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Cover Photo: A group walking on Wilsons Walk on the ever popular Abel Tasman National Park. Photo by Miles Holden
PUBLISHER/EDITOR: Frank Goldingham: Phone 06-358-6863, 027-274-0726
CONTRIBUTORS: Phillip Donnell, Barbz Lowther, Michael Hendriks, Mike Giri and Dorothy Johnstone
ADVERTISING MANAGER: Frank Goldingham - 0800 walking (925-546) 027-274-0726
Te Araroa has teamed up with the Department of Conservation (DOC) to develop The Trail Pass, an accommodation pass offering easy access and discounted rates on conservation land huts and campsites across the trail network.
Designed to make it simple and costeffective for walkers to pay for 71 huts and campsites in one single transaction, The Trail Pass also offers users a 20% discount on a further 10 serviced hut bookings.
You’ll find the full list of huts here, including those covered by The Trail Pass and those you need to book directly with DOC to receive the 20% off. Before the walking season starts we will also be updating The Trail App to make it nice and easy to see when a booking is required.
Accommodation that is not on conservation land (DOC managed) will need to be booked directly with private providers. And there’s plenty of information in the trail notes about where to stay and how to pay in these areas.
If you’re through-walking Te Araroa, or walking the South Island, you’ll need to purchase the pass as part of your walker registration. If you’re just walking the North Island, or section walking, the Trail Pass is optional as it may be cheaper to purchase individual hut/ campsite tickets depending on where you want to stay. You can of course still purchase The Trail Pass if you prefer the ease of one transaction.
The pass costs $195 and all funds generated by The Trail Pass support trail development.
Outdoor Access Commission Champion Awards
The Outdoor Access Champion awards recognise those who have made significant and lasting contributions to public access to the outdoors in New Zealand, whether through securing new legal access, championing public rights of access, trail building, or contributing to an understanding of access rights and responsibilities. These awards are New Zealand’s way of saying thanks to some of the wonderful people who have helped open up the great outdoors to the public.
The Outdoor Access Commission encourages people to think about their local champions — both individuals and groups — and put forward a nomination for consideration.
Nominations for 2025 are open until 21 October 2024. Their Board will select and announce the successful nominees in November 2024, and they will present the awards in 2025.
The awards were inaugurated in 2013.
Walking New Zealand digital edition
Walking New Zealand magazine has gone digital on our own website. Viewers can read through the lastest issue for only $3.95 an issue, paid by credit card before viewing.
Go to www. walkingnewzealand.co.nz and mouse over Shop and Subscribe and then click on Latest Issue - Digital. Enjoy!
- 2024
Walk talk
Plans to reopen popular walkway this summer
The Govt plans to build, open and maintain the popular overland walking access track to Cathedral Cove in the Coromandel,. ready for the summer 2024-25.
The track to the globally famous beach was extensively damaged by Cyclone Gabrielle, leading to a decision to keep it closed until land had stabilised and an appropriate repair could be confirmed.
Tinaka Mearns, DOC’s Regional Director for Hauraki Waikato and Taranaki, says after assessment of several options, DOC is opting for a temporary walking access reinstatement solution which will see the track available to visitors for summer 2024/25.
“Last summer visitors surveyed rated the marine-based experience to Mautohe Cathedral Cove as one of the best offered to a DOC-managed site,” Tinaka says.
“Reinstating walking access enables DOC to further support local businesses and the community while working towards more sustainable and careful management of the site. This will be complimented with ongoing work, over the next 12-18 months, to develop a long-term visitor management solution.”
Tinaka says finding a way to traverse the worst landslide on the track has been a challenge. Undamaged sections of the track will be reconnected via a new boardwalk and steps across a section of land that is more stable than other potential reroutes. Steps at the bottom of the track, where it reaches the beach, will also be rebuilt.
“A level of risk will always be present at this site –landslides and rockfalls will continue to be an ongoing feature of the landscape,” Tinaka says.
“Under-pinning the decision making and approaches we’re taking is the need to manage risk for the most prominent type of “day trip” visitor at Mautohe Cathedral Cove.”
Tinaka says the reinstatement option chosen only presents a temporary walking access solution and may not last through extreme storm events like those which caused the damage and forced the closure – such as Cyclone Gabrielle.
UTracks promotes affordable walks, cycling
UTracks is sharing a list of its six most affordable walking and cycling tours that are low in cost but high in value. Starting from as low as $890 per person for the Cinque Terre Walk, these low-budget trips include comfortable accommodation, daily luggage transfers, 24/7 support, helpful navigation tools and more. The listed walks are Cinque Terre Walk – six nights self-guided from $890 per person; Rhine River & Castles
Highlights Walk – four nights selfguided from $1,090 per person; Linz to
Tasmania’s Wukalina Walk as TIME Magazine World’s Greatest Places.
Wukalina Walk is a multi-award winning Indigenous/ palawa-owned tourism experience. Led by Aboriginal guides, the walk offers a rare window into Tasmania/ lutruwita’s Aboriginal culture. For the first two nights, hikers sleep at the architecturally designed standing camp, krakani lumi (resting place), in domed-ceiling huts designed to reflect the shape of the palawa shelters that once lined the east coast of Tasmania/lutruwita.
The third night is spent in a beautifully repurposed and restored lightkeeper’s cottage at the most northern end of larapuna (Bay of Fires).
A group of up to 10 people are led on foot by Aboriginal guides to learn about land and sea Country. Wukalina guides have lived experience and thousands of generations of Ancestral connections to the knowledge they share. They share their knowledge and perspectives as they lead travellers through bushland and along the coastline of wukalina (Mt William National Park) and larapuna (Bay of Fires). Hikers learn about the colonial history of Tasmania/ lutruwita, and the brutal treatment of the palawa people. But the tour highlights their resilience, strength of culture, language and the ongoing connection that the palawa community has to Country.
Wukalina Walk is a proudly Blak-owned business and different to anything else offered in Tasmania, and anywhere in the world. Wukalina Walk was winner of the 2023 Australian National Tourism Awards for Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Tourism Experience.
“Sharing our stories and our history on cultural homeland is an integral part of the experience,” said Clyde Mansell, Tasmanian palawa Aboriginal Elder and founder of wukalina Walk.
Vienna Cycle – four nights self-guided from $1,020pp; Bohemian Rhapsody Czechia Cycle – four nights selfguided from $1,110pp; Camino: Le Puy to Aumont – four nights self-guided walk on the first stage of the Way of St Francis from $950pp; Camino: Santiago de Compostela to Cape Finisterre – six days, five nights self-guided walk to the Atlantic from $1,050pp.
UTracks is encouraging travellers to save on 2025 trips with a 2024 price lock on selected departures in France, Italy, Spain and Portugal, cycling, walking and Camino trips. utracks.com.
Regenerating nature in Motopōhue – Bluff Hill
Over 1,200 native plants were planted during the Bluff Hill/Motopōhue Environment Trust’s volunteer day on this year. This year every registered Te Araroa walker and supporter is funding a native tree in Bluff through our partnership with Trees that Count.
Te Araroa walker Julia Roy-Touchette shares her experience of getting involved:
“Participating in the tree planting activity was a wonderful way to finish the trail: a symbolic way to end my journey, a significant and concrete gesture to help conserve the natural habitats I had the chance to walk through for some months and a great way to meet local people and connect with the community. Thank you to the Te Araroa Trust and the Bluff Hill/Motopōhue Environment Trust for their great work!”
Karangahake Gorgewith lots of walks to explore
The Crown Track in the Karangahake Gorge is a ‘Forever Favourite’ with locals, as well as many visitors to the area.
By Barbz Lowther
Located between Waihi and Paeroa, this fascinating area is only an hour drive from Tauranga, and a couple of hours from Auckland, making it easily accessible for many people.
There are many varied walks in the gorge, some following the Ohinemuri River, past remains of old gold workings.
Then there is the railway tunnel to explore, and an old railway station, with trains still running to transport visitors from Waihi to Waikino and return.
There are a couple of swing bridges to negotiate, and across the river, you can see Owharoa Falls, a rather
Opposite page: Looking down river from a window
Above right: Crossing the lower Waitawheta gorge bridge.
Below right: Looking up river from a window.
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Karangahake Gorge - with lots of walks to explore
picturesque spot. With a large picnic area, with lots of seating, and two cafes, the Gorge is hard to beat for a weekend visit.
The Crown Track can be walked as part of a loop, from either the picnic area in the gorge, or from Dickeys Flat, another picnic or camping spot, about 12 minutes drive away via Waitawheta Road and Kennedy Road.
We started from Dickeys Flat where there is ample parking. Crossing a bridge over the Waitawheta river gave us awesome views in both directions with little rapids, clear pools and lovely swimming holes.
In a few minutes we reached the junction with the Dubbo 96 Track.
This trail led up through ferns, mosses, grasses and lots of paretaniwha, under pungas , wineberry, kawakawa, tanekaha and coprosma, with tall natives towering above: mainly rimu, rewarewa, mahoe, pukatea and puriri.
It’s a lovely piece of bush, so go slow enough to enjoy it. The trail dropped to cross a stream, before leading through an area devastated by earlier cyclones. Lots of huge trees were down, and smaller shrubs smashed.
After scrambling over, under and
Above left: Mining relics by Ohinemuri River.
Middle left: Emerging from the tunnel.
Below left: An old ore skip.
Below right: Crossing the stream on the Dubbo.
around tree falls, we reached the county road and followed it down to the swing bridge over the Ohinemuri River, where we had a break at the pretty picnic spot.
The afternoon was even more interesting.
Heading back over the Ohinemuri River, we crossed the lower Waitawheta Gorge Bridge, over the Waitawheta River and into a fascinating world of by-gone days.
We passed awesome relics from the Gold Mining era 1875 to 1935. Between 1882 and 1885, 35 claims were pegged in this area. There were bits of tram track, an old ore skip bin, lots of mine shafts leading into the mountain, and excellent signage explaining it all.
Woodstock, Talisman and Crown, are the main names in the history of Ohinemuri’s mining. They merged various claims, until they occupied most of Karangahake goldfields, on both sides of the Waitawheta River.
Using torches, we explored ‘The Windows’ a tunnel with many mine shafts cut into the hills behind. Four windows looked out on shafts, tunnels and an old pump house on the other side of this narrow gorge. There were stunning views of sheer rock walls with the river flowing way below.
At the end of the tunnel, wooden steps led down to the pipe line. Years ago, this water pipe pro -
Above left: Entrance to an old mine shaft.
Above right: A swimming hole just before the pipeline tunnel
Below right: About to cross the stream.
vided drinking water for Paeroa, until the intake from the Waitawheta River was moved closer. We followed the pipe for about an hour beside the river. On our left were several more large mine shafts all now closed, while on our right, the ever-changing river with its clear deep pools ,tiny cascades and busy rapids.
Little wooden bridges crossed all the gullies, and the track was gravelled and well maintained. It didn’t take long to reach a spectacular swimming hole, beside a cascade, with yet another tunnel. This one was originally blasted to continue the pipeline from the intake above Dickeys Flat, to Paeroa.
Torches out again, as we made our way through 200 metres of darkness. We did see glow worms, and a weta. From the end of the tunnel we crossed yet another bridge which took us to the base of Dubbo 96 , and from there it was a short walk back to our last bridge of the day to Dickeys Flat. It was an awesome adventure, and one I would highly recommend.
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The Grampians Walkway is home to a network of tracks that vary in length and difficulty, that go through the hills that form the background to the city of Nelson.
The Grampians Nelson are not as well known as the walks of the same name in Victoria, Australia
The Grampians walks go through pockets of regenerating native vegetation and exotic trees and is popular
Above: Looking down on Nelson from The Grampians. Middle left: The TV transmission tower at the summit.
A potpourri of vegetation scatters
The Grampians landscapes, with regenerating native, grassy scrubs and pine trees complementing mahoe, mamaku and tawa trees.
The perfect balance of challenge and reward, the Grampians trails tend to zigzag up the slopes of a hill, emerge at a grassy spur and continue steeply to a ridge. Reaching a maximum height of 390m, a TV transmission tower from the 1970s adorns the summit.
However, those who don’t want to climb to the top can still enjoy spectacular scenery over Nelson City and Tasman Bay from the Grampian Saddle.
From the summit (or the saddle), you can return to base via the Kānuka, Kahikatea or Tawa tracks, zig-zagging back down under the canopy of lush native forest.
Melrose House is located at the main entrance, at the beginning of the Grampians Walkway and is the ideal spot to rest the calves and refuel after your walk.
How to get there: The Grampians Tracks can be accessed from multiple entry points around Nelson City, including Upper Collingwood Street, Market Road and Blick Terrace.
Above right and middle right: Tracks go through lush native forests with spectatular views.
New Zealand Walks
There are a number of walks of varing ability and length on the The Grampians:
Grampians Walkway
To viewing platform 2.4km / 50 minutes
A well formed track that follows the main ridgelines, with several steep sections. Be rewarded with excellent views.
Grampians Summit Road
To viewing platform 2.5km / 50 minutes To Collingwood Street via Grampians Walkway 3.4km / one hour five minutes
A 4WD roadway to the communications tower. Open to all walkers and cyclists, but authorised vehicle access only.
Tawa Loop
1km / 20 minutes
A short, easy track around the perimeter of Fairfield Reserve.
Tawa Track
3.7km / one hour 15 minutes
Traverses the western and southern flanks to reach the junction near the summit. A longer but a more gentle gradient to the top.
Ronaki Track
To viewing platform via Grampians Walkway 2.2km / 45 minutes
A zig-zag track that requires moderate fitness.
Grampians Lower Traverse
To viewing platform via Mamaku Track 1.3km / 25 minutes To Market Road via Tawa and Mahoe Tracks 2km / 40 minutes
Connecting tracks for those starting from Nelson south. A good level of fitness is required for the steep sections.
Mamaku Track
Connecting tracks between Tawa and Mahoe. Native forest sections that provide welcome shade on hot summer afternoons.
Mahoe Track
To viewing platform 45 minutes
A good mix of views over Nelson south; a moderate level
of fitness is required.
Kahikatea Track
To viewing platform one hour
Start at Market Road to experience a great example of early forest cover. The track passes a huge kahikatea tree estimated to be around 400 years old. It is a steady climb to the viewing platform which has panoramic views of the city. A good hot day route, as the track is mostly under canopy. Moderate fitness required. Note: this is a walk only track.
Kanuka Tracks
These are steadily graded tracks on the Brook Valley side of the hill which offer a different perspective on the popular Grampians Reserve.
Opposite page below: Nelson from the Grampian Walkway.
Above top right: The track coming from lush forest.
Above right; A zig zag track up the .side of the hilll.
Pipinui and Waihi - two waterfalls that
IBy Dorothy Johnstone
f you don’t feel like a long walk or tramp, but fancy a country drive and a short walk to stretch your legs I recommend visiting the welcoming Pipinui and Waihi waterfalls. in the Central Hawkes Bay
I was fortunate to recently walk up close to these waterfalls whilst they were flowing at near maximum and cascading with somewhat force over the ridge, almost becoming deafened by their thunderous, roaring sound. Departing from our tiny town of Woodville on Sunday 7 July 2024 at
Above: Christine Jelley and Nigel Johnstone.
Below left: The glorious, golden yellow blooms of wattle trees shine in
the sun at the Waihi Falls. New
are well worth the short walks
10.30am, I was accompanied by my son Nigel Johnstone and his sister Christine Jelley on an awe inspiring a road trip to view these falls.
After arriving in Mangatainoka we turned left off the main highway onto the Pongaroa Road soon arriving at the Makuri Gorge Road where we stopped to view the first of the falls, namely the Pipinui waterfalls.
Although the DOC sign said it was a two minute walk one should bear in mind how fast or slow you walk, especially uphill on uneven ground. Nevertheless, the fairly well-defined, despite slightly overgrown track, was worth the stretch of the legs.
A bench seat has been provided for you to sit on and admire the peacefulness amongst the surrounding native bush.
Continuing on the country road which winds between the bush is
Below left; Spot the goat beside the Waihi Falls.
Above left: In this photo a rainbow was captured..
Above right: Smiles are worth a thousand words. Dorothy Johnstone with son Nigel.
Below left: A view seen through the pretty bush of the Pipinui Falls. These falls are much smaller than the Waihi Falls.
Pipinui and Waihi -two waterfalls that are well worth the short walks
quite pretty, albeit concern with old mans beard quite prevalent. Further along, the road becomes considerably narrow with a gravel surface causing full concentration for driver Nigel and plenty of adrenalin for the back seat driver as we climb the hills to the summit to be rewarded with magnificent views of the picturesque Pongaroa Valley below.
I was amazed at the expanse of land mass planted in pine trees. The urge to drive out there and to stand on sunrise peak to actually see the sun rise over the hills would be magical so it is definitely now on my bucket list for the very near future.
We resisted the urge to turn into the township of Pongaroa for some lunch and continued for another hour or so to reach the Waihi Waterfalls. To be sure this is the best time of the year to view them.
There are three sections of study steps to walk down to reach the bottom of the falls. The longest section with no less than 85 steps, therefore,
a total of 103 steps to complete them all.
Standing at the foot of the falls we couldn’t resist the urge to poke out our tongues to receive a fizzy drink of water from the sparkling spray dispersing from the falls. Certainly, it was hard to turn around and leave them, such was their beauty.
Being entertained by watching a goat high up on the opposite side of them tracking its way towards them was an added bonus.
Also, the sight of wattle trees coming into their glorious, golden yellow blooms caught the eye with the sun shining on them to enhance them further.
Climbing back up the steps was invigourating. After passing though Wimbledon, we arrived in Dannevirke at 1.30pm to have a late lunch at the Catching Pen Café with time to reflect on the entertaining round road trip.Nigel. I trust these captions explain the meaning behind the photos.
Winners of Golden Foot Walking Awards 2024 announced
The winners of the 2024 Golden Foot Walking Awards were announced on July23 at an event at Parliament hosted by Celia WadeBrown QSO MP.
These walking awards are presented every two years by Living Streets Aotearoa to celebrate achievements for walkers.
Living Streets Aotearoa president Tim Jones said the awards recognise innovative new facilities, highlight national best practice, and reward ongoing commitment to walking and pedestrians.
“We were delighted by the high standard of nominations for this year’s awards. It shows there is considerable thought going into projects that will support people walking to their everyday activities. This is very heartening to see,” he said.
This year there were 20 finalists with seven category winners.
A new special award was also presented, the Andy Smith Award, made in honour of a past-president of Living Streets. It was awarded to Wilderness Magazine for its Walk1200km initiative and accepted on the night by editor Alistair Hall. The initiative gained the highest score from the judges across all categories.
Walk1200km - Wilderness Magazine - Andy Smith Award for exceptional achievement for walking and Events Award Winner. Walk1200km is a challenge where participants attempt to walk 1200km in 12 months. The goal is to encourage and foster a daily walking habit. In the first year, approximately 2500 people joined, in the second it grew to around 4700, and in 2024 there are 6500 registered participants.
Waimataitai School Travel Plan, Waimataitai, Timaru - School Project Award. Waimataitai School committed to the development and implementation of a school travel plan to increase the use of active modes of transport, to improve safety, and reduce congestion at the school gate. At 12-month evaluation, walking and scooting have increased by 24%.
Frank Goldingham – A Lifelong Walking Champion - Walking Champion Award Winner. Frank Goldingham has made a significant and lasting contribution to society via tirelessly championing walking in Aotearoa New Zealand and internationally. He has done this by promoting walking, profiling hundreds of walks, publicising walking events and walking groups throughout New Zealand through his magazine Walking New Zealand, and founding the successful Manawatū Walking Festival.
Geraldine Sculpture Trail - Placemaking Award Winner. The Geraldine Sculpture Trail was created to inspire and delight the community and visitors by developing four walking loops each connecting the CBD with the natural environment, art, history and culture. Unique in New Zealand, this free and accessible open-air gallery showcases high quality art set in Geraldine’s riverside woodlands, Rhododendron Dell, expansive Domain and ancient podocarp forest
Kiwi Seniors Active Walkers , Southland - Extraordinary Walkers Award Winner. The group started in 1992 as a Hillary Commission programme called Active in Age which was designed to encourage people
aged over 50 to exercise more. They have walked weekly since then and have a membership of more than 100. Walking is the main activity, but the social side is also very important.
Freyberg Street Neighbourhood Street Trial, Lyall Bay, Wellington - Urban Connection Award Winner. This is Wellington City Council’s first low traffic neighbourhood street trial. The goals of the project include enhancing safety for students commuting to Lyall Bay School, promoting the use of active transport modes among students and parents, and creating a more pleasant environment for people who live in the area and go to school there.
Urban Active Modes Plan Far North District Council - Programmes Award Winner. Whilst the Far North District is largely rural, there are a dozen key urban areas where people could use active transport for many daily needs. These towns are generally compact, so the distance between destinations is suitable for walking. The urban active modes district-wide plan focuses on improving footpaths and crossings in the district.
Below right: At the Award ceremony from left Jim Jones, Frank Goldingham and Beverley Goldingham.
A footstepping foray into fabulous
By Phillip Donnell
Fiordland
Even though you are more than halfway between the Equator and the South Pole, the days of summer are generally warmer and drier in the deep south of New Zealand.
There is no better time to enjoy the exceptional walking opportunities in fabulous Fiordland. In 1990 Fiordland was listed as a United Nations World Heritage site and given the name Te Wāhipounamu - ‘the place of greenstone’, after the area’s most treasured mineral resource.
In Fiordland National Park, a 500km network of walking tracks allows visitors to explore the primeval world of majestic snow-capped mountain peaks, looming up dimly like phantoms through the mist; quiet sequestered alpine lakes shimmering like molten emeralds or sapphires; and verdant moss-carpeted valleys redolent with a spacious sense of the amplitude of life’s possibilities. All of it all looks much the same as it did a thousand years ago.
A fiord is defined as a U-shaped glacier-carved valley which has been
Above left: The still waters of Green lake.
Below right: The colourfiul Mt Burn tarns.
flooded by the sea. The fourteen fiords that fringe this south-west corner of the South Island were 100,000 years in the making, with the final details added during the most recent ice age just 10,000 years ago. The Māori attributed the creation of the fiords to a giant stonemason called Tute Rakiwhanoa, who hued out the steep-sided valleys with his adzes. Ease into your walking journey in and around Invercargill. For a good 6.5km half-day workout, take the Millennium Track from the top of Bluff Hill down to the Foveaux Walkway and turn left to Stirling Point.
After a coffee, head back up to your starting point via the Topuni Track. On you way back to the city, pause at the Greenpoint Domain to view the ship graveyard at ‘Rotten Row.’ In Queen’s Gardens visit the unusual Stumpery,
by local artist Frank Wells. Travel west toward Tuatapere. Feel on top of the world at Mores Scenic Reserve overlooking Riverton, offering excellent views of coast and hinterland, as well as several great short walks.
These walks include: the short uphill Hilltop Lookout Track (20m return), the easy Kings Track that follows a bush route used by early settlers (20m return), the Lookout Track (45m return) that goes through native forest to a tree-top platform, and the more difficult Coastal Loop (2h return) that emerges from coastal forest and follows marker posts along beaches and rocky outcrops on the southern shoreline.
Don’t miss the fuchsia fiesta of Tua-
Abov right: Eglington Valley Creek. Below right: The Foveaux Walkway beside the hill.
created
New Zealand Guided Walks
tapere Reserve.
From Tuatapere, head into the beautiful Borland. Green Lake Hut is a long day-walk of several hours, but there are shorter options. The Borland Nature Walk (30m), South Borland Track (3h), Burnt Ridge (1h30m), Lake Monowai Peninsula Lookout (30m), and Mount
A footstepping foray into fabulous Fiordland
Above left: A group of hikers in Tuatatpere Reserve.
Above right: time to enjoy a sunset. at Moturau Hut.
Below left: Lake Te Anau from Lake Henry Loop Track.
Burns Tarns (1-2h), all yield great rewards for stretching your legs. If you venture into Lake Hauroko, you will see NZ’s deepest lake (462m) as well as gaining the chance to climb to the Lookout (4h return), suss out the Big Totara Tree (30m), or observe the progression from mainly matai, tōtara and rimu in the wet-
ter area to mountain beech in the drier areas, on the Lake Hauroko Track (40m).
Te Anau beckons, but go via Lake Manapouri. From Pearl Harbour you can take a water taxi to the beautiful Hope Arm, and walk back via the main route (three hours) or the Back Valley Track (four to five hours)
Fraser’s Beach (45minutes), and Rainbow Reach to Moturau Hut (three hours thirty minutes) return) offer lovely lake views, beech forest, and swimming opportunities, but be prepared for the sandflies!
The 7 km Circle Track takes you on a pleasant, half-day walk through beech forest to a hill viewpoint overlooking the lake. Home Creek and the Lake Henry loop are worthwhile half-hour ambles.
‘Lord of the Rings’ fans will relish an excursion to the magnificent Mavora Lakes Conservation Park. The park was
New Zealand Guided Walks
used as a filming location for Nen Hithoel, Silverlode and Anduin rivers, Fangorn Forest edge and South of Rivendell. Peter Jackson got his money’s worth out of this spot, and you will too. The South Mavora Walking Track (two hours) or Kiwi Burn Hut Loop (three hours) will expose you to gob-smacking and piquant surroundings. The entire domain is entrancing.
Described by Rudyard Kipling as the ‘Eighth Wonder of the World’, Milford Sound is always spectacular. On the way there, two women are worthy of close attention: Lake Marian (three hour return) and Gertrude Saddle (five hour return). For the less ambitious, try Lake Mistletoe (40 minutes), Humboldt Falls (30 minutes), The Chasm (20 minutes) or Homer Tunnel Nature Walk (30 minutes). At the Sound itself, doddle along the Foreshore Walk (20 minutes), ascend to the Lookout (10 minutes), or breeze to Bowen Falls (five minutes). Or opt for the digressional adventure of a cruise.
The kaleidoscopic Kepler is one of our best Great Walks. You can easily fill a pleasant morning walking from the Visitor Centre to the Control Gates (one hour), and from there to either Dock Bay (one hour return) or Brod Bay (three hour return).
Alternatively head in the opposite direction along the charming littoral to the Upukerora River (three hour return), enjoying impressive views across Lake
the
is one of the most dramatic and beautiful parts of New Zealand. The power of its scenery never fails to enthral travellers. If you want all of the above in a low-cost, one-week package, without the hassle of driving or arranging accommodation, you can register for the Footsteps Walking and Travel Club’s Fabulous Fiordland excursion, scheduled for 9-15 March, 2025. Bookings are now open.
For details go to www.footstepswalk-
ingclub.com or contact them on 021 172 3244, email footstepsanz@gmail.com
It will be akin to tasting a string of exquisite dishes in a single meal, and you will return with many evanescent memories of happy days.
.Above: Milford Sounds from Gertrude Saddle.
Below right: The still waters for Lake Mayora.
Te Anau to
Murchison Mountains. Fiordland
New Zealand Guided Walks
Five easy walks in the Greymouth region
With the river, forest, sea and mountains close at hand, Greymouth / Māwhera — the largest town in the West Coast region — is an ideal base for walking and hiking adventures.
Explore what was once one of New Zealand's most productive coal mines, discover gold mining relics, coastal scenery, native forests and spectacular waterfalls on walks in the area.
POINT ELIZABETH WALKWAY, Greymouth
Coastal bush with stunning cliff top views.
Point Elizabeth Walkway is a coastal bush walk following an old water race between Rapahoe Beach and Cobden, on the northern end of Greymouth.
Expect great views as it passes through a scenic reserve and past old gold mining sites. Rapahoe Beach is a good swimming spot.
One hour 45 minutes | 5.5 km one way
Easy walking
COAL CREEK FALLS TRACK, Runanga
Bush walk to pretty cascade waterfall
An easy one-hour loop through lovely rainforest to picturesque Coal Creek Falls.
Rest awhile on the benches overlooking the waterfall or follow steps down to the pool at the bottom.
This historic trail once led to the West Coast’s first commercial coal mine. Runanga is a 10-minute drive north of Greymouth.
3.6 km | 60 minute loop
Easy walking
COBDEN AROMAHANA LAGOON TRACK, Greymouth
Alpine and ocean views, wetlands and beach
Popular with families and birdwatchers, this short walk around the lagoon offers expansive views inland to the Twelve Apostles Range, Southern Alps and out across the Tasman Sea. Nearby Cobden Island is an alternative walk through a restored whitebait-spawning area. Look out for kōtuku/white heron.
From Nelson Creek Recreation Area (playground and camping) walk through an old hand-picked tunnel and cross the Nelson Creek suspension bridge to the start of several easy walks or try your hand with some gold panning. Callaghans Track: Climb to the lookout over bush clad valleys; return from there or continue through native podocarp forest to Prices Creek Road.
2.6 km | 1 hr return to lookout; 4 km | 1.5 hr return to Prices Creek Road
900 m | 20 min return - Short easy walk Colls Dam Walk: Picnic spot and lookout over historic Colls Dam, old gold workings.
1.1 km | 40 min loop track
Wheelchair accessible (from Gows Creek)
Opposite page above left: The track goes through scenic bush on the Point Elizabeth Walkway.
Middle: The Coal Creek Falls.
Above right: Panning in the Nelson Creek Recreation area.
Below right: A view from the Cobden Aromahana Lagoon Track.
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PHOTO CONTEST
Above left: My husband Bruce on one of the walking tracks at Wenderholm Regional Park in Auckland. Photo by Jo Alexander of Epsom, Auckland.
Below left: Here is my daughter Frances Nadan on Day 2 of our Routeburn Walk.Photo taken on 28th March 2024 after snow the previous night! Photo by Julia Nadan, Auckland.
Below right: After the storm. With the wild surf smashing and crashing through The Gap at Sth Piha, the turbulent waves create a deep flurry of foam all along the sand. The strong wind blowing puffs of it like tumbleweeds. Two walking Woppers couldn’t resist it! Photo by Vicky Ross , Red Beach.
images and enter the
Above: Members of the Upper Hutt Walking and Tramping Club walking the Te Ara Piko Walkway, which runs along the north side of Pauatahanui Inlet, Porirua, on a beautiful calm late Autumn day. Photo by Sharon Dunstan, Whitby, Porirua. .
Middle right: Hikers returning from the bare granite rocks of Bald Cone, which overlooks Port Pegasus in the remote southern part of Stewart Island. Photo by Claire Woodhall, Pandora, Napier.
Below left: Ann being towered over whilst enjoying a wonderful Ngawhakawhiti Bay bush walk in Pelorus Sound Photo by Denice Hawker, Cherrywood, Tauranga
Snow, Skull Rock and the Hidden Valley: Trekking in Joshua Tree National Park
By Daniel Haddock
After meeting the family, who were all Kiwi citizens but living in New Jersey, at LAX on March 23rd, 2024 we drove down to Palm Springs, California where I grew up.
I wanted to show my grandchildren how different the Desert Empire was. My son and daughter in law had been there before but there were lots of new places to explore. It
was Spring Break for many schools in America. Easter in Palm Springs is always amazing due to its high daily temperatures and balmy evenings when much of the USA is experiencing winter storms, so the desert area was very crowded.
High on our list of things to do was Joshua Tree National Park which was
Above right: Joshua trees abound in the Mohave Desert.
only an hour’s drive away. I was last there over 50 years ago and was very keen to have another look. So, the next day the five of us were on our way to see the nearest National Park.
‘The wild-armed Joshua Tree is truly a sign you are in the Mojave Desert. It is not a tree but a yucca species. Like other desert plants, its waxy, spiny leaves expose little surface area efficiently conserving moisture and can grow to 12 metres high.’ (National Park Service)
President Franklin Roosevelt was persuaded to proclaim the Joshua Tree National Monument in 1936. Finally in 1994, the California Desert Protection Act renamed the area Joshua Tree National Park. Sitting above the Coachella Valley, the 3200 square kilometre park with 80 percent managed as wilderness was established.
The park is in the high desert with many peaks and hills over 1400m. There is a network of well-maintained roads, campgrounds, and
trails throughout the park. Starting at the amazingly-appointed Visitor Centre, we planned our itinerary for our day/night adventure.
The entire area was full of “Aha!” moments. We were soon walking through a perpetual Western Movie Set. The jumbled rocks were straight out of Disneyland only these rock piles were real.
The temperature was certainly dropping as we headed toward the abandoned Wall Steet Mill on a two mile out and back trail. This mill which opened in 1933 was used to process gold from local mining operations. At the end of the trail the homestead and mill still stands and there are several old rusted cars around the area. (National Park Service) The old cars soon became the background to must-have photos.
Later Isaac and Izzy bounded up and over piles of granite toy blocks distributed by an angry giant or in this case volcanic activity. I kept to the trails down below wishing I was once again agile and able to join them.
Skull Rock, a 1.7 mile loop trail, was the next destination. As we pulled in the parking area, tiny white snow drops covered the windscreen. We put on another layer and headed towards the Phantom’s Cave. Yeah, Right! Sculpted in the right places, this well-worn massive boulder certainly looked like the entrance to meet Devil and Hero. Light snow continued to fall!
As evening closed in, we headed towards Hidden Valley. There were a few cars in the campgrounds, lanterns ablaze on tables and in the
Above: The colourful high desert. Below right: Izzy and Isaac rock hopping.
Below left: Snow flakes on the car door.
Snow, Skull Rock and the Hidden Valley: Trekking in Joshua Tree National Park
tents. On cue, the moon rose and made walking on the white, 1.6 mile sandy track without torches a reality. When you passed through a narrowrock opening, a fantastic, rocky wonderland opened before you. Between the late 1800s and early 1900s, the valley was used by cattle rustlers looking to stay “hidden”. (National Park Service) Rock-scrambling ruled the roost in the eerie moonlight!
The last major stop was Keys View, a 20-minute drive from Park Boulevard. At 1581 metres, it is the highest point accessible by road in the park.
The main lookout is connected by a short-paved walkway which is wheel-chair accessible. Well-worth a late evening view as the Coachella Valley lights up beneath you and showcases the communities of Desert Hot Springs, Palm Springs, Cathredral City, Rancho Mirage, Palm Desert, Indio, and Coachella.
During the day, the two highest peaks in Southern California, Mt. San Gorgonio (3,506 m) and Mt. San Jacinto, (3,302m) are visible. As well, on a clear day part of the 700 milelong San Andreas Fault, the Salton Sea and Signal Mountain in Mexico are also visible.
As we headed back to Palm Springs, I hoped I would return and spend some time camping in this amazing wilderness area.
Below
Issac
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
Above left: There are lots of Joshua trees abound in the Mohave Desert. Above right: Jumbled Rock formation.
left: Ben and
at Skull Rock.
Mangawhero Forest Walk - through dense native forest
Mangawhero Forest Walk located near Ohakune in Tongariro National Park is a well-maintained beautiful forest walk that is an absolute must-do for nature lovers.
Winding through dense native forest on the lower slopes of the track is a near loop, heading uphill at first for 1.5km to a campground clearing suitable for picnics, then over the Mangawhero River bridge to gently stroll back down through the bush on the opposite side of the mountain road.
At a point, the track crosses a large volcanic crater. It’s a short, wellsignposted track with gentle uphills and a car park at the trailhead. There are many places to take a dip in the river during summer.
The trail offers great scenery and opportunities to learn about trees and foliage. Conditions can be a bit muddy after heavy rain but are overall gentle and not too strenuous. Typically in July, the area may be muddy, but the trail remains easy and enjoyable for outdoor activities.
While in Ohakune why not tale a
Above left: The sign at the entrance. Below left: The loop track.
Above right: A bridge crosses the Mangawhero River. Middle left: The crystal clear waters of the Mangawhero River. Below left: Dense bush.
full look at the Ohakune circuit, you can connect up with the northern end of the Mangawhero River walk, then follow the Jubilee Walkway, linking the three trails all the way from mountain to township.
Cutting away at the base of the Mangawhero Forest walk, the Rimu Walkway is a beautiful 15-minute side loop suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs.
Recent reviews for Mangawhero Forest Walk, describe it a relaxing and pleasant walk through native bush with well-maintained paths.
Fact file
How to get there: 2.7km from Ohakune
Length of walk: 3.4 km loop
Classed as an easy short walk
Time to do: One hour five minute loop
Dog access No dogs allowed.
Kaitoke Walkway, Raglan
The Kaitoke Walkway is a 4km out and back trail in Raglan in the Waikato.
Generally considered an easy route with the sea on one side, it can be accessed from three spots, Robinson Road, Wainui Road(by the school) and Kaitoke Street.
The walk is about 20 minutes one way, depending on where you start. Dogs can be walked on lead. No toilet facilities available.
This walkway is great for hiking, running, and walking, and it’s unlikely you’ll encounter many other people while exploring.
Above right: The track beside the sea. Middle right: A view from the track of a calm sea. Below right; The trail goes through trees.
Mt John Walk - incredible views of the Mackenzie Basin
■
Looking down on Lake Tekapo with the Lake Tekapo Hot Springs Pools in the foreground.
Mt John Walk: incredible views of the Mackenzie Basin
By Michael Hendriks
Over the last few years, Lake Tekapo has become a popular walking and cycling destination in the South Island, with more walking and cycling tracks being opened in the area to explore.
One of the most popular short walks in the South Island is Mount John due to its incredible views of the Mackenzie Basin and surrounding hills along with easy access from the lake tekapo township
Today’s walks will take about two to three hours to complete the 8.5km circuit, along with 300 metres
of elevation to be gained .
The walk can be competed in either direction or if you’re short of time then you can always just walk to the top and back
Prior to setting out on this walk, make sure that you check the weather, as once you leave the bush line, it is extremely exposed and there is no shelter other than the cafe at the top
Above left: Looking down at the Mt John Observatory. Below left: Lake Tekapo and the Southern Alps in the background.
and make sure you have sufficient clothing and drink.
The walk starts next to the Lake Tekapo Hot Springs on Lakeside Drive where there is plenty of parking along with toilets and picnic tables nearby and if you are staying in Lake Tekapo you can walk an easy additional 2 kms along the lake to the start of the walk
It’s a good steady climb as the track takes you up and around the back of the hot pools as it then narrows as it enters the pine forest before continuing the steady zig zag climb upwards before it finally heads to the west. This then brings you out of the trees to the barron brown slopes of Mount John amongst the tussocks.
From here the climb again continues skyward to Mount John Ob-
servatory view point for those oh so stunning 360 degree views of the Mackenzie Country and then its one last climb up to the top to the Astro Cafe for a well deserved break and a cup of coffee and to take time to appreciate the view
It’s now all downhill from here, as the track heads northwards down towards the lake which provides you with one last stop to take epic panoramic photos of surrounding mountains before the track makes one final
Above right: The grassy slopes on Mt John. Below left: The Astro Cafe. Below right: Looking down on Lake Tekapo from the track up Mt John.
Guide to Ferns and lycophytes
eastward turn to the last but short steep descent to the lakefront.
The track now heads along the lake for the next few kilometres , which again give you great views of the lake and the surrounding Lake Tekapo township area, the track finally enters the trees of the head of the Lake Tekapo walk before finally joining a 4wd track as it makes it way back to the start of the walk on Lakeside Drive and time for a swim at the hot pools.
Compiled and written by Te Papa’s foremost fern experts, this fully illustrated guide is for anyone wanting to understand, identify and distinguish 201 of the most commonly encountered species of ferns and lycophytes found across New Zealand.
Ferns and lycophytes grow in most places in New Zealand, from freshwater to alpine habitats, along exposed coasts and on the trunks of forest trees, and from just a few millimetres long to 20-metre-tall tree ferns.
Just under half of the native species are only found here. Full-colour photographic examples of species, along with diagrams of key features, provide several ways for readers to successfully identify these iconic plants of New Zealand. The book’s manageable size and accessible layout makes it easy to use, enabling readers to quickly recognise species and understand their distinguishing characteristics, habitats and distribution.
About the Authors
Leon Perrie is Curator Botany at Te Papa and was the lead science curator for Te Papa’s long-term exhibition Te Taiao | Nature.
Patrick Brownsey was Curator Botany at the National Museum of New Zealand and Te Papa for over forty years, and expert with New Zealand ferns and lycophytes. At the time of writing, he was Research Associate Botany. Pat passed away in late 2023 and this book is a dedication to his work.
Many tracks through the kauri forest were closed in 2017 to protect these special areas from the spread of kauri dieback disease and a rahui was placed on the forest by mana whenua.
And a flash flood at Cascade Kauri tragically took the lives of two young people, causing significant damage to walking tracks and infrastructure in 2023.
During closure, Auckland Council, together with local iwi Te Kawerau ā Maki, has completed a comprehensive rejuvenation initiative to protect the park’s unique ecosystem and
Hikers
preserve it for generations to come. The Cascade Kauri main arrival area and surrounding valley has a new name - Te Piringa.
Cascade Kauri Forest (Park) is the largest group of kauri trees found in Waitakere Forest Regional Park, which is a well maintained hill forest park in the west of Auckland.
There is a road passing through ridges of this mountain range called Scenic Drive with stunning views on both sides of the range, which covers Forest Parks, Centennial Park, and
Above: Panoramic View of the Waitakere Reservoir and the waterfalls below it.
lots of nature walking tracks including the famous Hillary Track as well.
One can enjoy views, study nature, and work towards conserving the natural environment. There are several groups, seriously concerned about the depleting environment within the area: Waitakere Range Protection Society (1973), Forest and Bird Waitakere, and Waitakere River Care, to name some.
I planned to join in with Auckland Natural History Club members in their first walk of the year 2017 on 22 January. Auckland Natural History Club is an established and seasoned club, which organises various walks in different regions to enjoy and study nature. The meeting point for me was at Matai Road near Great South Road at Greenlane. There were about 20 members to take the bus from there. We introduced ourselves to each other. The bus came in time at 08:15am and we boarded the bus.
The bus stopped at Point Chevalier to pick a few more up before setting out for our destination, which was a stop close to Mt Pukematekeo. Rain forecast was in place for the area that day.
For Mt Pukematekeo, we diverted from Scenic Drive to Summit Road which goes round it. After getting down from the bus someone took a group photo. After a short walk for about 10 minutes, we were on the top of Mt Pukematekeo (360 m) around 09:15am.
It was a lovely 360-degree view. It was cloudy, and we could not see as far as we could have, on a sunny day. On a clear day, one can also see the stunning view of Waitakere Reservoir with beautiful Falls below. Then, we came back to the bus.
The bus, thereafter, took us to the car park of Waitakere Golf Club. The
group was split into two, A, for longer routes and B, for shorter routes. Our group A commenced walking towards east from the car park. It was a nice slow pace downhill walking along Auckland City walk.
At one point someone pointed at one type of orchid, very close to the road. After a few minutes, we entered the forest track again. The southwest slope, down below, looked awesome. Then, before turning to Anderson Track, there was a point from where the dam down below looked stunningly beautiful with
Above right: A view of the dense forest.
Below right: Track Map posted at Simla ridge shows the track route.
Walking through the Cascade Kauri Forest
Waitakere Falls. Then, the track was somewhat steeper downhill through dense bush.
After crossing a small stream, we came to the Waitakere Tramline Track. We had to walk along the rail. I took a photo of the tunnel, of which the gate was closed for safety. We walked on the opposite side of the tunnel, and along the tramline track for some time, where we passed through a station with a platform as well.
Then, it was a somewhat rugged downhill track, which after 10 minutes, met with a metalled road coming from Scenic Drive, which ended at the car park next to Waitakere
Reservoir Dam.
We rested there for some minutes enjoying the scenery and allowed other members of the team to catch up. It was a very scenic place with dense forest surrounding the reservoir. Below the dam, there is Waitakere Falls, and further downhill, there is another fall and a small swimming pond, where we did not plan to go. Then we started walking along the concrete dam.
On the other side it was a nice forested area, where we took our lunch break for about 20 minutes. There was a track map posted on the side to show our track ahead. After lunch break, we continued to
walk alongside the dam, which was a boulder enforced retention wall (Fence Line Track), to some distance of the reservoir. Then, it started going uphill touching the Robinson Ridge ( 313m) but we followed the Long Road track.
After going along somewhat undulating uphill, we reached Simla (323m). It was a bit muddy because of recent rain in the area. From this point on, the track went sideways along the Long Road Track which went northwest from Simla Ridge.
It was again up and down and sideways walks. Before we reached Smyth corner, we caught up with the Upper Kauri Track coming from the south. As we walked along this slightly up trend track, it rained for about 10 minutes. That is when I had to use my light raincoat. The rain stopped soon.
We continued our walk uphill and after about 20 minutes the Lower Kauri Track also came from
Below left: End of the Cascade Kauri Walk with this bridge crossing the cascade stream. Below right: One of the giant kauris.
the south and merged with our track. At times, it becomes a steeper climb where wooden stairs were built.
Then, we were among kauri trees, some of which were quite large with massive trunks. It was a wet and somewhat dark area because of the overcast sky. The track was on wooden board, and mostly stairs, which was at that time dangerously wet and somewhat slippery. We had to be careful in every step.
For the next 15 minutes or so the track went down like this. Then, a regular slope with a zigzag path followed. When the descent ended, there was a Maori art of a standing warrior.
There, we crossed a bridge over cascade stream and reached a green open field surrounded by trees. We crossed the field, and the rows of trees, to reach the car park. It was still raining occasionally. When everybody in the group reached the car park, we boarded our bus for the return journey back home.
Although we saw a mixture of tall trees, shrubs, and different kinds of ferns including tree ferns, some members noted NZ Broom ( Carmichaelium sp), Neinei (Grass Tree, Dracophyllum latifolium), Rewarewa (NZ honeysuckle, Nightia excelsa) and Wild Orchid (Pekapeka, Cunninghamii sp.).
Later, of course, we passed through kauri dominated forest. “Kauri Dieback ‘’ is a serious problem for the park and protection measures are being taken. Because of the time, weather and our pace of walk I did not see many birds but did
The sign post information indicated that dogs were not allowed in this track. The trail was moderately strenuous, and needed a good track map. Some tracks were closed. Even if you don’t get lost, the confusion will cost you time and peace of mind. Thanks to excellent organisation of walk and our well-informed guides we absolutely had no problems. Comfortable shoes, clothing, plenty of water and food are essential.
We approached Waitakere Scenic Drive (SD) from Titirangi and drove on, passing Arataki Visitor Centre, Piha Road, Mt Pukematekeo, and continued on SD till we met Te Henga Road, which took us to Falls Road.
That is where Waitakere Golf Club is located (35 km from the city). Thereafter, the walking loop itself is about 6 km of rugged terrain of ups and downs, yet thoroughly enjoyable.
Above right: Walkers on the way to Mt Pukematekeo.
Middle right: NZ Bamboo Orchid seen near the track in the forest. Below left: Waitakere Tramline track Tunnel closed to avoid unwanted hazards.
Below right: Route Map with options (solid red, indicative only)
hear tui song.
NORTH ISLAND
NORTHLAND
BAY OF ISLANDS
BAY OF ISLANDS WALKERS: Saturday (AM), Jacqui Watson 022-6019741, Roz Whittaker 021-063-1455
DARGAVILLE
DARGAVILLE TRAMPING GROUP: Last Sunday of month (AM), Lynley Thompson 021-102-3974, colvilleestate1@gmail.com
WHANGAREI
CARDIAC CARE WALKING GROUP: Wednesday (AM or PM), Jo or Hugh Knight 09-438-7976
BLUE TOP WALKERS: Henderson, Tuesday, Thursday (AM), Terry Wilson 09-814-9523 or 021-266-1071, terryandsheena@gmail.com, www. bluetopwalkers.weebly.com
FIA OLA WOMEN’S DEVELOPMEMT WALK GROUP: Monday to Saturday, Anne, 09-813-0021
FIT4LIFE: Glenfield, Monday (PM), Friday (AM), Sarah 021 534 649
GLEN EDEN ATHLETIC CLUB WALKERS: Glen Eden, Wednesday (PM) and Saturday (AM), Neil Turner 09-817-6230 GREEN BAY MUMS BUSH WALKERS: Every second Monday, Anne
09-827-7810 or 09-817-5867
KELSTON MORNING WALKERS: Kelston C.C. Tues (AM), Joy Martin 09-838-6553
KELSTON TWILIGHT WALKERS: Kelston, Tuesday (PM), Joy Martin 09-818-6084
KUMEU WALK GROUP: Kumeu, Friday (AM), Mary Davies 09-412-2262
LYNNMALL SHOPPING CENTRE KIWIFIT CLUB: Monday, Wednesday (AM), (BIA), 09-826-2333
TE ATAU PENINSULA WALKERS: Monday, Friday (AM), Wednesday (PM), Mary Jones 09-834-6989
TE ATATU SOUTH ACTIVE 35+ WALKING GROUP: Te Atatu South, Wednesday, Edna, 09-834-1401
THE HAPPY WANDERERS WALKING GROUP: Wednesday (AM), Joy Williams 09-817-2464 or 027-353-3434
TITIRANGI TWILIGHT WALKERS: Tuesdays, Thursday, (PM) Titirangi Library, Wednesday (PM) Glovers Real Estate Green Bay, Louise 021437-547, louisenicholson@xtra.co.nz
TITIRANGI WALKERS: Sundays (AM), John Harris 09-627-0099, jeanah@ihug.co.nz
WALKERS & TALKERS: Campbells Bay, Wednesday (AM), Brenda Gray
LEGEND
Fitness levels: “B” beginner, ”I” intermediate, “A” advanced. (AM) denotes morning walk, (PM) denotes an afternoon or evening walk. Group co-ordinators are asked to please advise us of any updates by fax 06-358-6864 or email walkingnz@xtra.co.nz.
NAPIER SOUTH WALKING GROUP: Friday (AM), (B), Maria Rogers
LEGEND
Fitness levels: “B” beginner, ”I” intermediate, “A” advanced. (AM) denotes morning walk, (PM) denotes an afternoon or evening walk. Group co-ordinators are asked to please advise us of any updates by fax 06-358-6864 or email walkingnz@xtra.co.nz.
06-843-1225
RUN WALK HAWKES BAY: Wed (PM), Sunday (AM), Mike Sheely 06-843-7804, www.runwalkhb.org.nz
Ys WALKERS: Tuesday, Thursday, Napier, Kay Hacche 06-844-4891 or Lance Connolly 027-464-2018
SPORT WANGANUI CLUB GOLD: (AM), (BIA), Betty Morrison 06346-5613
OHAKUNE
SPORT WANGANUI CLUB GOLD: Mondays (AM), Kerry Young 06385-4055
MARTON
SPORT WANGANUI CLUB GOLD Wednesday (AM), Deane James 06-327-7607
LEGEND
Fitness levels: “B” beginner, ”I” intermediate, “A” advanced. (AM) denotes morning walk, (PM) denotes an afternoon or evening walk. Group co-ordinators are asked to please advise us of any updates by fax 06-358-6864 or email walkingnz@xtra.co.nz.
PIONEER TRAMPERS:Thursday (AM) (IA),4-5 hour tramps in Banks Peninsula and the hills and lower mountains from Mt Hutt to Mt Grey, pioneertrampers@gmail.com
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.
6 Coastrek Fleurieu Peninsula, Flkeuieu Peninsula, SA
Qld
27 Operation Flinders City to Summit, Adelaide to Mt Lofty, SA
27 The Great Aussie Hike, Katoomba to Penrith, NSW
OCTOBER 2024
28 Coastrek Margaret River, WA
NOVEMBER 2024
10 Sunshine Walk, Albury, NSW
DECEMBER 2024
7 Pasifika Festival and Charity Walk, Melbourne Vic
REST OF WORLD
AUGUST 2024
3-4 IML Walking Festival, Kaunas, Lithuania
9-11 IML Walking Festival, Vaasa, Finland
24-25 IML Walking Festival, Verdal, Norway
31-1 September IML Walking Festival, Gospic, Croatia
SEPTEMBER 2024
3-4 IML Walking Festival, Kaunas, Lithuania
13-15 IML Walking Festival, Seefield, Austria
14-15 IML Walking Festival, Beijing, China
28-29 IML Walking Festival, Brno, Czech Republic
OCTOBER 2024
5-6 IML Walking Festival, Fulda, Germany
19-20 IML Walking Festival, Arlington, USA
19-20 IML Walking Festival, Won-Ju, Korea
NOVEMBER 2024
2-3 IML Walking Festival, Higashimatsuyama, Japan
9-10 ML Walking Festival, Taipei, Taiwan
16-17 ML Walking Festival, Jogjakarta, Indonesia
FEBRUARY 2025
15-16 IML Walking Festival, San Antonio, USA
MARCH 2025
1-3 IML Walking Festival, Yatsushiro, Japan
23 -24 IML Walking Festival, Canberrra, ACT, Australia
APRIL 2025
27 London Marathon, London, England
The Pohangina Downhill Walk
9th November 2024 8:00am to 2:00pm
Situated in the beautiful Pohangina Valley, in the Manawatu district, climb aboard a shuttle bus ride to the beginning of the Branch Road walkway and take a gentle walk down through 6kms of native bush and farmland back to the Pohangina township to County Fayre, where a light lunch awaits you (all included in the price). Caravan and Campervan facilities available locally.
YOU MUST BOOK and PRE-PAY for this event
Adults $30, Children $15 (5 to 15yr), Family $100 (2 Adults & 4 Children), under 5’s free.
For more information or to book your ticket email: countyfayre@inspire.net.nz or message our facebook page https:// www.facebook.com/CountyFayre.
