Walk will explore old waterworks

Johnsonville’s bush and the old waterworks on Mount Kaukau will be explored on the Onslow Historical Society’s Waitangi Day Walk on Monday 6 February.

Running from 11am to mid afternoon, the walk will start at Raroa Station.

From there it will travel through the Onslow College grounds and on to Johnsonville Park’s native forest and the Northern Walkway.

The remains of the former Johnsonville Town Board’s dam and its second reservoir will prove an interesting stop during the walk.

These relics of Johnsonville history are fascinating, both to view and explore.

The remains of the old dam are not far inside the bush edge. There are steps to climb– all in good condition and with a hand rail.

Walkers will be able to enter an old tunnel with a water pipe on its floor. People wanting to enter the old waterworks tunnel are advised to bring a torch.

Onslow Historical Society member George Walter will attend the event and will speak on the history of the Johnsonville

Waterworks.

George researched this subject and produced a video for his company By George.

Titled “Johnsonville. The Forgotten Story’s – the Johnsonville Water Works”, the video is at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j6AjoIT

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Then there is more native forest to enjoy, a climb, and a lunch break, weather permitting, on Mount Kaukau, 445 m above sea level, with its wonderful views.

After lunch the walk will descend through more bush, along the North Ridge Track into Khandallah Park and will finish at Cafe du Parc.

The walk will proceed at a steady pace to suit participants. There are some places where there are roots and rocks so walkers are advised to wear strong footwear, bring windproof/water-proof clothing, sun hat and lotion, lunch, snacks, a thermos, a walking pole, personal first aid and medication. For more information and to RSVP, contact John Galloway on 04 478 7603 or jghgalloway@ slingshot.co.nz.