walking Tours these great Auckland walks this 48 New Zealand Country Breaks 51 Wilderness Guides summer 30 New Zealand Walk: Gebbies Pass to 52 Event:Manawatu Walking Festival Packhorse Hut DECEMBER 273 2020 32 New Zealand Walk: Kahikatea 2 Pak - A - Roo Walking Jacket Country - the Pehitawa section of 3 Contents the Te Araroa Trail 4 Walk Talk 34 NZ Cycling Trail: The diverse 6 New Zealand Walk: Punakaiki GateKaikoura Trail way to dramatic limstone country 35 Shared Pathway: Shared Kaikoura 13 Walking Access: Walking from pathway connect loop town to town 36 Event: Back to the future for ASB 14 New Zealand Walk: Audrey Gale Christchurch events Reserve beautiful in all seasons 38 New Zealand Walks: Mangatoi 16 New Zealand Walk: Snow Daze Walkers tackle the Coromandel Golden Crown Ridge Ruahine walks Forest Park 42 Coming Events: New Zealand 18 Walking New Zealand Monthly 48 New Zealand Walking Tours Photo Contest 48 New Zealand Country Breaks 20 New Zealand Walk: Mangatangi 51 Wilderness Guides Track walk with great view points 52 Manawatu Walking Festival

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

42 Walking New Zealand, issue noissue 283 - no 2021 42 Walking New Zealand, 283 - 2021

22 New Zealand Walk: Doug Walker Memorial Walkway popular 24 New Zealand Walk: Four P’s in a pod! Paku, Pauanui, Parakiwai, Puketui 26 Te Araroa Trail: Paekakariki Escarpment Trail for magnificent views 30 Overseas Walk: A walk every day with the Norwegian Coastal Express 34 Overseas Walks: Lamma Island paved wilderness walkways 39 New Zealand Walks: 100km Coast to Coast Walk 42 Subscription Page 43 Index of previous 14 issues 44 Coming Events: New Zealand 48 New Zealand Walking Tours 48 New Zealand Country Breaks 51 Wilderness Guides

52 Event: Manawatu Walking Festival 36 Event: Bay of Islands Walking Weekend - A real mix - hiking, NOVEMBER 272 2020 biking trains and walks for non 2 Pak - A - Roo Walking Jacket walkers 3 Contents 40 Event: Delightful dozen walks at 4 Walk Talk Warkworth Weekend 2020 6 New Zealand Walk: An amble by 43 Index of previous 14 issues Lake Hakanoa 45 Coming Events: New Zealand 9 New Zealand Walk: A trail that 48 New Zealand Walking Tours reconnects us to the Waikato River 48 New Zealand Country Breaks 10 New Zealand Walk: Tongariro Alpine 51 Event: A great view from one of Crossing: best one day walk in NZ the Warkworth’s Walks 16 New Zealand Walk: Time to explore 52 Wilderness Guides Nydia Bay 18 Walking New Zealand Monthly AUGUST 269 2020 Photo Contest 2 Pak - A - Roo Walking Jacket 20 Australian Walk: Five of the top 3 Contents walks in Melbourne 4 Walk Talk 22 Te Araroa Trail: Te Araroa Auckland 6 New Zealand Walk: Cook’s Cove Trust plan to enhance walking Walkway to an historic monument experience 10 Queen Charlotte Track: Testing 24 New Zealand Walk: “Views to die our limits on the Queen Charlotte for” on Waipu Cove Walkway 16 Lockdown Activities: Helping 27 New Zealand Walks: Seven day walkers along the way. Waitangi walks around Queenstown Regional Park. 30 Overseas Walk: Whitburn to South 18 Walking New Zealand Monthly Shields in the north east of England Photo Contest 34 New Zealand Walk: Hahei Beach 20 Rotorua Walks: Short walks around to Cathedral Cove full of history Rotorua 38 New Zealand Walks: Track work 22 Rotorua Walks: Ten great Rotorua making strides in Auckland rewalks and trails gional parks 23 Rotorua Walks: Tarawera Trail a 38 New Zealand Walks: Walk New great nature walk Zealand before you 24 Rotorua Walks: Firmin Lodge walk the world 26 Bay of Islands Walking Weekend: 40 New Zealand Walk: Rotorao Island Mana, missionaries and mayhem an unique island sanctuary 28 Need2Know: Pop goes my pelvis 42 Subscription page 30 New Zealand Walk Birdlife and 43 Index of previous 14 issues song highlight of Bushy Park 44 Coming Events: New Zealand 31 New Zealand Walk: Bushy Park 48 New Zealand Walking Tours sanctuar y a top restoration 48 New Zealand Country Breaks project 51 Wilderness Guides 32 New Zealand Walk: Curio Bay experiences 52 Event:Manawatu Walking Festival 34 New Zealand Walk: Ballroom OverOCTOBER 271 2020 hang Track - Fox River West Coast 2 Pak - A - Roo Walking Jacket 36 Need2Know: Baldwin Street steep3 Contents est street again 4 Walk Talk 37 Walking Access Commission: Trust 6 New Zealand Walk: Ducks, Gnomes saves public access to beach and Dinosaurs: J u s t 38 Northland Experience: Monica a normal day in the Whirinaki cycles the Cook to Kupe Tour for Conservation Park a real Norhland experience 8 New Zealand Walk: Castle Hill: a walk 40 Need2Know: Tactical Unbanism through huge boulders gives cheap solutions for Auck13 New Zealand Walk: Much loved land pedestrians and cyclists Spraggs Bush Track reopens 43 High Achiever: Pre-schoolers 14 New Zealand Walk: The Tinui ANdelight at compe- ZAC Walkway: a memorable walk tion win 16 News: Te Araroa partners with NZ 44 New Zealand Walk: Big plans for Walking Access Commission walking and cycle paths along 18 Walking New Zealand Monthly Avon River corridor Photo Contest 45 Coming Events: New Zealand 20 New Zealand Experience: Our 48 New Zealand Walking Tours Routeburn experience: Water, 48 New Zealand Country Breaks floods and everything else that 52 Walkers on the Tuki Tuki River Trail could go wrong 24 Lockdown Activities: Nature is MAY-JULY 268 2020 3 Contents good for us 26 New Zealand Walk: An Architec- 4 Walk Talk 6 New Zealand Walk: Queen Chartural Walk lotte Track - Here we come! 28 My Favourite Walk: Along the 10 New Zealand Walk : Walking walkway at Macan- the Track drew Bay 30 Cycling Tours: Trip through the 11 New Zealand Walk: The Queen Charlotte Track - tulips why walk it when you can ride? 34 New Zealand Walk: Nydia Track 13 Lockdown Activities: Walking and something for everyone biking around Papamoa - Training 38 New Zealand Walks: Exploring the up Mt Wash-ington. scenery of the Far North 42 Te Araroa Trail: Te Araroa Northland 14 Northland Experiences: The Old Chooks Tour of Northland Trust revitalised 17 News: A billion-dollar opportunity 43 Index of previous 14 issues for walkers 45 Coming Events: New Zealand 18 Walking New Zealand Monthly 48 New Zealand Walking Tours Photo Contest 48 New Zealand Country Breaks 51 Event:Manawatu Walking Festival 20 New Zealand Walks: Bookable huts - a Summer success 52 Wilderness Guides 23 Need2Know: Walking on private land SEPTEMBER 270 2020 24 Auckland Walk: Mt Hobson Walk 2 Pak - A - Roo Walking Jacket for panoramic city views 3 Contents 27 Covid-129: Travel faces a rein4 Walk Talk vention 6 New Zealand Walk: Palmers Track 28 New Zealand Walk: Lindsay Scenic Great Barrier Island Reserve Walk 12 John Fensham Memoral Sanctuary 30 My Favoutite Walk: Cardiff Centen- a lowland forest walk nial Walk through natural bush 15 New Zealand Walk: Invigorating and farmland winter tramp on the Mania Track 15 Kawerau Accomodation: Firmin 34 New Zealand Walk: Beat the heat - do the Donald Drift Lodge 18 Walking New Zealand Monthly 37 Australian Walk: Burleigh Heads National Park walks Photo Contest 20 Short walks to get you off the couch 40 Auckland Walk: A ramble on Anzac Day - Point England Walkway 23 Lockdown Activities: A morepork 44 Books: God’s Cocaine - the addicand the Milky Way tion of the Camino 24 Northland Experiences: Two wheels 45 Coming Events: New Zealand and Shank’s Pony 28 New Zealand Walks: A week of walks 48 New Zealand Country Breaks 52 Northland Experiences on Chatham Islands

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Coming Events

NEW ZEALAND SEPTEMBER 2021

5 North Shore Marathon, Milford, Auckland 5 Gizzy Trail Run Series: Pouawa Farm, Gisborne 5 XTERRA Auckland: Riverhead Forest, Auckland 11 Foundation Clinic Mauao Half Marathon, Mt Maunganui 11 Peak to Peak, Queenstown 11 Iron Maori Half Marathon, Napier 11 Kaikōura Whale Run, Kaikoura. POSTPONED 11 Kinloch Off Road Challenge, Kinloch, Taupo 11 Marton to Wanganui Relay or Solo Ultramarathon, Marton 11 Race Tekapo, Tekapo 12 Emerson’s Dunedin Marathon, Dunedin 12 Tāmaki River Half Marathon, Farm Cove, Auckland 12 Whangarei Run/Walk Festival, Whangarei 12 Hutt Marathon, Petone

Please note that because of the Covid-19 lockdown some events advertised in New Zealand may be rescheduled, postponed or cancelled. 12 Wild Auckland: Tawharanui, Tawharanui Regional Park, Auckland 12 Sri Chinmoy Cherry Blossom Marathon, Christchurch 18 Governors Bay to Lyttelton Scenic Road Race, Governors Bay, Canterbury 18 Queen Charlotte Relay, Picton to Havelock 19 4 Paws Marathon, Bottle Lake Forest, Christchurch 19 Cambridge Half Marathon, Cambridge 19 Hatuma Half Marathon & 10K Fun Run, WWaipukurau, Central Hawkes Bay 19 Shoe Science Tauranga Marathon, Tauranga 19 Wild Auckland: Tawharanui, Auckland

19 Run Auckland: Millwater Estuary, Silverdale, Auckland 25 Blue Lake 24 Hour Challenge, Blue Lake, Rotorua 25 The Mudder, Marton 26 4 Paws Marathon, Bottle Lake For-

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Coming Events

est, Canterbury 25 Sandy Point Classic, Invercargill e Lake Forest, Christchurch

OCTOBER 2021

1 Spring Challenge: South Island, Greymouth 2 Aoraki Mt Cook Marathon, Half Marathon, 10K and 5K, Aoraki Mt Cook Village 2 Takahe-Akaroa Road Relay, Christchurch 2 Island Ultra, Nelson 2 Sprig & Fern 10K: Motueka 2 Rakiura Challenge Trail Run, Oban Stewart Island 3 Great Barrier Island Marathon,

Half Marathon, 10km & 5km, Great Barrier Island 3 Harcourts Cooper & Co Devonport Half Marathon, Auckland 9 Abel Tasman Coastal Classic Trail Run, Kaiteriteri 9 Marina 2 Marina, Picton 9 Motu Challenge, Opotiki 10 3 Lakes Trail Run, Kai-iwi Lakes, Northland 10 Wairarapa Country Marathon, Masterton, postponed to 7 November 10 Southland Festival of Running, Invercargill 15 Spring Challenge: North Island, Napier

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15-17, Bay of Islands Walking Weekend, Russell, Northland 15-24 South Island Masters Games 2021, Marlborough 16 Jackson Holmes Salmon Run, Rakaia, Canterbury 16 Sprig & Fern 10K: Mapua 16 Cross Recreation Centre Half Marathon, 10K & 5K, Balclutha 16 Taupō Ultramarathon, Whakaipo Bay, Taupo 17 Run Orewa, Orewa 17 Crater Rim Ultra 2021, Christchurch 23 Kaikoura Mountains to the Sea, South Bay, Kaikoura 23 Twizel Hard Labour Weekend, Ben Ohau Station, Canterbury 23 Pirongia Trail Run, Mt Pirongia 24 Cromwell Half Marathon, Cromwell 24 Wild Auckland: Tāpapakanga, Tāpapakanga National Park, Auckland 28 Waikato Breast Cancer Research Trust Pink Walk & Button Run, Hamilton 30 Kawerau King of the Mountain, Kawerau 30 Shepherds Shemozzle, Hunterville 30 Mission Mt Somers, Staveley 30 Pūtauaki Prince & Princess of the

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Coming Events

All ages and capabilities.

Sunday October 10 Pohangina Downhill walk Pohangina - 14kms from Ashhurst - Manawatu

Your favourite walk could win you a free subscription Saturday13th November 2021 Downhill Walk: 8.00am -12 noon

Take a shuttle bus ride to the top of Ridge Road for an easy walk through 6 kms of farmland and native bush back to the township to County Fayre for a light lunch. Early bird special: Adults $30.00 Children $20.00, under 5’s free. Buses every 45 minutes. Email: countyfayre@inspire.net.nz

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We are looking for readers’ favourite New Zealand walks. Many of us go out regularly walking on a route which we class as our favourite, for a number of reasons. Perhaps because for it’s scenery, it’s safe, it’s challenging, it’s flat, it’s hilly, it’s varied, or for whatever reason. We would like you to tell us in your own words what is you favourite walk and why. Email us a story from say 250 up to 1200 words including a photo or photos. We will now give you a FREE subscription (six months or more, depending on the article), or extension to Walking New Zealand magazine for walks published. You can also post an article to Walking New Zealand, Freepost 78863, P O Box 1922, Palmerston North, or fax 06-358-6864. If sending a photo by email please make sure photos are in high resolution.

Our email address is: walkingnz@xtra.co.nz. Please put “My Favourite Walk” in the subject line and include your name and postal address.

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Walking New Zealand, issue no 283 - 2021

Coming Events

Mountain, Kawerau Auckland 30 Kawerau King of the Mountain , 31 Omokoroa Coastal Challenge, Kawerau Omokoroa, near Tauranga 31 Auckland Marathon, Devonport, 31 Gizzy Trail Run Series: Eastwood Hill Arboretum, Gisborne 31 Mangonui Lions Fun Run and Walk, Mongonui 31 Turning the Tide Fundraising Walk, Muriwai Beach 31 Peak Trail Blazer, Havelock North

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5-21 Waiheke Walking Festival, Waiheke Island 7 Wairarapa Country Marathon, Masterton 12-14 Warkworth Walking Weekend, Warkworth 13 Pohangina Downhill Walk, 14km, Pohangina, Manawatu 14 Tois Challenge 10km & 6km Fun Walk, Whakatane 24 Cromwell Half Marathon, Cromwell 30 Bell Hill Challenge, Baldoon Farm, Canterbury

46 Walking New Zealand, issue no 283 - 2021

30 Kawerau King of the Mountain, Kawerau 30 Mission Mt Somers, Staveley, Canterbury 31 Auckland Marathon, Devonport, Auckland

DECEMBER 2021

4 Greytown Rail Trail WAI NOT? Greytown 4 Hanmer Holiday Homes Alpine Marathon 4 Iron Maori Half, Napier 4 The Kepler Challenge and Luxmore Grunt, Lake Te Anau ‘ 4 The Manuka Trail Run, Mangamingi, Taranaki 4 The Poronui Passage, Poronui, Taharua 5 Parihaka Kill-Hill Challenge, Whangarei 5 Wild Auckland: Piha, Auckland 11 3 Bridges Marathon, Wanganui 11 Crush the Cargill Dunedin 11 Race Tekapo, Lake Tekapo 11 Raglan Karioi Trail, Raglan 11 Speights West Coaster Trail Run &

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Coming Events

NORDIC WALKING

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Walk, Bethells Beach, Auckland 12 Canterbury Half Marathon, Pegasus, Canterbury 12 Omaha Half Marathon, Omaha, Auckland JJANUARY 2022 8 Aotearoa Ultra Marathon, Little River to Halswell Quarry, Christchurch 8 King and Queen of the Withers, Blenheim 11 Manawatu Striders Super Seven Series, Palmerston North

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15 Good Home Taranaki Off Road Half Marathon, Lake Mangamahoe, near New Plymouth 15 Ian Priest Memorial Hutt River Trail Events, Hutt Valley 15 Race The Train, Kingston, Otago 15 Wine Run, Lone Goat Vineyard, Burnham, near Christchurch 16 8th Continent Marathon and Half Marathon, Auckland 16 Women’s Half Marathon, Mangere, Auckland

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Walking New Zealand, issue no 283 - 2021

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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 Day Walking Adventure over private farmland with isolated Wairarapa coastline views.

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 283202149 49 Walking New Zealand, issue no 283 - 2021

AKAROA

MT VERNON LODGE

GREAT COUNTRY BREAKS

SOUTHLAND

MACKENZIE/South Canterbury

Set on 6 hectares in the heart of Akaroa, Mt Vernon Lodge offers a variety of accommodation, from economy rooms to cottages and cabins/chalet with full facilities.

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

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

STEWART ISLAND

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

SOUTHLAND

Manicured lawns and mature trees coupled with amazing views and great facilities make Mt Vernon Lodge your only choice for your stay in Akaroa.

Contact David & Amanda Kinnaird 33 Purple Peak Road, Akaroa

03 304 7180 info@mtvernon.co.nz www.mtvernon.co.nz

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

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

NORTH CANTERBURY

Kiwi on the Camino by Vivianne Flintoff Self guided private walking track * Choose between 3 or 2 day options. * Lodge style accommodation with fully serviced kitchens, BBQ, hot showers, comfortable bunk-beds and pillows. * Dogs welcome, kennels available at lodgings. * Pack transport each day makes for a stress free adventure.

Check our availability calendar online www.islandhillsstation.com Walking New Zealand, issue no 283- no 2021 50 Walking 50 New Zealand, issue 283 - 2021

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

Please tell our advertisers you saw it in Walking New Zealand magazine. www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

PAK - A - ROO

Walking Hiking Jacket Wicking Lining

Only

$129.00 plus $7.00 P&P

To order:

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz Freephone 0800 925-546- walking THE

WALKING NEW ZEALAND MAIL ORDER

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

SHOP

WALKING NEW ZEALAND Ltd, P O Box 1922, Palmerston North, 4440 Phone 06-358-6863: fax 06-358-6864 or freephone 0800-925-546

Colours: Red, Navy, Dark Olive, Brown Sizes XS - S - M - L - XL - XXL Weight approximately 800gms

Walking New Zealand, issue no 283 - 2021

52 Walking New Zealand, issue no 283 - 2021

283 OCTOBER 2021

Articles inside

Index of previous 14 issues

New Zealand Walk: Pukeiti - a garden of national

New Zealand Guided Walks: Guided trekking in

Walking New Zealand Monthly Photo Contest

New Zealand Walks: Over 50 walks in this year’s

New Zealand Walks: Cobb Vally region - one of

Need2Know: The faster you walk, the better for

Walking Access Commission: Trust to develop and support walking and cycling trails

New Zealand Walks: Queen Charlotte Track - It’s

New Zealand Walks: Papamoa’s two great recre

New Zealand Walk: Port Ligar a truly unique expe