280 JULY 2021

RECREATION WALKING and CYCLING TRAILS JULY 2021 ISSUE NO 280

New Zealand Walk:

Comaraderie on the

Whareama Coastal Walk New Zealand Walk:

Fantail Falls an easy West Coast stroll

New Zealand Walk:

Rotokawa Scenic Reserve now a predator free area

New Zealand Cycling Tour

Best Dam cycling tour in the world NZ $8.50 inc GST

Australian Walks:

Alice Springs for gorges, water holes and red desert landscapes www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Walking New Zealand, issue no 280 - 2021

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2 Walking New Zealand, issue no 280 - 2021

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CONTENTS

Issue 280 - 2021

2 Queen Charlotte Track - Wilderness Guides 3 Contents

6 New Zealand Walk: Comarderie on the Whareama Coastal Walk

12 Event: Walkers see the new Manawatu Tararua Highway taking shape 14 New Zealand Walk: Rotokawa Scenic Reserve -

now a predator free area 18 Walking New Zealand Monthly Photo Contest 20 New Zealand Walk: Fantail Falls an easy West

Coast walk 22 Subscription page 24 Virtual field trip for school children showcases Te Araroa

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24 My Favourite Walk: Linderman Loop - in the his-

toric Kaimais 28 Around the Clubs: Clubs find advantage in sharing

great walks 30 New Zealand Cycle Tour: Best Dam cycling trip in

the world - Busting the 315km trail from Mt

Cook to Oamaru 38 Australian Walks: Alice Springs for gorges, water

holes and red desert landscapes 42 Index of previous 14 issues 43 Coming Events: New Zealand 47 Coming Events: Australia 48 New Zealand Walking Tours 48 New Zealand Country Breaks 51 Pak A Roo Jackets

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52 Taupo events

Cover Photo: My wife, Claire, after the short walk to McLean Falls in the Catlins, celebrating a significant birthday.. Photo by Neil Woodhall, Havelock North.

WALKING New Zealand Published Monthly

PUBLISHER/EDITOR: Frank Goldingham: Phone 06-358-6863 CONTRIBUTORS: Alex and Jenny Davies, Bob Hodgson, Judy Eva, Stephen Day, Barb Lowther, Laurel Stowell and Daniel Haddock 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; 24 issues $159.00 posted, 12 issues $84.50 posted, 6 issues $51.00 posted DIGITAL $29.00, 12 issues Australia: 12 issues: $122.00 Rest of World: $138.00 NEWSAGENT DISTRIBUTION: Ovato Ltd WALKING NEW ZEALAND LTD, P O Box 1922, Palmerston North Telephone 06-358-6863 - Fax 06-358-6864 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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26 Walking New Zealand, issue no 280 - 2021

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Te Araroa gets support from Minister

The Walking Access Commission’s Board got a sunny opportunity to stroll with Walking Access Minister Hon Meka Whaitiri along a Paekākāriki stretch of Te Araroa recently.

The Minister noted Te Araroa’s value to New Zealand. She said she hoped to share it with many other people — from fellow ministers to tamariki at kohanga reo.

Te Araroa executive director Mark Weatherall said it was invigorating to see the awhina and support for the trail from the Board and the Minister.

“COVID-19 has highlighted that the trail is an asset that belongs to all New Zealanders,” says Weatherall. “People all over the country used the last year to walk a segment of our national trail.”

Weatherall says having the support of the commission and the Minister is making a big difference to the trail.

“We are moving more of the trail off roads onto safer tracks. We are working closely with landowners, improving our maps and raising the profile of the trail among New Zealanders”, says Weatherall.

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4 Walking New Zealand, issue no 280 - 2021

New shared pathway gets walkers off busy airport road

A brand new safe shared pathway has opened recently in Auckland. Walkers and cyclists living in Southeast Auckland can now enjoy a shared walkway off Highway 20B on Campana Road. This will be much safer for people who previously had to walk along the busy 20B state highway.

This pathway is also an important part of the 3000km Te Araroa walking trail from Cape Reinga to Bluff.

Mark Weatherall, Executive Director of the Te Araroa trail says “It’s {now} a much more enjoyable part of the walk, close to the estuary, a better view that will really enhance the walker experience”.

Whether people are looking for a new walk or are walking the Te Araroa trail, this path provides another safe space for locals to get out in the fresh air and enjoy the outdoors.

This shared pathway is an important step in a nationwide effort by Waka Kotahi, Te Araroa and the New Zealand Access Walking Commission to get walkers off busy roads and onto safe, off-road pathways. This will be safer and more pleasant for locals and people walking the Te Araroa trail.

Currently, around 15% of the Te Araroa trail is along busy highways. The goal is to decrease this to 10% within the next three years.

Auckland Airport have been significant partners in helping create this special place.

Correction

The following section got missed in the print edition from the article Mt Taranaki Summit Climb by Alan and in issue 279:Time was spent on the summit admiring the 360 degree views including stunning and clear views of Mount Ruapehu, Mount Ngauruhoe and Mount Tongariro.

Several photos later we decided to make our way back down. Doing everything in reverse taking just as much care.

Arriving back to the car park it was 4.30 pm. It took us nine hours this includes spending times on the summit, stopping to reapply sunscreen, water and food breaks.

We are pleased with our effort and enjoyed the experience. www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Walk talk Milestone for Ngauranga to Petone shared pathway

The Ngā Ūranga ki Pito-One (Ngauranga to Petone) section of Te Ara Tupua has hit another milestone.

Following the approval of the project’s consents under the COVID-19 Recovery (Fast-Track Consenting) Act in February, funding has been approved to construct the project.

This transformation project will provide a key connection in Wellington’s walking and cycling network, enabling more people to walk or bike. It is expected to support around 330 jobs including those employed directly in the project and in its supply chain.

The preferred alliance team is made up of Downer NZ, HEB Construction and Tonkin + Taylor, who will be supported by Isthmus, Boffa Miskell and Holmes Consulting.

Lake Dunstan Trail - the ultimate bike trial now open

There are regular bike trails and then there’s the new Lake Dunstan Trail that has just been completed between Clyde and Cromwell.

The trail offers an easy 55km ride (Grade 1-2) for people cycling and walking through unique and fascinating landscapes characteristic of Central Otago as it journeys along Lake Dunstan, the Kawarau River and the mighty Clutha River Mata-au.

The Lake Dunstan Trail extends and complements the well-established Great Rides in Central Otago and the Southern Lakes. It also provides a key link with the Otago Central Rail Trail and the Roxburgh Gorge Trail, both of which are part of Nga Haerenga - New Zealand Cycle Trails.

Above: The trail beside the Clutha River. Photo: Tourism Central Otago

Three bridges planned over Avo n R i ve r There mightn’t be much activity on the sites yet, but work on the three new pedestrian bridges in the Ōtākaro Avon River Corridor is progressing at pace behind the scenes.

The three bridges at Snell Pl, Medway St and Avondale, and a new riverside landing at Dallington, have been funded by a $13.7 million grant from the Christchurch Earthquake Appeal Trust.

Shop drawings – detailed diagrams and dimensions of each bridge component that are required before manufacture of the steel www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

bridges can start – have been completed, and the design of temporar y works and the relocation of services is under way.

Steel sections of two bridges are at a s teel -bendi ng workshop in Australia and are expected to arrive in New Zealand in June; off-site fabrication of the bridges can then begin.

Christchurch City Council

H e a d of Pa r k s A n d re w Rutledge says on-site work is expected to begin ahead of schedule.

“The ground investigations and inspections of each site have been completed, and the contractor has confirmed they will begin on-site works in July, which is approximately two months ahead of schedule,” Mr Rutledge says.

“A t t h i s s t a g e w e ’ r e expecting abutment piling to begin at Avondale by late July, and in September for Snell Place and Medway Street.”

The Medway Street and Snell Place Bridges reinstate a pedestrian/ cycle connection across the Ōtākaro Avon River, which has been missing since the earthquakes.

The Avondale Bridge is a new bridge that will provide a connection to the future Eastern Reach wetland restoration area.

All three bridges will be single-span, made from steel truss, with concrete decks and sliding, jackable abutments to mitigate lateral spread. Construction is expected to be completed in early 2022.

Walking New Zealand, issue no 280 - 2021

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New Zealand Walk

Camaraderie on the

Whareama Coastal Walk

6 Walking New Zealand, issue no 280 - 2021

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New Zealand Walk

On the way back to ICA homestead, Tararua Range on the horizon. www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Walking New Zealand, issue no 280 - 2021

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New Zealand Walk

Camaraderie on the

Whareama Coastal Walk Alex and Jenny Davies

T

he Whareama Coastal Walk is about half way between Castlepoint and Riversdale, on the Wairarapa coast.

Follow the road east from Masterton to where the white spire of a church and a few houses mark the site of Whareama village.

The starting point for the walk is the curiously named ICA homestead, down a small side road on the far side of the Whareama River. Set on a rise surrounded by well tended lawns and hedges, this spacious home was built in 1901 in Norwegian style.

Dick and Carmen were there to give us an enthusiastic welcome. The

nine walkers arrived from diverse parts of the country. We had a hearty meal together, explored the house and grounds and enjoyed a good rest before the next day’s hike.

The day dawned sunny. We set off in groups, first up a steady climb through farmland following a ridge top fence. There were good views back to some steep bush-covered ridges and fresh green farmland.

Although our ages spanned eight decades, our level of enthusiasm was unrelated to our years. Soon we had teamed up together.

On over a high point and were looking down to the meandering Whareama River. Our lunch stop was at the clubhouse and slipway of the Whareama Boating Club.

8 Walking New Zealand, issue no 280 - 2021

From here, the road winds up a steep hill, then descends towards the small coastal settlement of Otahome.

Our walking route took us off road along a valley with huge old poplars, then steeply up through a paddock to the ridge top overlooking the ocean, where a rest stop was Above right: A welcome swallow.

Below:: The Whareama River flows through the countryside.

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New Zealand Walk

most welcome.

A sea mist swept in, partly obscuring the dramatic profile of Castle Rock to the north. The road led us on to where we spent our next two nights, at Wai Ngaio Retreat, high above the ocean at the southernmost end of Castlepoint Station.

Our bags were waiting, as were instructions for putting together a meal, very welcome at the end of an active day.

In spacious, comfortable and well furnished lodgings, we ate off massive wooden-slab tables.

Above right: Heading down to the Whareama Valley.

Below right; The ICA homestead.

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Walking New Zealand, issue no 280 - 2021

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New Zealand Walk

.

Camaraderie on the Whareama Coastal Walk

Outside, there was plenty of activity as a colony of welcome swallows swooped across the adjacent pond and perched outside the kitchen window.

It was fine and warm again next day. A good breakfast helped as we climbed steadily to a high point looking over the coastline. Then we headed west on a farm road, past numerous beehives making a harvest from manuka and other native trees.

Ahead lay rows of ridges leading to the Tararua Range on the horizon.

Lunch was back at the homestead, followed by a refreshing swim in the pool. We were spending the next night at the retreat, and drove our cars back there. This gave us the chance to drive on past Otahome to the end of the road, and to walk on the long, wild beach south of Castle Rock.

Our friendly group broke up next morning, but Carmen encouraged us to take on another walk in the district.

Further up the Whareama Valley, along the road to Castlepoint, a massive sandstone bluff towers over the village of Tinui. Such rocky features are locally known as Taipo, or goblins.

A cross was first erected at the top following the death of many local men at Gallipoli in 1914. Services Above left: Castle Rock, aptly named by Cook in 1770, from the road near Otahome.

Below left: Jenny on the Otahome Road, Castle Rock to the north obscured by sea mist.

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have been regularly held there since; 100 people climbed to the top for a dawn service on Anzac Day this year.

The walk to the Tainui Cross was described recently by Bob Hodgson in Issue 271 of Walking New Zealand magazine.

Farm walks are a special feature of New Zealand recreation, an opportunity to explore many kinds of landscape different from those in parks and reserves.

Their existence depends on the enthusiasm of farmers to share the love of the environment that is special to them. The opportunity exists only as long as they, and adjoining farm owners, care to provide the service.

Walk them whenever they are available; the opportunity will not last!

Above: Setting off on Day2 from Wai Ngaio Retreat.

Below right: Tinui Cross on top of the hill.

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

Phone (06) 372 3722

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Walking New Zealand, issue no 280 - 2021

11

EVENT

Walkers see the new Manawatu Tararua Highway taking shape

S

everal hundred folk took up the by the river. chance in May to take a scenic Over the millions of years as the walk over the Tararua Ranges Ranges were uplifted, the Manawatu as part of the the Woodville Lions River progressively maintained its Club’s “Walk the New Highroute. Unfortunately the way” fundraiser following the Gorge is not stable. route of the Te Ahu a Turanga Rather than cutting Manawatū Tararua Highway. through the landscape, the It was not a walk along the new Te Ahu a Turanga actual path of the new road Manawatū Tararua Highbut the route of the walk inway (mostly) makes its way corporated some highway over it. I assume that as the sections under construction, ranges continue to rise up newly formed machinery ac- By Bob Hodgson so will the new road! cess roads, some farm tracks, We drove over Saddle Road to sections of existing Meridian Wind Hope Road where we checked-in, Farm service roads and even a steep signed health and safety statements tramping track down and up a and were directed to the queue for muddy gully and a pine plantation. the bus to take us back to the start Whereas the existing Gorge Road of the route near the bottom of the utilises the gorge that was cut out Saddle Road at the Ashhurst end.

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12 Walking New Zealand, issue no 280 - 2021

We did not start from the vicinity of the Gorge Walk car park as this would have required us to cross the Manawatu River a bridge only now under construction.

It was Sunday so there was no work in progress and all of the machinery was parked up.

Our first impression was of the scale of the project with its a wide initial access road, the site-park full of large, expensive earth moving machines and numerous dump trucks.

We left the bus and started to ascend, the plot below shows the profile of the walk, of about 13km.

The completed road is to have a maximum gradient of 1 in 10, parts of our exploratory walk were much steeper. The weather for the day was mixed with a few light showers. At the high points the wind chill was extreme.

The route of our walk is shown on the map below in green with red

.

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

EVENT

arrows, the saddle road in red to the north. The red at the bottom of the map is the existing Manawatu Gorge Track. Again it must be emphasised that our walking route is not to be that of the final road.

At various places along the route of the road we came across impressive rows of parked-up earth moving machines and dump trucks but as it was a Sunday the only staff we met were route wardens watching for any struggling participants.

The wardens were located at roughly half km intervals with some sitting in four wheel drive vehicles and some hardy souls sitting out.

The final descent was on scraped bare surfaces so care was needed.

There was a friendly atmosphere between the participants but from a trampers perspective, many were inadequately shod and clad so it was fortuitous that the weather did not deteriorate into heavy rain.

The 13km walk took us four hours including a lunch stop, and proved to be an enjoyable and interesting experience. I would like to repeat it in a year or so, to witness progress.

It is also good news that the project when complete is to include walking and cycling tracks.

Thanks to the Woodville Lions and the construction consortium for having the imagination to organise and allow the event to take place

Opposite page and above: Walkers see the Manawatu Tararua Highway taking shape.

Below right: Heavy machinery parked up for the day. Photos by Cheryl Dawson

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Walking New Zealand, issue no 280 - 2021

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My Favourite Walk

Rotokawa Scenic Reserve -

now a predator free area

R

otokare Scenic Reserve is a community led project, a stunning 230 hectare forested hill country catchment, including extensive wetlands and a 17.8 ha natural lake.

The mature tawa, rewarewa and mahoe dominated forest is home to kiwi, tui, bellbird, kereru, grey warbler and North Island robin plus many other species.

The lake edge habitat consists of raupo, flax and pukatea/kahikatea swamp forest-home to notable fauna such as fernbird, spotless crake, also eels and banded kokopu in the streams and lakes.

Rotokare Scenic Reserve Trust was formed in 2004 by a group of locals concerned that the habitat was in a state of decline. Members of the public became involved as volunteers and sponsors of an intensive pest and trapping programme. This was highly successful in eradicating well over 4,000 pests.

A specially designed predatorproof fence now circles the 8.2 reserve perimeter acting as a barrier to pests immigrating from surrounding farmland. The fence is designed to keep out all species from cats and possums, to rats and baby mice.

It is the largest fenced natural

14 Walking New Zealand, issue no 280 - 2021

By Judy Eva

wetland in New Zealand. It offers an exciting environmental education programme to schools, an interactive space with museum type displays and other resources including outdoor environmental experiences by an experienced educator. It is now a community led sanctuary project.

The environment now free of exotic predators is allowing vegetaAbove: Predator free gate into sanctuary.

Below left: Display along the track of different types of predator traps used..

Below right: Pontoon viewing platform.

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My Favourite Walk

tion to recover and fauna to breed successfully.

In 2012 a Kohanga Kiwi project was established in partnership with Taranaki Kiwi Trust. This now safe and productive habitat allows for many more translocations of rare and endangered species to be returned to the sanctuary into the future.

Rotokare was recognized early in the process of European settlement as a spot of great beauty and value and exists today as a sanctuary of a relatively untouched habitat surrounded by developed farmland. It is set in a basin surrounded by hills

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giving it a great feeling of being hidden and private.

The lake is fed entirely by natural springs and the only outlet is at the western end of the lake which covers 17.8 hectares and averages six metres in depth together with 212 hectares of surrounding native bush.

The lake is of great importance as a wetland habitat for a range of water bird species, the large amount of aquatic and foreshore vegetation provides an excellent feeding area and shelter for all the different species of these birds.

It also supports short finned and inanga eels.

In 1956 the Eltham County Board was appointed and in 1973 under-

took the extension of Sangster Road which now provides sealed access to the lake.

The walk starts at the wonderful Information Centre (learn more about the projects) situated at the second car park. There are brochures available along with photos of the wonderful work the volunteers have contributed to make this sanctuary what it is today.

Heading right from the Information Centre you will come to the beginning of the track into the bush Above: Automatic entry gates into the sanctuary.

Below right: There are many boardwalks over the wetlands.

Walking New Zealand, issue no 280 - 2021

15

My Favourite Walk

Rotokawa Scenic Reserve now a predator free area which is well signposted. The lake on your left.

On display just past the entrance to the walk is a stand showing the different types of predator boxes used and set in the bush around the lake. There are large information boards with photos of various bird, animal and flora life to be found along the way also on what species live in the lake.

There was so much to admire on this lovely stroll along the track with views of the lake and as we ventured on we came across a concrete path leading off the main path and down to the lake. This path had embedded into it the names of the volunteers that had given their time, love, sweat and tears to help make this sanctuary what it is today. What a wonderful tribute. How proud they must have been.

There is a pontoon sitting on the edge of the lake that serves as a lookout complete with safety rails and seats and was gently bobbing with the movement of the water. What a great idea to be able view the lake, its inhabitants and across to the other side to where the loop walk winds around the forest.

There are many well constructed

boardwalks along the way. The track weaves in and out of bush with lake views and towering pukatea and kahikatea trees and we spotted a few eels and fish in small streams that trickled down under little bridges toward the lake from overflows of water seeping from within the forest floor.

The walkway also takes you through swamp forest crossed by a series of board walks and a canopy of bush and beautiful trees, mosses and native ground cover make the walk interesting and varied.

Apparently there are native orchids that are a common sight flowering in autumn and spring depending on the species.

We were followed by young very friendly robin birds that flew down and landed at our feet, not at all nervous of being so close. The cacophony of noise from other species in the trees was just delightful.

The track exits at the entrance to the reserve, into the first parking area and onto the road leading back to the Information Centre.

The walk took us two hours and is 4kms long. We took our time. The grade is easy and the track was in good condition. I would advise stur-

16 Walking New Zealand, issue no 280 - 2021

dy boots or shoes as there are muddy areas and I cannot speak highly enough of how beautiful and precious this sanctuary is and just how much blood sweat and tears over the years has been due to dedicated volunteers, members of the public, business firms, The Taranaki Kiwi Trust and all other organizations involved in this wonderful project.

The path is wheelchair accessible for 600 meters with lake views, the track then weaves in and out of bush.

The lake, a popular spot for water skiing, is open to powered boats from December to April. It is also popular with canoes and kayaks all year round. There are large grassy areas with picnic tables and toilets and two parking area’s.

We did this walk on a Sunday during the January school holidays and found the noise of two jet boats speeding around the lake quite Above left: A view of the lake from the pontoon.

Left: A friendly robin at my feet.

Below right: A walk in the forest.

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.

disruptive and extremely loud spoiling what would have been a peaceful stroll around this beautiful sanctuary. I guess the inhabitants on land and in the water we r e n o t c r a z y about it either. We were advised by a local couple to do the walk through the week days and not on weekends between December and April, you can then hopefully enjoy the tranquil peace that it really deserves or more chance of doing so.

Lake Rotokare is a predator free zone so check your vehicle or boat and bags for stowaway rodents before entering. Report sightings of pests inside the fence, leave pets at home, take only photographs and leave only footprints. Donations are much appreciated.

The Ridge Walk

There is an adjoining walk in the reserve, The Ridge Walk which apparently is more suited to those that enjoy a challenge. We did not attempt it. It was built by more than 120 volunteers and more than 10,000 nails were used in its construction.

It was a massive job supported by many local business firms and working bee’s. It allows you to see the

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My Favourite Walk

amazing predator proof fence close up and for beautiful views of the lake before joining the Loop Track via an old bullock track.

The Ridge Walk has 1220 steps, the track is very steep at times and is back country requiring medium to high fit standard. It starts at the Information Centre by the steps, is 6kms and takes three to five hours.

A double gate system allows entry to the Rotokare Reserve. Push the entry button for the gates to open automatically.

Rotokare is located 12ks East of Eltham in South Taranaki at the end

Above right: Seats along the way.

Below left: Time for a break and chat.

Below right: The information board explains the project. of Sangster Road which is accessible from SH3. Access to the reserve from the Eltham township is King Edward Street, Rawhitiroa Road into Sangster Road or from the Stratford side of Eltham, Anderson Road, into Rawhitiroa Road then into Sangster Road. Most of you now have a GPS which is a great help. Enjoy. GPS 365 Sangster Road Rawhitiroa, Eltham.

Walking New Zealand, issue no 280 - 2021

17

Photo Contest

We are looking for the best digital photos each month depicting walking Now the time to get your digital camera out or look through your digital images and enter the

Walking New Zealand Digital Photo Contest

PHOTO CONTEST Above: Walking the Tongariro Northern Circuit over Easter. Beautiful weather and amazing scenery. Photo by Saskia Bloot, Whamganui.

Below: Heather Crosford on.Day 2 of the spectacular Routeburn hike, with amazing rock formations heading towards Routeburn falls. Photo by David Croxford, Ngaio, Wellington.

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 cover image: My wife, Claire, after the short walk to McLean Falls in the Catlins, celebrating a significant birthday.

Photo by Neil Woodhall, Havelock North.

18 Walking NewZealand, Zealand, issue 2021 Walking New issue no no 280280- 2021

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Photo Contest

above: Arohaki Lagoon Whirinaki Forest, bone dry in March when Sunday Explorers from Manurewa walked the Lagoon track. High water mark can be seen on the surrounding kahikatea trees. Photo by Meryl Finlayson, Waiuku.

PHOTO CONTEST Below right: Stunning Lake Marion, Fiordland Photo

by Sharon Harris, Bethlehem, Tauranga, Below left: Descending Mt Avalanche Arthur’s Pass Photo by Shirley Jones, Point Chevalier, Auckland.

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Walking Walking New New Zealand, Zealand, issue issue no no 280 280 -- 2021 2021

19

New Zealand Walk

Queen Charlotte Track walking packages Let us arrange it all for you Includes: • Winter packages available • Private, en suite rooms • Luggage transfers • Restaurant meals available • Daily packed lunches • Pre-trip briefing • Private Land Track Pass • Information kit and map

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Above: The Fantail Falls even in low water flow makes a picturesque sight.

Natural Encounters Walks www.natural-encounters.com info@natural-encounters.com Ph: 021 268 8879

20 Walking New Zealand, issue no 280 - 2021

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New Zealand Walk

W

hen driving from Wanaka to Haast or in reverse and you need a short stop to stretch the legs the Fantail Falls Walk is a popular picturesque spot and is a must stop.

The 23-meter high waterfall, Fantail Falls located in Mt Aspiring National Park, along Haast Highway, under an hours drive north from Wanaka and on the right.

The Fantail Falls Walk is an easy 10 minutes return walk that starts from the carpark and leads to the waterfall’s lookout by a well formed flat track through picturesque forest.

The track is suitable for people of all abilities.

This is a beautiful and easily ac-

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cessible fan-shaped waterfall, that drops into the crystal clear blue Haast River.

The waterfall is located on the opposite side of the river, but you don’t require to cross the river, because the waterfall is fully visible from the lookout. It can be incredibly impressive, photogenic, and peaceful if there is a lot of water coming down.

If you wish, you can, with great care, cross the river and walk up to the waterfall’s base.

■

Fantail Falls an easy West Coast stroll

Fact File

Getting there: Fantail Falls if driving is 58kms (43 minutes) from Wanaka, and 85kms (one hour) from Haast on SH6.

There are no facilities there.

Above: The pictuesque walk through a forest.

Walking New Zealand, issue no 280 - 2021

21

22 Walking New Zealand, issue no 280 - 2021

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Te Araroa Trail

Virtual field trip for school children showcases The virtual field trip focused on undreds of school students Te Araroa understanding and caring for our joined Te Araroa Trust, the

H

Walking Access Commis- tual field trip took place during 8-9 sion and Federated Farmers on a vir- April. It included a Google Earth tual field trip around Bream for Web tour with GIS mapHead and Whananaki last ping, 3D locations, images, April. daily diaries and video. The The commission, Federtrip supported teachers and ated Farmers and Te Arastudents to explore an area of roa Trust partnered with New Zealand they might LEARNZ, a leading providnot normally get to see in er of educational services, person. to create the virtual field The students met subtrip. The field trip teachesBy Stephen Day ject experts such as Adam about outdoor issues but the conservation ranger without the costs associated with at Bream Head Te Whara, and having to leave the classroom.

Greta, whose farm at WhananLEARNZ gave expert advice aki includes the 13-kilometre to make sure the students who Onekainga Track, which is part took part of Te Araroa. had great learning opportunities.

The Northland vir-

unique biodiversity, working together to care for our environment; and behaving responsibly in the outdoors and on private farmland.

59 schools incorporating 1708 students enrolled to take part in the virtual field trip. The trip, including links to most of the educational resources and videos, is available on the LEARNZ website, so more schools can choose to engage with it in the future as well.

Above: A foot bridge on the te Araroa Trail.

Photo by Phillip Capper

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My Favourite Walk

Linderman

E

the historic

very April the Echo Walking Festival is held in the Bay of Plenty, with a wide range of walks to suit all levels of fitness.

Members of walking groups in Waihi and Katakati lead these walks, giving lots of local By Barbz Lowther information.

This year we chose to do the Lindeman Loop in the eastern Kaimais -five minutes from Katakati.

This track was originally formed in the early 1900’s to enable pack horses to take supplies into the kauri loggers. It loops around the Wairoa Valley, where the last of New Zealand’s kauri dam driving took place.

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My Favourite Walk

Loop - in Kaimais

Opposite page left: Negotiating steps on the ridge track.

Above left: New gravel track near kauri trees.

Above right: Cleaning station at start of track to help stop spread of kauri die-back.

Below left: A young kauri tree.

Below right: Old steps to the dam.

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Walking New Zealand, issue no 280 - 2021

25

My Favourite Walk

.

Linderman Loop - in the historic Kaimais

Fact file

Getting there: This track is at the end Lindemann Road off SH2, just north of Katikati.

Length of track 11 km Time allowed: five hours Advanced: Tramping track Dog access No dogs

26 Walking New Zealand, issue no 280 - 2021

At the top of Lindeman Road is a hygiene station, to help stop the spread of kauri die-back disease.

This is where the track begins. Passing through the station, there is a junction in about 40 metres.

The easiest option is to the right, up the old pack track. The left option, up the ridge track, is steeper with lots of steps, but leaves the gentle pack track for the return journey. We chose to go left.

We crossed several small streams, scrambled up slippery banks, aided by twisted roots, and climbed many steps. Little cascades trickled down mossy banks, and liverwort grew at the track edges.

We passed an enormous kauri log just lying rotting, but quite impressive in its sheer size.

As the track climbed, we were walking at the level of many tree tops, the most beautiful being the pungas.

Because the area was extensively logged, most of the bush is regrowth, with areas of young kauri.

Recently gravel paths have been built around these trees to protect their roots.

Every few steps we discovered fungi of all shapes, sizes and colours.

They were really amazing.

Just after the junction with the track to Cashmores Clearing, we came across the remains of an old Above left: Some of the group by an enormous kauri log.

Below left: Morning tea break.

Below right; Fungi heaven.

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My Favourite Walk

kauri kam – so sad that so little is left, to show the industry of a by-gone era. There is also the remains of a water race that was built to collect water for the dam.

Continuing on, we climbed very old steps up from the dam, then wandered on down the pack track – a gradual descent with nice views over the coastline and off shore islands.

After several breaks and lots of photo stops we were back to the cars in less than five hours.

Lindeman Loop is a beautiful, easily accessible and clearly marked track with enough historical remains, varying track and lovely bush to make it really interesting.

Above right: Walking along the ridge track.

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Walking New Zealand, issue no 280 - 2021

27

Around the Clubs

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Clubs find advantages in sharing great walks

T

By Laurel Stowell

he Whanganui and Taumarunui tramping clubs shared their pre-Christmas barbecue for the 10th time in 2020, and the Whanganui Club brought an anniversary cake to celebrate.

The two have found a lot of advantages to their sharing.

The cake was cut by Taumarunui’s Peter Panton, who was the club’s secretary for 45 years, and Whanganui’s Dave Scoullar, who organises most of the shared trips.

The two clubs have a long association. It dates back to the 1970s, when the Whanganui Club organised weekends to clear wilding pines from Tongariro National Park, and Taumarunui was one of the clubs

28 Walking New Zealand, issue no 280 - 2021

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that joined in.

On the weekend of the pre-Christmas barbecue members of the Whanganui Club spent the night in the Taumarunui Campground. Their Taumarunui mates took them on a walk on both Saturday and Sunday.

Often those walks have been to obscure places, on private land that only the Taumarunui people knew about.

“We have been to heaps of places that we would never have gone to otherwise. A lot of them are reasonably obscure. We wouldn’t even know about them,” Dave said.

“On that weekend we have done what I think is some really remarkable walks,” Peter said.

When the Taumarunui trampers are hosted in Whanganui on a www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Around the Clubs return weekend the inland club gets the novelty of beach walks.

The Whanganui Club hosts them with an “at home” potluck dinner on Saturday night.

These can easily become lavish affairs, Dave said.

“We don’t want to get too much into the one-up-manship.”

Dave will often ring a club when Whanganui is tramping at a place near them, and ask if they want to come. Or he’ll see a trip on the Stratford newsletter, and ask if Whanganui can come too.

With electronic communication becoming the norm and people moving around more, and more often, there are lots of advantages to tramping clubs teaming up with each other. Especially if they are geographically close and equidistant from a common destination.

The main pluses are making new friendships with like-minded people, discovering new places and finding out how other clubs operate.

Often there’s the added advantage of sharing transport.

The Taumarunui Club showed their Whanganui friends the Stanton Memorial on Mount Ruapehu. Its brass plaque marks the place where a party of university students got closed in by fog and one of them went for help but did not survive.

They also took the Whanganuians to an interesting swampy area on Middle Road near Horopito.

The Whanganui Club instigated a combined weekend in remote Whangamomona, on the Forgotten World Highway. It was the Taumarunui club’s backyard and they had tramped there, but it was Whanganui member Garry McElwain who knew of Te Wera Valley Lodge.

It has comfortable accommodation

Price

for $25 a night and the combined clubs have made two trips there.

There were 12 members from each on the last one in January. Peter Panton organised the walks and Whanganui’s two vans provided all the transport.

Whanganui member Dorothy Symes catered dinner on one of the nights, and the group ate at the Whanganmomona Hotel on the other.

They tried out the Moki Track, which has creeks to cross and native bush, and they walked a farm track to the Bridge to Somewhere at Aotuhia.

“It was perfect tramping weather, not too hot, and a fantastic enjoyable weekend,” Dorothy said.

The Whanganui Club is big and active. It has 267 members. Taumarunui, Hutt Valley, Stratford and New Plymouth are the main clubs it networks with, but it also has occasional shared trips with Heretaunga, Rangitikei and South Wairarapa.

Taumarunui has 43 members. It exchanges trip programmes and does combined day trips with Te Kuiti.

It drew in Auckland clubs when it wanted to hire the Taumarunui High School lodge on Mount Ruapehu and needed more people to fill it.

Opposite page: The Moki Track was made for farming settlers after World War I. Above right: Peter Panton watches as David Scoullar cuts the anniversary cake.

Below: The trampers encountered about 800 sheep at the Bridge to Somewhere.

$40

Available at some Northland and North Shore Bookshops or contact Jean at: goldschmidt@farmside.co.nz www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Walking New Zealand, issue no 280 - 2021

29

New Zealand Cycle Tour

Best Dam cycling trip in

Busting the 315km trail from Mt Cook

By Daniel Haddock

F

ancy a challenge on a Grade 2-3 trail, the longest continuous one in Aotearoa, which frequently demands total concentration and a high level of technical skills?

Then the A20 (Alps to Ocean) is the one for you.

Your journey begins at Mt. Cook and follows the hydro scheme along the side of Lake Pukaki, Lake Ohau, and Lakes Benmore, Aviemore and Waitaki through Kurow, Duntroon and finishes at Oamaru. Choosing an experienced company, such as

Active Adventures, is a must if you want hassle-free transport, fantastic meals, accommodation, and friendly, experienced guides.

Day One-Christchurch to Aoraki/ Mt Cook The five of us were picked up in Christchurch early on Easter Saturday by Ellie and Elder, our two guides, either at a motel, the airport or at Weedon’s Caravan park in Rolleston. So there was plenty of room in the bus for extra gear as well.

The first trip briefing outlining the day was presented. These were to be a regular occurrence throughout

30 Walking New Zealand, issue no 280 - 2021

the excursion.

We cruised onto Geraldine, home of Barker’s juices and condiments.

There was a craft market and a mustsee museum (did you know there was a thriving flax linen industry here as well as Barkers?) The local church was offering free hot cross buns in the church grounds but alas we had to rush back for a beautiful lunch prepared by E and E in the park.

Onwards to Lake Tekapo (Takapo- to leave in haste at night) and the McKenzie Basin.

Sure you’ve seen it on various www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

New Zealand Cycle Tour

the world to Oamaru

media sources but what a stunning spot. There was obligatory photo outside the church trying to show the view across the lake through the picture window behind the altar.

Photographs are not allowed inside the church. New holiday homes and complexes were sprouting up throughout the township. The new bridge over the river links the church to the Dark Sky Experience museum as the original Mt. John Observatory perches above in the distance. A mystery planet display activity dotted the area but we didn’t have time to complete it.

A Thundering Avalanche www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Back on the bus through the Southern Alps (Ka tiritiri -o-teMoana, the four brothers and their canoes formed the Southern Alps) to Lake Pukaki (bunched-up water) and Aoraki, 3,754m, (son of Rakanui, the sky father)/Mt. Cook National Park. Then it was all go as daylight was fading.

Our rooms in the Mt. Cook Lodge were allocated and we were asked to get changed into our cycling gear Above: Angela and Richard lead the way to Lake Benmore.

Right: Sir Ed as he was in his training ground.

Walking New Zealand, issue no 280 - 2021

31

New Zealand Cycle Tour

Best Dam cycling trip in the world

Busting the 315 km trail from Mt Cook to Oamaru Above right: Sunrise at Aoraki/Mt. Cook. Above left: White water on Lake Ohau. Middle left: Sunrise over a calm Lake Ohau.

Below Left: Ellie and Elder serviced the bikes every morning.

for a bike-fitting and a short cycle to the White Horse Camp ground.

Our pedal-power bikes were Rolls All-Terrain and down the road we raced until turning onto the trail and reaching the camp ground.

We parked our bikes and went on a short walk up the lower Hooker Valley. Avalanche!! A deafening rumble rolled out of a near-by valley pulsing snow-spray across our line of vision. The wind had picked up as we bounced over the swing bridge crossing the roaring Tasman River below and had our first close-up views of the Mueller Glacier.

On the return trip, we visited the Memorial Cairn with numerous plaques of those who have perished climbing in this area over the years.

We hopped back on the bikes, up the hill to the lodge and to our rooms. For the first of many times in the next six days, our bikes were loaded on the trailer ready for the

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32 Walking New Zealand, issue no 280 - 2021

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New Zealand Cycle Tour

first big day on Easter Sunday. Ellie and Elder prepared a delicious meal for tea. It was difficult to turn away from the expansive picture windows upstairs in the kitchen/dining area.

The sunset and the snow-shrouded visage visible below the peak on Aoraki occupied us for what seemed like hours.

Day Two-Easter Sunday, Aoraki to Twizel The wind howled all night so the promised helicopter flight this morning was in doubt. I managed to catch the sunrise over Aoraki as part of an early morning walk but the wind was strong enough to make walking difficult and later closed the Hooker Valley swing bridge. Seeing the statue of a young Sir Ed kitted out with climbing equipment in front of the Hillary centre was memorable.

No Fly Zone Ellie and Elder had prepared an amazing breakfast complete with a large chocolate Easter Egg on our

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

place mats. The pilot rang at 8.30 a.m. to say the flight was cancelled.

There was just enough time to visit the stunning National Park Visitor Centre complete with picture postcard views of the snow being blown of the top of Aoraki, stained glass windows of the birdlife in the area and multimedia displays of the local Maori historical presence and the first mountain climbing expeditions.

Elder reckoned this was the best visitor centre on the route.

We were told the rejigged plans for the day. So we cycled to the airport, our bikes were then loaded for the drive to the Jollie Car Park. Back on two wheels, the route was to Braemar Road. alongside Lake Pukaki and then Twizel. It was warm and sunny so despite the wind and the corrugated gravel road, we made good progress.

We stopped at the Tekapo B Power Station, an impressive piece

of the Waitaki Hydro Electric Power scheme. Lunch was later near the lake, another sumptuous feast prepared by our guides. The main offroad trail wound its way around the lake edge, whipped up by the wind to produce waves and waterspouts.

The end of the stretch was over the Pukaki Dam to a large car park at the Lake Pukaki Visitor Centre and the Salmon Shop. Little did we know we would be eating some of that lovely salmon for tea!

The last part of the day’s excursion was to cross the highway to the 3 gate trail to Pukaki Flats, ‘an expansive area of dry grasslands that are characteristic of the Mackenzie Above right: Lunch by Lake Ohau.

Above left: . The Shadow tells the story at the A20 high point.

Below left: A common sight on the A2O, bikes outside a cafe.

Below right: Elder and Daniel swimming below Benmore Dam.

Walking New Zealand, issue no 280 - 2021

33

New Zealand Cycle Tour

Best Dam cycling trip in the world Busting the 315 km trail from Mt Cook to Oamaru landscape’ (A20 cycle trail brochure).

The fierce wind reminded us of its presence as it catapulted a small pine tree across my front wheel and cartwheeled across the flats.

After carefully crossing the main road to Twizel, we turned up a long drive to our farm stay rooms for the night. A delicious plate of nibbles helped to us unwind capped off by a tasty meal again prepared by the multi-talented Ellie and Elder.

The salmon and pavlova didn’t stand a chance and we were still drooling about it for the next few days. What better way to end the day than by stargazing, looking up at part of the Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve and testing our galactic knowledge.

Day Three- Twizel to Lake Ohau Lodge, then to Tarnbrae Track (High Point, 900m) and Quailburn Road From the wonderful farm stay with friendly dogs and lots of huge tractors and another big breakfast, we cycled through Twizel and then along the Ohau canals. The weather remained fine but the wind still bit us from the front or the side at times.

Much of the first section was over Old Glen Lyon Road before dropping off road onto the Lake Ohau Trail.

The large Ohau Weir was another of the ‘must-take-a picture moments’ which continued throughout the excursion.

Maybe you could have even bodysurfed on either Pukaki or Ohau due to the size of the wind-swept waves. Back on Lake Ohau Road the area lived up to its Maori meaning of ‘windy place’. The voracious head wind brought some of us to a complete stop or shunted us across to the other side near Lake Middleton.

The wicked wind created wide water-spouts which spun across the lake like Dementors. One of these flipped an electric biker in another group on her back. She did ride on however.

Should I stay or should I go now?

After lunch, we carried on towards Lake Ohau Lodge. Our guides then suggested that we complete another section of the trail in order to set-up an easier ride the following day. The wind would be either behind us or to the side. The section included the 900m highpoint of the trail, Tarnbrae and was a technical ride.

One of the group decided to get aboard the bus and meet up on the other side. I was wavering but Angela and Richard convinced me to have a go. One of the better decisions I have made.

Through the gate and onto the level 3 Tarnbrae Track. The first 11 km. was a rock-strewn trail that wound steadily upwards through burnt hillsides, evidence of last year’s fire. You couldn’t afford to be in the wrong gear in order to complete the last 2km grunt to the top. I gave

34 Walking New Zealand, issue no 280 - 2021

Above right: Kurow’s Hero.

Below left: Elder fixes a flat tyre.

Below right: Takiroa Maori Rock Art.

myself a severe scolding in order to reach the top. Luckily no one else was around!

I stopped and took a photo of the high-point sign to mark my achievement and also to enjoy the extensive views back towards the lake.

Mr. Dan’s Wild Downhill Ride It was 8km. down the Tarnbrae Track to Quailburn Road and the historic woolshed. For someone who hates downhill walking, running or cycling, this reminded me of the Disneyland ride recreating Mr Toad’s hair-raising automotive adventure.

A lovely bush section soon after

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New Zealand Cycle Tour

the top made a welcome change to the rocky climb and there were a few creeks to cross demanding a different focus. There were glimpses of the other riders ahead. Smiling Angela, the downhill queen, finally passed me but it did take her awhile.

After regrouping at the bus near the toilets and historic woolshed, we opted for another 8km of unsealed Quailburn Road towards State Highway 8. This was a good way to finish off a challenging day. Back in the bus to Ohau Lodge.

A long soak in the outdoor spa, gazing at another side of Aoraki, with a beer or bubbles in one hand followed by a sumptuous meal in a crowded, happy lodge dining room made the tricky trail ride worth it.

Day Four- State Highway 8 to Otematata The wind dropped about 4am. A stunning pre-dawn and sunrise behind a now serene Lake Ohau started the day brilliantly, and was followed by a large mainland breakfast. Back in the bus to drive to where we left off near State Highway 8.

It was Angela’s birthday, so the Stevie Wonder song in honour of Martin Luther King, Happy Birthday to You, featured on the bus sound system.

There was a pleasant cycle to Omarama for morning tea at the spacious and popular Wrinkly Ram. We headed east down the Waitaki (water of tears) valley. Cameras were in frequent use throughout the day as so many vistas were crying out to be captured on film as today was all about the crown jewel, Lake Benmore. This was Elder’s favourite

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section through Pumpkin Point and Sailor’s Cutting on the edge of the lake. Plenty of boats were anchored or out fishing at Sailor’s Cutting where we had lunch.

The guides put balloons on Angela’s bike and thereafter everyone else on the trail wished her happy birthday or asked what happened to the balloons. I was happy because the drag slowed her down and allowed me to catch up once in awhile Upping the ante again to level 3 The following 16km of new trail up Translator and Rostriever Saddles with views of Turnagain and Junction Islands ramped up to a mix of Grade 2 and narrower Grade 3 difficulty.

At times it was a straight drop to the lake on your left shoulder with little room to the rocky walls on your right shoulder. The stunning scen-

ery made up for it but concentration was needed to negotiate the twists and sudden ascents. Descending through a recently logged area, the Benmore Dam beckoned in all its pristine glory and with beautiful autumnal views towards Otematata.

Benmore is the largest dam in the Waitaki power scheme and the lake is Aotearoa’s largest man made lake filled in 1964. We regrouped for the cycle down the road to a swimming spot near the base of Aotearoa’s largest earth dam.

Not everyone was brave enough to enter the cold water but I am glad I did. There is no better way to ease sore muscles than dive into a giant Above right: The trail winds around Lake Benmore.

Below left: Golden Autumn colours

along the route.

Walking New Zealand, issue no 280 - 2021

35

New Zealand Cycle Tour

Best Dam cycling trip in the world Busting the 315 km trail from Mt Cook to Oamaru liquid ice pack. On our bikes, up from the beach, and then to the cycle trail paralleling Loch Laird Road into Otematata.

That night we stayed at the Lakeside Apartments at the back of the Otematata Pub and looking out onto the local golf course. The pub meals were first class and it was filled with cyclists from other groups.

They helped us sing Happy Birthday to Angela when a large chocolate cake was delivered by the owner.

Day Five-Otematata to Elephant Rocks Our longest stretch of sealed road began. We started from the top of Benmore Dam towards Te Akatarawa Road which we followed all the way around Lake Aviemore. This stretch allowed Richard, Angela and I to practice our drafting technique for quite a few kilometres.

Dead Wallabies in the middle of the road We did have to dodge large dead wallabies in the middle of the road.

According to others in our group, there were more dead wallabies on the side of the road. They were treated as pests in the area and local councils were trying to eradicate them.

We regrouped for morning tea at the Aviemore picnic area again bathed in sunshine. Off again on the trail towards the Waitaki Dam. This was the first power station to be built on the Waitaki River in 1935. (Up the Valley-The 3 dams, kurow.rg.nz) It was

a perfect place to regroup and read all the displays about the first dam in the hydro-electric system.

Selfies with Richie and Solly 8 km off-road to Kurow, birthplace of our most famous All Black. You had to stand in the queue with all the other cyclists from other groups to pose alongside the large cut-out of Richie and the display board of the fund-raising thermometer for a proper statue.

Time for lunch at Wild Sage Café which featured Solly, the resident dog, who liked pats and cleaned up the scraps. We feasted on the largest cheese scones I have ever seen and other enormous plates of food. Better yet, everything was tasty.

Entering the Waitaki Whitestone Geopark According to vanishedworld. co.nz, “A Geopark is the new UNESCO designation that gives worldwide status to a defined areas of international geological significance”.

We cycled through evidence of this throughout the day as 7,200 square kilometres of the Waitaki district displays its signature white limestone (AA Traveller).

The Waitaki River was on our left and SH83 on our right as our group headed to the Takiroa Maori Rock Art site, a significant place for the Ngai Tahu Whanui.

We passed through vineyards, across creeks, rivers and through lots of irrigation systems at times spraying “Eau de Bovine”.

36 Walking New Zealand, issue no 280 - 2021

The guides had us in stitches earlier talking about previous riders who purposefully headed for the sprinklers to cool down only to find out that sometimes it was effluent being sprayed back on the paddocks.

Irrigation kept this area lushly green and productive.

There were lots of cattle stops, gates, small bridges to negotiate but the variety raised tiring alert levels.

Regrouping at the Takiroa Maori Art sites offered a chance to get off the bikes and have a good look around. Through the protective metal frames, you got a glimpse of ‘one of the earliest archaeological recordings in Aotearoa/New Zealand’ (heritage.org.nz).

Though the drawings are faint and weathered, they do provide glimpses of ancient Maori tribal culture.

Duntroon Wetlands, 1910 Gaol House to Aslan’s camp (Chronicles of Narnia) A joint project between the local district development association, pupils from Duntroon School and Meridian Energy, protects the wetland and provides an extensive boardwalk, signage and photos highlighting the area.

As you enter the outskirts of the town, there is a well-preserved display of the old jail, garages, etc. which are well-worth a look.

Well, we have had so many changes of environment today but the best was yet to come.

Cycling through Duntroon, there were more steady climbs on the trail up to Elephant Rocks. The bus was waiting for us but we had time to get off the bikes for the last time today and walk across the road to this unique collection of large-weathered limestone rocks which covers over 200 metres.

If you have seen the 2005 movie, The Chronicles of Narnia, this area was Aslan’s camp. Angela, Richard and I found caves, hidden hollows and yes, we think we saw the ‘Elephantshaped rock’.

We left for Oamaru, staying in the Brydone Hotel in the central city. There was time to enjoy this Above left: Elephant Rocks. www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

New Zealand Cycle Tour

“Victorian Jewel” of a hotel and city that evening.

Day 6 Elephant Rocks to OamaruPumping to Steam Punk Heaven Starting with a gigantic breakfast in a Victorian dining room at the Brydone Hotel set us up for our last day on the trail and a return to Christchurch.

We jumped on the bus for the trip for the return to Elephant Rocks.

Gearing up for the final ride of the trip, Elder warned us of the hilly climbs in the first 15 kilometres.

Onwards and upwards There was a series of short-sharp switch backs at the top of hill at Anatini, not long after starting.

How many of the four gut-busting, twisting gradations could we scale?

Richard did all four but the rest of us got off our bikes at one point or another.

Through Island Cliff, alongside Karara Creek, we ascended to the high point shelter at the junction with Cants Road. Thankful for a bit of paved road, we met the bus just before the disused Rakis Railway Tunnel.

These one and a half to two hour regular stops allowed us to regroup, refuel and check in with Ellie.

Elder told us to meet at the Oamaru Gardens, so that we could regather and ride together through Oamaru to the coast and the large picture frame marking the end of the trail at Friendly Bay. For the first time on the adventure, the clouds closed in and the temperature dropped. However, this change did not last long and bright sunshine returned soon after.

Light at the end of the tunnel I had completed the Remutaka Cycle trail five years ago, so had gone through tunnels before on a bike.

Rakis Tunnel Trail was short but muddy, rutted and dark even with a head lamp.

Angela and Richard were ahead already in the light waiting for us, so that made it easier to focus on getting through.

At one point on the trail, there were close encounters of the bovine kind. I followed a small mob until www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

they turned off at the bridge and I sped past. You can’t say there wasn’t a lot of variety on this trip!

Elder to the rescue On one of the farms, near some sheds, a rider from another group had a flat tyre. We all stopped to see if we could help.

Elder and Richard stayed behind to fix the tyre. It certainly saved her from walking the bike for many kilometres. Our group was lucky so far with no flatties, or accidents. We knew those two would easily catch us up as the trail had become flat and relatively fast in the Windsor area.

The crowd goes wild at the Fort Enfield Pub, 12 km from Oamaru It seemed that most of the riders from the last few days had gathered outside the pub. Many were on electric bikes and gearing up for the downhill run to Weston and the Oamaru Gardens.

The trail was now built for speed and a lot of passing ensued amongst the groups.

We rejoined the old Railway line and into Saleyards Road. The end was nigh as we entered the amazing gardens on a sealed cycleway.

Above right: Angela’s Birthday Balloon Bike.

Below right: Daniel makes it to

Friendly Bay, Oamaru at the end of the A20.

Elder, forever the sweeper on the entire ride, came through with the last two members of our group and we gathered together for the last section through the wide streets of Oamaru to Friendly Bay. Blue Cod and chips to die for!

The A2O official finish sign was a welcome sight. We had individual and then group shots in the oversized picture frame with the Pacific Ocean in the background. The super thoughtful and friendly Ellie had the Chish and Fips waiting. Was this the best blue cod ever?

We got changed for the bus trip home at the sheds on the edge of the Steam Punk Playground. A perfect end to a perfect trip!

Epilogue If you thinking of doing the A20, I would highly recommend doing it with Active Adventures. All we had to do was eat, cycle and sleep.

Everything else was taken care of brilliantly.

(The author paid for his trip with Active Adventures.)

Walking New Zealand, issue no 280 - 2021

37

Australian Walks



Alice Springs - gorges, waterholes and red desert landscapes

38 Walking New Zealand, issue no 280 - 2021

If you have a spare morning or evening in Alice Springs in Australia’s Northern Territory, you should definitely make the time to take the short hike up Anzac Hill and take in the tranquil and breathtaking views across Alice Springs. Allow 40 minutes.

Also known as “Untyeyetwelye”, it is located close to the centre of the town, and is a short 15 minute walk from the visitors centre to the lookout.

Anzac Hill is a spectacular vantage point to view both the sunrise and sunset, with the backdrop of the MacDonnell Ranges in the distance.

Plus while up there, you could Above: Over looking the town centre of Alice Sprice from Anzac Hill.

Below left: On the Bradshaw Walk that starts at the Old Telegraph Station Reserve. www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Australian Walks

view the Anzac Hill War Memorial, dedicated to the fallen heroes who fought and died in World War One. The Alice Springs Telegraph Station only four kilometers from the town centre is a must see, with its historic buildings and from here a number of walks start.

This Old Telegraph Station was built in 1871 as part of the 3,000km long Adelaide to Darwin Overland Telegraph Line, and is the best preserved of the 12 stations along the Overland Telegraph Line.

The Alice Springs Telegraph Station Historical Reserve marks the original

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site of the first European Settlement in Alice Springs. It was operated for 60 years before serving as a school and welfare home for Aboriginal children of mixed ancestry until 1963.

The station is easily accessible by car (just a 10 minute drive) through the Stuart Highway and the Herbert Heritage Drive.

You can also use the riverside path along the Todd River for a short walk or cycle on the sealed path.

You can also take the Riverside sealed path for a short walk or cycle from the town to the telegraph station (3.5km one way). You’ll may spot

plenty of wildlife, including the wallaroos that live among the rocks.

The epic Larapinta Trail begins at the old Alice Springs Telegraph Station and is roughly divided into 12 sections. You can hike for a whole week, or choose to walk for just one day – whichever option you take, you will be spoiled with breathtaking views.

The Larapinta Trail is, voted by National Geographic as one of the top 20 trekking experiences on the planet.

The formations of the West MacDonnell Ranges and the vast skies Above: Three historic buildings at the OLd Telegraph Station. Reserve.

Walking New Zealand, issue no 280 - 2021

39

Australian Walks

Alice Springs - gorges, waterholes and red desert landscapes are humbling. There are plenty of swimming holes, great spots to take a dip and cool off under the desert sun.

Nearby is the original “Alice” spring, a semi-permanent waterhole in the Todd River, after which the Alice Springs town is named.

Alice Springs, the springboard to

the Outback, has grown from a small settlement to a mature and colourful tourism centre. From short strolls to day treks, there are plenty of interesting trails to explore here, discovering steep gorges, untouched watering holes and striking desert landscapes.

Right in town, the Olive Pink Bo-

tanic Gardens are a haven of greenery, as well as birds, butterflies and other local wildlife. Wander through the themed areas and the bush lands for a leisurely afternoon in nature.

A short drive from Alice Springs and a kilometre or so from the Desert Springs Park, you’ll find a trail leading to the peak of Mt Gillen. It begins at the Flynn Grave (John Flynn was an Outback pioneer in the medical field and instrumental in forming the Royal Flying Doctor Service) off Larapinta Drive.

At the top of the rocks you’ll be rewarded with 360 degree views of the town and surrounding mountain ranges and flats. Go early to beat the heat and catch the spectacular sight of sunrise over Alice Springs. With luck you may even see wallabies, desert birds and exotic flowers.

Gorges, waterholes and red desert landscapes on short walks and long treks are all in and around Alice Springs.

Above: The start of the Bradshaw Loop Walk.

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40 Walking New Zealand, issue no 280 - 2021

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Mt Favourite Walk

Popular Sunrise Hut revamped

.

L

ocally-loved Sunrise Hut and Sunrise Track in the Ruahine Forest Park are open once again following renovations and improvements, says the Department of Conservation (DOC).

This work follows an upgrade made to the hut’s interior last winter with Jobs for Nature funding, which created jobs for six people over May and June 2020.

DOC Manawatu Supervisor Shaun Ruddle says Sunrise Hut is the most popular hut in the park, with 1023 beds booked between October 2019 and April 2020 and 3344 visitor counts recorded by the track counter between January and December.

“It’s important for us to ensure these much-loved facilities are in great condition for the local community and others to enjoy for years to come. Like any of our visitor sites, the hut and track are subject to the demands of the

weather and impacts of ongoing use.

“The main visitors are families, schools and first-time recreation users looking to challenge their skills or fitness. It’s a popular ‘day visit’ site, trail runners use it for training, and school groups for teaching recreation skills and Duke of Edinburgh training.

Hunters also use the track to access more remote areas of the Ruahine Forest Park.”

The hut was painted by volunteers over four days in February, organised and funded by the Backcountry Trust and a local community group with support from DOC. The paint was provided by Dulux as part of their ongoing partnership with DOC. Shaun Ruddle says the partnership with volunteer organisations like Backcountry Trust and the business partnership with Dulux are crucial to delivering projects like Sunrise Hut on public conservation land.

Backcountry Trust North Island Project Coordinator Megan Dimozantos says they are pleased to take care like this on public conservation land, and this work is often a special experience for their volunteers as well.

It’s an opportunity for people who enjoy the great outdoors to have a sense of caring for the places that provide them with recreation opportunities to make sure they are here for generations to come.

“Our volunteers Sally, Ed, Aaron, Helen and Tobias did an exceptional job of the prep work and the painting. We’re really appreciative of their efforts, and the feedback from the outdoors community has been really positive.” says Megan Dimozantos.

Work on Sunrise Track has reinstated eroded tracks, improved the surface and reduced the chance of standing water with measures like 16 new culverts and 369 meters of side drains. Plans are underway to repaint the roof.

“The hut is looking smart with its new paint, and the improvements last year include a new fireplace, a heat transfer system and refurbished interior painting. The track improvements will allow visitors to focus on the sights and sounds while accessing this great part of the country,” says Shaun Ruddle.

Walking New Zealand magazine is available at all

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

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Walking New Zealand, issue no 280 - 2021

41

CONTENTS for previous 15 issues JUNE 279 2021

2 Queen Charlotte Track - Wilderness Guides 4 Walk Talk 6 New Zealand Walk: Ship Cove walks in old swamp forests 8 New Zealand Walk: Muruwai Walk in Coromandel 10 New Zealand Walks: Somes Island - The MIQ experience 149 years ago11 New Zealand Walk: Somes Island Track 12 My Favourite Walk: Banks Peninsula Track - an unique scenic 3 day trip 14 Need2Know: Egmont National Park tracks upgraded 16 High Achiever: Havelock man’s marathon dream of link to Picton 18 Walking New Zealand Monthly Photo Contest 20 Australian Walks: Ten best walks and hikes in Tasmania 24 New Zealand Walk: Gabriels Gully interpretation walk 26 Te Araroa Trail: Walking the Te Araroa Trail as a photgrapher and film maker 30 New Zealand Walk: Mt Taranaki summit climb -not for the faint hearted 35 New Zealand Walk : Palliser Vineyard Walk 36 Directory of New Zealand Walking Groups 40 Subscription page 41 Index of previous 14 issues 42 Coming Events: New Zealand 47 Coming Events: Australia 48 New Zealand Walking Tours 48 New Zealand Country Breaks 51 ECHO Walking Festival 52 Taupo Marathon

MAY 278 2021

25 Shared Pathway: New off road shared path gathering use 22 New Zealand Walks: Tongariro National Park short walks to suit all fitness types 32 Te Araroa Trail: New Invercargill to Bluff section, cyclists off road 32 New Zealand Walk: Rob Roy Track reopens 34My Favourite Walk: Day walks in West Coast’s Oparara Basin 34 NZ Cycling Trail: The diverse Kaikoura Trail 35 Shared Pathway: Shared Kaikoura pathway connect loop 36 Directory of New Zealand Walking Groups 41 Index of previous 14 issues 42 Coming Events: New Zealand 48 New Zealand Walking Tours 48 New Zealand Country Breaks 52 Great Forest Events

MARCH 276 2021

2 Pak - A - Roo Walking Jacket 3 Contents 4 Walk Talk 6 New Zealand Walk: Tauranga to Okere Falls on a shared trail 10 New Zealand Walk: Branch Road Walkway - once an ancient Maori route 14 New Zealand Walk: Blue Pools Walk - Mt Aspitring National Park 16 Cycling Trails: New section of Alps2Ocean Cycle Trail opens 17 New Zealand Walk: Hollyford Track reopens 18 Walking New Zealand Monthly Photo Contest 20 Need2Know: Motu: Magnificent isolation 24 New Zealand Walk: Alexandra to Clyde River Track - attracts both walkers and cyclists 27 New Zealand Walk:The Terrace Walk, Franz Josef 28 Auckland Walks: Take a hike on these great Auckland walks this summer 30 New Zealand Walk: Gebbies Pass to Packhorse Hut 32 New Zealand Walk: Kahikatea Country - the Pehitawa section of the Te Araroa Trail 34 NZ Cycling Trail: The diverse Kaikoura Trail 35 Shared Pathway: Shared Kaikoura pathway connect loop 36 Event: Back to the future for ASB Christchurch events 38 New Zealand Walks: Mangatoi Walkers tackle the Coromandel walks 38 Subscription page 41 Index of previous 14 issues 42 Coming Events: New Zealand 48 New Zealand Walking Tours 48 New Zealand Country Breaks 51 Wilderness Guides

2 Pak - A - Roo Walking Jacket 4 Walk Talk 6 New Zealand Walk: Franz Josef - a must do 9 Need2Know: Health and Safety when crossing private farms 10 New Zealand Walks: Kaikoura - a popular spot for walkers 14 My Favourite Walk: Motorimu Shelter walk in the Tararuas 15 Event: Christchurch Walking Festival has many avenues for walking 16 New Zealand Walk: Tackling the Tirohanga 18 Walking New Zealand Monthly Photo Contest 20 Australian Walk: Umpherston Sinkhole 22 My Favourite Walk: Western Loop Walkway for bush, river and open farmland 26 My Favourite Walk: A walk around Mangatawhiri Reservoir 30 My Favourite Walk: Counter clockwise on the Tongariro 52 Manawatu Walking Festival Circuit 36 Directory of New Zealand Walk- FEBRUARY 275 2021 2 Pak - A - Roo Walking Jacket ing Groups 3 Contents 40 Subscription page 4 Walk Talk 41 Index of previous 14 issues 6 New Zealand Walk: A wander around 42 Coming Events: New Zealand Waioronga- mai 47 Coming Events: Australia Valley 48 New Zealand Walking Tours 11 Te Araroa Trail: New partnerships 48 New Zealand Country Breaks keep track of 51 ECHO Walking Festival walkers on trail 52 Taupo Marathon 12 New Zealand Walk: Hidden treaAPRIL 277 2021 sures in Wai-O- 2 Pak - A - Roo Walking Jacket Tapu Forest 4 Walk Talk 15 Need to Know: Advantages of 6 New Zealand Walk: Omarama’s replacing fizzy Clay Cliff spectacular landscape drinks with water 8 New Zealand Walk: On a clear day 16 New Zealnd Farm Walks: Hill farm you can see f orever Otawa to walks in the RanOtane-Wainuku Ridgeline gitikei 10 New Zealand Walk: Huatoki 18 Walking New Zealand Monthly Domain - for a delightful walk Photo Contest 12 New Zealand Walk: Three coastal 20 High Achievers: Volunteers add walks at the bottom of the value to Mt South Island Somers experience 14 Shared Pathway: Hikers and bik- 22 New Zealand Walk: Seven walks on ers share the Timber Trail Mt Somers 16 High Achievers: Te Araroa legends 24 New Zealand Walk:Locals proud of Ceorge Mills and Rob Firmin Kawatiri 18 Walking New Zealand Monthly Coastal Trail Photo Contest 26 New Zealand Walks: Plan your next 20 Shared Pathway: Little River Trail adventure with - Hike it, bike it like it!

New Zealand Walks

29 High Achiever: Award to Mangawhai builder of walking tracks 30 New Zealand Walk: Happy holiday humping 37 Book: Enhanced access grant supports bikepack- ing Aotearoa book 38 Need2Know: Enjoying the outdoors responsibility 41 Index of previous 14 issues 42 Coming Events: New Zealand 48 New Zealand Walking Tours 48 New Zealand Country Breaks 51 Wilderness Guides 52 Event: Manawatu Walking Festivall

JANUARY 274 2021

2 Pak - A - Roo Walking Jacket 3 Contents 4 Walk Talk 6 New Zealand Walk: Round the rugged rocks - Roaring Meg Pack Track 9 New Zealand Walks: Top 20 Welly Walks in the Capital 13 High Achievers: All walks of life celebrate 20 years of community talks 14 NZ Walking Access Commission: Walking the dog 16 Event: New Zealand’s larget annual multi-sport event welcomes walkers 17 New Zealand Walk: Walking along the banks of the Ohura River 18 Walking New Zealand Monthly Photo Contest 20 New Zealand Walk: Rimutaka Rail Trail for tunnels and waterfalls 21 New Zealand Walk:Rimutaka Rail Trail popular with both walkers and cyclists 23 News: Survey highlights motivations for time in nature 24 Overseas Walk: Singapore Orchid Gardens for a walk among flora 34 Need2Know: Exercise helps to reduce back pain 36 Australian Walks: Australia’s best one day walks 39 Event: Ashhurst to Esplanade Walk 40 Subscription Page 41 Index of previous 14 issues 44 Coming Events: New Zealand 48 New Zealand Walking Tours 48 New Zealand Country Breaks 51 Wilderness Guides 52 Event:Manawatu Walking Festival

DECEMBER 273 2020

2 Pak - A - Roo Walking Jacket 3 Contents 4 Walk Talk 6 New Zealand Walk: Punakaiki Gateway to dramatic limstone country 13 Walking Access: Walking from town to town 14 New Zealand Walk: Audrey Gale Reserve beautiful in all seasons 16 New Zealand Walk: Snow Daze Golden Crown Ridge Ruahine Forest Park 18 Walking New Zealand Monthly Photo Contest 20 New Zealand Walk: Mangatangi Track walk with great view points 22 New Zealand Walk: Doug Walker Memorial Walkway popular 24 New Zealand Walk: Four P’s in a pod! Paku, Pauanui, Parakiwai, Puketui 26 Te Araroa Trail: Paekakariki Escarpment Trail for magnificent views 30 Overseas Walk : A walk ever y day with the Norwegian Coastal Express 34 Overseas Walks: Lamma Island paved wilderness walkways 39 New Zealand Walks: 100km Coast to Coast Walk 42 Subscription Page 43 Index of previous 14 issues 44 Coming Events: New Zealand 48 New Zealand Walking Tours 48 New Zealand Country Breaks 51 Wilderness Guides

Crossing: best one day walk in NZ 16 New Zealand Walk: Time to explore Nydia Bay 18 Walking New Zealand Monthly Photo Contest 20 Australian Walk: Five of the top walks in Melbourne 22 Te Araroa Trail: Te Araroa Auckland Trust plan to enhance walking experience 24 New Zealand Walk: “Views to die for” on Waipu Cove Walkway 27 New Zealand Walks: Seven day walks around Queenstown 30 Overseas Walk : Whitburn to South Shields in the north east of England 34 New Zealand Walk: Hahei Beach to Cathedral Cove full of history 38 New Zealand Walks: Track work making strides in Auckland regional parks 38 New Zealand Walks: Walk New Zealand before you walk the world 40 New Zealand Walk: Rotorao Island an unique island sanctuary 42 Subscription page 43 Index of previous 14 issues 44 Coming Events: New Zealand 48 New Zealand Walking Tours 48 New Zealand Country Breaks 51 Wilderness Guides

44 Subscription page 45 Coming Events: New Zealand 48 New Zealand Walking Tours 48 New Zealand Country Breaks 51 Event: A great view from one of the Warkworth’s Walks 52 Wilderness Guides

52 Event:Manawatu Walking Festival

4 Walk Talk 6 New Zealand Walks: Cable Bay’s family farmland walk 8 New Zealand Walk: Eastwoodhill - the national arboretum of New Zealand 12 New Zealand Walk: Eastwoodhill offers six walks to suit all levels and abilities 14 New Zealand Walks: Four walks at Hanmer Springs in one week 18 Walking New Zealand Monthly Photo Contest 20 Overseas Walks: Norfolk Island - a magical slice of paradise 23 New Zealand Walk: Milford to Takapuna Walk 26 New Zealand Walk: Herekawa Stream and Clifftop Walk 30 Overseas Walks: Experience Australia’s newest walking challenge - Ranges to River 34 New Zealand Walk: Carter Scenic Reserve walk 36 New Zealand Walk: Walk to the stars near Napier 38 New Zealand Walk: Otari - Wilton’s Bush - with 14kms of walking tracks 42 Overseas Walks and Tours 44 Index of previous 14 issues MAY-JULY 268 2020 45 Coming Events: New Zealand 3 Contents 48 Coming Events: Overseas 4 Walk Talk 52 Directory of Walking Groups 6 New Zealand Walk: Queen Charlotte 56 New Zealand Country Breaks Track - Here we come!

60 Manawatu Walking Festival 10 New Zealand Walk: Walking the FEBRUARY 265 2020 Track 4 Walk Talk 11 New Zealand Walk: The Queen 6 New Zealand Walks: Top picks to Charlotte Track - explore this summer why walk it when you can ride?

9 Auckland Short Walk: St Johns Bush Walk a short nature walk 13 Lockdown Activities: Walking and biking around Papamoa - Training 10 New Zealand Walk: Waikato River Walking Track up Mt Wash-ington.

12 New Zealand Walk: Te Koutu Park 14 Northland Experiences: The Old - a delightful walk Chooks Tour of Northland 14 New Zealand Walk: A taste of the Old Coach Road 17 News: A billion-dollar opportunity 16 New Zealand Walk: Pakihi Track for walkers reopened for the summer season 18 Walking New Zealand Monthly 17 New Zealand Walk: Motukiore Photo Contest Island Walk for great views 20 New Zealand Walks: Bookable huts 18 Walking New Zealand Monthly - a Summer success Photo Contest 23 Need2Know: Walking on pri- 20 New Zealand Walk: Beach walk Pukerua Bay to Plimmerton vate land 22 Need2Know: New digital maps 24 Auckland Walk: Mt Hobson Walk for help people explore outdoors panoramic city views 23 Overseas Walk: Feet dangling over 27 Covid-129: Travel faces a reinthe Lysefjord 28 New Zealand Walk: Ongaonga - a vention village steeped in history 28 New Zealand Walk: Lindsay Scenic 30 New Zealand Walk: Banks Track Reserve Walk - New Zealand’s first private 30 My Favoutite Walk: Cardiff Centenwalking track nial Walk through natural bush 37 New Zealand Walk: Lake Panorama, and farmland Henderson and Kiwi Esplanade Walkway 34 New Zealand Walk: Beat the heat 38 Need2Know: International Marchdo the Donald Drift ing League encourages may 37 Australian Walk: Burleigh Heads walking bring us together National Park walks 39 Event: Manawatu Walking Festival 40 Auckland Walk: A ramble on Anzac now in sixth year 41 Training: Exercise programme tips Day - Point England Walkway 44 Books: God’s Cocaine - the addic- 42 Overseas Walks and Tours 45 Coming Events: New Zealand tion of the Camino 48 Coming Events: Overseas 45 Coming Events: New Zealand 52 Directory of Walking Groups 48 New Zealand Country Breaks 56 New Zealand Country Breaks 52 Northland Experiences 60 Manawatu Walking Festival

OCTOBER 271 2020

2 Pak - A - Roo Walking Jacket 3 Contents 4 Walk Talk 6 New Zealand Walk: Ducks, Gnomes and Dinosaurs: Just a normal day in the Whirinaki Conservation Park 8 New Zealand Walk: Castle Hill: a walk through huge boulders 13 New Zealand Walk: Much loved Spraggs Bush Track reopens 14 New Zealand Walk: The Tinui ANZAC Walkway: a memorable walk 16 News: Te Araroa partners with NZ Walking Access Commission 18 Walking New Zealand Monthly Photo Contest 20 New Zealand Experience: Our Routeburn experience: Water, floods and everything else that could go wrong 24 Lockdown Activities: Nature is good for us 26 New Zealand Walk: An Architectural Walk 28 My Favourite Walk: Along the walkway at Macan- drew Bay 30 Cycling Tours: Trip through the tulips 34 New Zealand Walk: Nydia Track something for everyone 38 New Zealand Walks: Exploring the scenery of the Far North 42 Te Araroa Trail: Te Araroa Northland Trust revitalised 43 Index of previous 14 issues 44 Subscription page 45 Coming Events: New Zealand 48 New Zealand Walking Tours 48 New Zealand Country Breaks 51 Event:Manawatu Walking Festival 52 Wilderness Guides

SEPTEMBER 270 2020

2 Pak - A - Roo Walking Jacket 3 Contents 4 Walk Talk 6 New Zealand Walk: Palmers Track - Great Barrier Island 12 John Fensham Memoral Sanctuary - a lowland forest walk 15 New Zealand Walk: Invigorating winter tramp on the Mania Track 15 Kawerau Accomodation: Firmin Lodge 18 Walking New Zealand Monthly Photo Contest 20 Short walks to get you off the couch 23 Lockdown Activities: A morepork and the Milky Way 24 Northland Experiences: Two wheels and Shank’s Pony 52 Event: Manawatu Walking Festival NOVEMBER 272 2020 28 New Zealand Walks: A week of walks on Chatham Islands 2 Pak - A - Roo Walking Jacket 36 Event: Bay of Islands Walking 3 Contents Weekend - A real mix - hiking, 4 Walk Talk biking trains and walks for non 6 New Zealand Walk: An amble by walkers Lake Hakanoa 40 Event: Delightful dozen walks at 9 New Zealand Walk: A trail that Warkworth Weekend 2020 reconnects us to the Waikato River 43 Index of previous 14 issues 10 New Zealand Walk: Tongariro Alpine

42 Walking New Zealand, issue noissue 280 - no 2021 42 Walking New Zealand, 280 - 2021

AUGUST 269 2020

2 Pak - A - Roo Walking Jacket 3 Contents 4 Walk Talk 6 New Zealand Walk: Cook’s Cove Walkway to an historic monument 10 Queen Charlotte Track: Testing our limits on the Queen Charlotte 16 Lockdown Activities: Helping walkers along the way. Waitangi Regional Park.

18 Walking New Zealand Monthly Photo Contest 20 Rotorua Walks: Short walks around Rotorua 22 Rotorua Walks: Ten great Rotorua walks and trails 23 Rotorua Walks: Tarawera Trail a great nature walk 24 Rotorua Walks: Firmin Lodge 26 Bay of Islands Walking Weekend: Mana, missionaries and mayhem 28 Need2Know: Pop goes my pelvis 30 New Zealand Walk Birdlife and song highlight of Bushy Park 31 New Zealand Walk: Bushy Park sanctuary a top restoration project 32 New Zealand Walk: Curio Bay experiences 34 New Zealand Walk: Ballroom Overhang Track - Fox River West Coast 36 Need2Know: Baldwin Street steepest street again 37 Walking Access Commission: Trust saves public access to beach 38 Northland Experience: Monica cycles the Cook to Kupe Tour for a real Norhland experience 40 Need2Know: Tactical Unbanism gives cheap solutions for Auckland pedestrians and cyclists 43 High Achiever: Pre-schoolers delight at compe- tion win 44 New Zealand Walk: Big plans for walking and cycle paths along Avon River corridor 45 Coming Events: New Zealand 48 New Zealand Walking Tours 48 New Zealand Country Breaks 52 Walkers on the Tuki Tuki River Trail

9 Great Walks: “The Routeburn Saga” 11 New Zealand Walk: Track a memorial to Truby King 12 New Zealand Walks: Paritutu Rock a challenge in New Plymouth 15 Book: Relentless - how a mother and daughter defired the odds 16 New Zealand Walk: Always different - The Art Deco Walk 18 Walking New Zealand Monthly Photo Contest 20 New Zealand Walk : Waiheke Island revisited - Retracing past footsteps 26 New Zealand Walk: Te Pare Reserve rich in history 30 New Zealand Walk: Tongariro Alpine Crossing one of the best one day walks in the world 36 New Zealand Walk: Wide country views from Mt William Walk 39 New Zealand Walk: Haast Pass/ Tioripatea Highway short walks 40 Australian Walk: Unique track is popular tourist attraction 42 Overseas Walks and Tours 44 Index of previous 14 issues 45 Coming Events: New Zealand 48 Coming Events: Overseas 52 Directory of Walking Groups 56 New Zealand Country Breaks 60 Great Forest Events

MARCH 266 2020

APRIL 267 2020

2 Pak - A - Roo Walking Jacket 3 Contents 4 Walk Talk 6 Great Walks: The Back Story of “The Routeburn Saga”

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Coming Events

Coming Events

NEW ZEALAND JUNE 2021

6 Aurora Handicap Marathon, Upper Hutt 6 Cape Brett Challenge, Rawhiti Bay of Islands 6 K2M: Kaiteriteri to Mapua, Nelson 6 Mount Runners Half Marathon, Mt Maunganui 12 Mount Difficulty Ascent, Bannockburn, near Cromwell

12 Rustic Run and Walk, Bannockburn, near Cromwell 15 Junior Tough Guy and Gal Challenge: Tauranga 13 The Mount Vernon Grand Traverse, Blenheim 19 Bridge to Bridge Ultra Marathon, Waimakariri, Canterbury 19 The Possum Night Run, The Wairakei Resort, Taupō 20 Run Auckland: Sanders Reserve, Paremoremo, Auckland

The new VeryFitPro ID205L Intelligent Activity Tracker The new VeryFitPro ID205L is an intelligent smart looking Sports Watch and activity tracker that ticks all the boxes.

* Strong and durable 3cm clear glass touch screen display * Skin friendly soft and comfortable wristband strap * Nine exercise modes walking, running, hiking, cycling, treadmill, fitness, mountain climbing, spinning bike and yoga * Many functions: step monitoring function, heart rate monitoring, sleep monitoring, calorie monitoring, call reminder, message reminder, sedentary reminder, alarm reminder, stopwatch, timer, music control, looking at mobile phone, breathing training, time and date display, multi-sport mode (step, calories, speed, distance, active time), daily goal * Raise your hand and the screen will on. * Customize the face of your Smart Watch to fit your needs. * IP68 Deep Waterproof * Magnetic charging with USB charging cable takes about 2.5 hours for around 10 days usage. * Uses VeryFitPro app Compatible with smart phones that use IOS 8.0/ Android OS 4.4 or later, and Bluetooth 4.0 or later * Colors available: Black and Dark Green

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Available now from:

Walking New Zealand Shop P O Box 1922, Palmerston North - Phone 0800-925-546 Fax 06-358-6864 or email walkingnz@xtra.co.nz. www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

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

20 Monaco Mid Winter Marathon, Nelson 26 Holloway Memorial Cross Country Races, Motukarara Raceway, Banks Peninsula 26 Riverhead Rampage, Riverhead, Auckland 27 Gazley Volkswagen Wellington Marathon, Wellington 28 Clyde to Alexandra Road Races, Clyde

JULY 2021

3 Forest Run Fest: Frost Edition, Bottle Lake Forest, Christchurch 4 XTERRA Auckland: Waiuku Forest, Auckand 10 Captain Cook’s Landing Trail Run, Ships Cove Marlborough Sounds 10 Cougar Trail Run, Tokaroa 17 WUU-2K Marathon & Ultramarathon, Wellinghton 18 Cape Egmont Half Marathon, Okato, Taranaki 24 Mackenzie Half Marathon, Fairlie, South Canterbury 24 Halcombe Relay, Halcombe, Manawatu 30 Christchurch 10km Series: Beach/ Night, New Brighton 31 Taupo Marathon, Taupo 31 Lakeside Relays, Harewood, Christchurch

AUGUST 2021

1 South Island Half Marathon, Lake Hood, Ashburton

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Walking New Zealand, issue no 280 - 2021

43

Coming Events

NORDIC WALKING

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

1 Summit Forests Kaitaia Run/Walk, Kaitaia 5-6 Secondary School Tough Guy and Gal Challenge: Auckland, Helensville, Auckland 7 Meridian Hydro Half Marathon, Te Anau 7 Hamilton City Hawks Sweeny Cup Handicap Race, Horsham Downs, Hamilton 7 Tough Gal Team Challenge: Auckland, Helensville, Auckland 7 Mitre 10 Te Anau 10km, Te Anau 8 We Run the Forest, The Redwoods, Rotorua 8 Hawke’s Bay Trail Run Series: Sacred Hill, Dartmoor, Hawkes Bay 15 Mukamuka Munter, Catchpool Visitor Centre, Rimutaka Forest Park 15 Woodbourne Half Marathon, Woodburne, Blenheim 15 Gizzy Trail Run Series: Sponge Bay Farm, Gisborne 18-19 Junior Tough Guy and Gal Challenge: Rotorua 19 Bridge to Bridge Ultra Marathon, Waimakariri 19 The Possum Night Run, Wairakei Resort, Taupo 21 Mount Maunganui Half Marathon, Mt Maunganui 21 Tough Gal Team Challenge: Rotorua 21 Tough Guy and Gal Challenge: Rotorua 22 Craters Trail Run, Taupo 22 Seddon School Tussock Run, Seddon

44 Walking New Zealand, issue no 280 - 2021

26-28 The Great Naseby Water Race Ultramarathon, Naseby 28 Fullers Greatsights Bay of Islands BEAST, Haruru, near Paihia 28 The Dun Run, Maitai Dam to OK Corral, Nelson 28 Clyde to Alexandra Road Races, Clyder 29 Heart and Sole Women’s Run Series #3, Papamoa

SEPTEMBER 2021

5 North Shore Marathon, Milford, Auckland 11 Foundation Clinic Mauao Half Marathon, Mt Maunganui 11 Peak to Peak, Queenstown 11 Iron Maori Half Marathon, Napier 11 Kaikōura Whale Run, Kaikoura 11 Kinloch Off Road Challenge, Kinloch, Taupo 12 Whangarei Run/Walk Festival, Whangarei 12 Hutt Marathon, Petone 12 Wild Auckland: Tawharanui, Tawharanui Regional Park, Auckland 12 Sri Chinmoy Cherry Blossom Marathon, Christchurch 18 Governors Bay to Lyttelton Scenic Road Race, Governors Bay, Canterbury 18 Queen Charlotte Relay, Picton to Havelock 19 4 Paws Marathon, Bottle Lake Forest, Christchurch 19 Cambridge Half Marathon, Cambridge 19 Hatuma Half Marathon & 10K

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Walking New Zealand, issue no 280 - 2021

45

Coming Events

Removes bacteria and protozoa (Giardia, Crytosporidium, etc) Filters 1,000 litres to 0.2 microns Drink directly from a water source, or from your bottle Ultralight, easy to use, no pumping, nom chemicals Perfect for hiking, camping and emergency preparedness

$42.99 plus $7 Shipping Available now from:

Walking New Zealand Shop

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

Fun Run, WWaipukurau, Central Hawkes Bay 19 shoe Science Tauranga Marathon, Tauranga 19 Run Auckland: Millwater Estuary, Silverdale, Auckland 25 Blue Lake 24 Hour Challenge, Blue Lake, Rotorua 25 The Mudder, Marton 26 4 Paws Marathon, Bottle Lake Forest, Christchurch

OCTOBER 2021

2 Aoraki Mt Cook Marathon, Half Marathon, 10K and 5K, Aoraki Mt Cook Village 2 Rakiura Challenge Trail Run, Oban Stewart Island 3 Harcourts Cooper & Co Devonport Half Marathon, Auckland 9 Abel Tasman Coastal Classic Trail Run, Kaiteriteri 9 Marina 2 Marina, Picton 10 3 Lakes Trail Run, Kai-iwi Lakes, Northland 10 Wairarapa Country Marathon, Masterton 10 Southland Festival of Running,

Invercargill 15-17, Bay of Islands Walking Weekend, Russell, Northland 16 Jackson Holmes Salmon Run, Rakaia, Canterbury 16 Taupō Ultramarathon, Whakaipo Bay, Taupo 23 Kaikoura Mountains to the Sea, South Bay, Kaikoura 24 Cromwell Half Marathon, Cromwell 24 Wild Auckland: Tāpapakanga, Tāpapakanga National Park, Auckland 28 Waikato Breast Cancer Research Trust Pink Walk & Button Run, Hamilton 30 Kawerau King of the Mountain, Kawerau 30 Shepherds Shemozzle, Hunterville 31 Auckland Marathon, Devonport, Auckland 31 Omokoroa Coastal Challenge, Omokoroa, near Tauranga

NOVEMBER 2021

5-21 Waiheke Walking Festival, Waiheke Island 24 Cromwell Half Marathon, Crom-

The H215 Professional 4 Function Pedometer

All ages and capabilities.

The H-215, 4-function pedometer is a superb, reasonably priced pedometer that counts steps, calculates distance, calories burned and has a 12/24 hour clock.

This is the model that has sold over a quarter of a million worldwide.

It has the largest display of any pedometer we tested and is very accurate.

Dimensions: (L) 5.6 * (W) 3.7 * (t) 2.7 cm Phone 0800-925-546 for bulk prices

Available now from:

Walking New Zealand Shop

P O Box 1922, Palmerston North - Phone 0800-925-546 Fax 06-358-6864 or email walkingnz@xtra.co.nz. www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

46 Walking New Zealand, issue no 280 - 2021

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Coming Events

well 30 Bell Hill Challenge, Baldoon Farm, Canterbury 30 Kawerau King of the Mountain, Kawerau 30 Mission Mt Somers, Staveley, Canterbury 31 Auckland Marathon, Devonport, Auckland

Wellington’s premier marathon event.

AUSTRALIA

JUNE 2021

6 Mackay Marina Run, Half Marathon, 8km &5km, Makay, Qld 27 Cooks River Fun Run, Strathfield, NSW

JULY 2021

3-4 Gold Coast Marathon 2021, Southport, Qld 11 Cairns Marathon, Cairns, Qld 11-25 Weipa Running Festival. 42km, 21km, 10km, 5km, Weipa, Qld 12 Fig Tree Half Marathon, Cairns, Qld 13 16km Lake Morris Race, Cairns, Qld 18 Goldfields Pipeline Marathon, Kalgoorlie, WA 18 The Bloody Long Walk: Sydney North, Palm Beach to Manly, Sydney, NSW 18 Winery Running Festival, Hunter Valley, NSW 25 ASRWC Alice Springs Half Marathon, Ross, NT 25 WestlinkM7 Blacktown Running Festival, Blacktown, NSW 27 Sydney Morning Herald Half Marathon, Sydney, NSW 31 Australian Outback Marathon, Yulara, NT

AUGUST 2021

1 Broome International Airport Marathon, Broome, WA 8 The Sun Herald City2Surf, Sydney,NSW 15 Sunshine Coast Marathon an

SUNDAY 27 JUNE 42k, 21k, 10k, Kids Magic Mile

SEPTEMBER 2021

11 Harvest Run, Yarra Valley, SA 12 Coffs Run Festival, Coffs Harbour, NSW 19 Christmas Island Marathon, Christmas Island

NOVEMBER 2021

7 The Canberra Times Fun Run, Canberra, ACT

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Walkers welcome Enter at: www.wellingtonmarathon.co.nz Walking New Zealand, issue no 280 - 2021

47

GREAT COUNTRY BREAKS

NORTHLAND

HIKES THROUGHOUT NZ

ROTORUA

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48 Walking New Zealand, issue no 280 - 2021 48 Walking New Zealand, issue no 279 2021

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GISBORNE

TARANAKI

Dave & Carol Digby Ph: 06-765-7482

GREAT COUNTRY BREAKS NELSON

Fully licensed owner/operators (since 2001)

TRAMPING - CYCLING - TRANSPORT

HIKES THROUGHOUT NZ

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

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Phone 03 391 4120 CANTERBURY

NATIONAL PARK

WAIRARAPA

Whakapapa Holiday Park Unique walking experience over private farmland and Wairarapa Coastline, with two or three day options. Awesone scenery, rustic accommodation and delicious meals. For further information visit www.oruiwalk.co.nz

Whareama Coastal Walk offee Onsite C trailer and Food

Fully serviced campground nestled in the heart of Tongariro National Park, surrounded by beautiful native trees and rivers. Plenty of bird life. We have powered sites, cabins, tent sites, backpacker rooms and a lodge that sleeps 32.

Whakapapa Village, Mt Ruapehu, Tongariro National Park 3951 PH 07 892 3897 - info@whakapapa.net.nz

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

Phone (06) 372 3722

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WAIRARAPA

MARLBOROUGH

KAIKOURA COAST TRACK Awesome 2 days getaway to go home refreshed

Discover new landscapes Farm accommodation Bags transferred daily Hike into nature

03 319 2715 www.kaikouratrack.co.nz

www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz

Walking New Zealand, issue280 no 279 - 202149 49 Walking New Zealand, issue no - 2021

AKAROA

MT VERNON LODGE

GREAT COUNTRY BREAKS

SOUTHLAND

MACKENZIE/South Canterbury

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

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

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

STEWART ISLAND

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

STEWART ISLAND

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

Contact David & Amanda Kinnaird 33 Purple Peak Road, Akaroa

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

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

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

NORTH CANTERBURY

NORTH CANTERBURY

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

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$15 - 1 day

$15 - 1 day Now available in 41 outlets 3 days $40 -7 Available for sale/hire $30 $30 3 -days $15 $40- -17day days Farm Safe and OSH are now pushing$30 for for every week after $40 7 COVER ALL YOUR BASES $30 3 days days $30 for-- every week after all farmers who work on their own to $30 for every week after Now in 41inoutlets your first week of hire haveavailable one of these their safety kit COVER ALL YOUR BASES AvailableNow foravailable sale/hire in 41 outlets Ph (03) 226 6341 Farm Safe andAvailable OSH are nowfor pushing for sale/hire or (027) 412 2925 all farmers who work their to pushing for Farm Safeon and OSH own are now all farmers who work on have one of these in their safety kittheir own towww.locatorbeacons.co.nz have one of these in their safety kit

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PAK - A - ROO

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Walking New Zealand, issue no 280 - 2021

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