291 JUNE 2022 by Walking New Zealand Ltd

RECREATION WALKING and CYCLING TRAILS New Zealand Walk:

The Kepler Track - a wilderness adventure above the clouds

JUNE 2022 ISSUE NO 291

Photo Contest winners

Need2Know:

Regular walking

will make you fit and healthy New Zealand Walk:

Hatea Loop Walkway -

links town with Pohe Island

New Zealand Walk:

NZ $8.50 inc GST

Abel Tasman Coastal Walk has experiences to suit you

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Walking New Zealand, issue no 291 - 2022

2 Walking New Zealand, issue no 291

- 2022

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

CONTENTS

Issue 291 - 2022

2 Queen Charlotte Track 3 Contents 6 New Zealand Walks: The Abel Tasman Coastal Track - has experiences to suit you 11 New Zealand Walk: Dashing Rocks Walkway with stunning views of the bay 12 Australian Walk: Mossman Gorge in a thriving rainforest 14 News: Te Araroa needs more volunteers 14 Need 2 know: Regular walking will make you fit and healthy 17 New Zealand Walk: Wanaka Lavender Farm walk 18 Walking New Zealand Monthly Photo Contest 20 New Zealand Walks: From Capital to Kapiti and on to Castlecliff 22 News: Tracks to be built by Transmission Gully Project 24 Great Walks: The Kepler Track - a wilderness adventure above the clouds 30 New Zealand Walk: Hatea Loop Walkway links town with Pohe island 34 New Zealand Walks: Three scenic tracks reopened in Waitakere Ranges 35 New Zealand Walks: Gibbons, Pararaha Valley Track and Muir Track 36 New Zealand Walks: Ashburton to Hakatere River Lake Hood trails 38 New Zealand Walks: Six of the best walks for bird spotting around Auckland 40 New Zealand Walk: Seaview Gardens Reserve 38 Australian Walk: Wiradjuri Trail - a track that winds around Wagga Wagga 43 Index of previous 14 issues 45 Coming Events: New Zealand 47 Coming Events: Australia 48 New Zealand Walking Tours 48 New Zealand Country Breaks 51 Pak A Roo Jackets 52 Real Meals Cover: Penny Silva on the top of Mt Luxmore on the Kepler Track walk. Photo by Penny Silva

WALKING New Zealand

Published Monthly

PUBLISHER/EDITOR: Frank Goldingham: Phone 06-358-6863, 027-274-0726 CONTRIBUTORS: Phillip Donnell, Barbz Lowther, Daniel Haddock and Mike Giri 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: Are Direct NZ Limited 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,

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

14 Walking New Zealand, issue no 291 - 2022

Invercargill to Bluff trail receives an official name

New CEO for Te Araroa Trust It’s New Zealand’s greatest walk, and now the man charged with promoting it wants it to be known as one of the world’s greatest walks. Te Araroa Trust new executive director, Matt Claridge has laced up his shoes and started walking the length of New Zealand.. “I’ve done 100km in the last week, from Waikanae to Wellington, and it was amazing,’’ he said.

At the official opening of the new 25km trail in March, the Invercargill to Bluff trail received its official name. Gifted by mana whenua, the name Te Ara Taurapa means a journey along the taurapa (stern post) of the waka Aoraki. Six panels have been installed along the trail to share the cultural narrative developed by Te Rūnangao Awarua and Te Rūnanga o Waihōpai. The sealed track provides a safe off-road alternative for people walking, riding, and running between Invercargill and Bluff. The section of trail also doubles as the final leg of the 3000km Te Araroa Trail, which starts in Cape Reinga. Completing the trail has been a collaborative effort, involving Environment Southland, Invercargill City Council, mana whenua, Great South, Community Trust South, the ILT Foundation, and Waka Kotahi. Above: Environment Southland regional council chairman Nicol Horrell, left, Mayor Sir Tim Shadbolt at the official opening of the Invercargill Bluff trail, Te Ara Taurapa. Photo: Kavinda Herath/Stuff.

Shared path between Waipukurau and Waipawa officially opened

A new shared path in Central Hawke’s Bay was officially opened on 26 March. Designed to connect the towns of Waipawa and Waipukurau, the 4.6km concrete path provides a safe space to encourage people to walk, scoot, ride or use a mobility scooter between the towns. The project broke ground in May 2021, and the 4.6km concrete path opened to the public in December 2021. The construction was a joint project between Waka Kotahi and Central Hawke’s Bay District Council.

4 Walking New Zealand, issue no 291

- 2022

From the 2nd of each month you can now view the latest issue two weeks before stores.

Walking New Zealand magazine online for USD.99c at http://www.pressdisplay.com/ pressdisplay/viewer.aspx

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Walk talk

Walking, cycling southern Italy

A Walker’s World’s 12-day Apulia and Basilicata walk/ cycle combo tour explores the best of Italy’s ‘heel in the boot’ during six days of semi-guided walking and six days self-guided cycling. ‘Having a local expert guide to interpret the fascinating UNESCO World Heritage sites of the Sassi of Matera, Valle d’Itria and Alberobello, is a huge advantage and highlight of the tour,’ says A Walker’s World director, Jill Grant. Clients are guided through the maze of rock-cut churches and dwellings of the rock civilization in Matera and the countryside around Alberobello to its ‘trulli’ packed streets. The rest is self-guided, discovering on foot the wine town of Locorotondo and the ‘white city’ of Ostuni. Then clients are back on their bike to cycle via historic towns such as Gallipoli and Otranto, and beaches along the coast where the Adriatic and Ionian Seas meet, to reach the Baroque and Roman city of Lecce. The grade for both walking and cycling is easy and e-bikes are available. The cost is $2,785 share twin plus bike hire. For trip notes email: info@walkworld.co.nz Above: Trulli architecture lines the streets of UNESCO World Heritage Alberobello in Italy’s Apulia

Walkers find sheep on

mountain with 40kg fleece

An Australian sheep has had a lucky break after bushwalkers discovered the animal who was carrying a 40-kilogram overgrown fleece. Found on Mount Alexander in Victoria, the sheep was unable to walk and could hardly lift his head. The walker got in touch with animal rescue Edgars Mission, who were able to get the animal named Alex off the mountain. Posting about the ordeal on its Facebook page, the mission said they could tell Alex was once part of a flock due to his docked tail but that he had probably been in the bush for six years. “So weak was he that he could not stand. Not even when assisted to do so, and struggle we did to find a passage in through his felt-like fleece to administer life-enhancing fluids. “Truth be told, too, we wondered at first blush with Alex: Could his life even be saved, and would the kindest thing have been to let him pass from this world? And then we lifted the shroud of wool from his face and our eyes met, and in that instant, it was so strikingly clear he wanted to live,” the post said. Alex’s fleece was so sodden with rain, urine, twigs, bark, beetles and maggots it was a tough job getting the shears through it.

Cycling holidays in Scotland

Scotland customised travel provider, Spirit Journeys, has introduced three self-guided cycling holidays on some of Scotland’s less biked routes. These include Loch Ness 360 Self-Guided Cycling Tour, Speyside and Moray Self-Guided Cycle tour, and Cycle the Hebridean Way (limited availability.) info@spiritjourneysworldwide.com

Correction

In the last issue of Walking New Zealand 290, we referred to the Pararoa trail when it is officially the the Paparoa Track. www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Walking New Zealand, issue no 291 - 2022

MtFavourite FavouriteWalk Walk My

The Abel Tasman

■

6 Walking New Zealand, issue no 291

- 2022

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Mt Favourite Walk

Coastal Track - has experiences to suit you

he Abel Tasman Coastal Track is a perfect holiday choice, because you can vary the experience to suit your needs. You can walk the entire By Barbz Lowther 60kms carrying all your gear, have packs carried by boat, or do a mix of water taxi and walk, or kayak and walk. There is of course the option of taking the water taxi to a favourite bay, and camping out with little walking at all. Commercial water taxi and shuttle operators provide pick up and drop off services between Totaranui and Marahau. We walked from Wainui Bay in the north (near Takaka) to Marahau at the southern end(near Motueka) The first day, with lovely views back over Wainui Bay, was an easy wander, because on reaching the top of the saddle, it was all downhill to Whariwharangi hut. What a delightful spot. The hut was an old farm house built in 1896,and restored to become a DOC hut in the 1980’s.There were bits of old machinery lying nearby and lots of cheeky wekas, even grabbing food from our fingers. We shared the hut with a family of five, celebrating a 9th birthday. There was great excitement in the morning when birthday boy woke to a room full of balloons. On Day two we followed the track up through beech and manuka forest to Separation Point lighthouse. Separation point(Te Matau) marks the geographic boundary between Golden Bay and Tasman Bay. From here, you can see across Above: Looking down towards Mutton Cove. Opposite page left: Machinery lying near the hut. Right: Coastal views between Anchorage and Marahau. Below left: Whariwharangi Hut – an old Homestead.

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Walking New Zealand, issue no 291 - 2022

Mt Favourite Walk

The Abel Tasman Coastal Track has experiences to suit you

8 Walking New Zealand, issue no 291

- 2022

Golden Bay to Farewell Spit, and across Tasman Bay to D’Urville Island. We sat on the rocks watching baby seals playing. There were lots of gulls and a speaker playing gannet calls, trying to entice gannets to breed here. Leaving the point we climbed back to the main track, and continued down to Mutton Cove, with a lovely DOC campsite. We wandered along golden sands, over a rocky headland and down into Anatakapau Bay, and continued along to Anapai Bay which has interesting rock stack formations at its northern end. On the way we saw several large floats washed in from the mussel farm. After a break in a little shelter at Anapai, we continued on a trail past Ngarata Homestead at Totaranui. Ngarata is a historic building, built Above: Looking over Anapai Bay. Below left: Views over Torrent Bay. www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Mt Favourite Walk

in the 1914 from local timber, and bought by the crown in 1948. It is one of only two remaining homesteads in the Abel Tasman National Park, and is now an education centre . From Totaranui we used a shuttle to take us to Awaroa. This estuary can only be crossed within two hours of low tide, which would have been a rush. Instead we sat back and enjoyed the scenery as we cruised past Goat and Waihorakeke Bays. We arrived in time for a half hour meander over sandy flats to reach Awaroa, a lovely hut in a beautiful setting. Once again we had to protect our food from the wekas. The track on day 3 from Awaroa to Bark Bay was challenging for Above left: Shags on the beach at Mutton cove. Above right: Waiting for the boat at Totaranui. Middle right: Coastal views between Anchorage and Marahau Below left: The End’ at Marahau. Below right:Loads of driftwood on Whariwharangi Beach..

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Walking New Zealand, issue no 291 - 2022

Mt Favourite Walk

The Abel Tasman Coastal Track - has

experiences to suit you

‘Oldies’. The first hill gave us lovely views over the airstrip, the next stunning sea views, over Onetahuti, Tonga Island, and the marine reserve, that is helping marine creatures flourish here.

10 Walking New Zealand, issue no 291

We wandered along Onetahuti Beach, one of the longest beaches on the trail. Here boardwalks and a bridge provide an all-tide crossing. Not far past here, we stopped at Tonga Quarry, where granite was quarried in the early 1900’s, closing down in 1921. The steps to Nelson Cathedral are made from Tonga granite. At yet another steep climb, when a group of young’uns streamed past, with only day packs, we made the decision to leave our packs for the boat shuttle the following day. A quick phone call from the top of the hill and it was organised. We walked happily down to Bark Bay Hut, dropped our packs and went swimming. This is a beautiful spot, with a choice of bays to swim. In the morning we took our packs to the beach, and left them with the big pile for the boat – utter joy! This meant that we were more inclined to explore side tracks. We started with Medlands Beach, a lovely little bay, then down Falls Creek for some awesome coastal views. Our next diversion was up to the cascades, a rugged uphill route over roots, stones and mossy boulders. It was a very pretty track. Not far before Anchorage, we went in to Cleopatras pools, rock pools and slide in the Torrent River, and a ‘must do’ dip. It was totally

- 2022

freezing, but left a good feeling afterwards. From there the track continued, through coastal forest of beech and manuka down to Anchorage Hut. This was my favourite. It had a large kitchen/ dining area, then all bunk rooms opened out to the deck. With several picnic tables outside, it was a lovely place to spend the evening. On our last day, packs were lighter, and the trail easier, so we left before the shuttle arrived. The trail between Anchorage and Marahau was just lovely, with several beautiful little bays. We had a break at Apple Tree Bay, then continued on to Coquille Bay (named by the French explorer D’Urville ) It was such a beautiful spot, clear aqua water, golden sand, two gulls, and sun bleached logs to sit on. Only one other person was there, a local who’d come in for peace and solitude, so after lunch we left her to it. From here it only took 45 minutes past Tinline Bay, to reach Marahau, and the end of another adventure. Above left: Walking up from Wainui Bay. Below left: Walking through coastal forest. Below right: Negotiating boulders at the end of Mutton Cove.

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Dashing Rocks Walkway with stunning

New Zealand Walk

views of the bay

he Dashing Rocks Walkway a popular walk in Timaru starts from the northern end of the car park on Caroline Bay. Climb the walking track over Benvenue Cliffs and follow it along the top of Waimataitai Beach to Richmond Street. Turn right into Climie Terrace over the foot bridge to Moore Street. Moore Street is the official start of the Dashing Rocks Walkway and is clearly sign posted. Follow the trees along the cliff top to the point where ancient lava flows from Mt Horrible met the sea. This point was once one of the coastal whaling lookouts, and the rocks below a favourite Maori fishing place. From the rocks, the track follows the edge of the bay below and turns inland across a paddock to Pacific Street. Cross Pacific Street to Westcott Street and back to Richmond Street. Follow the same route you came along above Waimataitai Beach with the railway line and Ashbury Park on the right. Opposite the site of the Benvenue wreck, past the old lighthouse, take the footbridge over the railway line, walk up Benvenue Avenue, around CBay Trust Aoraki Centre and down Virtue Avenue back to Caroline Bay. Allow one hour for walk. For a shorter walk, start at Moore Street and walk around Dashing Rocks, through the paddock and back up Climie Terrace. This takes about 30 minutes. Features There are stunning views of Caroline Bay, Timaru and the port. Rough seas can turn this pleasant scenic walk into a dramatic and exciting adventure with the waves crashing on the rocks below. Site of the 1882 wrecks of sailing ships Benvenue and the City of Perth. Dashing rocks - basalt base typical of the ancient lava flows underlying Timaru’s coastal cliffs. The geometric shapes of the basalt columns are evident here. They were caused when the lava cooled and cracked in the regular shapes. Occasionally seals and penguins can be seen in the bay. www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

■

Walking New Zealand, issue no 291 - 2022

Australian Walk

Mossman Gorge in a thriving



ust 80 kilometres north of Cairns and 20 minutes from Port Douglas in Northern Queensland, Australia, lies the Mossman Gorge. Nestled in the World Heritage Listed Daintree Rainforest, the Mossman Gorge contains the oldest, continuously surviving rainforest on earth. Just one hectare of the 120,000 hectare forest can contain over 30,000 species of plants and animals. Considered by many to be the evolutionary cradle for much of Australia’s plant and wildlife species, the forest has managed to survive for over 135 million years and, with the right protection, is expected to thrive for generations to come. Aboriginies the local indigenous people, Ngadiku (Nar-di-gul), have

12 Walking New Zealand, issue no 291

got into business and operate an eco shuttle bus service from the Mossman Gorge Centre to the start of the track, a distance of 2.5km. The cost is AUD 5.00 return. The first part of the track is a raised metal board walk through the forest and later the walk is over a wooden boardwalk and finally a formed track. There are tracks off the main track to visit the Mossman River, where people love to take a dip in the rock pools. It circular track. has to be pointed out swimming can Be sure to bring hat and sunscreen, be dangerous during wet weather. Al- comfortable walking shoes, light cotton low one and a half hours for the 3km clothing, water bottle, and if you plan a dip in the pools togs and a towel. Above, below left and right; The track World Heritage Rainforest winds its way between lush vegataThe Daintree Region is an area of tion. ancient tropical rainforest containing one of the most complex ecosystems on earth. Spanning 120,000 hectares, the Daintree Rainforest is the largest portion of tropical rainforest in Australia The region contains over 135 million

- 2022

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Australian Walk

rainforest

years worth of heritage making it a worthy inclusion on the World Heritage list. The listing has also aided in the fight to preserve the area for many generations to come. All visitors are urged to treat the Gorge with respect and act responsibly. Capture the beauty of the Gorge with memories and photographs that will last a lifetime. Leave nothing behind except footprints. Climate With one of the wettest climates in Australia, visitors are advised to take the necessary precautions when visiting the Gorge. Most rain falls during the months of December to April. While it may be wet, don’t expect the temperatures to be cool as humidity during this time often exceeds 80% with temperatures averaging 27-33 degrees celsius. Visiting in the wet season can be a highlight for visitors. This is a time of year that will switch senses www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Above: Cooling off in one of the rock pools in early July. Above right: The eco shuttle bus drops off walkers at the start of the track. Below right: The start of the walk in on a raised metal walk through the rainforest.

to overload with the smells, sounds and sights of the Gorge heightened as plants blossom and the water flows that little bit faster providing the perfect conditions for swimming. The temperature cools from May to November and the conditions become a little drier. This is the best time for long walks with the humidity dropping dramatically and conditions become more suitable for exploring, with average temperatures of around 25 degrees celsius. Geography Located 80km north of Cairns, the region remains mostly untouched and in pristine condition, guaranteeing visitors to the Gorge and surrounding Daintree Rainforest an exciting and unique experience. Mossman Gorge forms the southern sector of the renowned Daintree Rainforest. The Daintree Rainforest was World Heritage listed in 1988 and is the last remnant of the oldest surviving rainforest in the world. Here visitors are afforded a rare chance to revel in its beauty and take in every aspect of the Daintree region.

Walking New Zealand, issue no 291 - 2022

Te Araroa Trail

Need 2 Know

Te Araroa wants good keen trustees

otearoa New Zealand’s internationally recognised 3,000km walking trail is famous for its volunteers. They give their time to maintain the paths, look after the walkers and administer the trail. In the Wellington region, the trail is at its most diverse, taking in dense Tararua forests, windswept Kāpiti beaches and bustling capital city streets. Te Araroa Wellington Trust is currently looking for two new trustees to help govern the section of the trail that runs from near Levin to Wellington’s South Coast. Te Araroa executive director Matt Claridge says the critical requirement for these volunteers is an enthusiasm for the trail and a love for helping people explore the outdoors. “Ideally, they have some governing experience or a background in community service. They might have a background in marketing, business, or local government. They might be knowledgeable about Māoritanga. They might have a tourism background. But the key thing is that they love Te Araroa and the people on it.” Claridge says Te Araroa Wellington Trust looks after a valuable local recreational asset for both Wellington locals and tourists. “We want the Wellington section of Te Araroa to be a place that all Wellingtonians can explore one section at a time. We want it to be something that local people treasure. “We strongly believe that volunteers learn new skills if they are enthusiastic and passionate. The existing trustees can help our new trustees to build a trail that belongs to everyone and make sure our walk of a lifetime is constantly growing and improving,” says Claridge. To apply: please email teararoawellingtontrust@gmail.com with some information about you, your background, and why you think you would make a good trustee.

14 Walking New Zealand, issue no 291

Regular walking will make you

By Mike Giri

alking is a movement using own feet to cover some distance. Walking offers multiple health benefits and is relatively easier to do. It was compulsory for all to walk to move from one place to another in ancient times. People walked thousands of kilometres for some purposes: mass migration; walking to the battlefield or walking for trade or earning a livelihood. It is still prevalent in remote rural areas. Many students walk to schools and colleges. However, the discussion here will limit walking as a habit for the purpose of regular exercise of the body and leisure enjoyment. “I went for a morning walk”; “We’re going to “get fresh air”; “We came back from our regular walk” are some statements we commonly hear in the morning. Walking is popular worldwide, in

- 2022

different countries and in different cultures, and New Zealand is no exception. “An Early Morning Walk is a Blessing for the Whole Day” Henry David Thoreau. Walking may be named differently with slight changes in the gait, pace, and place of walking, such as road, lawn, beach, hill, trail walking. It also depends on physical fitness, stamina, habit and preference. Some may prefer to walk alone, in pairs or in small or large groups. Similarly, walking duration also varies from a few minutes (recuperating patient) to eight to nine hours for day-walkers on certain days. Again, walking can be slow, brisk; race-running and walking marathon, or it can be Nordic walking and scrambling on the steep mountain. Some teenagers also have the habit of walking regularly with friends and family. It is more common among people in middle to older age, but not rewww.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Need 2 Know

fit and healthy

stricted to any age group. An avid walker walks daily on defined routes, usually near own residence. It is driven by a habit, accompanying friends, and compulsion of physical exercise, regardless of age or gender. The time is usually in the morning, some may do it in the evening as well. These days, as a result of fast-paced life, it can occur any time of the day or night for some. Generally speaking, the morning walkers form the largest group. Regular walkers will follow a routine or schedule to do their walks at the planned times. There are others, who are regular walkers, two or three times a week, or go every weekend for a walk.

There is yet another group who are not as regular, yet interested in walking long distances. They plan at weekends and special holidays to do substantial walking of half a day to one day trip for rigorous exercise plus fulfilling other interests, such as an outing to enjoy with friends, fresh air, or connecting with nature. Sometimes, we inherit the habit from our parents, family tradition, sometimes recommended by physicians for health benefit, or due to our own impulses. It is also driven by the social group, we hang out with. The best way to do it is to follow your own heart, interest and ability to do it. It is you, who has to do it. Mind you, it is physical and time-consuming. It depends on your stamina, time

available and priority setting. All are personal choices. Many also use the walking time to coolly think, resolve their outstanding issues within their heart; socialise with family members; friends; chat about something, express their own opinions and can even meditate. The longer walkers quench their thrust to discover and examine new areas; watch nature and natural processes. I use my morning walk looking at beautiful houses, gardens and watching birds. I go on a long nature walk once in a while, as well. The opinion of why and how to walk may vary from person to person, but the fact, that it has enormous health benefits is literally unchallenged. Different heart

Above left: Tourists on Mt Willium walk. Above right: Group Day walk to Mt Pokamarenkea. Below right: A shot of promenade with people walking.

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Walking New Zealand, issue no 291 - 2022

Need 2 Know

Regular walking will make you fit and healthy diseases including blood pressure; type 2 diabetes; respiratory disorder; obesity; anxiety, stress, depression control, and increasing confidence, stamina and energy; are all benefited by regularly walking. It also positively influences the body to produce digestive enzymes and correct indigestion, which is responsible for so many ailments of the body. So, depending on the type of walking and terrain of the walking track, the effect may be relatively faster in more strenuous tracks. It is a proven fact that endorphins as the body’s natural opiates relax stress, enhances elation and even euphoria for us to feel good. It curves the mental disorder and many other diseases listed above just by incorporating 30 minutes walk into our daily routine. Walking becomes a favourite exercise as ageing progresses. It all depends on the regularity in which, it is practised. It is difficult to analyse and discern more benefits in detail in this short article. Tons of information is available online. Besides, it is a proven cost-effective way to maintain personal health. It does not need any heavy and expensive equipment. This proves “Precaution is better than Cure”. If you keep yourself fit by walking, walking will keep you fit for all your

16 Walking New Zealand, issue no 291

daily activities. We should not forget that “Health is wealth”. It is very simple to start walking. One does not need a great deal of preparation. One may have shoes, comfortable clothing, a cap and a bottle of water. In a longer walk, perhaps, some light and protein food with plenty of drink will allow a comfortable walk. Some carry an iPod for music, a pedometer for counting steps and a mobile. These days, mobile is “All in one device”. However, anyone having medical conditions may consult their own doctor, about how much and where to walk, as a precaution. New Zealand is a paradise for walkers of all kinds (hiking, bushwalking, tramping and trekking). Ministry of Health site says, “Walking is the most popular sport and recreation activity among New Zealand adults. Approximately two out of three adults aged 16 years and over walked for sport and recreation in 2007/08 (SPARC 2007/08 Active NZ Survey).” However, in the context of a deteriorating environment with increasing air and water pollution in urban centres such as Auckland, and its repercussion on public health, planners have paid attention to making walking corridors within and on the outskirts of the city. It is true that a lot of things are

- 2022

being improved in line with SDG17 so that urban pollution is minimised. Auckland city council has done a lot in this area, by creating walking routes within and on the outskirt of the city. Once in a while, they also organise group walking. That is really good socially, culturally, physically and naturally and is beneficial for all involved. I must mention the contribution of Walking New Zealand, a magazine devoted to walking and walkers. It has been successful in promoting walking, short or long, turning the huge population into walkers for health benefits, conservation and connecting with nature. It provides information on all important groups, trails and dates related to walking events for its subscribers. Walking is something that everyone in all economic strata can afford to do on a regular basis to maintain their own health. District Health Boards issue “Green prescriptions” to encourage people to keep walking. It costs almost nothing but has enormous health benefits. It energises the body, mind and soul and keeps the body fit and healthy. Above left: Nordic walking on Long Trek on Annapurna Circuit. Above right: Walkers enjoying Kitekite Falls and taking a break. www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Short Walk

Wanaka Lavender Farm walk

f you have an hour or so to spare while in Wanaka, then a trip to the Wanaka Lavender Farm is a great option! Located only a couple of minutes outside of Wanaka town centre, the 20 acres of lavender farm lets visitors enjoy a breathtaking walk amongst the purple lavender fields. You can also play a garden game, relax over a cup of herbal tea and interact with the friendly resident farm animals or sample some of the many fragrant products produced on site. The best time to visit the lavender farm depends on what you want to see. Most likely you’re after the lavender in full-bloom, which means you should visit in summer from December to February. From late October you can expect to see the first lavender plants flowering, as well as some spring flowers like tulips and daffodils, and blossoms. There is quite a bit to explore at Wanaka Lavender Farm. There are various sections and there are lots of places to sit scattered around. It’s kind of like a botanic garden in some ways. An unique spot is the lavender door. It’s a door in the middle of rows of lavender and makes for a striking photo shot. The farm is open all year round and there is a charge to walk in the fields.

■

Above and below: Lavender in full bloom in January.

Walking New Zealand magazine is available at all

Freephone 0800 walking stores throughout New Zealand www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

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

Walking New Zealand, issue no 291 - 2022

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.

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.

PHOTO CONTEST Above: 60th birthday hike on Mou Waho Island, Lake Wanaka. From the lookout we could see ‘an island, in a lake, in an island, in a lake, in an island in the ocean’. Photo by April Anstis, Paeroa.

Below right: The Hollyford track , a place of serenity. Photo shows Jan To w e r s b e t w e e n Mar tins Bay and Hokuri Hut. Photo by Niki Donnelly, Te Puke.

18Walking Walking Zealand, issue no 291 - 2022 18 NewNew Zealand, issue no 291 - 2022

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Photo Contest

Above: My sister Jean from Tauranga stopping for a break while hiking along the Fairlight/Garston cycling/walking trail. Photo by Heather Winter, Lumsden. Below left: In the majestic Whirinaki Forest. A giant of yesteryear nearing it’s end when it will fall and enrich the forest floor for further generations. Meanwhile, Deborah is giving it moral support. Photo by Vicky Ross Red Beach.

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Below left: My Friend Richard on a beautiful day walking to Silica Rapids Tongariro National Park between Christmas and New Year last year. Photo by Sharon Harris,

Walking New Zealand, no 291 - 2022 19 19 Walking New Zealand, issueissue no 291 - 2022

New Zealand Guided Walks

By Phillip Donnell

From the Capital to Kapiti

and on to Castlecliff

whale-backed, oblongshaped landmark lies about 6km offshore from the mouth of the Waikanae River. It is 10km long, 2km wide and 521m high. Captain Cook first sighted it on 14 January 1770 as he sailed down the coast of the South Taranaki Bight to conclude his circumnavigation of the North Island. He named it “Entry Isle” because of its position at the gateway to what he later discovered was the strait which now bears his name. Today we know it as Kapiti Island,

a familiar feature to travellers along SH1 and the Main Trunk railway line. In the early years of the 19th century the warrior Te Rauparaha migrated with his Ngati Toa tribesmen from his ancestral lands at Kawhia, down the west coast to Horowhenua, where he launched several attacks on Kapiti Island, finally conquering Above left: In the Orongorango Valley. Below left: Great views from the Paekakariki Escarpment.

■

20 Walking New Zealand, issue no 291

- 2022

it in 1823. Once established, he was in an ideal position to trade with passing ships, and thus acquire the muskets and ammunition with which to conduct his bloody forays up and down the country over the next two decades. When he died in 1849, he was buried somewhere on the island “where he longed to be.” Today, most of Kapiti Island is in Crown ownership but some 20 hectares remains privately owned by the Barrett family. Being predatorfree since 1998, it is now one of New Zealand’s most significant nature reserves, hosting many native species that are either rare or absent from the mainland. To protect them, visitors are limited to no more than 160 per day. A visit to the island is one option on the forthcoming Capital Kapiti walking tour offered by Footsteps Walking Club of Aotearoa New Zealand, 20-26 November 2022. For walkers, there is a network of trails ranging in duration from a few minutes to a day. From Rangitira Point, the Loop walk (1.8km,one hour 30 minutes) takes you past whaling trypots, an historic whare, and a board-walked wetland. The more challenging Wilkinson Track (3.8km one way, two hours) and Trig Track (2 km one way, two hours) lead towards the summit. At the northern end, walking tracks pass through grassland, shrubland, regenerating forest and coastline, providing fantastic views of the freshwater Okupe Lagoon. The Okupe Valley Loop Track (4.8km return, one hour 30 minutes) follows a gentle gradient to a lookout above the western cliffs (198m). Alternatively, chose the Boulder Bank circuit (2km, 45 minutes). Kapiti is a bird-lover’s Eden, but is not alone in that respect within the region. The Zealandia Eco-Sanctuary in Wellington City is also noted as a featherfest. Nor is there any shortage of spectacular coastline, as visits to the Red Rocks, Turakirae Head, Makara, Colonial Knob, the Paekakariki Escarpment, the Hydrabad wreck at Waitarere Beach, and Castlecliff to Mowhanau will show. A wealth of wilderness invites exploration, from Whanganui National Park in the north, to Tararua Forest Park in the centre, and Remutaka www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

New Zealand Guided Walks

Forest Park in the south. Alongside Belmont, Kaitoke and East Harbour Regional Parks, and the beautiful Forest and Bird sanctuary at Bushy Park, a plethora of tremendous trails can be sampled therein. Or if you have an urban urge, opt for Wellington Waterfront, Mount Victoria, or Oriental Bay to Island Bay. Roam the rivers via the Orongorongo Track from Catchpool Valley, the impressive Hutt River Trails (Petone to Upper Hutt), the Waikanae River Walkway, the three Bridges loop in Whanganui city, the Bridge to Nowhere jetboat experience, the Manawatu Pathway (Palmerston North), and the Manawatu Gorge Track. These are wonderful waterways to wander. It’s a rich menu overall – with more choices, variety and colour than most of the restaurants in Courtney Place, and much less tension, stress and angst than Parliament Buildings! Imbibing the scenery in this underrated region is not only better for the waistline, but also therapeutic for the soul. And you can enjoy all of it for one unforgettable week without blowing the budget. For details go to www. footstepswalkingclub.com, or contact them 021 172 3244, footstepsanz@ gmail.com. Above right: Wetlands walk at Bushy Park Scantuary. Middle right: On the beach between Castle Cliff and Mowhanau. Below: The lookout on the Manawatu Gorge.

FOOTSTEPS OFFERING THE BEST DAY WALKS IN 20 REGIONS OF NEW ZEALAND!

Each region has a week-long package (for 6-10 people), including transport and accommodation. We welcome your enquiry:

footstepsanz@gmail.com or phone 021 172 3244 www.footstepswalkingclub.com www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Walking New Zealand, issue no 291 - 2022

New Zealand Walks

Tracks to be built by the Transmission Gully

ow that Transmision Gully Expressway is opened to vehicles walkers are now wondering when walking tracks will be built near the area. The 27 kilometres of safe, reliable, and resilient motorway isn’t all the Transmission Gully project includes. There will be several recreational walking and cycling tracks built in the final phase of the project, now the motorway has opened to traffic. Pāuatahanui path A one-kilometre-long network of shared paths will be built beside SH58 (between the roundabout with Pāuatahanui village and the new motorway interchange roundabouts). A further kilometre of recreational and scenic path for walking and cycling will follow the Pāuatahanui stream, overlooking native planting through the new Transmission Gully/ SH58 interchange. These will provide a better conAbove right: The Gasline Track.

22 Walking New Zealand, issue no 291

- 2022

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

New Zealand Walks

Project

also an excellent spot for a picnic, or to explore the historic Korokoro Dam, Pareaho Pa, World War II ammunition stores and the original main coach road from Wellington. For a magnificent view of Te Ara a Toa, the viaduct over the Cannons Creek stream, people can access the track from the top of Takapu Road and walk underneath once the path connections are re-established. A replacement carpark will also be built at the end of Takapu Road, to replace the temporary one built during construction of the new motorway, a little further down Takapu Road.

Motorway View Loop Walk

nection from Bradey Road to the Pāuatahanui village and Whitby. The flat gradient of these paths will make them suitable for pushchairs, wheelchairs and mobility scooters, as well as families with kids on bikes. Flightys Road to Battle Hill path A one-metre-wide track will be built from the northern end of Flightys Road to Battle Hill Farm Forest Park. This track has some varying terrain with a gradient up to 15% so won’t be for the faint hearted. Cattle stops/ grates need to be installed on the path where stock is moved, so this track is unlikely to be suitable for horses. Battle Hill Farm to Paekākāriki track There will be a short section close to the motorway running north from Battle Hill, then a very steep uphill climb (with gradients up to 25%) to an existing track along the western ridgeline continuing through to Paekākāriki. Currently known as the Gasline Track, the ridgeline track sits above the Kapuni gas main that runs all the www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

way from Taranaki to Wellington. The track continues down to SH59 at Paekākāriki via the historic Middle Run farm, beside Te Puka Stream. We expect this to be a popular and challenging walking track as the ridge has awe inspiring views of Kāpiti Island and on the right day you can see all the way to Mount Ruapehu and Mount Taranaki. The Transmission Gully project team is working with experts in mountain bike track design to see if it can safely become a Grade 4 mountain bike track, as well as a walking track. Belmont Regional Park Situated in the hills between Porirua and the Hutt Valley, Belmont Regional Park tracks will be re-connected under the Transmission Gully motorway at Wai o Hata (Bridge 19 – north of Te Ara a Toa). There will also be connections under the abutments of Te Ara a Toa to link with existing paths into Cannons Creek and Waitangirua. Belmont Regional Park offers bushclad tracks for walking, running, mountain biking and horse riding. It’s

There is a track to walk up and look down on the Transmission Gully Expressway on the Porirua side. It starts from the Cannons Creek entrance, and follows the track along the edge of the ponds. You then enter a short section of track through the bush before opening up into farm land. There is a need to navigate a couple of styles. The track across the farmland is grassy and reasonably wide and steep to the viewing point. There is a short branch track that leads to a viewing point over the Transmission Gully motorway. This track isn’t very well marked.

Walking New Zealand, issue no 291 - 2022

The Kepler Track

24 Walking New Zealand, issue no 291

- 2022

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

- a wilderness adventure above the clouds

his is Daniel Haddock’s experience of talking on the Kepler Track, afer completing the Routeburn, resulting in “A double happy.”

Day 1, Kepler Track car park to Luxmore Hut Five to six hours, 13.8 km

(DOC Bed Bug warning at Luxmore Hut was emailed prior to starting the walk.)

Always nice to get a pub meal, chat to the locals, and sleep in a nice bed. An early check of my booking was required at the Te Anau DOC office up the road. After it was stamped, I headed back to the hostel for my pick up by Track Net bus. I was the only one on the bus and the only one backing up from all those I met on the Routeburn. After you crossed the Control Gates, you entered the Red Beech Realm and followed the flat, wide pathway as you made your way around the lake to the Brod Bay shelter. There I met up with others getting ready to go to Luxmore Hut as well. For the next two and a half hours, there was a steady climb on a track much smoother and less technical than its sister, the Routeburn. Switch Backs assisted in gaining the requisite elevation through the bush. Large limestone bluffs made their appearance and were part of the landscape for the next few kilometres. A group of three runners with daypacks charged past. Two rangers were working alongside the pathway and we discussed the bedbug situation. Looking for the top of the bush, I continued upwards. Suddenly the vegetation morphed into an alpine environment. The rocky track offered stunning views of Lake Te Anau. Bright sunlight meant stopping and slapping on some sunscreen. Butterflies were flooding over the swathes of alpine plants. Passing me www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

By Daniel Haddock

Opposite page: A great view on the steps up to Mt Luxmore. Sliva

Photo by Penny

Above right: Watch your step in the tussock land as you head towards Iris

Walking New Zealand, issue no 291 - 2022

The Kepler Track on his way back to the hut, the ranger offered some advice about where the hut was ahead as some trampers walked past it or have had their lunch near the trail when the hut is only a few metres away around the bend. Butterflies were flooding the area over swathes of alpine plants. I shouted out when I saw the hut

26 Walking New Zealand, issue no 291

a wilderness adventure above the clouds

and the Southland Boys’ teachers on the deck laughed as everyone coming in was so happy to see their night’s accommodation. Lunchtime preparation was disrupted by the antics of “Number 2”, the resident kea, cavorting on the deck and the handrail. How come a hot lunch always tastes so good when you’ve finished your tramp for the day? Later on, a group of us walked to Luxmore Cave, a mere 10 minutes away. It was a long, narrow cavern that straddled a creek. Headlamps were a necessity and helped you to see the limestone formations inside although there were no real stalactites or stalagmites. After tea, the ranger covered the usual bases in his talk including how to prevent the spread of bedbugs. He checked our reservations and ticked

us off the list. With the longer Southland twilight, there was enough time to walk a bit of tomorrow’s track. It climbed immediately behind the hut towards Mt. Luxmore.

Day 2, Luxmore Hut to Iris Burn Hut Five to six hours, 14.6 km. (Dropping from 1400 to 500 metres) The valleys below were smothered by cloud. In fact, we were above the

Above: A kea in flight on the top of Mt Luxmore. Photo by Penny Silva Below left: The hut is a welcome site after a long day. Below right: A kea sits close to the track on Mt Luxmore. - 2022

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

cloud all day bathed in sunshine but buffeted by a cold wind especially on the ridge tops. I decided not to stop at Mt. Luxmore, but that was my mistake! Luckily, Penny decided to have a look and ended up staying at Mt. Luxmore for a while being entertained by the flying kea aerial team. Wings over Wanaka move over! Her brilliant images accompany this article. Picking my way along the rocky, narrow paths, constant kea calls resounded as they cruised around the tops above the clouds. Two runners with day packs who had started at the car park were pushing through to the end of the track. They hardly looked puffed. It’s mind boggling to think that the entire 60 km distance was cut out by this year’s Kepler Challenge male winner in four hrs. 37 mins 37 secs and the female winner completed the journey in 5 hours. 26 minutes. 29 seconds. The beginning and end of the

Kepler were faster/flatter but the Above: Penny on the top of Mt Luxmiddle sections were extremely more. Photo by Penny Silva challenging. Below left: Dropping into the LuxThe temperature had dropped more Cave. and the wind had increased. The shelters at Forest Burn and Hanging Valley were safe havens at just the right time. One can imagine that if you exTake a locator beacon with T perienced bad weather at these two you when you are hunting, y hiking or working anywhere h points on the ridge, these emergency remote and make sure you re shelters would be ‘god- sent’. will be rescued quickly w I didn’t see any one on the trail in either direction for the rest of SPECIAL ACR the day. The ranger had warned us ResQLink PLB - 400 about the “Steps”, a series of long, Only $485 Including P&P Comes with wooden stairs that would bring us heavy duty pouch down towards Iris Burn. Concentration was necessary there were huge Available for sale or hire vertical drops on either side of the $15 - 1 day $30 for every week after your ﬁrst week $30 - 3 days ridge trails. of hire $40 - 7 days As the descent began, the sun Locator Beacons New Zealand blazed through. Luckily small mossy 03 226 6341 or 027 412 2925 waterfalls on the hillsides provided www.locatorbeacons.co.nz an opportunity to wet your hat, head

STAY SAFE IN THE OUTDOORS

WE-9025668AA

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Walking New Zealand, issue no 291 - 2022

The Kepler Track a wilderness adventure and face to cool down There was brief relief as you headed back into the bush for the final, seemingly endless descent to Iris Burn Hut. Luckily the possum traps started at #1 with #24 being Iris Burn Hut. So the countdown became an incentive to keep going down and across the beech forest switch backs. A sighting of the tussock clearing

where the hut was raised false hopes of an end to the pressure on your knees as it still took ages. Being the first one, I was able to choose a bottom bunk in a room of eight. After lunch, a quick sleep charged the batteries. The fine afternoon offered a great opportunity to walk to the Iris Burn Falls for a swim. As I was soaking my legs near the falls, the sand flies were in attack mode. A quick plunge led to “brain freeze” but it was the next best thing to having a proper shower. Walking back, I went to the Iris River. Now that would have been a much better swimming hole than the falls. Jan, the warden, did a roll call, checked our Vax passes, and told us about the purpose-built Kepler Track history. Its circular nature resulted in the beginning of the Kepler Challenge in 1988 and is still well-supported. I did ask why there were not more Maori names for the walk as the Kepler Mountains and track referred to Johannes Kepler, the German astronmer, who worked out the elliptical orbits of the planets. Progress apparently was being made with bracketing the European and Maori names.

Day 3 Iris Burn Hut to Moturau Hut

Five to six hours, 16.2 km Nice to have a good sleep again and I hit the trail at 6:50 a.m. Although this was the longest day in terms of distance, it was a bit of an Above left: The Moturau Hut on the shores of Lake Manapouri. Below left: The steep descent to Iris Burn Hut.

28 Walking New Zealand, issue no 291

- 2022

anti-climax compared to yesterday’s dramatic scenery. Really it was a stroll in a fern forest for kilometres. There was a huge slip ‘caused by heavy rain to Rocky Point’ in 1984. It resulted in a re-routing of the trail. There was a small climb named ‘Suicide Hill’ but it was a small grunt compared to climbing from Luxmore Hut to Forest Burn Shelter. The sand flies kept you company but thanks to a friend’s home-made repellent ‘No-Mates’, they came close but did not bite. Following the Iris River from a distance, it was not a demanding walk as we approached Lake Manapouri. Lots of fellow trampers from the last hut carried on to Rainbow Reach or the Kepler Track car park. Due to airline times, I only had to complete 6 kms. tomorrow in order to catch the bus and make the flight rather than doing 9 km. more to the car park. Again, I was the first one to the hut on the shores of Lake Manapouri. The ranger, Grace, suggested that I walk to Shallow Bay, 25 minutes down the path. This spot offered stunning views of many of the 33 motus/islands that are in the Lake. Upon returning to the hut, I went for a swim under the sun and the sand flies. Sure the water was cold but remember lots of athletes have ice baths to soothe the muscles. I even managed a short swim. Amazing Grace Well, it was a good decision after all staying at Moturau. Ranger Grace was amazing! She got us warmedup by doing stretching exercises and then presented the usual information. We were told to put out our mattresses outside tomorrow morning as fumigators were being helicoptered in to spray all the Kepler Huts. It appears that all of us dodged a bullet as there were no reported bedbug incidents over the four days. However, at the end of her talk she offered to take anyone interested on a nature walk around the immediate surroundings. Three of us went. Just off the trail were a number of small native orchids and other plants www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

which Grace described to us. Normally you just cruise along and never look down at all the uniqueness on the bush ■ floor. Then we went down to the beach to see a myriad of Kiwi footprints leading from the edge of the bush to the sandy beach. I had never seen their tracks so clearly before and hadn’t noticed them earlier. We planned to come back at night to see if the Kiwis followed this pathway. However, 9 mm of rain had been forecast and it finally started and continued all night. Above right: Great spot for a picnic, Moturau Hut Below left: Bridge over Iris Burn. Below right: The final bridge to cross over the Waiau River to the pick up point at Rainbow Reach

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Day 4 Moturau Hut to RainWell, it only took 90 minutes before the only way to cross the now bow Reach

One hour 30 minutes- two hours. The steady rain eased and it remained fine for my last day. Penny had come through from the kitchen area where she was sleeping and woke me at 4:15 am. The fire alarm was beeping in the kitchen like a smoke alarm. I grabbed my head lamp as she didn’t have a torch and the lights went out at 10 pm every night. I was hoping to reset it and not trip the alarm. Luckily we sorted it and I could get some more sleep. For my last breakfast, I finished off the remainder of my food, Mac and Cheese plus Brown Rice. Yum! The trail was a little wet but the dripping bush was stunning. Wow, what a difference a light pack makes. Soon I was walking alongside the Waiau River and crossed it on a small bridge. Continuing on, you couldn’t help but notice how the rain had perked up the plants.

roaring Waiau River was a long swing bridge to the Rainbow Reach pick-up point. I took a selfie on that magnificent spot. I waited for the bus and when the Track Net driver turned up, it was Kerry from my Routeburn adventure. He dropped me at the Track Net headquarters in Te Anau where I waited for the bus to Queenstown airport. Seven days of Heaven Seven days in the fourth rainiest area of the world and it only rained one night with brilliant weather otherwise! The Double Happy is highly recommended for its stunning scenery and well-organised support. You can kill off two of the great walks in one trip. DOC and all the transport operators and accommodation managers were great examples of Southern Hospitality and expertise. What are you waiting for?

Walking New Zealand, issue no 291 - 2022

New Zealand Walk

Hatea Loop Walkway links town

he Hatea Loop is a 4.2km fully accessible multi use, inner harbour walkway that circles the Hatea River in Whangarei. The walkway links the Town Basin with Te Matau a Pohe and William Fraser Memorial Park on Pohe Island - from which a variety of activities can be enjoyed. The entire loop is accessible for walking, jogging, pushbikes, all sorts of mobility aids and scooters and is also suitable for push-chairs. The Hatea Loop that weaves past shops, through markets, beside yachts, parks and industrial areas, across the new cycle and footbridge over the Waiarohia Stream, is part of a grand vision of an area that all people can enjoy however they want to. Kotuitui Whitinga - the bridge across the Waiarohia Stream ties the visual elements of the sail-like canopy and the rib-like wind-break on the Canopy Bridge at the Town Basin end of the loop walkway with the two dramatic hooks of Te Matau a Pohe at the other end. Along the walkway people can enjoy an open-air market in summer, cafes, galleries and shops or the Te Kakano, (The Seed) an architectural sculpture in the shape of a koru using all the elements of Hundertwasser’s style. It is a beautiful and intriguing structure that gave the builders and artists the opportunity to adapt their skills for the now opened Hundertwasser Art Centre with Wairau Maori Art Gallery. The HAC is 100 times the size of Te Kākano. Along the walkway is the Whangarei Art Museum, home to the city’s art collection that embraces both heritage and contemporary works, and offers a captivating insight into the District’s history as is Reyburn House, home Above: The Kotuitui Whitinga walking bridge joins to Hihiaua Park. Below lef t: An outdoor fitness centre along the loop. Below right: A colour ful bed of f l o w e r s b e s i d e t h e c a f e s . Below far right: The Hundertwasser Art Centre from Dent Street.

30 Walking New Zealand, issue no 291

- 2022

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

New Zealand Walk

with Pohe Island

■

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Walking New Zealand, issue no 291 - 2022

New Zealand Walk

Hatea Loop Walkway links town with Pohe Island

Above: Many yachts can be seen moored at the Town Basin. Middle left: The walkway passes many cafes. Below: Te Matau a Pohe Bridge across the lower Hatea. Photo Novaare Design

32 Walking New Zealand, issue no 291

- 2022

of the Northland Society of Arts, is Whangarei’s oldest house, built in the 1870s and is surrounded by lovely gardens adjacent to the Town Basin playground. Along the walkway, people can enjoy the Sculpture created by local artists, including the dramatic Waka and Wave stone sculpture at Hihiaua Point of a Maori waka (canoe) breaking through a towering wave, marking the entrance to the Whangarei Town Basin. A super childrens’ playground and liberty swing (a wheelchair accessible swing) and petanque court add to the range of facilities for people of all ages and abilities. There is fascinating history of the area on the Heritage Panels, including legends of how Whangarei got its name and information about the tribes of Whangarei, Te Tangata Whenua – the people of the land, descended from their ancestors who migrated from the Pacific. The path connects with the bridge across the Waiarohia, which steps off onto a pathway along the opposite river bank to Te Matau a Pohe. From there the path across William Fraser Memorial Park on Pohe Island passes the Dog Exercise Park in one direction, where dogs can be let off the leash, the BMX track, an all ages

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

New Zealand Walk

cycle track and skatepark, before heading back towards the Town Basin past boatsheds, Riverside Park and yachts. The Hatea loop can be accessed from a variety of points. Many choose to start the walk from the Town Basin although there is also parking adjacent to the Te Matau a Pohe bridge, on Pohe Island, and along Riverside Drive. Enjoy the 4.2km Hatea Loop - a fully accessible walkway incorporating the Whangarei Town Basin Marina precinct, Sculpture and Heritage Trails.

Hatea Loop fact file

The Hatea Loop creates a 4.2km multi use trail loop around the inner harbour, including Town Basin, Riverside Drive and Art Park at Whangarei. Time given for walking the loop is 60 minutes over the 4.2km loop. The Hatea loop can be accessed from a variety of points. Many chose to start the walk from the Town Basin - although there is also parking adjacent to the Te Matau a Pohe bridge, on Pohe Island, and along Riverside Drive. It links together numerous existing and future activities and experience and crosses three bridges The loop walk includes 2.4km of 2.5m wide, broom finished concrete surface suitable for all non traffic vehicles with saw cut control joints, to make for a smoother ride. The shared pathway traverses challenging terrain such as capped landfill and reclaimed estuarine environment The project utilised waste materials such as remnants from Tutukaka pontoon. Steel remnants from Te Matau a Pohe were used to create bespoke site furniture and features. The entire walkway is accessible for walking, jogging, pushbikes, all sorts of mobility aids and scooters, and is also suitable for pushchairs. Dogs can also be taken but must be on a leash at all times except in the Dog Exercise Park. www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Above right: The harbour is home to many yachts. Above middle: On a sunny day the walkway attracts the crowds.

Walking New Zealand, issue no 291 - 2022

New Zealand Walks

Explore our beautiful botanical world

NEWS

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

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

“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

34 Walking New Zealand, issue no 291

Three scenic tracks reopened in Waitakere ranges

hree scenic tracks in Auckland’s Waitakere Ranges reopened on Anzac weekend after being closed for four years to protect precious kauri trees from disease. After an upgrade costing two million dollars, the Gibbons, Muir and Pararaha Valley tracks have opened for public, ahead of the long weekend. Auckland Council’s Environmental and Services Manager, Rachel Kelleher said to Morning Report the tracks provide an overnight or long walk tramping opportunity that has been missing since 2018. “The reopening of these tracks will create an opportunity where people can walk from Huia at the southern end of the Waitakere Ranges right around the Headlands through to Anawhata.” She said: “What’s particularly significant about this is that it’s going to be connecting with other tracks that we opened last year.” The next stage of the track re-opening program will be the

- 2022

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

Anawhata to Te Henga section which will open later in the year, Kelleher said. Kelleher said the impact of the closure will be monitored overtime. The tracks provide an overnight or long walk tramping opportunity that has been missing since 2018. Above top: A shelter on The Gibbons Track.

STAY SAFE IN THE OUTDOORS T Take a locator beacon with y you when you are hunting, h hiking or working anywhere re remote and make sure you w will be rescued quickly

SPECIAL ACR ResQLink PLB - 400

Only $485 Including P&P Comes with heavy duty pouch

Available for sale or hire $15 - 1 day $30 - 3 days $40 - 7 days

$30 for every week after your ﬁrst week of hire

Locator Beacons New Zealand 03 226 6341 or 027 412 2925

www.locatorbeacons.co.nz

WE-9025668AA

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

READERS VIEWS

New Zealand Walks

Waikanae River Loop Track

s a Waikanae resident, and regular walker of the river tracks, I can assure Judy and your readers that the tracks continue from the Te Arawai swing bridge up to the State Highway 1 road bridge, where a footpath enables walkers and cyclists to complete the full loop. This is why there are no signs. The “friendly local walker” gave Judy incorrect information, which meant she missed out on an extra 3.30km of track with some lovely bush sections. The river track on the north (true right) bank does cross private land in places, acknowledged by signs on fence lines. Dick Bellamy

Gibbons Track, Pararaha Valley Track and Muir Track entrance to Pararaha Valley The Gibbons Track Walk in the Waitākere Ranges Regional Park is a 14-kilometer long, medium-difficulty track for the enthusiasts. The track starts from Company Stream Bridge that’s behind Karekare Beach. In your way to conquer the track, you will come across some enthralling views of flora that’s found in the particular region only. Completing the track can take somewhere around three hours depending on whom you are travelling. The elevation is 276m, and it can be a little difficult to walk upwards. The walk has good mobile coverage, and you get access to public toilets. Dogs aren’t allowed on Gibbons Track Walk, and the track has no wheelchair access. The Pararaha Valley Track starts from behind a large sand dune at the www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

The track follows the northern bank of the Pararaha Stream, fording the stream to the junction of Muir Track by a large grassy area and shelter. The track is just over a kilometer long and takes about 20 minutes. The Muir Track starts from the Pararaha Valley Track by large grassy clearing and shelter. A steep track ascends around a rocky outcrop and up a tributary valley to meet the Gibbons Track and Walker Ridge Track. The track is over one kilometer long Allow 45 minutes.

Judy Eva replies I had my sister with me and we were told by a man on a bike as well as the friendly local lady that you had to cross the Te Arawai Bridge to get back to the other side due to the private property further along. The correct information is that the loop continues by going up onto the main road. As for the comment about needing a sign on the big foot bridge that you had to cross to continue the loop we had kept going past it thinking we were on the correct side to do the loop and ended up on a side road. Thanks to a local we were directed back to cross the foot bridge. Had there been a sign on it with information to cross it to start the loop it would have saved a lot of foot work for us and probably other walkers that are not local. Judy Eva

Ouch! Sore feet while walking? Hikers Wool is 100% New Zealand wool. Cushion your feet to prevent pain, rubbing and blisters. Buy online or at selected stockists For more info visit www.hikerswool.co.nz Walking New Zealand, issue no 291 - 2022

New Zealand Walks

Ashburton to Hakatere River and Lake Hood trails From the town of Ashburton there is a trail that takes in farmland beside the river and lake to the sea.

The Ashburton/Hakatere River Trail

The Ashburton/Hakatere River Trail is an easy walk or cycle which follows the Ashburton River from the Ashburton Township to the sea coast at Hakatere. The trail has an air of tranquillity and beauty once the township is left behind, as it meanders through riverside willows and past quiet farmland. The river mouth is an area of dramatic beauty. Along its 19 kilometres the trail has several access points allowing sections of the trail to be enjoyed individually. The trail can be traversed

36 Walking New Zealand, issue no 291

in either direction. From Ashburton the trail begins at the picnic area on the northern bank of the river, down stream from the State Highway 1 bridge. At the river mouth the trail begins at the upper picnic area overlooking the river flats near the Hakatere Huts. Access is also possible from several side roads.

The Braided Waters/ Lake Hood Trail

Starting in Ashburton at the south end of the State Highway One Ashburton River Bridge, the track meanders 7.4km to the top of Lake Hood. Use the parking area on the

- 2022

West side of bridge approach, walk under the bridge and turn right, walk 21Dm parallel to SH 1, look for sign which indicates track. The track passes through plantation areas, natural vegetation and along the bank of the river. Many varieties of birds can be seen and heard. The walk is a comfortable twohour walk for families. A further 1.1 km stage can be undertaken from the top of the lake to the Lake House Restaurant or a further 7km added by circumnavigating the lake. Alternatively it will take between half an hour and one hour to cycle with almost any type of bike. The trail can be traversed in either direction

Lake Hood

The lake, its park like surroundings and Huntingdon Park - form the Ashburton Aquatic Park. The park is situated 6 km South East of Tinwald with entry from State Highway One just to the south end oflinwald Township, and is open for all to enjoy. Huntington Park is the name given to all of the lake side, and residential living within the development. In excess of 80 hectares in area, 2,300 metres in length and over one kilometre wide — the lake comprises an B lane International rowing course, a separate water skiing area, as well as a separate jet skiing area, Above left: Walkers on the track. Below left: A cyclist rides through a willowed area. Below right: The path beside Lake Hood.

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

New Zealand Walks

plus sailing and kayaking, which can all be enjoyed on or around the lake simultaneously. Although there is no camping allowed at Lake Hood there are public toilets and public gas BBQs which are free to use. The Lake House Restaurant & Bar is open daily from 10:00am till late. Whether you want a cup of coffee or a three course meal, or just a cool drink in the Lake House Bar, you can sit and relax and enjoy the view of the lake. If you would like to stay ovemight at Lake Hood there is B&B accommodation available. Future plans The Braided Waters CyclewayTrust has been established to coordinate and assist a number of small community groups within the Ashburton District. The current intended planned Ashburton District cycleway route has been designed to maximise infrastructure (canals & stop-banks; quiet backcountry roads), tourism assets, scenic values, heritage values, and development opportunities while encompassing 145km of trail designed to cater for a three-four day riding experience within the district While two sections of the proposed route are already open for cycling. These consist of an 8.4 km section at the Lake Hood end of the trail and a 3km section at the Rakaia end of the 145km proposed route.

Foldable Hiking Sticks

* * * *

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

$34.95 plus $7 Shipping Available now from:

Walking New Zealand Shop

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

Walking New Zealand, issue no 291 - 2022

Auckland Walks

Six of the best walks for bird spotting around Auckland

uckland’s regional parks are havens for wildlife. If you know where to look, you can spot some of New Zealand’s rarest and most beautiful birds. Pack the binoculars and go for a (quiet) walk to see how many birds you can spot on these trails.

1. Tāwharanui Ecology Path ting destination. Follow the Ecology Path to rare takahē and tieke/ saddlebacks which only live in fenced sanctuaries, as well as kaka swooping above the canopy, and pāteke/brown teal in the wetlands.

Above: A sea view on the Tāwharanui Ecology Path. Middle: Shakespear Regional Park from the air. Below: Cudlip Point Path in Mahurangi Regional Park.

As a predator-proof sanctuary, Tāwharanui is an excellent bird spot-

For an extra special experience, stay overnight in the campground and go kiwi spotting after dark. The sanctuary is home to northern brown kiwis listen for their enthusiastic rustling in the undergrowth.

2. Rotoroa Island North and South Paths

Go for a day out on the predatorfree sanctuary of Rotoroa Island. You have a good chance of spotting resident takahē and weka, as well as tieke/saddlebacks and pāteke/ brown teal. The North and South Paths link up to circumnavigate the island and give you plenty of birdwatching opportunities.

3. Shakespear Heritage Path

Shakespear Regional Park is an open sanctuary. The range of habitats and absence of predators allows

38 Walking New Zealand, issue no 291

- 2022

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Auckland Walks

Tramping Socks

forest, wetland, and coastal birds to thrive in this park. Watch for bright green kākāriki, korimako/bellbirds, rare dotterels, and elusive brown teal. The Shakespear Heritage path runs through regenerating forest and waterfall Gully, the perfect place to keep a keen eye out for swooping tūī and kererū.

5. Cudlip Point Path

Cudlip Point Path in Mahurangi Regional Park is a loop track that varies from seaside to ridge top. Along the way, you can spot birds that call the park home, including blue reef heron, little shags, dotterels, and pied oystercatchers by the waterfront. Blue penguins also live here.

4. Maukatia Gannet 6. Oruawharo River Path Visit one of the only mainland Trail

gannet colonies in New Zealand at Muriwai. The Maukatia Gannet Path is a 25-minute walk around the headland with viewing areas where you can marvel at the impressive birds - their wingspans reach up to 180 centimetres. Above: Maukatia Gannet Path. Below: On the Rotoroa Island North Path.

In Ātiu Creek Regional Park, follow the Oruawharo River Trail to discover sprawling forest and scrubland. As well as common natives such as fantails, grey warblers, kererū, and tūī, the salt marshes and the Kaipara Harbour shoreline contain kingfishers, banded rails, and fern birds. Pāteke/brown teal also live in the reservoir.

Features: * Double ribbed cuff – prevents sock slippage * Added cushion and elastic support of Achilles tendon and arch * Mesh ventilation zones – temperature and moisture control * Nylon heel and toes reinforcements – increased durability plus added cushioning for comfort * Flat toes seam – prevents toe irritation * Cotton 66.2%, Spandex 14.8%, Dry Zone 19% Men’s size: 9-13, Leg Length 17cm Colours: Black, Blue, Brown Womens size: 6-11, Leg Length 24cm Colours Black, Brown

$26.95 plus $7 Shipping Available now from:

Walking New Zealand Shop

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

Walking New Zealand, issue no 291 - 2022

Seaview Gardens

New Zealand Short Walk

Reserve

Above left: The water tower at the top of the hill. Above middle: The signage and gardens at the end of Main Street.

40 Walking New Zealand, issue no 291

Below left: A quiet day on Foxton’s Main Street, from a little up the Seaview Garden viewpoint.

- 2022

eaview Gardens Reserve is an historic, elevated garden at the south end of Foxton’s Main Street, in the Horowhenua, that offers a short walk up a hill. The gardens contain native trees in a hilltop park, with extensive views of the surrounding town and rural areas. This area up and around the water tower was once called Ferry Hill. People used to walk up the hill to watch the ferries go across the river below and to watch the ships enter the river entrance at the Manawatu Heads (Foxton Beach). The ferry enabled travellers and the Wellington-Wanganui stage coach to cross the river to Foxton after travelling up the coast. Ferry Hill became Seaview Hill and with the planting of the gardens, became Seaview Gardens. In the 1930s the gardens included terraces, plantings, fish ponds, ponga shelters and a bird aviary. Following a cutback in Borough spending in the 1950s, the gardens have gradually “disappeared”, until in the 2000’s the council have constructed the walking tracks and planted flax and placed signs. The water tower was constructed in 1923 and still provides pressurised water distribution for Foxton and is now also used for a mobile phone tower. Below right: Plantings have improved the historic site.

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Walking New Zealand, issue no 291 - 2022

Australian Walk

Wiradjuri Trail - a track that

winds around Wagga Wagga The Wiradjuri Trail, in Wagaa Wagga, NSW, Australia perfect for walking and cycling, covers about 42 kilometres, circling much of the city and exploring riverbanks, hilltops and everything in between. The trail also winds through Birramal Conservation Area, Silvalite Reserve and Pomingalarna Reserve - perfect for wildlife spotting or enjoying some of the best views over the city. The track extends across many of the city’s significant Aboriginal places. The Wollundry  Loop - part of the trail - is 12.1 kilometres and a more leisurely walk, following part of the Murrumbidgee River and the perimeter of the Wollundry Lagoon. A popular return-route is to start from the Wagga Wagga Visitor Information Centre and walk anti-clockwise, taking in Riverside: Wagga Beach, Cadell Place laneway murals, Wiradjuri Reserve and Marrambidya Wetland. Wagga Wagga is just under five hours’ drive from both Sydney and Melbourne, and around three hours from Canberra. You can also catch the train direct from Sydney and the journey takes six hours. Or fly into Wagga Wagga Airport and hire a car. Wagga Wagga is a great base for exploring the Riverina and there

42 Walking New Zealand, issue no 291

are plenty of places to stay. Choose from motels, serviced apartments, boutique hotels, B&Bs, holiday parks and luxury farmstays.

Fact file

Distance: 42km Surface: sealed, unsealed, rough paths and shared roads Grade: Flat to moderate gradients Difficulty: Intermediate to advance Suitable for: Walking, running, cycling, BMX and pets welcome on leads Start/finish: Various locations

- 2022

Above right: Walkers on the open country part of the Wiradjuri Trail Above left: Cyclists on the Wiradjuri Trail in Wagga Wagga. Below right: A forested section of the trail.

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

CONTENTS for previous 15 issues MAY 290 2022

2 The Banks Track 3 Contents 6 New Zealand Walks: Waikanae Estuary, lagoon and river walk 11 New Zealand Walk: Hamilton Lake Walkway a popular walking route 12 New Zealand Walk: Breathtaking views on Mt Fyffe adventure 15 New Zealand Walks: Walks and hikes in the Mt Fyffe/Seaward Kaikoura Range 18 Walking New Zealand Monthly Photo Contest 20 New Zealand Walks: Turning Points 22 New Zealand Walks: Routeburn Track an ultimate alpine adventure 28 Australian Walks: Five great walks in Australia 31 My Favourite Walks: Fascinating walks around Golden Bay and beyond 36 New Zealand Guided Walks: Going guided on the Paparoa Trail 37 New Zealand Walks: Put on your walking shoes and hit the trails 41 Subscription page 42 Little feet walk the length of New Zealand 44 Index of previous 14 issues 45 Coming Events: New Zealand 47 Coming Events: Australia 48 New Zealand Walking Tours 48 New Zealand Country Breaks 51 Pak A Roo Jackets 52 ECHO Walking Festival

APRIL 289 2022

2 The Banks Track 3 Contents 6 New Zealand Walks: Autumn ambles at the end of the golden weather 10 New Zealand Walk: Mirror Lakes world famous for beauty 12 Need2Know: DOC’S top five wildlife photography tips 14 New Zealand Walk: Spinnaker Lookout Walk 15 New Zealand Walk: Take a walk along Waiheke Island’s Art Tail 16 Walking New Zealand Monthly Photo Contest 18 My Favourite Walk: Walks: Walking amongst the rock pillars of the Rock and Pillar Conservation Area 24 New Zealand Walks: Hikes and Walks out East 29 New Zealand Walk: Wairoa River Walk and Cycleway 30 New Zealand Walk: Walking through an Arboreal Ark 36 New Zealand Walk: An arboretum wau ot there? 37 New Zealand Walks: Put on your walking shoes and hit the trails 40 New Zealand Walk: The Greytown Trail an idyllic 5km walk 44 Index of previous 14 issues 45 Coming Events: New Zealand 48 New Zealand Walking Tours 48 New Zealand Country Breaks 51 Pak A Roo Jackets 52 ECHO Walking Festival

MARCH 288 2022

2 The Banks Track 3 Contents 6 New Zealand Walk: St James Walkway - through pastoral land, beech forest and subalpine regions 13 New Zealand Walk: Five days four nights on the St James Walkway 16 Walking New Zealand Monthly Photo Contest 18 Auckland Walks: Five half-day hikes around Auckland 20 My Favourite Walk: Walking around Mangere Mountain Domain 25 New Zealand Walk: Morrinsville River Walk through mature trees 26 Triple peaks 2022 - Your Summer getaway event 29 My Favourite Walk: Taking time again on Tongariro 29 New Zealand Walk: Taranaki Falls Walk with excellent mountain views 9 Subscription page

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

30 New Zealand Walks: Great Barrier Island Aotea Track for a bit of a challenge 35 New Zealand Short Walk: Scenic reserve for an easy short walk 36 New Zealand Walk: Discover Pelorus Sound and historic Nydia Track 42 Training: Training programme to walk a marathon 43 Index of previous 14 issues 45 Coming Events: New Zealand 48 New Zealand Walking Tours 48 New Zealand Country Breaks 51 Pak A Roo Jackets 52 Wilderness Guides

FEBRUARY 287 2022

2 Goldfields 3 Contents 6 New Zealand Walks: White sand, green forest, brown kiwi - an island holiday like nowhere else 9 Subscription page 10 New Zealand Walks: Footprints of Toi walk, Whakatane, Bay of Plenty 12 New Zealand Walks: Nga Tapuwae o Toi Walkway 14 New Zealand Walk: Awapikopiko Reserve for a picnic and a short walk 16 Walking New Zealand Monthly Photo Contest 18 High Achievers: The women that champion outdoor access 20 Shared Trails: Dunstan Trail links Cromwell with Clyde 24 New Zealand Walks: Waihi Beach to Houmanga Bay 29 New Zealand Walks: Four short walks from Waihi Beach 30 New Zealand Walks: Nowell’s Lakes Walkway where you will enjoy nature 35 Need2Know: Don’t go missing, go hiking 36 Australian Walk: Lake Hart - walking on salt 38 New Zealand Walk: Ongaonga Village - steeped in history 40 New Zealand Walks: Hacket Track a feature in Mt Richmond Forest park 43 Index of previous 14 issues 44 Manawatu Striders Super Seven Series 45 Coming Events: New Zealand 48 New Zealand Walking Tours 48 New Zealand Country Breaks 51 Pak A Roo Jackets 52 Wilderness Guides

JANUARY 286 2022

2 Banks Track 3 Contents 6 News: YHA closes 11 hostels 6 Te Araroa Trail: Te Araroa walkers get creative to complete trail journey 7 New Zealand Walks: Walking through old forest in Whirinaki 13 New Zealand Walks: Ohakune walks for all fitness types 16 Walking New Zealand Monthly Photo Contest 18 New Zealand Walks: Back to the 70-Mile Bush 22 New Zealand Walk: A walk to see fascinating geology in the Far North 24 Oversesas tours: Bike, boat and barge new tours in France 26 New Zealand Walk: Beyond Motu Falls - a magic breathing and conservation space 32 New Zealand Walks: A feast of waterfall walks in the Bay of Plenty 36 Directory of Walking Groups 40 New Zealand Walks: Ohakune Old Coach Road steeped in history 42 News: West Coast commits to stronger focus on walkers 43 Index of previous 14 issues 44 Manawatu Striders Super Seven Series 45 Coming Events: New Zealand 48 New Zealand Walking Tours 48 New Zealand Country Breaks 51 Pak A Roo Jackets 52 Real Meals

DECEMBER 285 2021 2 Goldfields Cavalade

3 Contents 6 New Zealand Walks: Paparoa Trail: with alpine tops, limestone karst landscapes and thriving rain forests 13 New Zealand Walk: More to Explore in Kerikeri 14 New Zealand Walks: Three interesting walks in Egmont National Park 20 Walking New Zealand Monthly Photo Contest 22 High Achiever: Regeneration the Bradley way 24 New Zealand Walk: Beehive Creek a zig zag through creek walk 26 New Zealand Walks: Summer in the South 29 New Zealand Walks: A chance to walk throughout New Zealand 30 High Achiever: Bringing the fun by going to work with an e-bike 30 New Zealand Walk: Wenderholm Regional Park walks for a workout 32 New Zealand Walk: Lighthouse popular with photographers 33 New Zealand Walk: Waipapa Point Coastal walk - for seabirds and marine mammals 34 Directory of Walking Groups 38 New Zealand Walks: 10 beautiful walks in Queenstown 42 Index of previous 14 issues 43 Coming Events: New Zealand 48 New Zealand Walking Tours 48 New Zealand Country Breaks 51 Pak A Roo Jackets 52 Real Meals

NOVEMBER 284 2021

2 Banks Track 3 Contents 6 New Zealand Walks: Five exhilarating walks in the Tongariro/Kaimanawa area 9 High Achiever: Ronnie gets back on the bike at age 72 10 New Zealand Walk: A Winter beach walk south of Waitarere 12 New Zealand Walk: The Pakihi Track for total seclusion 18 High Achievers: Three women take up 1000km challenge 20 Walking New Zealand Monthly Photo Contest 22 High Achiever: Q&A with accommodation provider and trail legend Bill Trolove 24 High Achievers: Unlikely couple meet and live their dream 27 Need2Know: New Pocket Maps app helps walkers explore 28 New Zealand Walk: Waterfalls a feature of Upper Nihotupu Dam Walk 33 New Zealand Walk: Plans for City to Sea pathway taking shape 34 Need2Know: Everyday planning for everyday people 36 Subscription page 37 My Favourite Walks: A day tramp in Akaroa - Curry Track/Purple Peak Track 40 Event: New direction for the Front Runner Hoka Christchurch Marathon 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

OCTOBER 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 experience 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 country for trampers and naturalists 32 New Zealand Walks: Papamoa’s two great recreational areas 36 Subscription page 37 Covid-19: What you can and connot do in Level 3 37 Book: Cheers Mate! Walkabout in Australia 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

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 - Wilder-

ness 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 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 you can see forever Otawa 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 West Coast’s Oparara Basin 34 NZ Cycling Trail: The diverse Kaikoura Trail 35 Shared Pathway: Shared Kaikoura pathway connect loop 36 Directory of New Zealand Walking Groups 41 Index of previous 14 issues 42 Coming Events: New Zealand 48 New Zealand Walking Tours 48 New Zealand Country Breaks 52 Great Forest Events

MARCH 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 Aspitring 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 Auckland walks this summer 30 New Zealand Walk: Gebbies Pass to Packhorse Hut 32 New Zealand Walk: Kahikatea Country - the Pehitawa section of the Te Araroa Trail 34 NZ Cycling Trail: The diverse Kaikoura Trail 35 Shared Pathway: Shared Kaikoura pathway connect loop 36 Event: Back to the future for ASB Christchurch events 38 New Zealand Walks: Mangatoi Walkers tackle the Coromandel walks 42 Coming Events: New Zealand 48 New Zealand Walking Tours 48 New Zealand Country Breaks 51 Wilderness Guides 52 Manawatu Walking Festival

Walking New Zealand, issue no 291 - 2022

Coming Events

Manawatu StriderS - ProPerty BrokerS

Marathon & half Marathon 10kM, 5kM and free kidS Marafun

Sunday 22 May 2022 MedalS for all finiSherS of the Marathon, half Marathon and 10kM

for further inforMation

www.manawatustriders.org.nz | info@manawatustriders.org.nz www.facebook.com/manawatustriders MANAWATÜ SPORT AND RECREATION SERVICES

44 Walking New Zealand, issue no 291

- 2022

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Coming Events

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

NEW ZEALAND MAY 2022

1 Omokoroa Coastal Challenge, Omokoroa near Tauranga 7 Hanmer Four Square Half Marathon, Hanmer Springs 7 Peretū Half Marathon, Rangitoto Island, Auckland 7 Saint Clair Vineyard Half Marathon, St Clair Vineyard, Blenheim 7 Southern Lakes Half Marathon, Cardron Valley, near Wanaka 14 New Zealand Sotheby’s International Realty Hawke’s Bay Marathon, West Quay, Ahuriri, Hawkes Bay 21 Whitianga Marathon, Whitianga 22 Manawatu Striders Marathon, Palmerston North 22 Porirua Grand Traverse, Porirua 28 The Tora. Te Awaiti, Martinborough

Ships Cove, Marlborough Mile Beach 9 Cougar Trail Run, Tokoroa 25 Oparara Wilderness Trail Run, 10 Forest Run Fest: Autumn Edition, Karamea Bottle Lake Forest Christchurch 26 Onehunga Half Marathon, One16 WUU-2K Marathon & Ultramarahunga thon, Wellinghton 26 Monaco Mid Winter Marathon, 17 Tāmaki River Half Marathon, Farm Monaco, Nelson Cove, Auckland JULY 2022 17 Cape Egmont Half Marathon, 9 Captain Cook’s Landing Trail Run,

JUNE 2022

5 Ōrewa Half Marathon, Orewa 5 Aurora Handicap Marathon, Uppert Hutt 5 Selwyn Marathon, Lincoln 11 Rustic Run and Walk, Bannockburn, near Cromwell 11 The Possum Night Run, Wairakei Resort, Taupo 12 Bay of Islands Run / Walk Festival, Paihia 12 The Mount Vernon Grand Traverse, Bkenheim 19 Gazley Volkswagen Wellington Marathon, Wellington 24 Te Wero o Te Houtaewa, Ninety

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Walking New Zealand, issue no 291 - 2022

Coming Events

Okato, Taranagi 21 Seddon School Tussock Run, Sed23 Mackenzie Half Marathon, Fairley don AUGUST 2022 21 Wild Auckland: Tawharanui 6 Meridian Hydro Half Marathon, 24 The Great Naseby Water Race UlTe Anau tramarathon, Nasby 6 Taupō Marathon, Taupo 27 Mount Maunganui Half Marathon 6 Hamilton City Hawks Sweeney Mount Maunganui Cup, Hamilton 27 Fullers GreatSights Bay of Islands 6 Dovedale Hill Race, Wakefield Beast, Haruru, Northland 7 South Island Half Marathon, Lake 27 The Dun Run, Nelson Hood, Ashburton 28 Heart and Sole Women’s Run Series 7 Summit Forests Kaitaia Trail Run/ #3, Papamoa Walk, Kaitaia SEPTEMBER 2022 14 Mukamuka & Mega Munter, 4 North Shore Marathon, Milford, Catchpool Visitor Centre, Rimukaka Auckland Forest Park 10 Kaikoura Whale Run, Kaikoura 14 XTERRA Auckland: Waiuku Forest, 11 Emerson’s Dunedin Marathon, Auckland Dunedin 20 Sprig & Fern 10K: Brightwater 11 Whangarei Run/Walk Festival, 21 Craters Trail Run, Taupo Whangarei 17 58th Rotorua Marathon, Rotorua 17 Race Tekapo, Lake Tekapo 18 Shoe Science Tauranga Marathon, Tauranga

OCTOBER 2022

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

1 Whangamata Run/Walk Festival, Whangamata 1 Trek the Forest, Rotorua 1 Aoraki Mt Cook Marathon, Half Marathon, 10K and 5K, Mt Cook Village 2 4 Paws Marathon, Bottle lake Forerst, Christchurch 8 Sun to Surf Run & Walk, Ohope 9 3 Lakes Trail Run, Taharoa Domain, Kai Iwi Lakes, Northland 16 Ronhill Huntly Half Marathon, Huntly 16 Cambridge Half Marathon, Cambridge 16 Crater Rim Ultra 2022, Christchurch 22 Kaikoura Mountains to the Sea, Kaikoura 22 Twizel Hard Labour Weekend, Ohau Station, Canterbury 30 Auckland Marathon, Auckland

NOVEMBER 2022

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

5-6 Rotorua Walking Festival, Rotorua 10-20 Waiheke Walking Festival, Waiheke Island

APRIL 2023

16 Christchurch Marathon, Christchurch

AUSTRALIA JUNE 2022

5 Wollongong Running Festival, Woolongong, NSW 5 Makay Marina Run Half Marathon, Mackay, Qld 19 Cooks River Fun Run 10km & 5km, Strathfield, NSW

JULY 2022

10-24 Weipa Running Festival, Weipa, Qld

AUGUST 2022

14 Sun-Herald City 2 Sirf 14km, Sydney, NSW

SEPTEMBER 2022

11 Sandy Point Half Marathon, Brighton, Vic

REST OF WORLD JULY 2022

19-22 IML Walking Festival, Nijmegen, Netherlands

AUGUST 2022

6-7 IML Walking Festival, Jurbarbas Lithuania 12-14 IML Walking Festival,Vaasa, Finland 27-28 IML Walking Festival, Verdal, Norway

SEPTEMBER 2022

10-11 IML Walking Festival, Arenzano, Italy 16-18 IML Walking Festival, Seefeld, Austria 24-25 IML Walking Festival, Brno, Czeck, Republic

OCTOBER 2022

1-2 IML Walking Festival, Fulda, Germany 6-9 IML Walking Festival, Marbella, Spain 15-16 IML Walking Festival, Arlington, USA 29-30 IML Walking Festival, Wonju, South Korea

NOVEMBER 2022

4-6 IML Walking Festival, Higasimatsuyama, Japan 12-13 IML Walking Festival, Taipei, Tiawan 19-20 IML Walking Festival, Yogyakarta, Indonesia

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

46 Walking New Zealand, issue no 291

- 2022

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

GRAB YOUR FAMILY AND FRIENDS AND GET READY FOR TAUPO AT ITS VERY BEST!

SATURDAY 6 AUGUST

CMY

MARATHON | HALF MARATHON 10KM | 5KM | KIDS DASH

Fun for the whole whanau

Beautiful medal for all finishers

ENTER TODAY AT TAUPOMARATHON.CO.NZ www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Walking New Zealand, issue no 291 - 2022

OVERSEAS BIKE TOURS

Experience France by E-bike!

GREAT COUNTRY BREAKS

8-27 June 2022 (19 nights) Normandy, Loire, Poitou 14 wonderful cycle days Visit Bayeux and Saumur NZ$6580 pp twin share wandertours.co.nz

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

ROTORUA

NORTHLAND

ROTORUA

HAWKES BAY

SPECIAL OFFER for all Walking NZ readers

FREE E-BIKE HIRE Cycling the Hawke’s Bay Trails is the closest you can get to a European cycling holiday without travelling overseas. You will see valleys of vines, winding rivers, estuary wetlands and the majestic coastline beside the turquoise-blue Pacific Ocean. Experience our tracks over 2, 3 or 4 days cycling flat, easy trails knowing you are never more than 30 minutes away from your next stop at a winery restaurant, cellar door or fresh fruit stall!

for group bookings* on all multiday cycling tours Save up to $160pp! *Group - min of 4ppl, on tours prior to 24 December 2021.

Cycle Hawke’s Bay - the best trails, food & wine!

Talk to us today p: 06 835 9030 | Ahuriri, Napier | info@takarotrails.co.nz

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

48 New Zealand, issue 291 48 Walking Walking New Zealand, issue no 291 -no 2022

- 2022

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

GISBORNE

HIKES THROUGHOUT NZ

GREAT COUNTRY BREAKS NELSON * Heaphy Track * Abel Tasman * Cobb Valley * Old Ghost Road

‘Carry less, enjoy more’ WAIRARAPA

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

Phone 03 391 4120 CANTERBURY

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

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

Whareama Coastal Walk Fully catered 2 Day Walking Adventure over private farmland with isolated Wairarapa coastline views.

Phone (06) 372 3722

www.whareamawalk.co.nz

MARLBOROUGH

NEW ZEALAND WALKS

Country Breaks

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

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

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

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. www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

You can also post an article to Walking New Zealand, Freepost 78863, P O Box 1922, Palmerston North, or fax 06-358-6864. If sending a photo by email please make sure photos are in high resolution.

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

Walking New Zealand, no 291 2022 49 49 Walking New Zealand, issue issue no 291 - 2022

SOUTHLAND

GREAT COUNTRY BREAKS

PORTABLE LOCATOR BEACONS

STAY SAFE IN THE OUTDOORS T Take a locator beacon with you when you are hunting, y h hiking or working anywhere re remote and make sure you w will be rescued quickly

MACKENZIE/South Canterbury

SPECIAL ACR ResQLink PLB - 400

Only $485

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

Including P&P Comes with heavy duty pouch

Available for sale or hire

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

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

$15 - 1 day $30 - 3 days $40 - 7 days

$30 for every week after your ﬁrst week of hire

Locator Beacons New Zealand 03 226 6341 or 027 412 2925

www.locatorbeacons.co.nz

WE-9025668AA

BOOKS

STEWART ISLAND

Kiwi on the Camino

NEW ZEALAND HIKES

by Vivianne Flintoff 900kms along an ancient pilgrimage trail in Northern Spain

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

Available from independent book sellers or directly from author E-mail : vivianneflintoffbooks@gmail.com Web: http://www.vivianneflintoffbooks.com/

NORTH CANTERBURY

NORTH CANTERBURY OXIMETERS

Fingertip Pulse Oximeter

A 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

$39.95

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 291- no 2022 50 Walking 50 New Zealand, issue 291

- 2022

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 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 291 - 2022

E CH

F-

MIU

A new range of chef-made meals for New Zealand adventurers

COO

We hope you enjoy this exciting range of real meals.

Nathan Fa’avae: six time Adventure Racing World Champion

Cooked in Nelson, New Zealand www.realmeals.co.nz 52 Walking New Zealand, issue no 291 - 2022

291 JUNE 2022

Articles inside

New Zealand Walks: Gibbons, Pararaha Valley Track and Muir Track

New Zealand Walk: Wanaka Lavender Farm walk 18 Walking New Zealand Monthly Photo Contest

New Zealand Walks: Three scenic tracks reopened

New Zealand Walk: Hatea Loop Walkway links

Australian Walk: Mossman Gorge in a thriving

News: Tracks to be built by Transmission Gully Project 24 Great Walks: The Kepler Track - a wilderness ad- venture above the clouds

New Zealand Walk: Dashing Rocks Walkway with