312 MARCH 2024 by Walking New Zealand Ltd

RECREATION WALKING and CYCLING TRAILS New Zealand Walk:

Daly’s Hut - an easy

three hour loop walk New Zealand Walk:

Balls Clearing Reserve Hawkes Bay New Zealand Walk;

Otaki River Track -

MARCH 2024 ISSUE NO 312

New Zealand Walk:

Abel Tasman Coastal Track Autumn option

Overseas Walk:

Mt Coolum - a walk over ancient rocks

a meander beside the river

New Zealand Walk:

Lake Waikaremoana

Great Walk open again New Zealand Walk, Run, Bike:

Rotorua’s Sulphur Flats walk, run, or bike www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Photo Contest winners NZ $12.50 inc GST

Walking New Zealand, issue no 312 - 2024 1

The ULTIMATE is Zerofit’s flagship product and perfect for hiking, golf, sailing or any outdoor activities when it’s cold. But if you are more active it is complemented by the Heatrub MOVE. Twice as warm as a standard base layer, the material regulates tempertures as you move, so you won’t suffer from cold sweat, if your are running or cycling.

2 Walking New Zealand, issue no 312 - 2024

Please visit the Walking New Zealand Shop: https://walkingnewzealand.co.nz/productcategory/apparel/ for more details and to order. www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

CONTENTS

Issue 312 MARCH 2024

3 Contents 4 Walk Talk 4 New Zealand Walk: Dalys Hut an easy three hour loop walk 11 New Zealand Walk: Walk to the crystal clear waters of Te Waikoropupu 12 New Zealand Walks: Walk, run or bike on the Sulphur Flats 14 New Zealand Walk: Balls Clearing Reserve, Hawkes Bay 16 New Zealand Walk: Otaki River Track - a meander beside the river 18 Overseas Walks: Goldrush Autumn in New England 22 New Zealand Walk: Ngatoro Loop Track walk through a goblin area 24 Walking New Zealand Monthly Photo Contest 26 Australian Walk: Mt Coolum - a walk over ancient rocks 28 New Zealand Walk:Reservoir Creek Walkway enhanced with new amenities 28 New Zealand Walk: Kettleholes Easement 29 Manawatu Walking Festival 30 New Zealand Walks: 10 short walks with Squawks 34 New Zealand Walk: Harry Ell Walkway - a walk for the whole family 35 New Zealand Walk: The Abel Tasman Coastal Track the Autumn option 38 New Zealand Walk: Lake Waikaremoana - a Great Walk through pristine rainforest with rivers and waterfalls 38 News: Lake Waikaremoana Walk is now open again 41 News: Real benefits by Nordic Walking for those with hip osteoarthritis 42 Coming Events: New Zealand 45 Coming Events: Australia 47 Subscription page 48 New Zealand Country Breaks Cover picture: 50 Index of previous 15 issues A couple on a quiet bay on the Abel Tasman 51 Walking New Zealand Shop National Park. Photo 52 Queen Charlotte Track Miles Holden

PUBLISHER/EDITOR: Frank Goldingham: Phone 06-358-6863, 027-274-0726 CONTRIBUTORS: Barb Lowther, Deborah Gedye, Phillip Donnell, Judy Eva, John Dickson, and June Stevenson 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 $128.00 posted, 24 issues $240.00 posted, 6 issues $75.00 posted DIGITAL $39.95, 12 issues Australia: 12 issues: $144.00 Rest of World: $155.00 NEWSAGENT DISTRIBUTION: Are Direct NZ Limited WALKING NEW ZEALAND LTD, P O Box 1922, Palmerston North Telephones 06-358-6863 - 027-274-0726 E-Mail: walkingnz@xtra.co.nz

Website: www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

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

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Walking New Zealand, 3 Walking New Zealand,issue issue no no 312312 - 2024 2024 3

Walk talk Masterton cycleway project scrapped

Plans for the Masterton Eastside Link Cycleway have been scrapped after the Government’s announcement it is withdrawing funding for the project. NZTA Waka Kotahi previously put hundreds of millions of dollars of funding for projects on hold while waiting for “a clear direction from the incoming government on its transport investment priorities”, and that direction has now been given. The cycleway project in Masterton would have been funded from the $305 million set aside for the Transport Choices Programme from the Climate Emergency Response Fund [CERF], which had a balance of $3.6 billion in early 2023. The Eastside Link Cycleway had been approved to start at the Kuripuni shops and finish at the netball courts on Colombo Road. It would’ve run past the back entrance of Chanel College, along Mākoura Road past Mākoura College, then up Johnstone Street, and onto Colombo Road to the netball courts. Above: Part of the proposed cycleway. Image by Masterton District Council

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

Fingertip Pulse Oximeter

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

Only

$39.95

plus $6.00 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

4 Walking New Zealand, issue no 312 - 2024

New alps hiking itinerary from Active Adventures

Active Adventures has launched its Italian & Swiss Alps Hiking Adventure, a fully-guided, small group tour of the Monte Rosa massif. Active Adventures’ new trip features hiking from one mountain village to the next, taking in views such as the iconic Matterhorn and stunning Monte Rosa. Guests take cable car rides at mountains such as Testa Grigia and over the Teodul Glacier. Additionally, the itinerary includes trekking parts of the Europaweg Trail, e-biking through woodlands and medieval towns, and on the last day, kayaking on Lake Orta. European operations manager for Active Adventures, Adam Beecham says the all-inclusive nine-day itinerary suits walkers seeking a more off-the-beaten track experience than the Tour du Mont Blanc. Above: Active Adventures has a new Italian & Swiss Alps Hiking Adventure.

Hiking around Perth with Hike Collective

The Hike Collective is offering easy short trail adventures at various locations across Perth in WA Australia, all less than an hours’ drive from the CBD. Hike Collective’s Summer Blend series includes halfday adventures such as Trail + Art and Trail + Paint – with the journey beginning with a hike through Perth’s Kings Park and Botanic Garden (Kaarta Koomba), followed by a botanical clay-making workshop (art) or a watercolour painting workshop (paint). The Trail + Breath option gives guests an invigorating breathwork session, sitting atop a hill along the Bibbulmun Track in Mundaring. www.hikecollective.com.au www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Walk talk

Pemberton’s new adventure attraction

The West Australian Government has invested in a new aerial adventure ropes course in Pemberton, which recently opened at Gloucester National Park and is already bringing tourism to the region. The attraction was created with $100,000 from the Community Small Grants Fund (CSGF). The aerial ropes course offers a multi-level treetop experience, including a 100m flying fox, while the WA Government’s investment is also enabling the construction of a welcome area and café, set to open later this year. Visitors to Gloucester National Park can enter free of charge for the next six months, making Aerial Adventure Pemberton more accessible for local, intrastate and international tourists.

Shared pathway on Anderson Road completed for busy season

Choosing to move around on foot, by bike, scooter, or skateboard in Wānaka became a whole lot easier with the completion of a new shared pathway along Anderson Road, in late December. Wānaka-Upper Clutha Community Board Chair, Simon Telfer said the pathway was a crucial link in Wānaka’s active transport network, providing another safe and easy alternative for people to get around town. “The pathway down Anderson Road provides a wonderful opportunity for more people to move around the area by bike or on foot, and I’d encourage everyone to give this new connection a try when heading to or from town this summer,” said Mr Telfer. At its northern end, the shared pathway connects with the recently sealed connection down Aubrey Road from Albert Town past Northlake, running through the now complete roundabout at the intersection of Aubrey Road and Anderson Road. www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Jimmy Armers Track protected into the future

Melville and Julie Symes have legalised a popular walking track from Jimmy Armers Beach that crosses their property. Most of the existing track was on an unformed legal road, but there were significant deviations onto the Symes’ property. The Symes wanted to ensure the community and tourists would continue to have access along the track into the future if their land were to change hands. The popular walking track links the best swimming beach in Kaikoura, where there is a well-frequented seafood cart, and houses at the top of the hill. This walk is popular with locals and tourists alike, providing a steady climb with great views from the top. The track has historic interest, as it is the same route that fishers took a century ago to reach the wharves. With funding from the Outdoors Access Commission and the Kaikoura District Council, the Symes have secured the route by creating a public access strip easement. Outdoors Access Commission chief executive Ric Cullinane says giving a funding grant to protect the track in the future is a sensible decision. “This is an example of local people working to improve their community. We can help turn their practical and popular public access into something that will survive for future generations.” The Kaikoura Tramping Club supported the Symes’ application to formalise public access, noting that it is a popular walking link. The track links to the Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway and the seal colony, and on to Dempseys Track, through public conservation land into Kaikoura, creating a loop track. The local mountain biking club has also supported the access, including replacing an old stile with a new one, which allows cyclists to share the walkway. If the area is further subdivided, the track will become more popular with the growing number of residents. Walking New Zealand, issue no 312 - 2024 5

New Zealand Walk

PROTEIN BARS

Lightly 40g bar coated in chocolate, these gluten free protein bars are well textured and full of flavour. Combining high protein content with great taste, they will keep you fuller for longer. The 12 pack contains an assortment of 7 flavours Caramel, Espresso, Fudge, Mint, Pineapple, Raspberry, Vanilla Bean.

$31.95 plus $7.50 Shipping

Daly’s Hut - a easy three hour

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

Boots Packs Rainwear All your tramping essentials One shop ~ Since 1988

6 Walking New Zealand, issue no 312 - 2024

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

New Zealand Walk

loop walk

n beautiful Spring weather we set off for a wander in the By Barbz Lowther Waitawheta Valley, in the lower Kaimai Forest Park, near Waihi. We chose Dalys Hut as our destination – a nice easy three hour loop. Parking at the end of Franklin Road, we walked along a well drained gravel road, and across farmland for the first half hour. A large orange triangle and Information boards indicated the start of the Waitawheta Tramway Track. We followed this track for 15 minutes, beside the Waitawheta River, to Above: Views of the farm. Below left: On the way from the car park to the farm. Above right: The Waitawheta River. Below right: The colourful Dalys Hut. www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Walking New Zealand, Walking New Zealand,issue issueno no312312 -2024 2024 7 7

New Zealand Walk

sat in the clearing for a while Daly’s Hut - a easy three hour loop walk We listening to bellbirds and watching reach the junction with Dalys Track. Turning right, we walked steadily uphill, with lots of little wooden steps. After 25 minutes the trail descended to a stream, and five minutes later we reached the clearing and Dalys Hut. The hut sleeps 16. A bunk room at each end, with a kitchen area with indoor running water between, and a large deck along the front. Brightly painted, it’s a lovely picnic spot for families. In the late 1800’s many Dalmations came to New Zealand to dig for kauri gum, which was in demand at that time to make varnish and lino. Most worked in Northland, but some groups worked in the Hauraki Plains, gum digging and draining the swamp. The hut was named after two diggers working in this area.

8 Walking New Zealand, issue no 312 - 2024

fantails flit around. Continuing past the hut, we turned right onto Mangakino Pack Track, and followed under a beautiful bush section to Deans Track. The trail here, features lots of nikaus and pungas, shaded by tall tawa, kohekohe and pukatea. It was quite lovely with sunlight filtering through the leaves, making lovely patterns. About an hour later, we reached open farmland, and after crossing a style, in was an easy open wander back to the car park. This is a really pretty three hour loop – a good ‘starter.’ The hut sat in the middle of a clearing Above: Walking along the tramway track. Below left: Steps going up towards Dalys Hut. www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

New Zealand Walk

Above left: Passing under a tree fall. Above right: Crossing the stream 5 minutes before the hut. Below left: Washing our footwear at the start of the tramway track to prevent Kauri dieback. Below right: Crossing the style to the farm.

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Walking New Zealand, 312-- 2024 2024 99 Walking New Zealand,issue issue no no 312

New Zealand Walk

■

Nikau groves a feature of Dalys Hut Track

he start of the Dalys Hut Track is about 11 km mended. Track experience preferred. Please bring suitable walking shoes, walking poles from Waihi. The track starts from the end of Franklin Road, off Waitawheta Road from SH2 and jacket recommended, Distance 7km return and time four to five hours. It near Waikino. Take care as this is private property. You can start the walk using the Deans Track, is classed as a Grade 3 track. through some farmland. The track then follows a spur Above left: Heading down to the car park up through bush to meet the Mangakino Pack Track. A .Above right: Walking under nikaus and pungas. highlight along this track is the extensive groves of nīkau Below right: A little bit of the history of Kauri logging and the tramway. nestled under tall tawa, kohekohe and pukatea forest. Turn south until you reach the junction with the Daly’s Clearing Track. Daly’s Clearing Hut is about 15 minutes along this track, above the Romanga Stream. Daly’s Clearing Hut has been repainted in vibrant colours by community volunteers. After passing the hut, the track drops gradually to meet the Waitawheta Valley Tramway. From here, head north again to return to Franklin Road. You can make a quick hop across Romanga Stream on the way back, walking downhill and some steps, and then walk alongside the Waitawheta River to the carpark. The loop walk distance of the walk is approx 9km, with an elevation gain of approx 278 metres. Medium to high level of fitness is required as well as suitable walking shoes , with walking poles recom-

10 Walking New Zealand, issue no 312 - 2024

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

N Mt Favourite Walk

Walk to the crystal clear waters of Te

Waikoropupū

e Waikoropupū Springs contain some of the clearest water ever measured, coming second only to Lake Rotomairewhenua (Blue Lake) in the Nelson Lakes National Park. What’s more, as the largest freshwater springs in New Zealand, and the largest coldwater springs in the Southern Hemisphere, it’s easy to see why people travel from near and far to witness the unrivalled beauty of Te Waikoropupū. The visual clarity of the springs is estimated at approximately 76m, statistically close to that of optically pure water. Discharging approximately 14,000 litres of water per second (enough to fill 40 bathtubs), the current of bubbles that emerge from the springs has earnt it the nickname ‘dancing sands’. An easy, flat 20-minute walk under the canopy of mānuka and kanuka takes you across boardwalks and over bridges to a viewing platform overlooking the crystal clear waters of Te Waikoropupū. Looping back around through the forest and ferns, you can take the longer route to return via Fish Creek or head straight back to the carpark. The carved pouwhenua at the entrance to the walkwww.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

way represent the significance of Te Waikoropupū to Manuwhenua ki Möhua. The springs are held in high cultural and spiritual regard and are considered a taonga (treasure) by local Māori. They are closed to all forms of contact, so swimming, fishing, diving, wading, boating and any other interaction with the water is prohibited, although the remarkable clarity of the water makes it possible to easily observe what is happening below the surface. The length of this walk is one kilometer, classed as easy and allow 40 minues return. How to get there: Te Waikoropupū Springs is located just 6kms from the Takaka township, at the end of Pupu Springs Road. Above: Enjoyng the Te Waikoropupu Springs from the viewing platform. Photo by Shellie Evans

Walking New Zealand, issue no 312 - 2024 11

Shared Pathway

Walk, run or bike on Sulphur

Flats

W ■

Above left: The trail near the start of the Sulphur Flats track. Middle left: The flat easy walking track. Below left: Looking back towards the Rotorua CBD.

12 Walking New Zealand, issue no 312 - 2024

alk, run or bike on the Sulphur Flats, Rotorua, a once active geothermal area where threatened bird populations make their home. Just off the beaten track in Rotorua but not as popular as the Sulphur Point Wildlife Sanctuary is the Sulphur Flats geological area. Sulphur Flats is at the south end of Lake Rotorua, by the outlet of the Puarenga Stream, which flows through Whakarewarewa geothermal area. Sulphur Flats is also a zone of thermal activity. Although it is close to built-up areas, it remains largely in its natural state. The adjoining Sulphur Point Wildlife Sanctuary is an important water bird habitat, and the offshore islands were once Māori stone-working sites. Part of the Te Ara Ahi Cycle Trail passes through this area. This area is designated as an area for walkers, cyclist and runners. There are several loop tracks in the area, the longest one under 10km. The tracks name suggests the area is all flat except for the part at the start that is sealed, but the rest is a wide unsealed track. You could start their journey at the start of the Te Ara Ahi Cycle Trail that officially begins at the arches leading into the Government Gardens on Queens Drive. Here you will find signs (pictured on the right) to follow. They’re not very big and on light blue posts. Bike or walk to the round-a-bout beside the museum, can’t miss it, huge Elizabethan building. Turn right to go past the front of the museum and just follow the road past the Blue Baths which will be on your right then Polynesian Pools on your left where you will come to another round-a-bout. Continue through this and turn left at the end of the road where you will see a carpark on the lake edge at the rear of the Sudima Hotel. Bike or walk to the far side of the www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Shared Pathway

Above left: The track near a small shaded area. Above right and middle left: The once active geothermal area. Below left: A boardwalk and the marked trail across the geothermal area. Below right: A bridge crosses a small stream.

carpark and turn right at the rear of the hotel. You’ll come to a left turn (if you make it to a footpath you’ve gone too far) where you will enter the track to Sulphur Flats. There is now a sign depicting you are on the Te Ara Ari Cycle Trail. You can do a loop walk or cycle for up to about 10kms going through bush on both sides while at times a wide area of volcanic activity of dried grey mud and rocks surrounding blue grey pools of water comes into view.

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

A marked track winds through its its association with the development way through otherworldly landscape of overseas tourism in New Zealand. that is, with steaming vents, bubbling mud pools, and colourful mineral deposits painting the ground. The air is thick with the smell of sulphur, a constant reminder of the geothermal activity that powers this unique place. In some part you can see towards the Rotorua CBD where the tower of the iconic Bath House building that houses Rotorua Museum is of national and international significance for

Walking New Zealand, issue no 312- 2024 13 Walking New Zealand, issue no 312 - 2024 13

New Zealand Walk

Balls Clearing Reserve, Hawkes Bay By Deborah Gedye ‘An awe-inspiring way to spend the last day of 2023’ n the Balls Clearing Reserve in the Hawkes Bay the tracks snake through an historically un-milled 36 ha reserve and can vary in time from 10 minutes to an hour. These include an easy wandering flat shaded loop walk through gigantic and thoroughly awesome podocarp forest of red beech, rimu, matai, kahikatea (New Zealand’s tallest tree) and their smaller beautiful lower-level neighbours maire, kohoku, five fingers, mahoe, tarata and New Zealand native ferns.

14 Walking New Zealand, issue no 312 - 2024

Identifying these is made easy by small informative signs at the base of some of these giants. Podocarps leave me speechless considering that the oldest trees are estimated to be some 600 to 700 years old. Taking in their gigantic form and trying to make out the tops silently waving from their high canopy is something to be done in retrospective silence. Photos can never do justice to the size and majesty of Above left and right: Some of the trees are estimated to be 600 to 700 years old. Below left: A koru fern. Opposite page top left: Looking up at a very tall tree. Below left: The track wanders through a shaded area. www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

New Zealand Walk

Stay Safe in the outdoorS

Take a locator beacon with you when you are hunting, hiking or working anywhere remote and make sure you will be rescued quickly

SPeCiaL aCr resQLink PLB - 400

onLy $ 515 Including P&P

Comes with a heavy duty pouch

these trees. Signage at the beginning of the tracks tells us that there were approximately 5000 hectares of forest in this area known as the Puketitiri Bush in the 1870s, however after nearby milling and clearing this forest almost disappeared with only the remaining 36 hectares preserved and protected in reserve for enjoyment by all of us. Birdlife is a happy addition to the sound of wind; tui serenaded us, and a wood pigeon took a heavy flight past the podocarps. A thoroughly outstanding place to visit and a wondrous place for birds to thrive. Trapping is in place; dogs are not recommended. To get there from Taradale, Napier follow Puketitiri Road into Pakaututu Road for 55 kms. The carpark and sign for Balls Clearing Reserve are on the right. The road is sealed all the way but winding and, in some parts, at the present time, narrowed due to road works and slips from this year’s storms in the Hawkes Bay. “Ka ora te ngahere, ka ora na manu” - “If the forest flourishes, the birds flourish”

AVAILABLE FOR SALE OR HIRE

FREE 90 Outlets throughout NZ.

DElivERy Trusted by Kiwis nationwide.

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

$30 for every week after your first week of hire

We have the latest models available at NZ’s cheapest prices available online. Check out our website to see our great deals!

03 226 6341 or 027 412 2925 | www.locatorbeacons.co.nz

Phone 0274 383 923 www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Walking New Zealand, issue no 312 - 2024 15

Otaki River Track - a meander beside the river

he Ōtaki River Track is a shared pathway on the northern side along the picturesque Ōtaki River from Otaki Beach to the main highway at the Otaki road bridge. The journey begins at Otaki Beach, a picturesque coastal stretch where the soothing sounds of waves crashing against the shore set the tone for the expedition. As walkers traverse the sandy shores, they are greeted by stunning views of the Tasman Sea, creating a serene atmosphere that allows for reflection and relaxation. It’s an easy mostly flat just under 4km trail used for walking, running, biking, and horse riding There is parking at either end, down Kapiti Lane, or off State highway 1 on the town side of the bridge. Dogs are welcome but must be on a leash. Along the walks are views of farmland, the Tararuas in the distance and

16 Walking New Zealand, issue no 312 - 2024

Above top: The view looking south from the viewing platform with Kapiti in the distance. Middel left: A gate at the start of the track. Below left: The trail to the right to the viewing platform. www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

the Otaki River. Start at the Otaki Beach where you may find people freedom camping and enjoying the little nooks and areas to relax around a lagoon and fisherman at the river mouth. Leaving Kapiti Lane the first thing that catches the eye is the viewing platform built by the Friends of the Otaki River. Here you will see views right down to Kapiti Island. Further up the road comes the Friends of the Otaki River, River Walk a short walk under a shaded area and carrying on over a boardwalk before joining the river pathway. The track surface is gravel on the stop bank. The road beside is to the quarry. The walking time varies based on individual pace and the time spent exploring points of interest along the way. On average, walkers can expect to complete the trail in approximately one and a half hours to two hours.

Fact file

To get there: From Marine Parade at the beach go towards the river mouth, turn left into Atkinson Avenue and then turn right in Kapiti Lane. Keep going down that road to where the track begins The track ends at 316 Te Waka Road Otaki. Length of trail under 4km. Time: one and a half hours to two hours. Track mostly flat on a stop bank. Not suitable for wheel chairs.

Boots Packs

. Above top right: The boardwalk on the River Walk. Above right: Map of the track. Below right: The shared pathway on the right with the road to the quarry.

Rainwear All your tramping essentials One shop ~ Since 1988

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Walking New Zealand, Walking New Zealand,issue issueno no312312 -2024 2024 17 17

Overseas Walk

By Phillip Donnell

Goldrush Autumn in New England

utumn in New England begins in late September and ends in late December. In a Cinderella-type move, this region sees September 1st as its cue to start its annual transformation to a xanthic carpet. Travellers flock to see the colours, a practice known as “leaf peeping.” The combination of natural rugged landscape and rural, small town villages have made several areas in New England iconic locations for fall colour photography. Hiking and

18 Walking New Zealand, issue no 312 - 2024

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Overseas Walk

Hampshire to the quaint coastlines of Connecticut and Rhode Island, New England autumns are postcard perfection. The autumn colour of the trees and flora in New England has been reported to be some of the most brilliant natural colour in the United States. By mid-September the days are still warm, but the nights have become cool. A large percentage of trees produce a pigment known as an Anthocyanin, which results in brilliant reds and purples commonly seen around this time; a change that is particularly pronounced in the countless sugar maple trees. The gradual process in which the trees change colours starts in northA b ove M t W h i t e M o u n ta i n s National Forest, New Hanpshire. Below left: Mt Katahdin, Maine. Below right: Early morning light near Killington, Vermont. walking is especially popular in this period. Yet, despite draping itself across its six states, autumn in New England is more than just blazing leaves. It is rooted deep in the American soul – so much so that parts of it feel like they were made to order by the minds of Robert Frost, Nora Ephron, Mark Twain and even Taylor Swift. From the leafy parklands and foliage-fringed highways of New www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Walking New Zealand, issue no 312 - 2024 19

Overseas Walk

and Harvard’s tree-lined Goldrush Autumn in New England Esplanade campus. From Boston, we rapidly

ern Maine and the higher elevations wend our way northwards along the of Vermont and New Hampshire in Atlantic seaboard. mid-September, reaching the cenThe largest and most northerly tral New England areas of southern of New England’s states, Maine was Vermont, southern New Hampshire, truly spoiled when nature handed and Massachusetts by early October. out its gifts. Even those who aren’t By mid-October the colour peak Mainers will attest that nowhere reaches northern Rhode Island and burns as bright as Acadia National northern Connecticut. This is the Park during the autumn months. peak season for vibrant foliage, but Follow crisp trails through amberthat’s not all that changes around this hued woods to quaint harbours, time: it’s also a season for harvest- misty ponds and glossy lakes that ing, carving pumpkins, and spotting mirror their surroundings so well wildlife. you can’t make out where one ends The Footsteps Autumn in New and the other begins. England day-walking tour (21 SepKnown as the Granite State, New tember -12 October, 2024) is timed Hampshire is where nature takes to experience the very best colours. centre stage. With a motto as deterIf city stillness calls, Boston will mined as ‘Live Free or Die’, its foliage happily rise to the challenge. Trade leafy trails for cobblestone streets Above left; Colourful Newhaven, adorned with festive lights and get Connecticut. a fix of fall round its Public Gardens, Below left: Bash Bish Falls in the Freedom Trail, the Charles River Massachusetts.

20 Walking New Zealand, issue no 312 - 2024

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Overseas Walk

is well aware of the task ahead of them come September. Leaf peep in style in the magnificent White Mountains and round the Kancamagus Highway, where hairpin turns give way to explosive views of vibrant undulating forest and the winding Swift River. Mosey a few kilometres west and you’ll find yourself in leaf peeping heaven, Vermont, known as the Green Mountain State for its impressive wilderness, which covers 75% of the state and is home to more sugar maple trees than you can shake a syrup jar at. Spend a few hours admiring the halo of golden foliage surrounding Woodstock, the flagship picturebook pretty town, and climb the reasonable 400m Mount Tom for peak autumnal views. Massachusetts feels like the heart and spirit of autumn. Enjoy ambling in the Berkshire Mountains (20,000 www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

hectares of parkland) and glimpse bears up Mount Greylock while taking in its ruby-red sea of delicatelybronzing leafage. The southern Taconics are home to Massachusetts’ highest waterfall, Bash Bish Falls and portions of the famous Appalachian Trail. Cape Cod National Seashore contains the irresistible combination of beautiful, white-sand beaches and dunes and lush, fascinating marshes teeming with wildlife. The leaf peeping piece de resistance in Connecticut is Gillette Castle. Nestled in an eponymous state park in East Haddam, this medieval fortress stands like it’s a scene in a Disney live-action remake. Complete with high wooden ceilings and deep velvet interiors that lead onto uneven balconies with views across an amber carpet interjected only by the winding rivers, this is where autumn in New England reigns. Rhode Island is the smallest slice of the New England pie, but it certainly isn’t spared from its autumnal toppings. At Ninigret National Wildlife Refuge you’re sure to spot an egret or two before leaving its feuillemorte forests of towering maple trees for the picturesque coastline from Westerly to Wickford, where littoral chic and autumnal charm meet in the most splendid of ways. We have already talked about how the trees makes autumn in New England beautiful beyond belief - the

Above right: Gillette Castle in Gillette Castle State Park, Connecticut. stuff getaway dreams are made of. Walking in New England only gets better in this season. We’ve got cooler weather, pleasant for those uphill climbs. Getting a bird’s eye view from the top of a mountain, seeing the swaths of colour stretch across a patchwork New England landscape, will make you feel a kind of homey contentment like no other. Why not join us for this unforgettable walking excursion?! For details go to www.footstepswalkingclub.com or contact us footstepsanz@gmail.com, 021 172 3244.

FOOTSTEPS

AUTUMN IN NEW ENGLAND DAY-WALKS TOUR 21 Sept – 12 Oct 2024 www.footstepswalkingclub.com 021 172 3244 footstepsanz@gmail.com

Walking New Zealand, issue no 312 - 2024 21

New Zealand Walk

Ngatoro Loop

he Ngatoro Loop Track 1.4km walk is the continuation of the Ngatoro Track featured in Walking New Zealand magazine April 2023 page 17. It is situated at the North Egmont Visitors Centre parking area and can be done separately from it’s more arduous and challenging other half which starts or ends at the Mangaoraka Picnic Area on Egmont Road (in the National Park area). Depending on which way you chose to challenge it, uphill from there or downhill from the Visitor Centre. This sister loop track is situated among other loop tracks starting from the Egmont Visitor Centre, where they are all well signposted. It takes you through a damp mossy lowland forest rata, rimu, tree ferns, totara, kamahi, kaikawaka (mountain cedar) and many other species of trees and plants including patches of the scary Goblin Forest. This once well worn path is sadly very overgrown

22 Walking New Zealand, issue no 312 - 2024

walk in a goblin and hard to follow in parts which are very rough and uneven. Parts of some of the wooden steps have collapsed and climbing down back onto and up onto the track can be tricky. Boulders which have rolled down from above are hard to get around and most of the track is hard going and very steep in places, along with exposed roots - after all it is on the side of a mountain. The scenery is ever changing and beautiful, the silence was very noticeable no bird songs and sometimes a bit eerie. There was no one else on the track and it did seem a bit spooky especially in the goblin area with their extended arms and claw like fingers stretched out as if to grab as you pass underneath, but in saying that it is very beautiful challenging and exhilarating. In one area there was a group of them all in a line. It took me an hour to do the loop which exits out onto the Translator Road where you turn right along the

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

New Zealand Walk

By Judy Eva

Track -

area

gravel road through the gate and past the camp house to return down to the parking area, signposted. I strongly advise a walking pole even two, or a sturdy walking stick, tramping boots or very sturdy shoes and the appropriate clothing for the time of the year. This walk is not suitable for an unfit person or children. The North Egmont Visitor Centre is situated at the end of Egmont Road and signposted at the Egmont Road Junction village between Inglewood and New Plymouth, SH3. Once inside the National Park area the road leading up to the visitor centre and large parking area is very narrow, winding and uphill and care must be taken. It is approximately 6 kms to the top. No pets allowed in Egmont National Park, even if left in vehicles. Check the weather forecasts as things can change very quickly. In the summer holidays the parking areas

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

at the centre can be full. There is parking on the level above the visitor centre if needed. If you wish to check for weather conditions and parking you can phone (06) 756 0990 or go online for information. Many of the tracks can be closed off due to wet weather and flooding. There is free overnight parking for self contained motor homes information leaflets available and an experienced person to answer other questions you may have. There are public toilets, picnic tables and many other short walks to enjoy. Above left: Start of loop tracks down below Visitor Centre. Above centre: The steep stone covered track. Above right: Natures steps, formed tree roots. Below far left: Goblin sentry on duty at the exit to the walk. Below middle: Rough terrain once on the track following the signposts. Below right: A male Goblin in the Goblin forest.

Walking New Zealand, 23 Walking New Zealand,issue issueno no 312312 - 2024 2024 23

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.

Above: top This magnificant Pohutukawa tree perched on the cliffs between Homunga and Orokawa Bays Waihi Beach was the perfect place for lunch on our December hike. Photo by Sue Eccles, Te Aroha. Above: Members of the Upper Hutt Walking and Tramping Club out on a Thursday walk in the Wainuiomata Recreation Reserve. Photo by Judith O’Leary Clouston Park, Upper Hutt.

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

24 Walking New issue no no 312312 - 2024 24 Walking NewZealand, Zealand, issue - 2024

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Photo Contest

PHOTO CONTEST Above left: My husband Bruce on one of the trails at Cornwall Park in Auckland. Photo by Jo Alexander of Epsom Auckland. Above right: Waiting for a bus on the Tanekaha walking track near Mangawhai. Yeah right!! Photo by William Fuller, Russell. Below right: Pictured are the Invercargill walkers walking to Te Anau township along beside the lake. Photo by Heather Westrupp, Richmond, Invercargill.

Subscribe or renew your subscription to Walking New Zealand today and you can save up to 20% off the cover price. Subscribe today - just freephone 0800-925-546

m 2 years (24 issues) $240.00

You SAVE 20% off cover price

m 1 year (12 issues)

$128.00

You SAVE 15% off cover price

...............................................................................................................................................

Freepost 78863, Name Walking New Zealand Ltd, ............................................................................................................................................... P O Box 1922, Address Palmerston North 4410 or fax 06-358-6864

................................................................................................................................................ Town/City Phone

m 6 months (6 issues) $75.00

or email details to: walkingnz@xtra.co.nz

DIGITAL m 1 year (12 issues)

or on our secure website: Name on card ............................................................... Amt $ ................... www..walking newzealand. co.nz

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

$39.95

m Visa

m Mastercard m Amex

Card No ............................................................................. Exp ...................

WalkingNew NewZealand, Zealand,issue issueno no312 312- -2024 2024 25 25 Walking

Australian Walk

Mt Coolum - a walk over ancient rocks

Australia’ Sunshine Coast has a challenging walk to the surface. The walking track includes some summit of Mt Coolum, where there are spectacular 360 deof nature’s own rock steps. Formed gree views of the coastal area, including Point Cartwright during the volcanic period, large and the Glass House Mountains to the south, the Blackall hexagonal cooling columns lie almost horizontally in the track’s path. Range to the west, and Noosa Heads to the north.

An estimated 50,000 people climb the mountain each year and it’s easy to see why This Grade 4 walking track is suitable for fit walkers only. There are steep, rocky sections and the summit is 208m above sea level. Loose gravel surfaces and exposed naturally-oc-

curring lookouts. Supervise children closely. Mt Coollum is one of the Sunshine Coast’s ancient volcanic domes that was created about 26 million years ago. Mount Coolum is a laccolith, formed when a dome-shaped bulge of magma cooled below the Earth’s

The walk begins in open forest and as the elevation increases and soils change, the forest becomes woodlands, shrublands, and then low montane heath on the summit. Montane heath plants are dwarf species that rarely grow above one metre in height. This is due to the harsh conditions in which they grow,

Above: Mt Coolum from a residential street. Below left and right: The track can be quite busy at times.

26 Walking New Zealand, issue no 312 - 2024

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Australian AustralianWalks Walk

including exposure to high winds and sun, as well as infertile substrates and high evaporation rates. In the park there are 590 flowering plants, 49 ferns and over 100 species of the lesser plants such as mosses, liverworts, lichens etc. By way of comparison, there are only 1400 species in all of Great Britain. Deserving particular note is the fact that the 49 ferns belong to 20 distinct families, some 40% of all fern families living on earth today. Psilotum Nudum, evolutionary the world’s most primitive plant, is common. Two recently discovered species of trees are found nowhere else, and the area in general is unique in that numerous species find the limit of their distribution, be it in northern or southern, on Mount Coolum. It is essential that visitors keep t o t h e wa l k i n g t r a c k a n d d e fined viewing areas to avoid trampling and damaging plants. This park is excellent for bird watching. Many honeyeaters can be seen in the heath and birds of prey, including resident peregrine falcons, soar above. During winter and spring migrating whales can be seen out at sea. In the summer months walk in the cooler parts of the day to avoid heat exhaustion. Walk the track in fine weather only. The track becomes extremely slippery when wet.

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Things to know before you go Toilets are not provided in this national park. Plan to visit nearby public toilets before you visit. Public toilet locations: Birrahl Park public toilets—1.8km north of the walk entrance via David Low Way, turn right onto Goongilla Street. Felix Parry Park public toilets— 3.2km south of the walk entrance via David Low Way. Turn left onto Tamarindus Street, then left onto Marcoola Esplanade. Essentials to bring Bring your own drinking water— this is not provided. Carry a first-aid kit, insect repellent and a mobile phone.

Above right: The track runs up through a natural arch. Below left and right: Views from Mt Coolum towards the Tasman Sea.

Fact file

800m hike to the top for most ages. Fair level of fitness required Park in Tanah St, off David Low Way, past the Mount Coolum IGA Bring your own drinking water—this is not provided. Carry a first-aid kit, insect repellent and a mobile phone. Wear sturdy shoes, a hat, protective clothing and sunscreen. Bring a camera and binoculars. Remove your rubbish from the park Best time to walk is the early morning or late afternoon, but this is very popular and the path can get busy, but if you are planning the trip with your family, consider going outside the pre and post working hours rush (between 6am and 9am and 4pm to 6pm). Public holidays can also be very busy. Mount Coolum summit walk (Class 4) Distance: 1.6 km return Time: Allow about two to two and a half hours return.

Walking New Zealand, issue no 312 - 2024 27

New Zealand Walk

Reservoir Creek Walkway

he spectacular walkway climb from Waimea Inlet, 568 metres of ascent up Richmond Hill, Nelson now has new signs and amenities. The folk from Keep Richmond Beautiful have used a $3000 Community Grant from the Tasman District Council and a $2400 enhanced access grant from Herenga ā Nuku Aotearoa to develop the Reservoir Creek Walkway. The money has allowed the community group to install high-quality signs from the shoreline to the skyline. The new amenities include 40 track markers, two picnic tables, three interpretation panels and, at the top of the hill, a plane table. They have replaced ageing, incomplete signs and faded interpretation panels on the lower part of the walkway The Reservoir Creek Walkway was recently extended to the skyline by Keep Richmond Beautiful. The walkway travels for 5.5km from the sea, initially through Richmond township, then across Tasman District Council land to reach the skyline on Barnicoat Range, east of Richmond Hill.

enhanced with new amenities

Ross Cullen, spokesperson for Keep Richmond Beautiful, says locals and visitors both value the new walkway. “It encourages people to follow the stream from Waimea Inlet, through suburban parks, past historic sites and up a bush-shaded trail to reach the skyline. The new signs and track markers bring all those elements together and help tell the story of our town.” Keep Richmond Beautiful has worked for more than 20 years in conjunction with Tasman District Council on enhancing and maintaining the Reservoir Creek corridor and walkway. Cullen says the trail is an important part of Richmond. “This walkway contributes to physical and mental wellbeing in our community, it showcases our history and connects us to nature.” The new signs and amenities have aroused interest and increased the number of people using the walkway. Above: One of the new signs on the walkway. Photo by Keep Richmond Beautiful

Kettleholes Easement

ust north of Omarama in the Waitaki are is the Wairepo Kettleholds Conservation Area.

Turn off SH8 Quailburn Rd, 4km North of Omarama. The road changes from sealed to gravel and it is soon after this change – on the right hand side – where the track begins. Drive carefully as this is part of the Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail. The initial part of this track is a public access easement along a formed road. Climb over the stile to enter the conservation area. Head east to find the kettleholes which are down in depressions. When dry the kettleholes reveal a rich plant-life of very small herbs, which form a dense turf.

These kettleholes provide an important feeding area for several important bird species including the endangered kakī/black stilt. Time: One hour one way Distance: 3 km return (via same track) No dogs allowed Above: The Kettleholes Conservation area.

Subscribe or renew your subscription to Walking New Zealand today and you can save up to 20% off the cover price. Subscribe today - just freephone 0800-925-546

m 2 years (24 issues) 240.00

You SAVE 22% off cover price

m 1 year (12 issues)

$128.00

You SAVE 17% off cover price

...............................................................................................................................................

................................................................................................................................................ Town/City Phone

m 6 months (6 issues) $75.00

or email details to: walkingnz@xtra.co.nz

DIGITAL m 1 year (12 issues)

or on our secure website: Name on card ............................................................... Amt $ ................... www..walking newzealand. co.nz

$39.95

28 Walking New Zealand, issue no 312 - 2024

m Visa

m Mastercard m Amex

Card No ............................................................................. Exp ...................

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

MARCH

7th

1, 2 & 3, 2024

Inspiring walks for families to trampers

There’s so much to do in the Manawatu * Walk the Sunset Beach Walk starting at Foxton Beach ending with Fish and Chips at Himatangi.

* Tramp the Burttons Track section of the Te Araroa Trail

* Forest & Bird guides will explain the history etc on the Manawatu Gorge Walk ending at a cafe. * Have family fun walking the Tawa Loop Walk in the Manawatu Gorge., by Forest & Bird

* See magnificent views over the Manawatu from the North Range Road to Woodvile hike.

* Be guided on a tour of the Mural and Sculpture walk around the city of Palmerston North

* Walk with a Night Walk to the Stars along the Manawatu River in the evening. .... Plus so much more! Bookings now open at www.mwf.org.nz

Bookings Essential www.mwf.org.nz www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Walking New Zealand, issue no 312 - 2024 29

10 short walks with squawks

Above: Birds swalking. Photo Leon Berard

Motukiore Island Walk, Whangārei area

When doing the Motukiore Island walk be prepared to get your feet wet, as the track makes its way through the mangroves with the ‘Pines’ fairways on one side and the Whangārei Harbour on the other. The sandspit out to the island is walkable at low tide only. Crossing is only possible up to two hours either side of low tide. Once out on the island you can roam as you like, from the prominent pā at the southern end of the island to the site of an historic homestead at the northern end. Motukiore Island is in Parua Bay, 400m east of the end of Manganese Point. The birds – Motukiore Island is a 5-ha recreation reserve. Mature pōhutukawa trees surround the shoreline and the birdlife is abundant around the Island. New Zealand Fairy Tern/Tara iti and oystercatcher/tōrea pango are frequent visitors. New Zealand fairy tern/tara iti is probably New Zealand’s rarest native breeding bird. It has a population of fewer than 40 individuals including approximately nine breeding pairs. Oystercatchers/tōrea are very vocal; loud piping is used in territorial interactions when alarmed. Chicks are warned of danger with a sharp, loud ‘chip’ or ‘click’. Adults have black uppers, and their undersides vary from all black, through a range of ‘smudgy’ intermediate states to white. Above: A shorebird – variable oystercatcher. Photo by Shelley Ogle

By Department of Conservation

hort walks and leisurely activities like sightseeing, photography, and bird and wildlife watching were the most popular outdoor activities for Kiwi and international visitors last summer according to DOC’s annual visitor insights. So, it makes sense to combine two passions for double the fun this summer, right? How about mixing a short walk with native bird spotting? From the far north to the deep south, through lush native bush, ancient forests and rugged coastlines, New Zealand has the perfect mix of short walks and unique birds: New Zealand birds A – Z: Native animal conservation (doc.govt.nz) Here are 10 awesome short walks where the birdsong is varied and sweet

30 Walking New Zealand, issue no 312 - 2024

Mangawhai Cliffs Walkway, Northland

TheMangawahai Cliffs Walkway has breathtaking coastal views extending from Bream Head in the north down to the Tāwharanui Peninsula in the south. The Coromandel Peninsula and Great Barrier Island/ Aotea are often seen on the horizon. The track starts along the beach, then climbs quite steeply for about 20 minutes to a lookout point. It then winds past ancient pōhutukawa teetering on the sheer slopes before descending to the stony beach below. From here you can walk back along the beach (8 km), but only at low tide. Keep to the marked track as it crosses private property. The birds – New Zealand pigeon/kererū/kūkupa and North Island kākā make occasional visits from the offshore islands. Kererū play a special role in regenerating New Zealand’s native forests. They’re one of only two bird species (Chatham Island pigeon/parea is the other) that can help spread the seeds of native trees like karaka, miro, tawa and taraire. Kākā are boisterous and social, they like to gather first thing in the morning and late at night for a good gossip. Above: A kererū. Photo M Hayward. You can now view and enjoy the latest issue of

Walking New Zealand magazine online for $3.95 at http://www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Rangitoto Summit Track, Auckland

The Rangitoto Summit Track has well-formed paths wind through ancient lava fields, which support the largest pōhutukawa forest in the world and provide a home to dozens of shore, sea and forest birds. At the summit another track circles the rim of the crater. Take a side trip to the lava caves or an alternative route to Rangitoto Wharf. Check out the DOC website for more information. The birds – Rangitoto’s pest-free status has seen native forest birds like bellbird/korimako*, New Zealand pigeon/kererū/kūkupa, tūī, fantail/pīwakawaka, grey warbler/riroriro, whitehead/pōpokotea and New Zealand parakeet/kākāriki flock back to survive and thrive. *Most New Zealanders can easily recognise the The Arohaki Lagoon Track follows an old disused bellbird/korimako by its song, which Captain Cook hauling track before descending and crossing the described as sounding ‘like small bells exquisitely Waiatiu Stream. tuned’. They have three distinct sounds, and songs vary The track follows a spur and climbs to a terrace before enormously from one place to another. You can listen to continuing west and reaching a viewing platform at recordings of their songs on the DOC website: Arohaki Lagoon at the end of the track. The ephemeral rain-fed lagoon is surrounded by towering kahikatea and is often alive with frog croaking – and in times of drought, appears to dry up. The birds – Impressive tawa/podocarp forest leads to a rain-fed waterway which is home to several rare birds. Birdlife includes blue duck/whio*, North Island kākā, red and yellow crowned kākāriki, kiwi and New Zealand pigeon/kererū/kūkupa. *Blue duck/whio are a taonga (treasured) species that Māori have a strong cultural, spiritual, and historic connection with. Their Māori name is whio in the North Island or ko whio whio in the South Island, which depicts the call of the male bird. They are forever watchful and will always see you before you see them, when the male will sound the alarm call. Above: Whio adult and ducklings. Photo Tyrone Smith | DOC

Arohaki Lagoon Track, Whirinaki, East Coast, NI

Glory Track, Invercargill area

The Glory Track can be made into a loop by joining the Foveaux Walkway along the coast. Starting at either Stirling Point or Gunpit road, this track winds through diverse native bush passing historic features including the WWII gun pit and lookout bunker. There are scenic views across Foveaux Strait to Stewart Island/Rakiura and you can catch a glimpse of the iconic Dog Island Lighthouse. Throughout your journey you will notice the varied and lively birdsong brought back to Motupohue (Bluff Hill) by extensive restoration work. The birds – The Motupohue Environment Trust has been controlling predators in the area, which has allowed the bush to regenerate and thrive. In 2017 South Island robin/kakaruai was reintroduced and now there is lively birdsong and a healthy forest environment. www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Motueka Sandspit, Nelson/Tasman region

The Motueka Sandspit is an internationally recognised site for local and migrant shorebirds, Motueka Sandspit is part of the Motueka River delta, which consists of the sandspit, the river mouth, and the ‘Kumaras’ estuary. The birds – This site is considered internationally important (under the Ramsar convention for wetlands) due to the number of Eastern bar-tailed godwit/kuaka*, variable oystercatcher/tōrea, and South Island pied oystercatcher that use the site. Other birds using the site are banded dotterel/tūturiwhatu, ruddy turnstone, terns and gulls. *Eastern bar-tailed godwits/kuaka are one of 35 species which come to New Zealand every summer from their breeding ground in the Arctic. They all fly huge distances as the seasons change to either exploit rich feeding grounds or to avoid frozen lands. Above: NZ dotterel chick. Photo Thomas Hamill Walking New Zealand, issue no 312 - 2024 31

New Zealand Walks

10 short walks with squawks

Lake Gunn Nature Walk, Fiordland

The Lake Gunn Nature Walk is a short loop that takes you through a tranquil beech forest with many trees covered in moss and great views of Lake Gunn and the surrounding mountains. A short side path takes you out onto a stony beach. From here you get a good view of the mountains that surround Lake Gunn. The walk is very popular throughout the year but isn’t as busy in the colder months. The track is near the popular Cascade Creek Campsite. The birds – The Eglinton valley is a stronghold for New Zealand’s native birds: South Island robin/kakaruai, South Island kākā, yellowhead/mohua* as well as short-tailed and long-tailed bats/pekapeka. *The yellowhead/mohua is a small, insect eating bird which lives only in the forests of New Zealand’s South Island and Stewart Island. To listen to this pretty little bird’s song, visit: doc.govt.nz/globalassets/documents/conservation/ native-animals/birds/bird-song/yellowhead-song.mp3 Above: South Island kākā. Photo Leon

Berard

Bob’s Cove Bridal Track, Queenstown

The Bob’s Cove Bridal Track follows history along the original Bridle track linking Queenstown and Glenorchy. Original schist retaining walls can still be seen north of Bob’s Cove. The birds – Kōwhai, fuchsia and rātā trees border Lake Whakatipu, feeding nectar-loving birds such as bellbird/korimako and tūī*. The tender shoots of the flowering kōwhai and fuchsia are eaten by New Zealand pigeon/kererū/kūkupa. The track also passes through one of the last remaining mature stands of red beech around Whakatipu. *Tūī are very attractive birds that can often be heard singing their beautiful melodies before they are spotted. You will recognise them by their distinctive white tuft under their throat. Tūi are important pollinators of many native trees and will fly large distances, especially during winter for their favourite foods. They feed mainly on nectar from flowers of native plants such as kōwhai, puriri, rewarewa, kahikatea, pohutukawa, rātā and flax/harakeke. Occasionally they will eat insects too. Above: A tūī. Photo Leon Berard | Creative Commons

Ultima UT - 608 The only Pedometer you will ever need! No Computer - No Smart phone - No Wristband needed

The ULTIMA UT-608 is the pedometer of choice for walkers/ joggers who want more individual and detailed feedback on their daily exercise. Its MVPA system is fully customizable and its 7-day memory lets you review a week’s worth of data including total steps, calories consumed, distance travelled, time spent active and time spent in your MVPA zone. Its advanced G-sensor technology lets you wear the ULTIMA UT-608 around your neck, in a pocket or in a bag while still providing outstanding accuracy. Features: * Two-row easy to read and clear display * Advanced G-sensor technology * Easy fits in pocket, bag or around your neck * Calculates number of steps taken, distance travelled and calories consumed * Calculates average speed (both steps/minute and km/h) * Customizable MVPA system * 7-day memory with automatic reset at midnight memory, mode and reset keys

32 Walking New Zealand, issue no 312 - 2024

Only $64.95 plus $5.50 P&P

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz/ PEDOMETERS

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

freephone 0800-925-546

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

New Zealand Walks

Craigieburn Nature Trail, Canterbury

Devils Punchbowl Walking Track, Canterbury

The Devils Punchbowl Walking Track follows the footbridge across the Bealey River. The next bridge, over Devils Punchbowl Creek, has a good view of the waterfall. From here, wander through lush beech forest with friendly fantail/pīwakawaka and tomtit/miromiro before climbing 150 m up a series of steps to a viewing platform at the base of this spectacular waterfall. The birds – Kea love this place as much as people do. If you see or are approached by kea, please don’t feed them. This can change their natural behaviour and put them at risk. There’s also a good chance you’ll hear great spotted kiwi/roroa during a twilight evening walk. Above: A kea. Photo Sabine Bernert

The Craigieburn Nature Trail heads through mountain beech forest and begins at the Environmental Education Centre. You can have a close look at different stages of beech tree life and what grows on the trees – lichens and mosses – and a small insect that secretes honey dew (a small droplet of sweet liquid that birds feed on). Between late December to February the red flowers of native mistletoe/pikirangi can produce patches of blazing colour in the tree canopy. The birds – Common native forest birds living in this area include bellbird/korimako, tomtit/miromiro and grey warbler/riroriro*. *”In the warm sunlight of advancing summer, when the manuka-scrub is covered with its snow-white bloom and the air is laden with the fragrance of forest flowers, amidst the hum of happy insect-life, a soft trill of peculiar sweetness—like the chirping of a merry cricket—falls upon the ear, and presently a tiny bird appears for an instant on the topmost twigs of some low bush, hovers for a few moments, like a moth before a flower, or turns a somersault in the air, and then drops out of sight again. This is the Grey Warbler, the well-known Riroriro of Māori history and song.” – Sir Walter Lawry Buller, A History of the Birds of New Zealand, 1888, London

The H215 Professional 4 Function Pedometer

The H-215, 4-function pedometer is a superb, reasonably priced pedometer that counts steps, calculates distance, calories burned and has a 12/24 hour clock. This is the model that has sold over a quarter of a million worldwide. It has the largest display of any pedometer we tested and is very accurate. Dimensions: (L) 5.6 * (W) 3.7 * (t) 2.7 cm Price only

$36.95

plus $6.00 P&P

Phone 0800-925-546 for bulk prices

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 312 - 2024 33

■

Harry Ell Walkway - a whole family walk

he Harry Ell Track, located on the Christchurch where you began. The walkway is 3km one way that takes about 45 Port Hills is a great walk to explore the native and minutes. Toilets are located at Victoria Park and Sign exotic woodland, with your whole family, includof the Kiwi. ing your furry friends, but your furry friends must be on a leash! Start this fun walk from the Sign of the Takahe where you join the well formed path above the left side of the road. The walkway is named after a Canterbury legend, Harry Ell who played a significant role in stopping the closure of the Port Hills tracks and who passed the scenery preservation bill in 1903 which now days allows us to explore these stunning nature reserves. Along the way you you’ll find plenty of spots to rest and where you can enjoy the beautiful scenery, ranging from open areas that offer stunning views of the city to bushy areas that are home to native birds. This gradual hill brings you to Victoria Park and continues on up to the top of Summit Road. Stop and take in the incredible views overlooking Christchurch and on a clear day, the snowy mountain backdrop (Southern Alps). 100 meters up the road you will see the Sign of Above top: Great views from the Harry Ell Walkway.. the Kiwi Café which is a great place for a light refresh- Above right: The track is well sign posted. ment before heading back down the Harry Ell track to Below right: More great views from the walkway.

34 Walking New Zealand, issue no 312 - 2024

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

New Zealand Walk

Abel Tasman Coast Track - the Autumn option

Above: John’s tent at the Torrent Bay campsite.

But all this beauty and ease of access comes at a price. I hear it gets rather busy. Some like a lot of neighbours, other head for the wilds to get away from them. Being By John Dickson nybody with any knowledge of walking in New a coastal track, walkers have options to get transported Zealand is aware of the Abel Tasman Coast Track. in and picked up by boat to and from the sections they It’s a Great Walk. Rumours are it is the most select. Day walkers and casual amblers are injected walked track in New Zealand; each year approximately into the environment, alongside the through hikers 200,000 people stride out on this well maintained, gently set on ‘knocking it off’ in three or four days. A rather unique set of circumstances. A turn off for some. undulating and curvaceous walk in the park. So, may I suggest an off-peak adventure? Autumn is good. The Abel Tasman National Park, located at the top east The sea is still very swimmable and there will usually of the South Island - or Te Wai Pounamu. The Abel Tasman Coast Track: quality camping sites be some predictable anticyclones crossing the similarly and bookable huts courtesy the Department of Conserva- named Tasman Sea. Immigrants from the Netherlands have made a mastion - Te Papa Atawhai. Recovering coastal bush, kaka, swing bridges over sive contribution to New Zealand. Following on from gushing crystal-clear streams, and any number of coastal a brief and tumultuous visit by explorer and sea captain headlands, golden sand beaches and photo worthy views. Abel Janszoon Tasman and crew, the Dutch gifted us For full and current details I recommend the Doc web- our nation’s name: after Zeeland province, we all learned site. ‘Walking the Abel Tasman - plans and promises’ at school. Nova Zeelandia will be recognisable to any Spanish (Walking NZ issue no.304) is a great account to study or Portuguese speakers - it’s the formal Latin name. as well.

Walking New Zealand magazine is available at and

stores throughout New Zealand www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Freephone 0800 walking to subscribe to Walking New Zealand magazine Only $128 for 12 months

Walking New Zealand, issue no 312 - 2024 35

New Zealand Walk Overseas Walking Tour

Abel Tasman Coast Track - the Autumn and then at Onetahuti, my turn option around point. I was ambling. Clear-

H215S Pedometer Digital Step Counter

* Measures walking/jogging steps up to 99999. * Compact Clamshell Design. * Jumbo LCD. * Solid and Strong spring belt clip. * Solid and lightweight. * Great for all-day wear. * White in colour * An ideal pedometer for team challenges. * Complete with battery. Only

And yes, sea faring voyagers from Hawaiki peopled these islands long before Abel was a boy. Anyway, we honour Abel with a sea and an adjoining park. Project Janszoon is well worth a look into for park history. Having some work to do in Motueka (or Mot, as I heard the locals refer to it) I decided to bookend a weekend with a couple of days annual leave, grab a fine weather window, and set out from Mārahau on a sunny Friday morning in May 2023. You can get from Motueka to the trail head at Mārahau by a reasonably priced taxi service. I employed the Nelson family taxi service, gratefully. My idea was to walk in two days, and walk out two days - thus avoiding any logistical challenges at the other end of the track. Friday, Saturday and Sunday were clement - perfect conditions for pack carrying; kind of cloudy, but warm, and off shore visibility to coastlands and picturesque islands was good. As mentioned, there are a ton of picturesque vistas to pause over. I camped night one at Bark Bay

$24.95 plus $6.50 P&P Contact us for group discounts Order-on-line:

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz/ PEDOMETERS

WALKING NEW ZEALAND Ltd

P O Box 1922, Palmerston North, 4440 Phone 06-358-6863: fax 06-358-6864 or

freephone 0800-925-546

36 Walking New Zealand, issue no 312 - 2024

ly not out to break any records. Both campsites I had to myself, although at Bark Bay there was a contingent of friendly American university students in residence in the not too distant hut. Both campsites are beachside, and each offer an excellent cooking shelter; flush toilets (unbelievably); fresh water on tap; and fire pits with some split timber. The night at Onetahuti was especially memorable - it’s one of the more ‘remote’ campsites and to have the whole area to myself felt - well rather selfish! Alarmingly though, in the wee small hours I was called to wee, and saw a vessel operating offshore in the lee of Tonga Island. In a marine reserve, at 2am-ish. I notified the authorities on my return. Paua and crayfish poaching, one assumes. On the return leg I slung up my tent amongst the woodland camp at the charming village of Torrent Bay. Within the national park there are some small settlements accessible only by sea or on foot and some baches. One woman’s bach is an-

New Zealand Overseas Walking Tour Walk

other man’s rather impressive home, or so it appeared to me at least. The weather was closing in, and the Metservice’s promised deluge commenced at around 4am in the morning. I regretted ignoring the prompt to dig a small ditch around my tent the evening before, and woke up marooned on a tiny orange island: my Klymit insulated sleeping mat. No worries, one can carefully pack up one’s few belongings on an island in a shallow puddle. And I did so briskly as low tide was around 7am. Another novelty of the Abel Tasman Coast Track are the crossings of tidal bays. There are usually longer inland track options but you do need to check tide times here and there,

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

for both efficiency and safety’s sake. The pouring rain continued all day, and the track out was awash. It is up to the task though, and full marks to all those who build and tend these tracks we so enjoy. Underfoot I would rate the track as very good. The various bridges are excellent and numerous. The park facilities overall are outstanding and particularly well maintained. Directional signage and historical information panels are clear and plentiful without being overly intrusive. No doubt the inflow of income from that big crowd of walkers is helpful to that equation. Around about Apple Tree Bay I encountered the only other walkers I’d see that drenching May Monday. A small group of lads from Nelson Boys College with their outdoor education instructors, confidently heading into the park. Emerging from the not unpleasant rainforest, Mārahau was a deserted puddle. Two Brazilian tourists samba’d between raindrops to grab the obligatory selfie. Fortunately for me, it

being close to 2pm, the Mārahau Shop was open, and so I ate a hot pie whilst waiting for the Mot taxi to come pick me up. Autumn is good. But pack your wet weather kit just in case. Good walking! Above left: One of the many tidal bays. Above middle: Typicial coastal view Above far right: An archetypal Kiwi bush bach. Middle right: A typical sign. Below left: The Onetahuti Campsite Kitchen area. Below right: Tonga Island.

Walking New Zealand, 312-- 2024 2024 37 37 Walking New Zealand,issue issue no no 312

Lake Waikaremoana - a Great Walk through pristine rainforest, with rivers and waterfalls

Lake Waikaremoana Great Walk is open again

The Lake Waikaremoana Great Walk, which had been closed since February 2023 due to the impacts of flooding and severe weather damage sustained during Cyclone Gabrielle, reopened on 10th January 2024. An intensive repair and maintenance programme to reopen the track led by Tūhoe was supported by DOC, external contractors, local and recreational communities and volunteers. As part of a Backcountry Trust crew, members of the FMC board and whānau have also contributed to the reopening of the track with renovation work on Panekire Hut a few weeks ago. Above: Painting Freeman Burn Hut. Photo Rob Brown

38 Walking New Zealand, issue no 312 - 2024

he Lake Waikaremoana Great Walk on the east coast of of the North Island is a 46km semicircular track that can be walked in either direction. The track is well marked and signposted, but some sections may be steep, rough or muddy. Waikaremoana has the largest area of native forest in the North Island. This region is the ancestral home of the Māori iwi (tribe) Ngāi Tūhoe - the ‘Children of the Mist’. Within the boundaries of Te Urewera, the track mostly follows the shores of the great lake. Over three to four days, the track on this Great Walk leads you through pristine rainforest, regenerating shrubland areas of wetland, native bush and the ‘goblin forest’. You will also discover magnificent rivers, waterfalls and unique valleys of mist. The Tūhoe people have lived in Te Urewera region for centuries and they have deep spiritual links with the land. Isolation and Tūhoe’s respect for their forests, mountains, rivers and lakes have kept foresters and farmers away from Te Urewera for many years. Home to nearly every species of North Island native forest bird, the area also gives visitors a glimpse of the avian culture that once flourished in New Zealand. The melodic call of the tūī is likely to follow you everywhere as well as the kererū (wood pigeon). Kiwi roam these lands so listen out for their calls at dusk. You can now view and enjoy the latest issue of

Walking New Zealand magazine online for $3.95 at http://www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

■

The 46km semi-circular track can be walked trip to the amazing Korokoro Falls. in three or four days, with some sections may be Instead of staying at Marauiti Hut, you may like to steep, rough or muddy. continue to Waiharuru Hut—take a walk at dusk to the Below is distances for those doing the four day walk:

Day 1: Onepoto to Panekire Hut

4–6 hours, 9 km This is the most strenuous part of the trip, but the views from Panekire make it worthwhile. The track starts from the Onepoto Shelter and leads you through the former Armed Constabulary Redoubt Parade Ground before climbing steadily up to the top of Panekire Bluff. You’ll enjoy spectacular views across the lake as you follow the undulating ridgeline before reaching Puketapu Trig (1180 metres) and onto Panekire Hut.

Day 2: Panekire Hut to Waiopaoa Hut

edge of Puketukutuku peninsula and listen out for the call of kiwi.

Day 4: Marauiti Hut to Hopuruahine Landing

4–6 hours, 17 km This is another moderate day of walking with plenty of fantastic photo opportunities and chances to relax beside the lake’s edge. From Waiharuru Hut, the track climbs over the Pukehou ridge following the kiwi enclosure fence line all the way down to Tapuaenui Campsite, and leads on to Hopuruahine Landing.

3–4 hours, 8 km From Panekire Hut, the track heads southwest down the range to the top of the Panekire descent. From here the track drops steeply off the range into rolling valleys of beech, podocarp and kāmahi forest and the lake.

Day 3: Waiopaoa Hut to Marauiti Hut

Five hours, 12 km Head up the Waiopaoa Stream a short distance before crossing grassy flats and heading through kānuka forest on the lakeshore. The track, while undulating, weaves its way through rimu wooded areas and along the lake edge to Marauiti Hut. A worthwhile side trip on this day is a 1-hour return www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Walking New Zealand, issue no 312 - 2024 39

40 Walking New Zealand, issue no 312 - 2024

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Nordic Walking

Real benefits by Nordic Walking for those with hip osteoarthritis

n hip osteoarthritis, Nordic Walking has been found to be superior to strength training and homebased exercises for improving function. Approximately 25% of the population will develop symptoms of hip osteoarthritis, which is characterised by pain during physical activity. Reducing physical activity leads to muscle weakness, limited ability to carry out activities of daily living, reduced quality of life and increased morbidity. People with hip osteoarthritis report problems with walking and rising from a chair. Of note is that six months after hip replacement, patients reported even lower ability to perform chair-stand movements. There is no cure for osteoarthritis, but non-pharmacological recommendations advocate mixed exercise programmes including strength training, aerobic and flexibility exercises. In a study, conducted in 2016, a total of 152 participants (60+ years old) were proportionally assigned into a Nordic Walking, strength training, or a home-based exercise groups. These participants were assessed as having clinically diagnosed hip osteoarthritis but were not on a waiting list for hip replacement surgery. The purpose of this trial was to www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

compare the effects of the three physical activity interventions on improvements in functional movement. Nordic Walking was included in this study because the effect on physical fitness is greater compared to walking, and the poles offer stability and support. In this study, the Nordic Walking group-maintained improvements in vigorous physical activity. Furthermore, improvements to emotional, mental health and vitality factors favoured the Nordic Walking group. O ve ra l l o u t comes indicated that: • Nordic Walking significantly improved functional improvements. • Nordic Walking was superior to homebased exercises for improving vigorous physical activity. • Nordic Walking was superior to both strength training and homebased exercises for improving mental health. Results: • Nordic Walking was the best training modality for improving functional performance, vigorous physical activity and mental health.

(Bieler etal.,2016) Scandinavian Journal of Medicine & Science in Sports, 27(8), 873886. https://doi.org/10.1111/sms.12694

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

Phone 0274 383 923

Walking New Zealand, issue no 312 - 2024 41

Coming Events

NEW ZEALAND FEBRUARY 2024

3 Tussock Traverse, Tongariro National Park 3 Otairi Station Race, Otairi Station, Hunterville 3 Ultimate Beach Run, Mount Manganui 3-11 New Zealand Masters Games 2024, Dunedin 4 Clevedon Country Half Marathon, Clevedon, Auckland 6 Manawatu Striders Super Seven Series, Palmerston North 9 Coast to Coast Mountain Run, Aickens, Canterbury 10 Buller Gorge Marathon, Half Marathon & Team Relay, Lower Buler to Westport 10 MLT Moonshine Trail, Gore 10 Pigs Backyard Ultra, Whare Flat, Dunedin 11 Coatesville Half Marathon, Coatesville, Auckland 13 Manawatu Striders Super Seven Series, Palmerston North 14 Sharland Cycles 5K Fun Run/Walk Series, Richmond 16 Ben Lomond Vertical Kilometre, Mt Lomond Station, Queenstown 17 Shotover Moonlight Mountain Marathon & Ultra, Ben Lomond Station, Queenstown 17-18 Tarawera Ultramarathon, Rotorua 17 Challenge Kuriwao, Clinton, South Otago 18 Forest Hill Trail Run, Forest Hill, Central Southland 18 Wellington Round the Bays, Wellington 20 Manawatu Striders Super Seven Series, Palmerston North 24 XTERRA Wellington Festival, Paekariki, Kapiti Coast 24 Cargo Plus Coastal Challenge, Whangaparaoa to Devonport, Auckland 24 Old Ghost Ultra, Old Ghost Road, West Coast 24 Papatowai Challenge, Catlins, South Otago 25 Christchurch Motorway Half Marathon, Christchurch 25 Wairakei Estate Ironkidz in Taupō, Taupo 27 Manawatu Striders Super Seven

42 Walking New Zealand, issue no 312 - 2024

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Walking New Zealand, issue no 312 - 2024 43

Coming Events

thon, Beachlands, Auckland Series, Palmerston North 28 Sharland Cycles 5K Fun Run/Walk 16 Pauanui Half Marathon, Coromandel Series, Richmond, Nelson 28- 2 March Goldfields Cavalcade to 16 Bombay Farm Run, Bombay, Auckland Waikaia, Otago 16-17 Rotorua Walking Festival, RoMARCH 2024 torua 1-3 Manawatu Walking Festival, 17 Hamilton Half Marathon, Hamilton Palmerston North 1-2 Ashburton River Trail Marathon, 17 3 Peaks Mountain Race, Leith Valley, Dunedin Ashburton 17 Harcourts Cooper & Co Run Al2 Motatapu, Wanaka to Arrowtown bany 3 Rotorua Off Road Trail Run/Walk, 23 Foundation Clinic Mauao Half Rotorua Marathon, Mt Maunganui 3 Footprints In The Sand, Foxton 23 Middle-earth Halfling Marathon™, Beach Matamata 3 Southern Cross Round the Bays 23 Alpine Lodge Loop the Lake Trail Auckland Run, Nelson Lakes 3 Waipa Fun Run and Walk, Cam23-24 Northburn 100, Northburn Stabridge tion, Central Otago 3 Chilltech Beach To Basin Fun Run, 23 Lovelock Memorial Fun Run & Whangarei Walk, Timaru 9 Tararua Mountain Race, Kaitoke to 23-24 Oxfam Trailwalker New ZeaOtaki Forks land, New Plymouth 9 Tongariro River Trail, Turangi 10 Kaiapoi Fun Run & Walk, Kaiapoi APRIL 2024 10 GJ Gardner Maraetai Half Mara- 6 Mt Oxford Odyssey, Coopers Creek

carpark, Canterbury 7 Mizuno Auckland Waterfront Half Marathon, Mission Bay, Auckland 7 Pay What You Want Tauranga Half Marathon, Tauranga 8-21 ECHO Walking Festival, Waikato 12-14 Long Course Weekend New Zealand, Karapiro. Waikato 14 Waitārere Forest Run, Waitarere, near Levin 26-27 Old Forest Hanmer 100, Hanmert 26-28 Taupō Trail Festival, Taupo

MAY 2024

4 Rotorua Marathon, Rotorua 4 Southern Lakes Half Marathon, Wanaka 4 We Run the Night, Mt Drury, Mt Maunganui 11 Saint Clair Vineyard Half Marathon, Marlborough 18 New Zealand Sotheby’s International Realty Hawke’s Bay Marathon, Napier 19 EVES Huntly Half Marathon, Huntly

Half Marathon, 10km, Kids’ Magic Mile

JUNE 23

Walkers Welcome!

www.wellingtonmarathon.kiwi

44 Walking New Zealand, issue no 312 - 2024

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Walking New Zealand, issue no 312 - 2024 45

Coming Events

19 Manawatu Striders Marathon & Half Marathon, Palmerston North

5-6 IML Walking Festival, Fulda, Germany 4-5 IML Walking Festival, Blanken- 19-20 IML Walking Festival, Arlington, USA burge, Belgium MARCH 2024 11-12 IML Walking Festival, Chanton- 19-20 IML Walking Festival, Won-Ju, 10 King Island Imperial 20, King IsKorea nay, France land, Tasmania 18-19 IML Walking Festival, WellingAPRIL 2024 borough, United Kingdom 7 Canberra Marathon, Canberra, ACT 18-19 IML Walking Festival, Dalian, China 25-26 IML Walking Festival, Diekirch, FEBRUARY 2024 Luxembourg 24-25 IML Walking Festival, San AnJUNE 2024 tonio, USA 1-2 IML Walking Festival, Bern SwitMARCH 2024 zerland 1-3 IML Walking Festival, Yatsushiro 29-30 25-26 IML Walking FestivalCity, Japan Voborg, Denmark 16-17 IML Walking Festival, Rotorua, JULY 2024 NZ 4-7 IML Walking Festival, Castlebar, 24-25 IML Walking Festival, Canberra Kiwi on the Camino Ireland ACT, Australia 16-18 IML Walking Festival, Nijmegen, by Vivianne Flintoff APRIL 2024 Netherlands 900kms along an 20-21 IML Walking Festival, Gilboa, ancient pilgrimage AUGUST 2024 Israel 3-4 IML Walking Festival, Kaunas, trail in Northern Spain 27-28 IML Walking Festival, Boras, Lithuania Available from indepen9-11 IML Walk- dent book sellers or i n g F e s t i va l , directly from author E-mail : vivianneflintoffVaasa, Finland books@gmail.com 24-25 IML WalkWeb: http://www.vivianneflintoffbooks.com/ i n g F e s t i va l , Verdal, Norway 31-1 September IML Walking Festival, Gospic, Croatia

AUSTRALIA

Sweden

MAY 2024

REST OF WORLD

PROTEIN BARS

SEPTEMBER 2024 7-8 IML Walki n g F e s t i va l , Arenzano, Italy 3-4 IML Walki n g F e s t i va l , Kaunas, Lithuania 13-15 IML Walki n g F e s t i va l , Seefield, Austria 14-15 IML Walking Festival, Beijing, China 28-29 IML Walki n g F e s t i va l , Brno, Czech Republic

46 Walking New Zealand, issue no 312 - 2024

OCTOBER 2024

$29.95 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

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Walking New Zealand, issue no 312 - 2024 47

NELSON

GISBORNE

GREAT COUNTRY BREAKS

Take in Gisborne’s breathtaking high country scenery

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

‘Carry less, enjoy more’

OPOTIKI

Walk Farm Tracks, Bush, River, Streams, Birds

Wairata Station Opotiki

Min Stay 2 nights. Groups 2 to 17 in 5 different types of accommodation. Meals extra

www.wairatastation.com 07-315-7761

ROTORUA

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

Phone 03 391 4120 CANTERBURY

• Affordable relaxing accommodation and meals • HILL COUNTRY FARM WALKS • Beautiful established gardens and native bush

HAURATA

HIGH CO UN T R Y RETREAT

www.haurata.co.nz

Jane and Warwick Tombleson 027 294 0401

Country Breaks

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

WAIRARAPA

Whareama Coastal Walk

Farm accommodation Bags transferred daily Hike into nature

03 319 2715 www.kaikouratrack.co.nz

Walking New Zealand magazine

www.whareamawalk.co.nz

CANTERBURY HECTARES

Discover new landscapes

online for $3.95 at http://www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Phone (06) 372 3722

40,000

Awesome 2 days getaway to go home refreshed

You can now view and enjoy the latest issue of

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

40,000 40,000

KAIKOURA COAST TRACK

CANTERBURY

Mt White Road

Our modern, fully-equipped huts offer the perfect balance of comfort and adventure. Enjoy a hot shower, relax on large, comfortable bunks, and cook up a storm in your own fully-equipped kitchen.

Escape to the breathtaking beauty of New Zealand's rugged High Country with Mt White Station. 40, 000 Hectares

Arthur's Pass +64 03 318 8477 info@mtwhitestation.co.nz www.mtwhitestation.co.nz

48 Walking Walking New NewZealand, Zealand, issue issue no no 312312 - 2024 - 2024

BOOK NOW! www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

GREAT COUNTRY BREAKS CANTERBURY

MT VERNON LODGE

MARLBOROUGH

WHAT IS CRUISE AND WALK ON AFFINITY? Live aboard the vessel and go ashore each day to walk a section of the track. Fully catered, no heavy packs to carry, hot showers, comfy cabins. 5 nights Queen Charlotte track / 4 nights Pelorus Walks

JANUARY 24 CRUISE AND WALK

15% OFF

MORE INFO 0800 862 334

USE CODE : WALK2024

www.affinitycruises.co.nz

SOUTHLAND

CANTERBURY

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

* Freedom $395 * Prime $895 * Guided $1995

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

Contact David & Amanda Kinnaird 33 Purple Peak Road, Akaroa

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

Country Breaks

the place to promote for more customers Contact Frank Goldingham walkingnz@xtra .co.nz

NORTH CANTERBURY

Stay Safe in the outdoorS

Take a locator beacon with you when you are hunting, hiking or working anywhere remote and make sure you will be rescued quickly

SPeCiaL aCr resQLink PLB - 400

onLy $ 515 Including P&P

Comes with a heavy duty pouch AVAILABLE FOR SALE OR HIRE

Self Guided Private Walking Track

* Choose between 3 or 2 day options. * Lodge style accommodation with fully serviced kitchens, BBQ, hot showers, comfortable bunkbeds and pillows. * Dogs welcome, kennels available at lodgings. * Pack transport each day makes for a stress free adventure.

FREE 90 Outlets throughout NZ.

DElivERy Trusted by Kiwis nationwide.

$30 for every week after your first week of hire

We have the latest models available at NZ’s cheapest prices available online. Check out our website to see our great deals!

Check our availability calendar online www.islandhillsstation.com www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

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

03 226 6341 or 027 412 2925 | www.locatorbeacons.co.nz

Walking New Zealand,issue issue no no 312 Walking New Zealand, 312-- 2024 2024 49 49

CONTENTS for previous 15 issues FEBRUARY 311 2024

3 Contents 4 Walk Talk 6 New Zealand Walks: Auckland’s North Shore Coastal Walk 9 New Zealand Walks: An adventure through the enchanting OtariWilton’s Bush 10 New Zealand Walks: Otari Wilton’s Bush offers a mixture of walking esperiences 13 New Zealand Walks: Two unforgetable walks on Mt Karioi, Raglan 14 New Zealand Walk: Walk Ahuriri with rich cultural heritage 19 New Zealand Walks: Queenstown - 10 beautiful walks worth doing 24 Walking New Zealand Monthly Photo Contest 26 New Zealand Walk: Tarawera Falls Track for spectacular views 29 Manawatu Walking Festival 30 New Zealand Walk: Exploring tranquility: Te Awahou Bush Walk, Foxton 32 New Zealand Walk:Lake Papaitonga Scenic Reserve Walk 34 Overseas Tour: Cruising the Celtic countryside 37 Anderson Road shared pathway complete 38 My Favourite Walk: Rotorua Lakefront Walk - from gardens to a forest 39 New Zealand Walk: Whisky Falls - the best in Nelson area 40 New Zealabd Walks: Cambridge area has lots of variety to offer walkers 42 Coming Events: New Zealand 45 Coming Events: Australia 47 Subscription page 48 New Zealand Country Breaks 50 Index of previous 15 issues 51 Walking New Zealand Shop 52 Queen Charlotte Track

JANUARY 310 2024

3 Contents 4 Walk Talk 6 New Zealand Walks: Best Auckland’s walks re-open for summer 9 New Zealand Walks: A Transalpine Experience Coast to Coast the Main Divide 13 New Zealand Walks: Striking out on the Nydia Track, Pelorus Sound 16 New Zealand Walk: Exploring the beauty of the Lions Walkway: a scenic journey along the Great Lake Walkway 22 New Zealand Walks: Lots to explore on the Western shore of Lake Taupo 21 News: Protecting Auckland’s outdoor access in a new environment 24 Walking New Zealand Monthly Photo Contest 26 Overseas Walk: South Australia’s Southern Ocean Walk 32 New Zealand Walk: The Travis Wetland - something in it for everyone 33 New Zealand Walk: Trevis Wetland Nature Heritage Park History 35 New Zealand Walks: Pelorous Cruise and Walk 36 Walkers now a popular part of Goldfields Cavalcade 37 GoldFields Cavalcade to Waikaia 38 Directory: New Zealand Walking Groups 42 Coming Events: New Zealand 45 Coming Events: Australia 46 News: Car free access to the outdoors 48 New Zealand Country Breaks 50 Index of previous 15 issues 51 Walking New Zealand Shop 52 Queen Charlotte Track

DECEMBER 309 2023

3 Contents 4 Walk Talk 6 New Zealand Walks: Three Christchurch walks: Hagley Park, Botanic Gardens and Cashmere Floor Ponds 9 New Zealand Short Walk: Muriwai Gannet Walk 10 New Zealand Walks: Six family-

friendly walks around Whakatane 15 New Zealand Walk: Lathams Hill Walk for views over the plains 18 New Zealand Walks: An Alps to Ocean Odyssey Sampling sensational scenery in the Central South Island Lakes District 23 New Zealand Walk: The Mangawhai Cliffs Walkway - exploring nature’s beauty 24 Walking New Zealand Monthly Photo Contest 26 Overseas Walk: Cotswald Way in mid-Summer an ancient hill forts, abbeys and chocolate box villages 30 New Zealand Walk: Wellington’s City to Sea a delightful mix of scenery 34 New Zealand Walk: Mangamahoe Bridle Track for walkers and horse riders 37 Viewpoint: A Philosophy of Walking 38 Directory: New Zealand Walking Groups 42 Coming Events: New Zealand 46 Coming Events: Australia 48 New Zealand Country Breaks 50 Index of previous 15 issues 52 Walking New Zealand Shop

NOVEMBER 308 2023

3 Contents 4 Walk Talk 6 New Zealand Walks: Discover sawmilling history with two short walks in the Kaimais 11 News: Te Ara Tipuna - a new kind of trail from Gisborne to Opotiki 12 Shared Pathway: Feilding shared pathway now at halfway to city 13 New Zealand Walk: Parrs Park Loop Walk 14 New Zealand Walks: Seven river walks in Waimakariri 16 New Zealand Walk: Exploring paradise on Earth - a guided hike on the Queen Charlotte Track 18 Australian Walks: Saturate yourself in Aussies sensational south east 22 Shared Pathway: Dunedin to Port Chalmers 10km shared pathway now open 24 Walking New Zealand Monthly Photo Contest 26 Overseas Cycle Tour: Landscapes and game parks: cycle safari of East South Africa 30 New Zealand Walk: Mt Tauhara Summit Walk - a magnet for hikers 31 New Zealand Walk: Te Ana Falls cascade down a 20m rocky face 33 New Zealand Walk: Wainui Falls Track to a picturesque waterfall 34 New Zealand Walk: Kaitoke Swingbridge Loop Track featured in LOTR movies 36 INew Zealand Walk: Mt Aubrey Walk for a rewarding experience 37 Books: Not Alone : Best Walks around Cairns and the Tablelands: Best walks of The Shoalhaven 38 Directory: New Zealand Walking Groups 42 Coming Events: New Zealand 46 Coming Events: Australia 48 New Zealand Country Breaks 50 Index of previous 15 issues 52 Walking New Zealand Shop

OCTOBER 307 2023

3 Contents 4 Walk Talk 6 New Zealand Walks: Hakarimata Scenic Reserve - summit walks, waterfalls, big kauri 10 New Zealand Walk: Birdlings Flat a walk with sea to mountain views 13 Event: Making Christchurch’s Marathon more inclusive 14 New Zealand Walks: Walking the Wonderful Waikato 19 New Zealand Walking Festival: A journey of natural discovery and connection at this year’s Waiheke Walking Festival 20 My Favourite Walk: Centennial Lagoon Walk known for tranquil surroundings 22 My Favourite Walk: Otago Central Rail Trail - a walk on a mild winter’s day 24 Walking New Zealand Monthly Photo Contest 26 Australian Walk: Federation Walk through a regenerating rainforest

28 New Zealand Walk: Exploring Nature’s Beauty: Walking the Banks Track 33 New Zealand Walk: Otematata Wetlands a great spot to walk and take a break 34 New Zealand Walk: Mt Bruce Track Loop Walk 34 Walking Festival: Heritage, coastal, farm, nature all in Wairarapa Walking Festival 36 New Zealand Walk: Makara Walkway for fabulous sea views 37 Books: Walking in London Park, Heath and Waterside -The Camino Portugues 38 Directory: New Zealand Walking Groups 42 Index of previous 15 issues 43 Coming Events: New Zealand 44 Coming Events: New Zealand 47 Subscription page 48 New Zealand Country Breaks 52 Walking New Zealand Shop

SEPTEMBER 306 2023

3 Contents 4 Walk Talk 6 New Zealand Walks: The Catlins - an area for a great variety of walks 12 New Zealand Walks: Ambling around awesone Auckland 15 New Zealand Walk: Queen Street Walkway, Levin 16 New Zealand Walks: Warkworth Walks 14 years of walks worth doing 18 My Favourite Walk: Cruisey tramp to Rewanui Forest Park 20 New Zealand Walk: Matakai Park - a link between shops and beach 22 New Zealand Walk: Orchard Stream Reserve walk goes over a notable landscape 23 New Zeraland Walk: A scenic stroll around Lake Virginia in Whanganui discovering nature’s delights 24 Walking New Zealand Monthly Photo Contest 26 Overseas Walks: Two popualr waks in the Blue Mountains of Australia 32 New Zealand Walks: 10th Birthday for Bay of Island Walking Weekend 34 Auckland Walks: 3 wonderful winter walks around Auckland 36 Need2Know: Can you find a South Island kokako? 37 New Zealand Walk: 3 short Whareroa Farm Reserve Walks 38 Directory: New Zealand Walking Groups 42 Index of previous 15 issues 43 New Zealand Walk: Lake Waikareiti a walk around a pristine lake 44 Coming Events: New Zealand 48 New Zealand Country Breaks

AUGUST 305 2023

3 Contents 4 Walk Talk 6 New Zealand Walks: Escape, Revive, Reconnect on the Abel Tasman Track 8 My Favourite Bike Ride: Bike Around Auckland in under six hours 10 Viewpoint: Listen to the birds 10 News: Bridging the North Auckland gaps 12 High Achievers: Mansion House gardens tended by voluteers for 10 years 13 Books: The Gramipins Peak Trail, Wild Swimming Walks South Wales, Wild Guide North East England 14 New Zealand Walk: Motukiore Island an amazing low tide walk 15 New Zealand Walk: Wairere Falls for breath-taking Waikato views 16 New Zealand Walk: Carter Scenic Reserve home to rare tree species 18 New Zeraland Walks: Manawatu Gorge Walks: two options to choose from 20 New Zealand Walks: Tongariro National Park - to Mordor, Emyn Muil and Mount Doom 24 Walking New Zealand Monthly Photo Contest 26 Overseas Walk: A morning walk up Mt Vaea in Samoa 29 Auckland Walk: St Johns Bush a hidden gem in Auckland 30 Australian Walk: Bondi to Coogee Beach an iconic Sydney beach walk 33 Training: 12 Steps to follow if

50 Walking New Zealand, issue noissue 312 - 2024 50 Walking Walking New New Zealand, Zealand, issue no 312 no 307 - 2024 - 2023

you would like to Walk a Half Marathon 34 Wellington Walk: Wellington Waterfront Walk for stunning views and attractions 10 Auckland Walk: Albany Lakes Park - a walk after you shop! 38 Directory: New Zealand Walking Groups 42 Index of previous 15 issues 43 Coming Events: New Zealand 48 New Zealand Country Breaks 52 Walking New Zealand Shop

JULY 304 2023

3 Contents 4 Walk Talk 6 New Zealand Walks: Bushy Park - a virgin lowland forest 9 New Zealand Walks:Bushy Park walking tracks 10 New Zealand Walk: Nifty Northland - like a world away 15 New Product: Keep warm this Winter with Zerofit Heatrub 16 New Zealand Shared Pathway: Pekapeka to Otaki a shared pathway joining the Kapiti Coast 19 Australian Walks: NSW now has 13 more Great Walks 20 New Zealand Walk: Te Angiangi Marine Reser ve for bird and wildlife watches 22 Auckland Walks: Five short all weather walks in Auckland 24 Walking New Zealand Monthly Photo Contest 26 New Zealand Walks: Walking the Abel Tasman:- plans and promises 29 New Zealand Walks: Abel Tasman Coastal Walk 30 Australian Walks: Exploring Noosa National Park - Hiking along Hell’s Gate Walk 33 New Zealand Walks: The Redwoods attract both nature lovers and adventure seekers 37 High Achiever : Belmont trail builder brings people together 37 Books: Canberra’s Centenary Trail 38 Directory: New Zealand Walking Groups 43 Coming Events: New Zealand 48 New Zealand Country Breaks 52 Walking New Zealand Shop

JUNE 303 2023

3 Contents 4 Walk Talk 6 New Zealand Trail: Lake Wain- amu with a vast sand dune 10 New Zealand Walk: Lake Hood a stunning recreational area 12 New Zealand Walk: Te Ara Piko Pathway - with stunning inlet views 17 Event: More than 4000 took to the streets of Christchurch again! 18 New Zealand Walks: Waihi Walks - Shipwreck Bay and mining history walks 23 New Zealand Short Walk: Riuwaka Resurgence. Walk to where Riuwaka River emerges 24 Walking New Zealand Monthly Photo Contest 26 New Zealand Walks: Hakatere Conservation Park: Mt Guy, Lake Clearwater, Mt Sunday 31 New Zealand Walks: Great Barrier Island - where time seems to stand still 34 New Zealand Walks: Te Mata Peak - with walking trails for everyone 38 Directory: New Zealand Walking Groups 42 Index of previous 15 issues 43 New Zealand Walk: Tukitukiwi Reserve Walk with native wildlife and flora 44 Coming Events: New Zealand 48 New Zealand Country Breaks 52 Walking New Zealand Shop

MAY 302 2023

3 Contents 4 Walk Talk 6 New Zealand Trail: Exploring Opokiti’s spectacular coast 10 New Zealand Walk: Leigh Coastal Walkway along a stunning coastline 11 New Zealand Walk: Matherson Bay Bush Walk 12 New Zealand Walk: Waikato River Walking Track 14 Overseas Walks: Exploring Albany, WA, a town with a fasci nating history 19 New Zealand Walk: Donnelly Flat Loop Track 20 Australia Walks: Norfolk Island not just for walking! 24 Walking New Zealand Monthly Photo Contest 26 New Zealand Walks: Walking the Hillary Trail

amongst coastal forest, birdsong, salt spray and alone 32 High Achiever: Honour for Nelson cycle advocate for great trails 33 Auckland Dog Walks: Great spots for dog walking in Auckland 35 Event: Community embracing newlook marathon 36 Directory: New Zealand Walking Groups 40 Subscription page 41 Nordic Walking: Nordic Walking is total body workout 42 Index of previous 15 issues 43 Books: The Six Foot Track, Best Walks in Southwest WA 44 Coming Events: New Zealand 48 New Zealand Country Breaks 52 Garmin

APRIL 301 2023

3 Contents 4 Walk Talk 6 New Zealand Walk: Orokonui Lagoon Walk amongst beautiful surroundings 10 New Zealand Walk: Clevedon Scenic Reserve has signifcent heritage value 12 New Zealand Walk: Mt Hobson Walk - for 360 degree city views 14 New Zealand Walks: Manawatu’s best overnight and multi-day walks 16 New Zealand Walks: Two lowland walks in Egmont National Park 21 New Zealand Walks: Two St Bathans walks 22 New Zealand Walk: Leisure Island has fantastic scenery 24 Walking New Zealand Monthly Photo Contest 26 New Zealand Walks: The Kawatiri Coastal Trail over ever changing coastlines 29 New Zealand Walks: The first half of Kawatiri Coastal Trail now open 30 Overseas Walks: Midwinter Meanders: Come and say gidday to the Northern Territory 34 New Zealand Walk: Lansdowne Trail - a taste of things to come 35 Subscription page 36 Directory: New Zealand Walking Groups 40 New Zealand Walks: Queen Elizabeth Park - halfway between Paraparaumu and Paekakariki 43 Event: Christchurch Marathon makeover 44 Coming Events: New Zealand 48 New Zealand Country Breaks 52 Garmin

MARCH 300 2023

3 Contents 4 Walk Talk 6 New Zealand Walk: Rangitoto Island walks on Auck-land’s youngest volcano 10 New Zealand Walk: Mercer Bay Loop Track for great west coast views 11 Need 2 Know: Warm up is important before walking an event 12 Overseas Walks: In the footsteps of Patriarchs, Prophets, Priests and Kings 18 New Zealand Walk: Ruamahanga River Bridge Walk 20 Mt Favourite Walk: Allowing the imagination to run wild in the bush 22 New Zealand Walk: Bell Rock Loop Track a walk to an iconic rock 23 Overseas Walk: USA’s 63rd National Park is newest 24 Walking New Zealand Monthly Photo Contest 26 New Zealand Walks: 13 Mile Bush Walk on Benmore Station 28 New Zealand Walks: Walking back in history on Kawau Island 29 New Trails: Connecting the dots - creating a trails network across Coromandel Peninsula 30 New Zealand Walk: Te Rangiita River Walk 31 Nordic Walking: Nordic Walking enhances and intensifies natural walking 32 Walking Festival: ECHO Walking Festival 2023 the biggest ever 34 New Zealand Walk: New Brighton Pier 36 New Zealand Walk: Mangawhai Heads Lookout Walk 38 New Zealand Walk: Turangi Lookout Walk 40 Oversesa Walks: Dozens of tracks to explore in Australia’s Snowy Mountains 43 Coming Events: New Zealand 48 New Zealand Country Breaks 52 Garmin

FEBRUARY 299 2023

moderate challenging loop trail 12 New Zealand Walks: 11 top walks around Porirua 16 New Zealand Walks: New Mahia walkway links eastern to western side 20 New Zealand Walk: Final Te Awa River ride section now open 21 Walking Festival: Rotorua Walking Festival in 30th year 22 Australian Walk: Many ways to walk to Victoria’s The Pinnacles 24 Walking New Zealand Monthly Photo Contest 26 New Zealand Walks: Spendid isolation walks at Lake Wanaka 30 New Zealand Walk: Rapaki Loop Walk for spectacular views 31 New Zealand Walk: Palliser Vineyard Walk 32 New Zealand Walk: Pekapeka Wetlands has high diversity valuee 36 New Zealand Walk: Mangaotuku Loop Walkway follows the stream 38 New Zealand Walk: 3 walks in historic Oamaru 39 New Zealand Walk Rarangi to Whites Bay walk 40 New Zealand Walk : Seaview Gardens Reserve an historic elevated garden 41 Books: Two handy guides on NZ birds and plants 43 Coming Events: New Zealand 46 Coming Events: Australia 47 Coming Events: Rest of World 48 New Zealand Walking Tours 48 New Zealand Country Breaks 52 Garmin

JANUARY 298 2023

2 Zerofit Heatrub Baselayer 4 Walk Talk 6 New Zealand Walk: Ngamuwahine Track a fantastic way to explore and get amongst nature 12 New Zealand Walk/Cycle: A quiet transformation on Opotiki’s Dunes Trail 18 New Zealand Walks: Walking trails in Auckland Domain 22 Walking Festival: Wacked out by our wonderful Wairarapa Walking Festival 24 Walking New Zealand Monthly Photo Contest 26 New Zealand Walks: A week walking in the Lakes District 32 New Zealand Walks: Tuatapere sausages and mash 38 Te Araroa Trail; Artist captures landscapes on the Te Araroa Trail 39 NZ Cycling Trails: Hawkes Bay Trails celebrate 10th anniversary 40 New Zealand Walk: Nature Walks in the Waikato 41 High Achiever: Harriet cycling the West Coast for Cycling for Hope 42 Need2Know: Northland farmer’s goodwill returns walking access 44 Coming Events: New Zealand 48 New Zealand Walking Tours 48 New Zealand Country Breaks 51 Pak A Roo Jackets 52 Walking New Zealand Shop

DECEMBER 297 2022

3 Contents 4 Walk Talk 6 New Zealand Walk: Wandering on Rotoroa Island - like being on another world 13 Overseas Walk: Wandering with rhinos in the Matobo Hills in Zimbabwe 18 New Zealand Walks: Pouakai Tarn Walk - a top Mt Taranaki walk 24 Walking New Zealand Monthly Photo Contest 26 New Zealand Walks: Onekawa Te Mawhai Regional Park - rich in history and significant archaeological features 32 New Zealand Walks: Westward Ho! to appreciate stunning scenery 37 High Achiever: Stepping out 38 New Product: Keeping in touch when out of range of cellular network 39 Garmin inReach Messenger 40 New Zealand Walk: Waiopehu Scenic Reserve 41 Index of previous 15 issues 42 Coming Events: New Zealand 46 Coming Events: Australia 46 Coming Events: Rest of World 47 Subscription page 48 New Zealand Walking Tours 48 New Zealand Country Breaks 51 Pak A Roo Jackets 52 Walking New Zealand Shop

3 Contents 4 Walk Talk 6 New Zealand Walk: Te Aka Huka - a

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

BIRTHDAY GIFTS FOR WALKERS/HIKERS Smart Watch Activity Tracker $115.00 Overland Satchel $115.00

McMurdo PLB $599.00

H215S Step Pedometer Easy to use $24.95

H215 4 Function Pedometer

Mens and Womens Tramping Socks

Fingertip Pulse Oximeter

$36.95

$39.95

$26.95

Pak-ARoo Unisex Hiking Walking Jacket

Water To Go Drink Bottle $109.95

$129.00 Foldable Hiking Pole $34.95 Foldable Walking Stick $34.95

UT 608 Pedometer $59.95

Subscribe to Walking New Zealand magazine 12 Months $128 - 24 Months $240. 6 Months $75 Digital 12 months $39.95

Zerofit Baselayer Move $139 Ultimate $165

Garmin inReach Messenger

Available now from

Walking New Zealand Shop

$549.00

Established over 25 years

P O Box 1922, Palmerston North - 0800-925-546 Order online:

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Walking Walking New New Zealand, Zealand,issue issueno no312312 -2024 2024 51

Book now for 2023/2024

52 Walking New Zealand, issue no 312 - 2024