RECREATION WALKING and CYCLING TRAILS
FEBRUARY 2024 ISSUE NO 311
New Zealand Walk:
New Zealand Walks:
Queenstown - 10 beautiful walks worth doing New Zealand Walks:
Auckland’s North Shore Coastal Walk
Rotorua Lakefront Walk from gardens to a forest Overseas Walks
Cruising the Celtic countryside
New Zealand Walk:
Walk Awhuriri with rich cultuiral heritage New Zealand Walk;
Whisky Falls the best in Nelson area
Photo Contest winners NZ $12.50 inc GST
New Zealand Walks:
Tarawera Falls Track for spectacular views www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz
Walking New Zealand, issue no 311 - 2024 1
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2 Walking New Zealand, issue no 311 - 2024
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CONTENTS
Issue 311 FEBRUARY 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 Otari-Wilton’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
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6
Cover picture: A couple with dog striding it out on the Te Ara Piko Pathway that runs between Pauatahanui and joins up with the Cambourne Walkway at Plimmerton.
PUBLISHER/EDITOR: Frank Goldingham: Phone 06-358-6863, 027-274-0726
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CONTRIBUTORS: Jill Grant, Ceana Priest, Phillip Donnell, Mike Yardley and Dorothy Johnstone 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
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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.
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Walking New Zealand, issue no 311 - 2024 3
Walk talk New Arizona state park in 2024
Rockin’ River Ranch State Park is set to open in Camp Verde Arizona, USA, this year. Visitors can spend the day at Arizona’s newest state park on four miles of hiking trails on different locations, kayaking or fishing while they take in views of the cottonwood tree-lined Verde River. They can also have a picnic at this day-use-only park. Afterwards, visitors can take the opportunity to explore the surrounding Verde Valley for more outdoor adventures such as visiting Montezuma Castle National Monument and touring the area’s wineries. Above: Rockin’ River Ranch State Park.
Walking to count every bird
Te Papa curator and ornithologist Colin Miskelly (above) is heading out of the museum and walking the length of New Zealand to document and count every single bird he sees and hears along the way! Colin’s headed to the far north to start his treak along the Te Araroa Trail in November, He’s going to be on the road - or trail until March 2024.
The H215 Professional 4 Function Pedometer
Red Ochre Dreaming Cultural Tours on Dryandra Country
Immerse in the vibrant tapestry of Noongar culture with Red Ochre Dreaming Cultural Tours half-day experience in the Dryandra Woodland National Park, a two-hour drive from Perth in the Golden Outback region, of WA, Australia. Walk on Dryandra Country, connect with the land’s spirit, and explore local bush tucker with Wilman Noongar man Ross Storey. Develop tracking skills for native wildlife and tune into nature’s symphony, identifying bird calls and absorbing insights into the six Noongar seasons. The tours will also uncover essential bush survival techniques, plus traditional spear and boomerang-throwing, offering a connection to Noongar heritage.
4 Walking New Zealand, issue no 311 - 2024
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Walk talk
New guided Cape to Cape experience
Cape2Camp has launched a unique self-guided and fully catered hike and tenting experience on the iconic Cape-to-Cape track in the Margaret River Region in WA, Australia. Travellers looking to take on the incredible 123-kilometre trek can do so without extensive planning - just carry a day pack and enjoy the spectacular views. Camping equipment, transfers, plus food and drinks from the region are included. Hikers will have their camp set up at Contos and Hamelin Bay Holliday Park, allowing for starlight dinners and a comfortable night’s sleep on a quality mattress. Regardless of previous hiking experience, outdoor enthusiasts can choose between Cape2Camp three days, Cape2Camp two days and Cape2Camp Family. Hikes are seasonal and available between March and June and September and November.
New features added on Te Araroa Trail
Four huts in Nelson’s Richmond Ranges have brandnew water tanks being installed this month. The Te Araroa Trail Nelson Marlborough Trust worked with DOC to install the tanks that were funded by the New Zealand Community Trust (NZCT). There is now a new free campsite on the trail north of Mangawhai. As you come down off the Bryderwyn Hills, you’ll find a shelter, toilet and drinking water, providing walkers with another great option of a place to spend the night. Above: New Waorahi campsite north of Mangawhai.
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!
Having trouble finding Walking New Zealand magazine in your favourite newsagent or supermarket?
Planting over 1000 trees
The Te Araroa Trail Trust will be planting over one thousand trees this walking season thanks to their new partnership with Trees that Count. Every registered through-walker and Trailblazer will have a tree planted in their name somewhere along the trail. www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz
Did you know you can now buy the latest copy of Walking New Zealand magazine posted to you at the retail price of $12.50 pus $3.00 postage or you can subscribe and SAVE.
You can buy a copy by:
* Visit www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz/magazine * Email to walkingnz@xtra.co.nz with your postal ad dress and credit card details * Ring Freephone 0800 walking, and have your postal address and credit card details handy. Walking New Zealand, issue no 311 - 2024 5
Auckland Walks
Auckland’s North Shore Coastal Walk Above: A sandy section with views of Rangitoto. Below left: A boardwalk over a tricky section.
A
uckland’s North Shore City Coastal Walk a 23 km urban walk takes you from Long Bay in the north to Devonport in the south. Te Araroa logos, markers on posts, and small fingerboards on poles mark the all-tide route. This route follows cliff top tracks, pedestrian shortcuts, steps and footpaths. At low tide only, it is possible to walk almost all the way on the shoreline, but North Shore City Council does not recommend this route. Rocks may be very slippery and unstable underfoot, and there are high unstable cliffs above you. You will need to take careful note of the time of low tide, as there are several points where you can be cut off by the rising water. If you want to walk the whole way during one low tide, prepare to do some wading. Alternatively, break the walk part way, and complete it at low tide the following day. All walkers must come inshore between Castor Bay Esplanade and Milford Beach to cross Wairau Creek
6 Walking New Zealand, issue no 311 - 2024
on the Inga Road bridge. There is no foreshore route between these two beaches. Wairau Creek cannot be safely forded at any stage of the tide. All-tide route follows cliff top tracks, pedestrian shortcuts, steps and footpaths:
Long Bay to Torbay
From Long Bay, near Marine Education Recreation Centre at the bottom of Beach Road, head up the Oneroa Track to Cliff Road. Go down Cliff Road to Rewi Street, turn left into Rock Isle Road, right into Waiake Street, left onto Beach Road and head down to Waiake Beach (Torbay).
Torbay to Browns Bay
Walk along the Waiake beachfront at Torbay, go up Beach Road a little way and turn left into Sharon Road. At the end of Sharon Road, follow the Lotus Walk down to Manly Esplanade and Browns Bay Beach.
Browns Bay to Rothesay Bay
At the southern end of Browns Bay Beach follow the concrete path to the footbrid ge, which leads round onto the North Shore City Cliff Top Walkwww.walkingnewzealand.co.nz
Auckland Walks
Rothesay Bay to Murrays Bay
.
way, up the steps to Beechwood Road, past Dan Jones Bluff and down to Rothesay Bay.
Coming out of the Cliff Top Walkway at Rothesay Bay, follow the path across the footbridge, through the reserve, and up into Rothesay Bay Road. From there turn left into Churchill Road, and just before the road curves right, head down Gumdiggers Trail and onto the Cliff Top Walkway, to emerge on Murrays Bay Reserve.
Murrays Bay to Mairangi Bay
From the reserve at the northern end of Murrays Bay, walk along the beachfront and then up the steps to the Cliff Top Walkway at the southern end of the beach. This leads up and over, to come out on Mairangi Bay beachfront.
Mairangi Bay to Campbells Bay
From Mairangi Bay Beach head up Forde Way to Whitby Crescent. Turn left into Whitby and a little way along find Te Araroa signs pointing up Sea Dog Alley to View Road. Head left down View Road until you reach the Possum Ladder track on the left. This will take you down to Campbells Bay.
Campbells Bay to Castor Bay
Walk along Campbells Bay Beach, and up Huntly Road to Beach Road. Stay on Beach Road as far as JF Kennedy Memorial Park. Go through the park to the eastern edge and follow the track through to Rahopara Historic Reserve. From here take the path down to Castor Bay Reserve.
Castor Bay to Milford
From The Esplanade at Castor Bay there is no access, at any time of the tide, around the beach to MilAbove right: A well paved track takes walkers away from mthye rocks. Middle right: Walking along a small rocky track. Below right: Walking through the rocks.
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Walking New Zealand, issue no 311 - 2024 7
Auckland Walks
Auckland’s North Shore Coastal Walk ford. Wairau Creek cannot be safely forded. At the southern end of Castor Bay Esplanade turn right along the concrete path, and follow it left to climb the steps between the houses, emerging on Beach Road at the top of the hill. From there go down to Inga Road, and across the road bridge over Wairau Creek. Turn left into Omana Road, left again into Craig Road and go round to the end of Craig Road and onto Milford beach.
North Shore City heritage trail Takapuna – Milford Walk and crosses private property thanks to the owners’ goodwill. Please respect the environment and the privacy of local residents, and do not trespass on private property outside the described route. The pathway in this area is not properly constructed so please take care. Neither North Shore City Council, Te Araroa Trust, nor the private property owners accept any responsibility for any loss, damage or injury to you or your property arising from Milford to Takapuna You can walk all the way along the your use of this walkway. beach and rocks from the northern Takapuna to Devonport end of Milford Beach to the southern From the southern end of Takaend of Takapuna Beach. puna Beach, head up Clifton Road Between Milford Beach and Taka- to Lake Road. Walk down past Takapuna Beach the route follows the puna Grammar School and Belmont
Above: The southern end of the North Shore Coastal Walk at Cheltenham Beach. Intermediate School, turn left into Winscombe Road, and then right along Seacliffe Avenue and Hamana Street. At Old Lake Road, turn left to reach Narrow Neck Beach. From the southern end of the beach follow Vauxhall Road up and over, down to Bath Street on your left. At Bath Street turn left to reach Cheltenham Beach and walk along the sand as far as Cheltenham Road. You may leave the beach at Cheltenham Road, and walk straight through to Devonport, or you may go to the end of the beach and up North Head to come down Takarunga Road. Then head left along King Edward Parade to finish at Devonport Wharf.
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New Zealand Walks
An adventure through the enchanting
Otari-Wilton’s Bush
O
nce upon a crisp and dewkissed morning in Wellington, a adventurous soul named Emma decided to embark on a solo adventure through the enchanting Otari-Wilton’s Bush. The air was filled with the invigorating scent of native flora, and the melodious chorus of native birds provided a symphony that beckoned her into the heart of this ecological wonderland. As Emma stepped onto the mosscovered path, she felt an immediate connection to the ancient trees that towered above her. The dense canopy filtered the sunlight, creating a magical dance of shadows on the forest floor. Every step felt like a journey back in time, as if the very essence of the land whispered tales of centuries gone by. Her first encounter was with a friendly fantail, its distinctive fanshaped tail fanning out as it flitted from branch to branch, seemingly guiding her deeper into the forest. The vibrant greenery and the gentle murmur of the Kaiwharawhara www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz
Stream accompanied her every step, creating a serene atmosphere that was both calming and invigorating. Emma soon stumbled upon the fernery, a lush collection of ferns that seemed to unfurl like delicate green tapestries. Mesmerized, she traced her fingers along the fronds, marvelling at the intricate patterns that adorned them. The fernery felt like a secret chamber, a hidden realm where time moved at its own pace. Continuing her journey, Emma encountered the grand rimu and kahikatea trees, their colossal trunks standing as silent witnesses to the passing centuries. The vibrant birdlife intensified, with the haunting call of the morepork echoing through the trees. Emma couldn’t help but feel a sense of awe and reverence for the natural world surrounding her. As she meandered through the forest, Emma reached the Canopy Walkway, a suspended bridge that offered a bird’s eye view of the ancient treetops. The rustling leaves and occasional creaking of the bridge beneath her feet created a symphony
of sounds that added to the sensory feast. As the day unfolded, Emma found herself at the Sundial of Human Involvement, a unique sculpture that marked the changing seasons and showcased the intricate dance between nature and humanity. It was a poignant reminder of the delicate balance that exists in this sanctuary. As the sun began to dip below the horizon, casting a warm glow over the treetops, Emma felt a deep sense of gratitude for her journey through Otari-Wilton’s Bush. She carried the stories of ancient trees, the whispers of the wind, and the songs of native birds in her heart, forever woven into the fabric of her own tale. With a contented sigh, Emma exited the bush, leaving behind the enchanting world that had captivated her for a day. As she returned to the bustling city of Wellington, she carried with her not only memories but also a renewed appreciation for the beauty and resilience of the natural world that thrived in the heart of the Otari-Wilton’s Bush.
Walking New Zealand, issue no 311 - 2024 9
New Zealand Walks
Otari-Wilton’s Bush offers a
mixture of walking experiences
10 Walking New Zealand, issue no 311 - 2024
S
tep back in time to an ancient world in Wellingon’s Otari-Wilton’s Bush. Enter the tranquil Fernery, tiptoe through the treetops on the Canopy Walkway, hike the trails to find the 800-year-old rimu. Otari-Wilton’s Bush is the only botanic garden in New Zealand solely dedicated to native plants, as well as being the country’s foremost native plant collection. In this unique plant sanctuary there are five hectares of plant collections and 100 hectares of mature and regenerating native bush. The mature podocarp-northern rata forest is the only remnant of this once common forest type in the Wellington peninsula. Otari has 14kms of excellent walking tracks, a treetop canopy walkway soaring 18 metres above the forest floor, large alpine garden, picnic areas and a modern visitor centre. It is also home to some of Wellington’s oldest trees, including an 800year old rimu! Otari Wilton’s Bush is the only public garden in New Zealand dedicated soley to native plants. Otari-Wilton’s Bush features 14km of walking tracks through native bush and garden collections. Otari-Wilton’s Bush is a haven for native birds including tui, kereru, silver eye, kingfisher, grey warbler, Above left: A waterfall on the Circular Walk. Below left: On one of the many well-maintained tracks. Below right: The Troup Picnic and shelter beside the Kaiwharawhara Stream.
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New Zealand Walks
bell birds and morepork. Scientists and volunteers counted 1,367 different living species - animals, plants, fungi, protists, bacteria in the bush and reserve areas during a 24-hour bioblitz in 2007. Their finds included a new species of cave weta and an Amanita fungus. There are 14 kilometres of walking tracks,ranging from smooth paths and boardwalks designed to accommodate wheelchairs, to rough tramping tracks traversing steep forested slopes. The nature of Wellington’s geography dictates that any track leading down hill will demand an equally steep uphill return. Tracks are signposted. Forest trails are slippery when wet. Sturdy footwear is recommended. The major tracks are described below.
Easy paths
From the main entrance on Wilton
Above rght: Hikers pass through a garden area before taking on a more challenging area. Below right: The Kaiwharawhara Track follows the Kaiwharawhara Stream.
. www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz
Walking New Zealand, issue no 311 - 2024 11
Guided tours are available for groups. Tours are lead by experienced guides and tailored to suit your needs. A small donation per person
Otari-Wilton’s Bush is the only botanic garden in New Zealand dedicated solely to native plants. This unique plant sanctuary and forest reserve
There are plenty of opportunities for visitors to learn about plants and enjoy Otari-Wilton’s Bush:
Otari-Wilton’s Bush
Events and programmes
New Zealand Walks
Otari-Wilton’s Otari Wilton’s Bush
Natural forest Wilton’s Bush
Kopakopa - Myosotidium hortensia
Native Botanic Garden and Forest Reserve n a t u r a l
f oNatural r e s tforest a r areas e a s and a nwalking d w atracks l k i n g
Lawn areas Garden areas
t r a c k s
Kaiwharawhara Track – 30 minutes, gentle walk Skyline Track Blue Trail – 1 hour, mainly through dense kohekohe forest, steps, steep in places Yellow Trail – 40 minutes, through original forest, relatively easy, some steps Red Trail – 40 minutes, steps, steep in some places Circular Walk – 30 minutes, steep in some places, no steps Nature Trail – 20–40 minutes, steep in some places, steps
FLAX CLEARING
800-YEAR-OLD RIMU
Secondary paths Stream Dogs are welcome. Keep dogs on a lead at all times and remove faeces. Keep to the formed tracks. Place all rubbish in the bins provided.
TROUP PICNIC AREA WITH BARBECUES SOUTH PICNIC AREA
No open fires.
OTARI SCHOOL
NORTH PICNIC AREA
Wilton Road
Road
Glou
to Karori and city
cester
Street
WILTON PARK
Wilton’ s Bush
Average rainy days Rainfall Frost
8–20C: (46–68F) 125 per year 1240mm per year 10 ground frosts pear year
No camping allowed.
Do not ride bicycles.
St ick rw Wa
Average daily temperature
Do not pick, damage or remove plant material.
INFORMATION CENTRE Te Marae O Tane MAIN ENTRANCE AND CAR PARK reet
The reserve lies between 70–280 metres above sea level
CAR PARK
WILTON BOWLING CLUB to Wadestown and city
Information
Walking tracks
The Troup Picnic Area is an idyllic spot alongside the Kaiwharawhara Stream on the Circular Walk. It has coin-operated gas barbecues, cost $1 coin.
About 11 kilometres of walking tracks weave through forest and open grass areas. See KEY for further information. Kakaha – Astelia chathamica
Otari-Wilton Bush
Composite
offers a mixture of walking experiences
Road, there are several short paths, suitable for wheelchairs and prams. Take a leisurely stroll across the canopy walkway to the plant collections or along Wilton’s Walkway to an observation deck tucked into tranquil forest. From Otari’s North Picnic Area entrance, just off Churchill Drive, a smooth avenue meanders gently beside Kaiwharawhara Stream to the Troup Picnic Area. From there, the track narrows but continues up to Ian
Boots Packs Rainwear
Galloway Park and Karori Cemetry, at the southern end of the reserve.
Average tracks
From the main entrance on Wilton Road, many people take a leisurely stroll across the Canopy Walkway, past the Cockayne Lawn and down the major Circular Walk track to the Troup Picnic Area (10 minutes). From the Troup Picnic Area, you have a choice of several destinations. A common option is to continue the loop of the Circular Walk, returning you to the Information Centre within approximately 30 minutes. Another option from the Troup Picnic Area is to cross the stream and climb part of the steep Blue Trail, which includes steps, to visit the 800-year-old rimu. A trip to the rimu then back the same way takes about 20 minutes. Also from the Troup Picnic Area, you can branch off the Circular Walk about 10 minutes downstream to take
All your tramping essentials One shop ~ Since 1988
12 Walking New Zealand, issue no 311 - 2024
a secondary track back to the main entrance on Wilton Road via the Waterfall lookout, up to the Wild Gardens and back to the car park (15 minutes). This secondary track has an impressive set of steps that will test the legs and lungs of any trainee mountaineer.
Rough tracks
Keen explorers will enjoy the wild excursions offered by rough tracks such as the Blue Trail. From the Troup Picnic Area, give yourself an hour to follow this signposted track, past the ancient rimu and on to Karori Cemertry. Then drop down to the Kaiwharawhara Valley and follow the valley track back to the Troup Picnic Area. From the Information Centre, this round trip takes about two hours. Those with more than an hour to spare will be well rewarded with a trip up to the Skyline Ridge and back. From the Troup Picnic Area, tramp up the Yellow Trail (branching to the right off the Blue Trail) to the Flax Clearing. At the far end of the clearing, a gently sloping track (built by OtariWilton’s Bush Trust volunteers) leads through regenerating forest to an old farm track. Turn left at the farm track and continue for another 15 minutes to join the Skyline Track. On a fine day, the skyline offers fantastic views. Either retrace your steps or continue south to Johnston Hill or north towards Mt Kaukau. The Red Trail provides a 30- to 60-minute walk at the northern end of the reserve. Passing through the Flax Clearing, this trail offers wonderful views back over Otari and across to Tinakori Hill. All the tracks are well signposted.
Fact file
How to get there: Wiltons Bush Reserve is at 150 Wilton Road, Wellington, just 10 minutes drive from the city, with car parking. There is frequent public bus transport No 14 Wilton. Open every day sunrise to sunset. Free entry. The information centre is open from 9.00am - 4.00pm daily. www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz
NewZealand Zealand Walks New Walks
■
Two unforgettable walks on Mt Karioi
O
n the western coast of the vanced level of fitness, as it involves North Island, the charming steep inclines and uneven terrain. Weather Conditions: Check the town of Raglan boasts not only world-class surf breaks but also weather forecast before embarking stunning natural landscapes, with on this hike, as the track can become Mt Karioi standing as a prominent slippery after rain. Location: Drive around the coast highlight. Offering breathtaking views of to Te Toto Gorge. The Te Toto Gorge the Tasman Sea and the surrounding car park is on Whaanga Road, near countryside, Mt Karioi is a haven for Raglan. outdoor enthusiasts. There are two captivating walks on Mt Karioi, each providing a unique perspective of For those seeking a more challengthis natural wonder. ing adventure, the Karioi Summit Track leads to the pinnacle of Mt Karioi, rewarding hikers with panThe Te Toto Gorge Track is a oramic views of Raglan, the Tasman challenging yet rewarding hike that Sea, and the Waikato region. The takes you through dense native track is approximately eight kilobush, across cliff tops, and unveils metres one way, and the ascent can stunning panoramas of the rugged take four to six hours, depending on coastline. The track is approximately your pace. Reaching the summit unveils a 7.5 kilometres one way and can take around four to fivehours to complete, breathtaking 360-degree panorama, depending on your pace and the making the challenging climb well worth the effort. weather conditions. Along the way, encounter intriguThe trail leads you to viewpoints that offer jaw-dropping vistas of Te ing rock formations, adding a geoToto Gorge, a dramatic chasm carved logical dimension to the hike. The Karioi Summit track start at by the relentless forces of nature. As you ascend through the forest- 596 Whaanga Road, Raglan Tips: ed sections, keep an eye out for New Start Early: Begin your hike early Zealand’s unique flora and birdlife, in the day to allow ample time for including the tui and kereru. Fitness Level: This walk is suitable the ascent and descent, ensuring you for those with a moderate to ad- have daylight for the entire journey.
Karioi Summit Track
Te Toto Gorge Track
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Pack Essentials: Bring sufficient water, snacks, and weather-appropriate clothing, as conditions can change rapidly at higher elevations: Exploring Mt Karioi through these two walks provides an intimate connection with the natural beauty that defines Raglan. Whether you opt for the Te Toto Gorge Track or the Karioi Summit Track, each journey promises a memorable adventure filled with breathtaking scenery and a sense of accomplishment. Lace up your hiking boots, embrace the challenge, and discover the magic of Mt Karioi in Raglan.
Wairake Track
A shorter and gentler route to the summit is from the Ruapuke Road car park. This route crosses farmland for 40 minutes before climbing steadily through native forest to the top. The walk to the summit and back takes about six hours. Location: The car park is at the end of Karioi Road, which is off Ruapuke Road near Raglan Proximity to Town: 25 minutes drive from Raglan Activity Duration: Two hours to three hours 30 minutes one way.
Walking New Zealand, issue no 311 - 2024 13
New Zealand Walk
Walk Ahuriri with rich cultural
A
huriri is an exciting yearround destination for locals and tourist alike. Just five minutes drive from Napier’s central business district you can discover an area steeped in history, but with a contemporary edge. New apartments sit alongside tiny old fishermen’s cottages, industrial warehouses and woolstores with distinctive saw-tooth rooflines. Why not enjoy the area’s rich cultural heritage, walk the heritage trail and check out world-class examples of Art Deco architecture along the way. There’s a unique mix of places where you can buy artwork, indulge in some beauty therapy, take home the ingredients for an Italian feast, post a letter and consult a lawyer, an accountant or other professional services now based in Ahuriri. If you just want to relax, stroll around the estuary and enjoy the birdlife then wander along the seaside boardwalk, taking in the panoramic view of the Pacific Ocean. Along the way you’ll see kids fishing, boats unloading their catch, walkers enjoying the invigorating sea air and plenty of relaxed happy people simply enjoying the area. An interesting walk with views of the sea and fishing port is the Ahuriri Walk starting on a boardwalk from East Pier. The 2.5km walk starts from Chatham Street. Facing the sea, cross Hardinge Road and turn left onto the
formed walkway on the seaward side of Spriggs Park Reserve. This vantage point offers sweeping views north to Westshore Beach, Bay View and Whirinaki. Marking the tide line, waterworn piles are the remains of the sea defence wall built by the former Hawke’s Bay Provincial Council in 1876 to stabilise the beach and prevent storm surges washing over the shingle spit and flooding houses along the coastal strip. The walkway skirts a children’s play area and continues onto a generous boardwalk leading to Perfume Point. This landmark’s name came about because this was where the city once discharged sewage into the bay. Formerly a petroleum storage tank depot, the land here was purchased by the Napier City Council in 1994 to add to the city’s foreshore reserves. The octagonal building on the point is the starter box used by the Napier Sailing Club to oversee yacht races. Turning south, a narrower boardwalk follows the channel to the Inner Harbour. This is the tidal connection between the Ahuriri Estuary and the sea. Before the 1931 earthquake, the Above: The view down to the village of Ahuriri with the fishing fleet to the right. Below left: From Perfume Point Reserve there are great views out to the Pacific Ocean.
Ahuriri Walk The boardwalk at East Pier Napier. G r a d e : E a s y Distance: 2.5km From Chatham Street, facing the sea, cross Hardinge Road and turn left onto the formed walkway on the seaward side of Spriggs Park
14 Walking New Zealand, issue no 311 - 2024
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New Zealand Walk
heritage
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Walking New Zealand, issue no 311 - 2024 15
New Zealand Walk
Fingertip Pulse Oximeter
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Walk Ahuriri with rich cultural Customs House, built in 1904. This heritage now houses a museum where a fasciTutaekuri River - which now flows into the bay further south at Awatoto - emptied into a much larger lagoon. The boardwalk ends at the Hawke’s Bay Sport Fishing Club’s boat ramp. Follow the wharf along Nelson Quay to your left. This safe haven for fishing boats and motor launches is known as the Iron Pot. Original wharf structures are high above the waterline - a measure of the severity of the 1931 earthquake, which wrenched land upwards along Napier’s coastline. Turn right, following round the Iron Pot. On your left is the historic
nating collection of old photographs of buildings, boats, events and characters chronicles Ahuriri’s rich past as Napier’s original port. One of the iron trypots used by European whalers in the early 19th century for rendering whale oil can be seen outside the Customs House. An outstanding Maori identity, Tareha survived the massacre at the Battle of Te Pakake fought near the Iron Pot in 1824. Later recognised as one of the five principal chiefs of Heretaunga after the signing of Above: Walking towards the Port of Napier in the background.
Phone 0274 383 923 16 Walking New Zealand, issue no 311 - 2024
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New Zealand Walk
the Treaty of Waitangi, Tareha was a central figure in the Ahuriri land purchase of November 1851 and became the first Maori Member of Parliament for Eastern Maori in the late 1860s. Rounding the western end of Customs Quay brings you onto West Quay where the fishing fleet ties up. This is another historic site, for it was here that the small Royal Navy destroyer HMS Veronica was berthed on the fateful day of 3 February, 1931. The ship’s radio operator transmitted the first report of the earthquake disaster to the outside world while the rest of the company assisted in emergency rescue work in the devastated and burning town. On your left, former wool stores border the quay. These have found new vocations as bustling cafes, restaurants, apartments, motels and bars. Hawke’s Bay’s wool clip was once stored in these buildings, ready for shipping overseas. As you walk along West Quay, the Inner Harbour broadens out into Scapa Flow with its boat moorings and marina jetties. The path curves right towards the Napier Sailing Club grounds with its launching ramps, boat and trailer parks and architecturally iconic clubhouse- the end point of the Ahuriri Walkway.
Optional Route At the Customs House you can cross Bridge Street and walk south to the corner of Ossian Street to see the National Tobacco Company building. One of Napier’s finest Art Deco period buildings, it is beautifully restored inside and out. The reception area and former managing director’s office are open, free to visitors Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm. Leaving the National Tobacco Company building, continue along Bridge Street to Lever Street, crossing the railway line to West Quay
Above right: Colourful flowers on the breakwater. Middle right: Fishermen trying their luck on the breakwater. Below left: Walking close to the village with cafes etc.
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Walking New Zealand, issue no 311 - 2024 17
New Zealand Walks
Queenstown - 10 beautiful walks worth doing By Queenstown, NZ
W
ith so many options for short, beautiful walks in Queenstown, you are truly spoiled for choice. Here’s a list of local picks that will help you discover the best walks around Queenstown. In Queenstown, a little light exercise is rewarded with big spectacular views. The Whakatipu Basin is a walkers’ paradise. You don’t even need to go far from the town centre to connect deeply with nature and experience some of the best day walks in Queenstown.
Queenstown has walking tracks for every age and ability, from wide flat trails that are wheelchair accessible and suitable for parents with pushchairs, to steep mountain climbs for fit experienced hikers. Our local experts have put together their pick of the best tracks. From Queenstown Gardens to the lovely Lake Hayes Loop, and some Arrowtown gems, choose one of these ten great day hikes, grab your walking boots, reach new heights, and soak up the stunning vistas. Above: The colourful Queenstown Gardens in autumn. Below left: Tiki Trail view. Photo happy_hiking_au
Queenstown Gardens Trail
The Queenstown Gardens Trail is a wheelchair-accessible trail just a few minutes from central Queenstown. The flat, easy track has spectacular views of Lake Whakatipu, Cecil Peak, and Walter Peak and the manicured gardens are beautiful year-round. You could spend hours here exploring the rose gardens or playing disc golf. If you’re tight on time, the loop around the shore of Lake Whakatipu takes less than an hour to complete. • Length: 3.1km return • Time: One hour • Start: Downtown Queenstown • Difficulty: Easy
Tiki Trail
For one of the best views of Queenstown and a decent workout, climb the Tiki Trail up to the Skyline Gondola building. Starting at the base of the Gondola, the Tiki Trail winds its way steeply through trees towards the lookout at the top. Choose to hike back to Queenstown. Or, if the climb has gotten the better of you, sit back, relax and
18 Walking New Zealand, issue no 311 - 2024
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New Zealand Walks
catch a ride in the Skyline Gondola. • Length: 2.1km one-way • Time: One hour • Start: Base of the Skyline Gondola • Difficulty: Moderate
Arrow River Trail
Starting in historic Arrowtown, a walk along the Arrow River Trail is a must-do for any visitor to Queenstown. The track will have you filling your camera memory, especially in autumn due to the explosion of colours on the trees. The Arrow River Trail starts to the west of Arrowtown and follows a large irrigation pipeline along the river, past the turnoff to Sawpit Gully, and to the Norman Smith footbridge that leads to Macetown 15km away. From here, you can cross the bridge and walk back along the riverside (there are some river crossings along the way) or go back the way you came. Back in Arrowtown, it’s lovely to walk along the river and amongst the trees before re-joining Arrowtown’s quaint streets to lap up the café culture, discover the region’s history or grab a pint in the sunshine. • Length: 4.2km return • Time: 1 hour • Start: Butler’s Green, Arrowtown • Difficulty: Easy 40,000
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Above left: Arrowtown river Trail in autumn. Below right: Stopping for a rest and admire the views on the Lake Hayes Walkway.
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Walking New Zealand, issue no 311 - 2024 19
New Zealand Walks
Sunshine Bay Track
Queenstown - 10 beautiful walks worth doing Above left: Sunshine Bay Track in spring Below left: Looking over Lake Whakatipu from Queenstown Hill.
For another perspective of Queenstown’s spectacular lake and mountain scenery, head out towards Glenorchy on the Sunshine Bay Track. Starting near the Fernhill roundabout, a 20-minute walk from central Queenstown, the trail winds through native bush, following the edge of Lake Whakatipu to Sunshine Bay Beach jetty. There’s also a sidetrack that leads to a waterfall at Two Mile Creek Falls. Length: 4km return Time: 2 hours Start: Fernhill roundabout or Sunshine Bay Beach Difficulty: Easy-moderate
Queenstown Hill Time Track
Test your legs on the Queenstown Hill Time Walk with a climb to the Basket of Dreams sculpture by Caroline Robinson. The majority of the ascent is under the cover of a pine forest. Listen for the native birdsong and wind making its way through the tall trees as it leads you to the summit. This is a favourite local lookout spot, offering 360-degree panoramic views over the Whakatipu basin to Cecil Peak, the Frankton Arm and Queenstown Bay. With the Southern Alps stretching as far as the eye can see, hiking for sunset will not disappoint. Length: 2km one-way Time: 2-3 hours Start: Belfast Street, downtown Queenstown Difficulty: Moderate
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Ben Lomond Track
Ben Lomond will greet you from the moment you arrive in town. Not for the faint-hearted or inexperienced, this demanding climb is a full-day mission with a spectacular reward. The Tiki Trail is just your warm-up before tackling the Ben Lomond Track to either the saddle or the summit (or, skip the warm-up and take the Skyline Gondola to the top of Bob’s Peak!). Either way, at 800 m you’ll start the walk amongst the alpine tussock and shrubs on the way to the Ben Lomond saddle at 1326 m. Then, it’s a steep uphill mission to the 1748 m summit. With 360-degree views over Queenstown, Mt Earnslaw and Mt Aspiring, all your effort will be well worth it. Walkers aiming for the summit should be fully equipped and allow six to eight hours, depending on the conditions. Be prepared for snow and ice above the bush line from April to November. Length: 11km return Time: 3-4 hours to Ben Lomond Saddle, 6-8 hours to Ben Lomond Summit Start: Base of Skyline Gondola if walking the Tiki Trail, or top of Skyline Gondola. Difficulty: Demanding
Above right: Friends hiking Ben Lomond in summer.
Lake Hayes Loop
The Lake Hayes loop track circles what is possibly the most picturesque location in the wider Queenstown region. If it’s a flat calm day, the reflections of the reeds, mountains and lakefront houses are just magic. Stroll, run, walk or cycle around this beautiful lake with panoramic views of the Remarkables. It’s the perfect half-day activity to really connect with nature. During your leisurely walk, you will pass through the Lake Hayes wetlands, keep your eye out for the unique endemic birdlife including Paradise Shelducks, Grey Ducks and the Marsh Crake. Length: 8km loop Time: 2-3 hours Start: Lake Hayes Pavilion or Lake Hayes Picnic Area Difficulty: Easy www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz
Above right: Lake Hayes loop track views in spring.
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Walking New Zealand, issue no 311 - 2024 21
New Zealand Walks
Queenstown -10 beautiful walks worth doing
Above top: Tobin’s Track, Arrowtown. Above left: View from Frankton Arm Walkway.
Tobin’s Track
Tobin’s Track is a relatively quick hike up to the edge of the Crown Terrace above Arrowtown. Join the locals who use it as a workout challenge by running or cycling up it. Check out the remains of the old family cottage of Thomas Tobin on your left on the way up. From the top, you’ll get a bird’s eye view of Arrowtown’s grid of streets nestled into the crook of two mountain ranges. You’ll see Lake Hayes to the south as well as the Remarkables looming in the distance. In the summer it’s a lovely spot to take in the golden hour just before sunset and see the last rays of sunshine glimmer over the Whakatipu Basin. Length: 6.6km return Time: 1-2 hours Start: Ford Street, Arrowtown Difficulty: Moderate
Your favourite walk could win you a free subscription
We are looking for readers’ favourite New Zealand walks. Many of us go out regularly walking on a route which we class as our favourite, for a number of reasons. Perhaps because for it’s scenery, it’s safe, it’s challenging, it’s flat, it’s hilly, it’s varied, or for whatever reason. We would like you to tell us in your own words what is you favourite walk and why. Email us a story from say 250 up to 1200 words including a photo or photos. We will now give you a FREE subscription (six months or more, depending on the article), or extension to Walking New Zealand magazine for walks published.
22 Walking New Zealand, issue no 311 - 2024
You can also post an article to Walking New Zealand, Freepost 78863, P O Box 1922, Palmerston North 4440. If sending a photo by email please make sure photos are in high resolution.
Our email address is: walkingnz@xtra.co.nz. Please put “My Favourite Walk” in the subject line and include your name and postal address. www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz
New Zealand Walks
Frankton Arm Walkway
The Frankton Arm Walkway is also wheelchair friendly. The relatively flat trail runs from the Queenstown Gardens all the way to Frankton alongside the sparkling waters of Lake Whakatipu. Marvel at lake-side houses and gardens as you bike or walk the track. Take a pit stop at the marina for a café break, or one of the many beaches for a lakeside picnic. Length: 10km one-way Time: 3 hours Start: Queenstown Gardens or Frankton Beach Difficulty: Easy
Sawpit Gully Track
Re-connect with yourself in the unique, ever-changing landscape on the Sawpit Gully Trail in Arrowtown This two to three-hour loop leaves from the carpark near the Chinese Settlement in Arrowtown. You’ll take the Arrow River Trail from Bush Creek and loop your way around first with a steady climb up along the rim of the gully. Then, head down to the trickling stream for a series of back-and-forth creek crossings (wear waterproof shoes), and up again to be rewarded with views of Lake Hayes, the Remarkables and Queenstown Hill in the distance. It’s all downhill from here as you loop around back to Arrowtown along Bush Creek. Length: 7.9km loop Time: 2-3 hours Start: The carpark near the Chinese Settlement in Arrowtown Difficulty: Moderate Above right: Sawpit Gully Trail, Arrowtown. Photo grace.underhill
Price $40
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Walking New Zealand, issue no 311 - 2024 23
New Zealand Walks
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
Above: On the Conway River Morning Walk, heading down to Ploughmans corner in late spring. The walk of 7kms was along the road and via the beach. Photo by Michael Hendriks, Lyttleton, Christchurch.
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: Three from our group of six from the the Upper Hutt Walking and Tramping Club on Little Taikura Beach near Porongahau at Labour Weekend. It is a beautiful and isolated beach and is only accessible by quad or trail bike or by walking 5k from the nearest road which was what we did. Photo by Sharon Dunstan, Whitby, Porirua.
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24 Walking New issue no no 311311 - 2024 24 Walking NewZealand, Zealand, issue - 2024
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Photo Contest
Above: Hikers on the short Bloodwoods Lookout Trail in Purnululu National Park (Bungle Bungle Range) in the Kimberley, Western Australia. Photo by Clare Woodhall, Napier. Below left: This is at the top of “The Trig” on the incredible Tora Coastal Walk, these guys led the way to private farm walkways in New Zealand. We are all so grateful to share this magic experience and hope this continues to motivate others to share their spots of paradise in NZ! Photo by Gail Francis, Ohauiti, Tauranga.
PHOTO CONTEST
Below right: This stunning gorge is located by the Maletsunyane Falls near Semon-kong in Lesotho. Barry is with our guide who superbly helped us complete the 204m abseil. Photo by April Anstis, Paeroa.
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WalkingNew NewZealand, Zealand,issue issueno no311 310- -2024 2024 25 25 Walking
New Zealand Walk
Tarawera Falls Track for spectatular views
I
f you’re looking for a pretty walk to suit the whole family, it would be hard to beat the walk into Tarawera Falls and beyond. A permit is needed to gain access to the forestry road leading there. This, with a map, can be obtained from the Kawerau i-site after 10.0am on weekends, at a cost of $10 per car. By Barbz Lowther After driving a little over half an hour along Waterfall Road, which is unsealed, you reach Tarawera Falls car park. From here, a delightful well marked trail leads across a footbridge, following the Tarawera River through native bush, to the falls. Above: left: Crystal clear pool in Tarawera River. Below left: ‘Shoestrings’ group at the base of the falls. Below right: Map of the route from Kawerau
26 Walking New Zealand, issue no 311 - 2024
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New Zealand Walk
.
Above left: The group who walked to the falls. Above right: At the base of the falls. Below right: Overlooking the rapids.
There are lots of pohutukawas and ratas, and a hybrid of the two – seen in the variety of leaf shapes. Following orange markers, we walked past crystal clear pools, bubbling cascades, and mossy tree trunks and boulders. We could soon hear the thunder of the falls before seeing them. In 20 minutes we reached a viewing platform at the base of the falls – in fact two falls From the top of a Lava cliff, the water falls 65 metres, but water also surges out of several cracks in the cliff face – the re-emergence of the underground flow. It is quite spectacular, especially with sunlight filtering through the trees, and often enhanced with a rainbow. After the compulsory photo stop, we zig-zagged up a steep escarpment to the top of the falls, then continued on an undulating track beside the river. Near an upper fall, the river divides, with a huge force of water swirling, splashing, churning and gurgling, as it disappeared down a hole to flow underground, reemerging through cracks in the lava cliff face to create the main falls we have just viewed. It was quite incredible to watch. It took about 40 minutes to reach the outlet from Lake Tarawera. There are picnic tables, toilets, and a DOC campsite. From here, the Tarawera River runs for 59 kms - north east, past Kawerau, then turns north to reach the sea at Matata on the east coast. The 6kms we have just walked are the most exciting. After a picnic, and a swim, we retraced our steps, still marvelling at the scenery on the way. www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz
Walking New Zealand, issue no 311 - 2024 27
New Zealand Walk
Fact file
Tarawera Falls Track for spectatular views Trout were spotted under the foot bridge by the camp site, and eels further down the river .We saw several tuis and kereru, and fantails were constantly flitting above us. This is a beautiful walk, equally enjoyable any time of the year, because tall trees provide shelter from wind, rain or sun. In summer it’s lovely to swim in the lake. In Winter the falls are often more spectacular. Put it on your bucket list for your
next holiday - 40 minutes return to the falls, one and a half hours return to the top of the falls to watch the river going underground and three hours return to the lake. If you don’t reach the lake, there’s a lovely swimming hole 100 metres back along Waterfall Road.
Tarawera Falls Track How to get there: 27 minutes drive (22.3 km) via Tarawera Road Start: Waterfall Road Car park Time: 20 minutes one way - 0.7kms This part of the track is easy and well-graded. From the car park, head upstream along the Tarawera River, across the footbridge then continue along the river until you arrive at the Falls viewing area. It’s a spectacular sight and there are signs to explain the cultural and natural significance of the area. Backtrack to the car park or continue along the walking track to the Tarawera Outlet. Driving to Tarawera Falls requires a Tarawera Forest Access permit that grants you permission to travel through Tarawera Forest. Because of Health and safety concerns to the public, Māori Investments Limited (MIL) has made the decision not to issue any visitor permits for the Tarawera Falls during the weekdays (Monday - Friday).
Above left:: The group stop for photo opportunity at the base of the falls.. Below left: The river disappearing underground. Below right: Following orange markers along the track, beside the river..
28 Walking New Zealand, issue no 311 - 2024
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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 open 1 January 2024 at www.mwf.org.nz
Bookings Essential www.mwf.org.nz www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz
Walking New Zealand, issue no 311 - 2024 29
New Zealand Walk
Exploring tranquility: Te Awahou Bush Walk, Foxton
N
estled in the heart of Foxton, the Te Awahou Bush Walk offers a serene escape into nature, inviting locals and tourists alike to immerse themselves in the beauty of the landscape. This hidden little gem provides a perfect combination of lush greenery, captivating wildlife, and a peaceful ambiance. The Te Awahou Bush Walk spans approximately 670m making it a manageable yet rewarding walk suitable for individuals of various fit-
ness levels. The trail weaves through a native bush, showcasing the rich biodiversity of the region. As you traverse the boardwalk, you’ll encounter a diverse range of plant life, from towering native trees to delicate ferns lining the forest floor. The track is designed to be accessible to a broad audience, including families with children and those seeking a leisurely stroll through nature. Given its modest length, the Te Awahou Bush Walk can be completed at a leisurely pace, allowing visitors to fully appreciate the natural wonders along the way. On average,
most walkers complete the trail in about 10 to 15 minutes. However, the actual time may vary depending on individual walking speeds, pauses for photography, and the level of exploration undertaken at various points along the track. One of the notable features of the Te Awahou Bush Walk is its boardwalk that is clearly defined and offers a comfortable walking surface throughout. The trail is generally flat, making it accessible to individuals of different fitness levels, including those with mobility challenges. Benches strategically placed along the route provide opportunities for rest and reflection, allowing walkers to soak in the tranquil atmosphere and connect with the surrounding natural beauty. Informational signs along the way provide insights into the indigenous flora and fauna, enhancing the educational aspect of the walk. These signs not only contribute to a greater understanding of the local Above top: A board walk keeps your feet dry. Below left: An infomation sign at the start of the walk.
30 Walking New Zealand, issue no 311 - 2024
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New Zealand Walk
ecosystem but also foster an appreciation for the conservation efforts undertaken to preserve this natural haven. Despite its relatively short length, the Te Awahou Bush Walk offers a wealth of stunning views that captivate the senses. As you meander through the bush, sunlight filters through the dense canopy, creating a play of light and shadow that enhances the enchanting atmosphere. The symphony of bird calls adds a melodic backdrop, with native species such as tui and bellbirds contributing to the auditory experience. A highlight of the Te Awahou Bush Walk is the panoramic vista from elevated viewpoints along the trail. These spots provide sweeping views of the surrounding landscape, allowing walkers to appreciate the vastness of the native forest and gain a unique perspective of Foxton and its environs. The beauty of the Manawatu River, which the walk overlooks, further adds to the visual appeal, offering a sense of tranquility and connection
with nature. The Te Awahou Bush Walk in Foxton stands as a testament to the ■ natural wonders that New Zealand has to offer. With its manageable length, accessible track conditions, and breathtaking views, this trail provides an ideal escape for those seeking a brief respite from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a casual nature lover, this walk invites you to immerse yourself in the beauty of the New Zealand land-
scape, fostering a sense of peace and appreciation for the country’s rich biodiversity.
Fact file
How to get there: The walk start at the northern end of the River Loop Reserve next to the historic hall off Clyde Street, just 100m from the Foxton Main Street town centre. Follow the boardwalk through some of the riverbank’s unique plant life to the edge of the Manawatu River Loop.. Length: 670m Time: allow 10 to 15 minutes
Above left: The sign says it all. Above right: Just beside the Te Awahou Bush Board Walk is where the old railway yards were. Below right: : Take a stroll through the river’s riparian zone, pausing at the viewing platform to enjoy the tranquillity of the water, where once on the river there was a wharf for cargo ships. www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz
Walking New Zealand, issue no 311 - 2024 31
New Zealand Walks
Lake Papaitonga Scenic Reserve Walk
J
ust a short distances off SH 1 5km south west of Levin is an easy short bush walk to the lookout over Lake Papaitonga. This area is now an important refuge for birds that depend on the wetlands for survival, as well as forest birds and rare Powelliphanta snails. The walks go through native bush along board walked paths to the lake views. Papaitonga is a dune lake in the Horo-whenua coastal plain containing two islands, Motukiwi (Papaitonga) and Motungarara (Papawhaerangi). The latter is an artificial island constructed by Muaupoko residents in 1820 to extend their village. The lake and the surrounding
32 Walking New Zealand, issue no 311 - 2024
Above: Lake Papaitonga at the first lookout. Below left: A boardwalk goes over a large wetland area. www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz
New Zealand Walks
.
wetland and lush coastal forest make up 135 hectares of scenic reserve. It’s a refuge for birds that depend on wetlands or lowland forests for their survival. There is a 10 minute walk to the Papaitonga Lookout and a 20 minute loop walk to the Otomuri Lookout. History The Lake Papaitonga area was settled by the Muaupoko people during the early part of the 19th century, but they were driven from the area in 1822 by Ngati Toa people led by Te Rauparaha. Te Rauparaha had narrowly escaped death at the hands of the Muaupoko previously, in an incident that claimed the lives of his son and daughter. In 1897, Sir Walter Buller purchased an area including Papaitonga with the intention of protecting the land around the lake for future generations. In 1901, 27.5 ha of bush were formally established as a reserve, and the lake was added to the reserve in 1991.
Above: The track near the first lookout with the lake in the backgrounnd.
Fact File
Getting there: The entrance to the reserve is at the end of Buller Road, 5 km southwest of Levin off State Highway 1. The lake lies in the Horowhenua coastal plain. There is a picnic and viewing area surrounded by native bush. Birdwatching: Papaitonga is home to waterfowl and wading birds as well as forest species on the lake’s margins. Plant life: Within the reserve is the only intact sequence from wetland to mature dry terrace forest in Wellington and Horowhenua. The wetland forest associations of kahikatea/pukatea, tawa and pukatea-tawa-swamp maire are now rare. There is a car parking area at the Papaitonga Scenic Reserve at the end of Buller Road. www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz
Ouch! Sore feet while walking? Hikers Wool is 100% New Zealand wool. Cushion your feet to prevent pain, rubbing and blisters. Buy online or at selected stockists For more info visit www.hikerswool.co.nz Walking New Zealand, issue no 311 - 2024 33
T
Overseas Walking Tour
Cruising the Celtic countryside
he rolling dales of Raphoe stretch along Donegal’s eastern border with Northern Island. My great grandfather, a By farmer, eked out Phillip Donnell a living on these lowlands, raising several children in a cottage with an earth floor. In 1909, one of the children, my grandfather, immigrated to New Zealand, followed by three more of his siblings. Because of this, my family believed for decades that our ancestry was Irish. You can therefore imagine the shock in January 2020 when my DNA test revealed that there was not a drop of Irish blood in my veins. It seems that we are actually Ulster Scots, and that our forebears were part of a sizeable movement of Scottish people to northwest Ireland during the seventeenth century. The Ulster Scots migrated to Ireland in large numbers both as a result of the government-sanctioned Plantation of Ulster, a planned process of colonisation which took place under the auspices of James VI of Scotland and I of England on land confiscated from members of the Gaelic nobility of Ireland who fled Ulster, and as part of a larger migration or unplanned wave of settlement. Our likely origin is south-west Scotland, but surprising genealogical
Above: Donnell farm at Gortkilly, Donegal. Middle right: Croach Patrick. Below left: A thatched cottage. Below lright: Family group farewell J J Donnell on his 1949 trip to Ireland.
34 Walking New Zealand, issue no 311 - 2024
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Overseas Walking Tour
revelations often open a new can of worms, and we are still unearthing that part of our ancestry. Needless to say, leading a walking trip to both Scotland and Ireland this coming NZ winter (29 June – 3 August 2024) will have special significance for me, and that may well be the case for some of the other participants as well! So many people who live in New Zealand have Scottish and Irish roots. The Scottish part of the trip (18 days, 29 June – 17 July) precedes the Irish section (also 18 days, 18 July – 3 August). They dovetail together for those who wish to undertake both parts, but you can also opt to do either one by itself. Together, they explore the best short trails and scenic sights across the length and breadth of Scotland and Ireland, hopefully with warm summer weather. The Scotland excursion begins in the beautiful UNESCO World Heritage City of Edinburgh, which has inspired countless works of literature with its fairytale cobble-stone streets, elegant architecture, towering castle and backdrop of rugged hills. There is plenty of culture to delve into here too, with several museums housing world-class art collections and historical artefacts. From the capital, we proceed through an astonishing array of rural Above right: The Giants Causeway. Middle right: The Donnell family home in Gartkilly, Donegal.
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Walking New Zealand, issue no 311 - 2024 35
Overseas Walking Tour
Cruising the Celtic countryside vistas, lochs, glens, mountains and rugged coastline: Perthshire and the Cairngorms, Aviemore, Affric, Caithness, Sunderland, Ullapool, Assynt, Easter Ross, Torridon, Gairloch, Wester Ross, Glencoe and The Trossachs. Familiar names like Glen Lyon, Braemar, Inverness, John O’Groats, Ben Nevis, Loch Lomond and Glasgow will come to life. Perhaps you will recognise the peaks of Beinn a ‘Chrulaiste featured in the James Bond movie Skyfall, bag a few “munro’s” (Scottish mountains over 3000 feet or 914.4m high), or scan Loch Ness for its famous monster. The Irish natural environment with its landscapes and seascapes is one of the top reasons overseas tourists choose Ireland. The dramatic coastlines with their remote beaches, peat bogs, towering cliffs, treeless plains, and green rolling hills are significant natural attractions, alongside the human imprint comprising ancient castles, monastic ruins, prehistoric sites, megalithic tombs, and whiskey distilleries. Above left: Walking in a scottish glen. Middle left: Looking down at Loch Ness. Below left: Walkers in the Mountains of Mourne.
36 Walking New Zealand, issue no 311 - 2024
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Overseas Walking Tour
Visitors to Ireland also love the cultural traditions, such as music sessions, storytelling and poetry, as well as lively pubs and meeting friendly locals. Belfast is the starting point for our loop of the Emerald Isle. After sampling the Mourne Mountains, “Game of Thrones” country and the Antrim Coast (including the Giant’s Causeway), we reach Derry, Glenveagh, and the highest accessible sea cliffs in Europe at Slieve League. We pass through Yeats country before climbing Croagh Patrick (the holiest mountain in Ireland) as a warm up for the delights of Connemara and The Burren National Parks. The Cliffs of Moher, Galway City, Tralee, Killarney, the Dingle Peninsula, and the Ring of Kerry lead us to Cork and Kilkenny. Then it’s through the wispy Wicklow Mountains and ethereal Glendalough to Dublin. These Celtic domains have some fabulous ambles, and these trips afford the opportunity to enjoy some of the best. Whether you undertake one part or both, this trip will be memorable. Celtic wisdom says: May the most you wish for be the least you get. If Scotland or Ireland have been on your wish list for a while, why not join us? For details, please contact us at 021 172 3244, footstepsanz@gmail. com, or visit www.footstepswalkingclub.com. We welcome your enquiry. Above middle: Hiking in the Scottish Mornes. Above right: On a walk overlooking Edinburgh. www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz
Anderson Road shared pathway completed
C
hoosing to move around on foot, by bike, scooter, or skateboard in Wānaka has just become a whole lot easier with the completion of a new shared pathway along Anderson Road, just in time for Christmas holiday season. 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. Most of the new route is made up of a temporary chipseal layer, providing a safe and smooth surface while enabling any future water infrastructure work to be completed
in the area with minimal disruption and additional cost. Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC) Property & Infrastructure General Manager, Tony Avery said it was essential for Council to continue investing in active transport infrastructure alongside planning for more conventional vehicle traffic. “Upper Clutha’s resident population is predicted to grow by around five thousand by 2031, and creating enjoyable, safe options for people to leave their cars at home whenever possible will deliver many benefits in terms of physical wellbeing, a cleaner environment and reduced congestion,” said Mr Avery. While the shared pathway is open for action and already being well used, crews will be returning in the new year to complete some final steps in the project’s delivery, largely around line marking on Anderson Road.
Kiwi on the Camino by Vivianne Flintoff 900kms along an ancient pilgrimage trail in Northern Spain Available from independent book sellers or directly from author E-mail : vivianneflintoffbooks@gmail.com Web: http://www.vivianneflintoffbooks.com/
Walking New Zealand, issue no 311 - 2024 37
My Favourite Walk
■
Rotorua Lakefront Walk-from gardens to a forest By John MacDonald
R
otorua City has a range of things for visitors to do but for walkers and cyclists, the route from the lakefront to Whakarewarewa Forest has great variety. This is a favourite of the Mangatoi Walking group from Te Puke and it’s environs and on this occasion we chose to start at the lake and walk to Scion return. The distance is less than 10km but this can be extended by taking in some of the numerous forest tracks or returning via the western suburbs of the city. Leaving the recently refurbished lakefront where there is ample parking, go around the waters edge to
the Rotorua Gardens. We had to take some small detours due to storm damage to the track but it was worth it to view the Lakeland Queen, the ‘paddle steamer’ that has plied the waters of the lake for decades but is presently on the Sulphur Point slipway. We then went on past the Polynesian Spa to where the track enters manuka scrub behind the Sudima Lake Hotel. This track is not always well signposted but once on it is easily followed and will take you through bush, across thermal areas and along the bank of the Puarenga Stream to cross under Te Ngae Road and enter Whaka Forest. There are several options for tracks to follow at this point but one of the best is to cross the Te Ngae
Road bridge and take the track on the immediate right which will take you to the Longmile Road. Scion can be found towards the end of the road on the right after passing the Visitors Centre and Tree Walk and is worth visiting for its unique architecture even if you don’t eat there. Also deserving is taking time exploring at least a few of the tracks in the Redwoods where giant trees will make you feel so insignificant being a mere mortal on this earth and if you go further in an understory of tree ferns is luxuriant in places. We chose to return to the lakefront after exiting the Redwoods by a different track.
Above: A peaceful scene on the shores of Lake Rotorua.
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New Zealand Walk
Whisky Falls - the best in Nelson area
dips in and out of the lakeside setting, before emerging at a rocky viewpoint where you can admire the beauty of Whisky Falls from afar, as it thunders 40m down a mossy rockface. Whisky Falls is roughly a one and a half hour drive away from either Blenheim or Nelson. The road surface is sealed, only last 2.8 km is an unsealed road. From Blenheim head west along the State Highway 63 until you reach
.
P
erhaps the best waterfall in the Nelson Lakes National Park region, Whisky Falls is reached either by a gorgeous three hours walk, or by a water-taxi from St Arnaud Visitor Centre. The cascading waterfall nestled in the depths of the forest is well worth the 5-hour return trek around the lakes edge, but the walk is easily shortened to just 15 minutes when catching a boat to the nearby jetty. Manuka, kanuka and beech forest
St Arnaud. After 2km turn left onto un-sealed Mount Robert Road. There is a car park on both sides of the road (don’t drive till the end of the road) after 2.8km. Toilet is available at Mt Robert Carpark (at the end of the road, 2km of further drive). From the parking, follow tramping Lakeside Track which in roughly one and a half hours brings you to a track junction. It is just 10 minutes walk to the base of the waterfall from here. Return via the same route, total walking time is three hours. Alternatively, you can walk the whole Lakeside Track, which takes roughly five hours. Best way to visit the waterfall is to combine the walk and a water-taxi: from Kerr Bay (Lake Rotoiti) take a water-taxi which stops at Whisky Falls. It is just 10 minutes’ walk from here. Return either by the same watertaxi, or take a one and a half hour walk via Lakeside Track back to Mt Robert Road. Above: The Whiskey Falls in Nelson Lakes Nationalk Park. Photo www.nelsontasman.nz.
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Walking New Zealand, issue no 311 - 2024 39
New Zealand Walks
Cambridge area has
lots of variety to offer walkers
T
he town of Cambridge and its surrounding area is perfect for walkers. Cambridge in the Waikato is mostly flat, there’s plenty to look at and there are dedicated pathways to suit every style of walker from those who enjoy a physical challenge to those who merely want to amble. Tracks can vary from easy walks to more strenuous exercise – the ones listed here should be achievable by most people of average fitness. Lake Te Koo Utu Tucked away in the heart of Cambridge, Lake Te Koo Utu provides a tranquil and easy walking trail. The trail is accessible, and the variety of trees and gardens planted around the lake make for varied and picturesque settings year-round. There is a nice flat loop around the Lake, accessed from Albert Street carpark. There are also 7 trails leading up and down from the lake for those that like to get the heartrate up! Lake Te Koo Utu to Oliver Street This short walk runs from Lake Te Koo Utu car park on Albert Street, down Carters Crescent, and into Oliver Street, following the formed footpaths. The path joins Ann’s Track behind Wackrows Joinery opposite Mitre 10 on Gillies Avenue. Ann’s Walkway The track through Ann’s Patch can be accessed from Albert St, across the road from the Duke St Hill. It can also be reached from Gillies St. down a track beside the fence near Wackrow’s joinery. There is a sign “Walkway” showing where to go. Town Belt Walkway Cambridge has a Green Belt, much of which has walkways to follow. A popular walk takes you from Lake Te Koo Utu, head north to Victoria Road and walk the gravel path parallel to this road (in the middle of the dual carriageway), past the Hautapu Rugby grounds, until you get to a blue bridge on the right. Cross the bridge and follow the walkway through gully plantings and behind Cambridge Oaks Vil-
lage. You come out at Joes Garage for a welcome coffee or lunch stop. From there, cross Swayne Road into another walkway that takes you adjacent to the expressway through lovely plantings. You have the option of exiting at any point along this walkway or walk all the way to Thornton Road. Turn right onto Thornton Road and follow this all the way back to Lake Te Koo Utu. Settlers Track This walkway takes you along the edge of the Waikato River under Victoria Bridge and around the Waipa District Council building where the Cambridge Tree Trust has cleared old pine trees and is replanting them with various native and exotic trees. Settlers Track runs from Bath St under the High-Level bridge to the boat ramp in Riverside Park on Dominion Avenue. The easy way into this track is from the boat ramp near the junction with Karapiro Stream, by Achilles Ave. Toilets and parking are available at the skate park in Dominion Ave. The track is at water level, which provides an intimate view of flora and fauna which thrive in that environment. Mosses, ferns, liverwort, etc. growing out of fallen and waterlogged tree-trunks are irresistibly eyecatching. The track occasionally floods in winter, and care should be exercised Soldiers Track The Soldier’s Track runs from under the high-level Victoria Bridge to the low level Ferguson Bridge in Shakespeare St. The mature trees which remain above the walk include impressive specimens of several species. A group of seven magnolias was planted near the southern end of the high-level bridge to commemorate the centenary of its construction Poets Track Poet’s Track could once be accessed from under the (high level) Victoria St. Bridge, but erosion closed that section, and access is now opposite the gymnasium on Pope Terrace, Gill Lumb Park, or Fletcher Place. It is an
40 Walking New Zealand, issue no 311 - 2024
easy grade along its length. Nature Reserve River Trail – Addison Street Walkway This track loops around the southern part of the town; it is mostly an easy grade with some steps. For walking, the two most interesting corners of Leamington are its northeast and southwest. In the northeast corner is the Kingsley Street Reserve above the river and the bridge leading into Shakespeare St. The first leg of the walk goes along Addison Street. At its end, a bridge over a stream leads into grazed fields. Bear right, and follow the path near the fence. Part way along, a swinging pedestrian gate takes you inside the fence. This is all very easy-going, and a lot of earlier planting by the Cambridge Tree Trust can be seen. You will come to the heart of this area: two streams combining and coming to a boulder dam. Sit, look, and listen to the water and the birds. Back to the path, and continue the way you were going. The little maze of paths is a bit confusing at this point, but use your sense of direction, and you should be able to find www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz
New Zealand Walks
either a flight of steps which takes you up to the Leamington Cemetery in Wordsworth St, or, more to your right, a long but not too demanding set of steps which leads to Upper Kingsley Street. At this point, you’re in amongst mature trees, including massive eucalypts. From the bottom of those steps, there is a pathway which cuts through to a stand of conifers and leads down to the lower end of Kingsley Street. If you want to try that from the other end, it’s opposite 105 Kingsley St. Leamington Walkway including Wetlands Walkway The Leamington Walkway can be followed from Wordsworth Street, along Carlyle Street and Lamb Street, until you reach Rowling Place. In the southwest corner of Leamington there is a wetland area between Rowling Place, Knox Place, Arnold Street and Shelley Street. In progressive stages it was cleared of brambles and planted with trees. Access across the wetland is made possible via a boardwalk and bridge, thanks to a generous financial contribution from Waipa District Council. A walk along Shelley Street and Bracken www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz
Street will bring you to Pope Terrace, near the river, where the officially designated Leamington Walkway ends. Meadow Walkway The Meadow Walk is on the Leamington side of the Waikato River, opposite Lola Silcock Park and exits at Alpers Ridge. It is intended to be just as its name says, a walk across a meadow, surrounded by trees. Most of them are natives, but there is a fruit grove, along with several fruit trees close to the track so that their fruit may be readily picked in due season, and there will be a patch or two of English trees for autumn colour. The 50 fruit trees marking the Cambridge Lions 50th anniversary have been planted there. The walk is close to the riverbank and passes through a variety of landscapes- meadow, wetland, wildflowers, food forest, English woodland and native regenerating forest. It is a major undertaking that took over 5 years, but it adds real variety and interest to local walking tracks. Te Awa River Walk – to the Velodrome From the i-SITE – turn right into Alpha Street and follow the road down
to the Gaslight Theatre. Follow the dedicated ■ pathway to theGrassroots Trust Velodrome. It is relatively flat with a couple of short steep hills. Partway along this cycle way, you can turn left into a gravel path which will take you up to Hamilton Road and link to another perimeter pathway around sports fields and the Cambridge Green Belt. Te Awa River Walk – to Karapiro Connecting Cambridge to Karapiro is the Te Awa walk/cycle way which is mostly dedicated pathway to the Mighty River Domain on the shores of Lake Karapiro. Approximately 15 km from the i-SITE or 8 kms from cnr of Maungatautari Road and Carlyle Street. Mostly flat, the cycle way runs adjacent to Maungatautari Road and runs through the Karapiro Domain. You can stop at the Café or just carry on for another couple of kms past the rowing start gates to the end. St Kilda Take a stroll around the St Kilda wetland, or cycle in from town on the dedicated cycle path and make an afternoon of it! Bring the kids and enjoy watching on as they play in the adjacent playground. Pick up a Cambridge Map to view the many pathways to access St Kilda. A popular walk from Joes Garage takes you over the bridge at Swayne Road and right into quiet Appleby Road. Walkers are delighted to walk past a small farm that has pigs which love to be fed your left over scraps. At the end of the walkway, cross the road into St Kilda and make your way around one of the wetland lakes, or to the playground and café. The Green Belt, Maple and Oak Arboretums The Cambridge Green belt includes river and bush walks, oak and maple arboretums, open spaces, farmland and wetlands. Perfect for walkers and runners, dogs (on leads), and much of it is push chair friendly. Above: The walk around Lake Te Koo Utu.
Walking New Zealand, issue no 311 - 2024 41
Coming Events
NEW ZEALAND JANUARY 2024
13 Good Home Taranaki Off Road Half Marathon. Lake Manhmahoe, near New Plymouth 13 Ian Priest Memorial Hutt River Trail,Wairarapa to Petone 13 Aotearoa Ultra Marathon, Little River, Christchurch 13 King and Queen of the Withers, Blenheim 16 Manawatu Striders Super Seven Series, Palmerston North 20 First Light Marathon, Gisborne 20 Pressio Mount Festival Half Marathon, Pilot Bay, Mt Maunganui 20 The Goat Adventure Run, Tongariro National Park 20 Wine Run, Rossendale Wines Vineyard, Christchurch 20 Glenham Trainwreck Trail, Glenham, Southland 20 Pressio Mount Festival Half Marathon, Mt Maunganui 20 Wakefield Roaster, Wakefield, Nelson 21 Waiheke Wharf 2 Wharf Fun Run, Waiheke Island 21 8th Continent Marathon & Half Marathon, Auckland 23 Manawatu Striders Super Seven Series, Palmerston North 24 Devonport Jets Run, Devonport, Auckland 27 Mavora Explorer, Te Anau Basin 27 Jumbo Holdsworth and Hooper Loop Trail Races, Holdsworth Lodge, near Masterton 28 Vine Run at Pegasus Bay Winery, Waipara Valley 30 Manawatu Striders Super Seven Series, Palmerston North
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
42 Walking New Zealand, issue no 311 - 2024
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Walking New Zealand, issue no 311 - 2024 43
Coming Events
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 Series, Palmerston North 28 Sharland Cycles 5K Fun Run/Walk Series, Richmond, Nelson 28- 2 March Goldfields Cavalcade to Waikaia, Otago
MARCH 2024
1-3 Manawatu Walking Festival, Palmerston North 1-2 Ashburton River Trail Marathon, Ashburton 2 Motatapu, Wanaka to Arrowtown 3 Rotorua Off Road Trail Run/ Walk, Rotorua 3 Footprints In The Sand, Foxton Beach 3 Southern Cross Round the Bays Auckland 3 Waipa Fun Run and Walk, Cambridge 3 Chilltech Beach To Basin Fun Run, Whangarei 9 Tararua Mountain Race, Kaitoke to Otaki Forks 9 Tongariro River Trail, Turangi 10 Kaiapoi Fun Run & Walk, Kaiapoi 10 GJ Gardner Maraetai Half Marathon, Beachlands, Auckland 16 Pauanui Half Marathon, Coromandel
44 Walking New Zealand, issue no 311 - 2024
16 Bombay Farm Run, Bombay, Auckland 16-17 Rotorua Walking Festival, Rotorua 17 Hamilton Half Marathon, Hamilton 17 3 Peaks Mountain Race, Leith Valley, Dunedin 17 Harcourts Cooper & Co Run Albany 23 Foundation Clinic Mauao Half Marathon, Mt Maunganui 23 Middle-earth Halfling Marathon™, Matamata 23 Alpine Lodge Loop the Lake Trail Run, Nelson Lakes 23-24 Northburn 100, Northburn Station, Central Otago 23 Lovelock Memorial Fun Run & Walk, Timaru 23-24 Oxfam Trailwalker New Zealand, New Plymouth
APRIL 2024
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 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 19 Manawatu Striders Marathon & Half Marathon, Palmerston North
AUSTRALIA JANUARY 2024
6 Portseas Twilight, Portsea, Vic
MARCH 2024
10 King Island Imperial 20, King Island, Tasmania www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz
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Walking New Zealand, issue no 311 - 2024 45
Coming Events
APRIL 2024
18-19 IML Walking Festival, Dalian, 3-4 IML Walking Festival, Kaunas, Lithuania China 25-26 IML Walking Festival, Diekirch, 13-15 IML Walking Festival, Seefield, Austria Luxembourg FEBRUARY 2024 14-15 IML Walking Festival, Beijing, JUNE 2024 24-25 IML Walking Festival, San An- 1-2 IML Walking Festival, Bern SwitChina tonio, USA 28-29 IML Walking Festival, Brno, zerland Czech Republic MARCH 2024 29-30 25-26 IML Walking Festival1-3 IML Walking Festival, Yatsushiro OCTOBER 2024 Voborg, Denmark City, Japan 5-6 IML Walking Festival, Fulda, JULY 2024 16-17 IML Walking Festival, Rotorua, 4-7 IML Walking Festival, Castlebar, Germany NZ 19-20 IML Walking Festival, Arlington, Ireland 24-25 IML Walking Festival, Canberra 16-18 IML Walking Festival, Nijmegen, USA ACT, Australia 19-20 IML Walking Festival, Won-Ju, Netherlands Korea APRIL 2024 AUGUST 2024 20-21 IML Walking Festival, Gilboa, 3-4 IML Walking Festival, Kaunas, Israel Lithuania 27-28 IML Walking Festival, Boras, 9-11 IML Walking Festival, Vaasa, Available from Sweden Finland Rangitawa MAY 2024 24-25 IML Walking Festival, Verdal, Publishing, 4-5 IML Walking Festival, BlankenNorway rangitawa@xtra.co.nz, burge, Belgium 31-1 September IML Walking Festival, Kindle, 11-12 IML Walking Festival, ChantonGospic, Croatia Amazon books or nay, France SEPTEMBER 2024 order from any book 18-19 IML Walking Festival, Welling- 7-8 IML Walking Festival, Arenzano, store. borough, United Kingdom Italy 7 Canberra Marathon, Canberra, ACT
REST OF WORLD
Half Marathon, 10km, Kids’ Magic Mile
JUNE 23
Walkers Welcome!
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Walking New Zealand,issue issue no no 311 Walking New Zealand, 311-- 2024 2024 49 49
CONTENTS for previous 15 issues 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 47 Subscription page 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 familyfriendly 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 47 Subscription page 48 New Zealand Country Breaks 0AUGUST 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 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
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 new-look 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 JULY 304 2023 43 Books: The Six Foot Track, Best 3 Contents Walks in Southwest WA 4 Walk Talk 6 New Zealand Walks: Bushy Park - a 44 Coming Events: New Zealand 48 New Zealand Country Breaks virgin lowland forest 9 New Zealand Walks:Bushy Park 52 Garmin walking tracks APRIL 301 2023 10 New Zealand Walk: Nifty Northland 3 Contents - like a world away 4 Walk Talk 15 New Product: Keep warm this 6 New Zealand Walk: Orokonui Winter with Zerofit Heatrub Lagoon Walk amongst beautiful 16 New Zealand Shared Pathway: Pesurroundings kapeka to Otaki a shared pathway 10 New Zealand Walk: Clevedon joining the Kapiti Coast Scenic Reserve has signifcent 19 Australian Walks: NSW now has 13 heritage value more Great Walks 12 New Zealand Walk: Mt Hobson 20 New Zealand Walk: Te Angiangi Walk - for 360 degree city views Marine Reserve for bird and wild- 14 New Zealand Walks: Manawatu’s life watches best overnight and multi-day 22 Auckland Walks: Five short all walks weather walks in Auckland 16 New Zealand Walks: Two lowland 24 Walking New Zealand Monthly walks in Egmont National Park Photo Contest 21 New Zealand Walks: Two St 26 New Zealand Walks: Walking the Bathans walks Abel Tasman:- plans and promises 22 New Zealand Walk: Leisure Island 29 New Zealand Walks: Abel Tasman has fantastic scenery Coastal Walk 24 Walking New Zealand Monthly 30 Australian Walks: Exploring Noosa Photo Contest National Park - 26 New Zealand Walks: The Kawatiri Hiking along Hell’s Gate Walk Coastal Trail over ever changing 33 New Zealand Walks: The Redwoods coastlines attract both nature lovers and 29 New Zealand Walks: The first adventure seekers half of Kawatiri Coastal Trail 37 High Achiever: Belmont trail builder now open brings people together 30 Overseas Walks: Midwinter 37 Books: Canberra’s Centenary Trail Meanders: Come and say gidday 38 Directory: New Zealand Walking to the Northern Territory
50 Walking New Zealand, issue noissue 311 - 2024 50 Walking Walking New New Zealand, Zealand, issue no 311 no 307 - 2024 - 2023
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
3 Contents 4 Walk Talk 6 New Zealand Walk: Te Aka Huka - a 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
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
NOVEMBER 296 2022
3 Contents 6 New Zealand Walks: Explore the Watercare Coastal Walkway in Auckland 8 New Zealand Walk: Rambling a region ruled by rivers 14 Auckland Walk: Onepoto Domain has wide paths and boardwalks 16 Walking New Zealand Monthly Photo Contest 18 New Zealand Walks: Biking around the mountains from Walter Peak Station 25 Books: Sacred Mountains 25th anniversary 26 Australian Walk: Umpherston Sinkhole a walk around a hole in the ground 28 New Zealand Walk: Communities celebrate walking/cycling bridge opening 29 New Zealand Walks: Wairarapa Walking Festival a show case for best known walks 30 My Favourite Walk: Hogs Back Track from Castle Hill village 33 Build your confidence with five tips for nervous cyclists 34 New Zealand Walk: Manawatu Estuary - walks in an unique area 37 Caroline Bay Walk 38 New Zealand Walk: Te Kuri Farm Walkway - for a panoramic view of Gisborne 40 Need2know: What will happen to the Queen’s Chain? 41 Index of previous 15 issues 42 Coming Events: New Zealand 47 Coming Events: Australia JANUARY 298 2023 47 Coming Events: Rest of World 2 Zerofit Heatrub Baselayer 48 New Zealand Walking Tours 3 Contents 48 New Zealand Country Breaks 4 Walk Talk 6 New Zealand Walk: Ngamuwahine 51 Pak A Roo Jackets 52 Walking Stars Track a fantastic way to explore and get amongst nature 12 New Zealand Walk/Cycle: A quiet transformation on Opotiki’s
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