Southland Tramping Club

2021

December

19th Bluff wanderings.

Effectively a girls day out traipsing up and along the Glory Track then along to the aircraft accident Memorial lookout about another 30 minutes further on. A picnic table provided the opportune lunch stop. The wind blow around us but we were sheltered. Judy and Sally ventured up the Bluff Hill while I stuck to the coastal track making our way back. A cafe refreshment then a meander around the picturesque Marae at Bluff ( viewing from the window) A visit and chat with some elderly locals followed before making our way back to town. All up a pleasant day out. Sally, Judy and me (Jackie)

15th Walk Talk & Cuppa Oreti Totara Dunes Forest.
We had 9 people turn up for a walk on a fine mild Wednesday evening in Otatara. Ian, Heather, Allan, June, David, Jackie, Judy, Mary and myself. A wander around the mowed pathways was certainly preferable to last year’s walk which was through long, wet grass. This year we remained dry. We had short stops along the way at
Neil’s Hut, Jacks Hut, the Oreti River lookout and the pond look out before we got back to the car park some 1.5 hours later. A café must have been calling some of the party as Judy, Jackie and Mary departed quite quickly whilst the rest of us adjourned to Allan and June’s establishment for a cuppa - BJ

11th Mores Reserve to Colac Bay

Combined Tramp with Wakatipu Tramping Club

We all met in Riverton and after a head count, we had 15 trampers and one cyclist. Three

cars went to Colac Bay Township while the rest of the group went to the Mores Reserve

and awaited our return. While there some trampers walked up to the Hilltop lookout track

for a look along the coast to see where we would be walking as well as great views over

Foveaux Strait towards Stewart Island. Once the group was all together, we headed along

the Kings Track which had been transformed into the “Magical Christmas Doors of

Riverton”. This entailed lots of Xmas decorations and small hobbit like doors on the trees

all decorated. This is a yearly community event with both adults and children contributing. It

made interesting walking along the track and many pictures were taken. Once out of the

magical forest we descended onto our first beach which was dominated by a large

balancing rock this was the beginning of our coastal walk to Colac. We then followed the

track markers along the coast taking in numerous beaches and cove’s and up over

headlands some crossing farmland. This is real rugged coast with breakers crashing onto

the beaches and looking up back to the reserve you could see all the wind-swept trees all

leaning inland. The weather was looking ominous with dark clouds, but we were very lucky,

and the rain helded off. After a lunch break on an unnamed beach, we carried on and

finally arrived at the Tihaka Beach end of Colac Bay. We were lucky to arrive on the stroke

of low tide and we walked along the tide edge which was firm and easier than trying to walk

on the shingle. After about 45mins walking along the beach following the curve of Colac

Bay, we came to the township and the cars. This is an easy walk along rugged coast and is

also part of the Te Araroa trail. Once all back in Riverton we went to the Bach for a piece of

Sarah’s Xmas cake and a cup of tea. As well as working our fish and chips orders for the

evening meal. This was a good, combined trip between the two clubs and 15 trampers was

a good turnout.

Time- 3hrs 50mins

Distance- 12.4km

Trampers- WTC = Peter, Lindsay, Lois, Margaret, Pip, Sarah, Jo, Philippe, and Nick

(leader and scribe) STC = Judy, David, Mary, Elizabeth, Jackie, and Sally

5th Christmas Dinner, Ascot Park Hotel (S)

November

27th Saturday Day walks in the Catlins

Five of us left Invercargill at 8.15am and drove in the rain for one and a half hours to the Catlins. Once at the McLean Falls track the rain had stopped and we walked the 40 mins return track to see the spectacular waterfall cascade 15m down, then over some lower terraces. We also saw a black goat on the terraces happier eating the vegetation.

Then onto the Traills Tractor and Lenz Forest and Bird Reserve walk. Now in sunshine. It was a 10 min walk to the Cook’s sawmill site where Traills tractor an early bush-tram is sheltered, an interesting area with info boards to show where the village once was. We carried on though the Lenz Reserve a 40 min loop track following tram lines. Returning back to Traills tractor and a picnic table for lunch.

After lunch we crossed the Fleming River and some walked, others drove the 1 km to the Tautuku Estuary Boardwalk. 30min return. Here we found craps and wee mud creatures, along with a good view of the estuary.

We continued onto Lake Wilkie a 30min return walk. A pretty lake with a good variety large trees along the way.

Then we went for a view from Florence Hill of Tautuku Beach and Long Point, followed by a walk on Tautuku beach.

Last stop of the day was Cathedral Caves, 1 hour return walk, first in bush and then along the beach to the caves. The caves can be entered and exited from different points. We saw a Little Blue Penguin nesting at the back of the cave. On the walk along the beach a mother Oyster Catcher was getting cross with us, we soon found out why when Neroli nearly stepped on the Oyster Catchers nest with 2 large eggs. A late afternoon tea was had at the picnic tables at the car park being watched by tomtits. Then home around the scenic route.

A day of a lot of laughs, sunshine, birdlife and amazing bush.

Thank you to Dave for driving and Shirley for organizing, others on the journey were Neroli, Sally and me Judy.

24th Walk Talk Cuppa Riverton

Riverton put on a good show for the 5 people who travelled from Invers and Gillian who joined us as well. We started from Sally & Denes house(Sally joined us on our walk) just above the bridge and walked over the bridge past the back of the museum. With the wind at our back we wandered down the new Bath Rd walkway and then past the Paua shell and down to the ‘disposables’ centre of Riverton Past the settlement pond and onto the North Beach. From there we wandered back to the mouth of the river and by then the wind had dropped and it was lovely and calm as we negotiated the paths developed by Aparima College and viewed their Enviro Schools garden. Past the rugby grounds, the rowing club and back over the bridge to a lovely cuppa and chat. Dene had finished his twilight golf by then so was happy to sample the muffins to make sure they tasted right Thanks for listening to the stories guys and gals! Elizabeth

20th Saturday Riverton to Oreti Beach (D)

Well, who'd have thought that a walk along the beach from Riverton to Oreti would turn into another of Graeme's epic adventures?

6 of us, Graeme, George, Merrill, Lynda, Elizabeth and Annabel, met for an 11am departure from Princess Street, Riverton.

We set off at a fair lick in dull, overcast, slightly damp weather. Treasure along the way was a Hector's dolphin skull and a dead Southern Royal Albatross. Up close you can really see how enormous they are.

We sat on logs for lunch and collected litter along the way and then came the RIVER CROSSING.

We checked out the Waimatuku a couple of km from the mouth and it looked deep. Down at the mouth Graeme ventured across at the surf line and still disappeared up to his chest. We all stood on the bank and went 'ooh, that's deep. Go back or go through?' Graeme then crossed a few times trying to find a better spot. No luck. So everyone put phones away and held bags above their heads and hoiked up clothes, then waded across a hundred metres back from the mouth. Mad but fun. At least the water wasn't too cold.

Then all we had to do was the last 10km to the Oreti Beach entrance where we gratefully met our rides. It was a great day out. 23.6km, lovely company, good exercise and a bit of mad adventure. Thanks Graeme.

14th Pourakino -Pourakino River walk - Longwoods (D)

After a delayed start due to inclement weather 3 hardy souls arrived at the Ermedale end of the track at 1.00pm. Southland weather had decided to play the game by then and we had a lovely walk up the track beside the river. Due to lots of rain the previous couple of days the river and the one or two side streams we had to negotiate where a lot higher than usual but we made it to the big tree(halfway point) by 3:00pm. The last few hundred metres the track markers were few and the track not so visible so a bit of work to do there in the future, but where we have been with our maintenance was basically great walking. It was a lovely introduction to our bush walking for our new club member Merril and Graeme enjoyed stretching his legs as well After a we rest stop we headed back the way we came. Thanks for joining me Merril and Graeme.

Elizabeth

October

1-3rd Homer Hut - Trapping trip
Four people headed to Homer on Friday morning and checked all the traps in the Gertrude Valley, and on Saturday checked the traps near the Homer tunnel and the possum line, and on Sunday morning check the remaining traps near an old avalanche. The weather was perfect overhead, if a little chilly, but there was no rain which makes every trip so much easier, even if the pair checking the highest traps were in snow. Our tally was 1 stoat, 9 rats and 4 possum. While changing the lure and gas canisters on the GN24 resetting traps, one had recorded 17 strikes. There was one cheeky kea hanging around the hut and even followed Barbara across the creek to the chain. There was quite a lot of birdsong around the hut. We checked out the devastation nature had caused around Gunns camp – unbelievable!!! just imagining what the forces of nature could do, before heading home. Thanks Team Dene, Barbara, Shirley and Anne

September

18-19th Snow Skiing Trip - Rabbit

August

22nd Sunday - Makarewa Falls (Cancelled due to Covid Level 4)

21st Saturday - Te Rere (Postponed due to Covid Level 4)

14th Ten Pin Bowling - Sandra

July

2nd-6th Welcome Flat

Friday - Early evening saw 3 vehicles meet at the Wilderness Backpackers in Haast, where rooms were allocated for the night. Our party of 12 was made up of members of Southland, Wakatipu and Whangamata Tramping Clubs and "a ring in member of STC". Our group of 3 men and 9 women adjourned to the Hard Antler for drinks and dinner - HUGE meal of pork spare ribs for one person.

Saturday - Up and driving by 0700 for the 100km journey to the start of the track. It had been windy at Haast overnight so luckily no defrosting of vehicle windows was required. 0830 saw us starting out with an easy crossing of the first river near the carpark to a beautifully formed "public garden walkway" track. First brief stop was at dog rock, then lunch in a very frosty, looking like snow, lawn area by Architect Hut about 1230. Fine and dry all the way but frosty underfoot so extreme care was needed on rocks following the Karangarua river, then upwards, more climbing, alongside the Copland River. We met a number of hunters and trampers enroute heading out. 1530 saw the first arrivals at Welcome Flat Hut and the hot pools were made use of everyone at some stage in the evening. Most had retired by 2100 after reading and/or playing cards or even a second sojourn in the hot pools.

Sunday - Kea calls woke some to a 4 degree frost and a couple of brave souls were up and in the hot pool for a dawn breaker, with the sky lightening up for the day after the stars vanished, and wee bit more bird life was heard. Coal supplies continued to a welcome fire in the hut. The day was spent on walks towards Douglas Rock Hut, gathering firewood, reading and the usual lot of natter. Sunshine after the frost, which again portrayed the majesticness of the mountains and made us all appreciate natures gift of the hot pools. A whisky tipple and chocolate late in the evening enjoyed by some ......?

Monday - Scrabble around early, pack and clean up for departure. First of the crew out the door at 0800. The weather gods were very kind to us - NO FROST - NO dreaded icy rocks!! Lovely easy going out - a deer was spotted, a black fantail made itself known and there was a work crew on the track. Folk were all back at the car park at 1400 and NO RAIN as was forcasted. The track was CLOSED just as the last trampers returned to the car park as a "Weather Event" was predicted for the next two days. Some carried on North and the remainder headed to Haast for the evening before heading home. Great Trip - Many Thanks to all. Sally, Dene, Eliz, Geoff, Graeme, Anne, Pip, Joy, Judy, Barbara McG, and Barbara B.

June

19th Mid Winter Xmas Dinner

Once again we ventured out to Woodlands to Sandra and Geoffrey’s farm house to indulge in a wide variety of gourmet delights. We all contributed with a pot luck dish.

And to help it all go down mulled wine was on offer too.

19 of us participated in the enjoyable social event - eating, drinking, chatting!

Thanks once again Sandra for all the preparation and organisation of such!

And Geoffrey helped out too with the Christmas crackers!

Much appreciated by us all- the evenings hospitality!

Jackie

12th Barracouta Point – Omaui – Saturday

Five of us went off from the old museum at 9.30am, the sun was shining a beautiful bluebird day, an excellent day for a walk along the coast. The wind had a wee nip in it to start with, but we were soon in the shelter plodding along the farm track with Stewart Island looking so clear we thought we could walk across to it. Centre Island and Riverton in the other direction also looked stunning. We soon reached the coast, Elizabeth draw a big happy face in the sand which reflected our day. A few birds were on the beach, as we sat and had a nibble. Then we went up over a hill and down to the old rusty boat sitting on the rocks (does anyone know its name?). Geoff had a play on the boat pretending to be the Skipper. We had lunch on the rocks, then walked along the coast, which was very muddy and lumpy from the cows grazing on it. We also fixed warratahs along the way as the track obviously hasn’t been maintained for a while. Once back on the fence line we joined up with the track at the cattle yards where we started from. The walk took about three hours, on it were David, Jackie, Elizabeth, Geoff and me, Judy.

May

30th Pourakino track maintenance

6 keen volunteers meet at the Ermedale car park in inclement weather and proceeded along the track to where we had previously cleared, but along the way the track needed diverted in two or three places where either the river had changed its mind or there was tree fall. Although we made some progress further along the track we are still not quite half way. As we returned to the cars along the newly cut track it was looking pretty good and we were quite proud of our efforts. This is a lovely flat track along a river and can be enjoyed by young and old alike. Stephen, Anne, Eliz, Judy, Dene and Sally.

26th Walk Talk & Cuppa - Seaward Bush, Masons Road.

I picked Judy up at her gate at 7.05pm, went to Seaward Bush Reserve, Mason Road, waited until 7.15pm. No others arrived so we went into the walk on a beautiful blood moon night, it was so still, nothing to be heard other than the two of us chatting. As we had a busy day we only walked the long track. We were home by 8.10pm. Peter

15th Oreti Totara Dune Forest

Oreti Totara Dune Forest - Tree Planting 15 May

9 of us including Maurice ( Honorary Ranger ) ventured out with our required spades in a rather cool Southerly to plant 125 native plants. All well organised by BJ and Maurice.

Fortunately the area where trees were planted was sheltered so we beavered away with our task.

9 of us got the work done in about 1 hour and half.

The turf was quite forgiving which helped! However next time a sledgehammer would help hammering in the poles -these to identify where the plants were planted. This time Rabbit obliged with his spade!

We admired our efforts and after a refreshing drink and bikkie we walked out taking another opportunity to explore more of the area.

Next year more tree planting is on the agenda at Queens Birthday STC anniversary weekend.

Participants today were - BJ, Maurice, Anne, Denise, Rabbit, Jimmy, Keith, Peter and Jackie

7-9th Kepler Track Friday – Sunday May 2021

Day 1 – Control Gates to Luxmore Hut (13.2km, 6hrs)

Three of us left Invercargill early to meet up with the Hokonui Tramping club at the Te Anau DOC centre for 9.30am. With introductions done and the weather report absorbed we were off to the start. Cars were relocated to Rainbow Reach and we were on the track by 10.30am. A lovely day and a very pleasant hour walk through the lowland beech forest to Brod Bay. Some of us chose to stop here for lunch before the zig-zag climb up to the limestone cliffs and on out above the treeline. Great 360-degree views of the mountains and lakes once out on the tussock tops, with only 45 minutes to the hut. Some long stretches of board walk spanned the boggy areas, followed by a narrow windy path, and tucked around the corner is Luxmore Hut. We arrived mid-afternoon so time for a relaxing cuppa and catch up with the Hokonui members. A lovely view of the setting sun over Lake Te Anau before dinner, followed by some cards and more social interaction with other trampers.

Day 2 – Luxmore Hut to Iris Burn Hut(14.6km, 7hrs)

The sun rose over the lake at breakfast and we were then treated to a playful display by three Keas before heading off towards Mount Luxmore. Strong winds were forecast so a prompt start after daylight was in order. Another clear day and great views as we climbed up and along the ridges to the turn-off to Mt Luxmore. Dropping our packs at the sign enabled a brisk ten-minute skip up to the summit. We braced against the strong gusty winds but the views were worth the effort. Angry black clouds were building in the west so no hanging about as the rain was due later in the day.

Stopping at the ‘A’ framed Forest Burn shelter for a snack, then on along the ridge tops, which meandered and disappeared into the distance. It looked a long way to go but after an hour we arrived at the Hanging Valley shelter for lunch with the Keas. All downhill from here as this is the beginning of the decent to the Iris Burn Hut. Many stretches of wooden stairs (over 300 steps) along the last ridge before dropping into the beech forest. Again, a zig zag easy and relaxing track. The lower we got the damper and richer the mosses, lichens and fungi were. We nibbled on the sweet and refreshing snow berries that grew abundantly along the track for a short stretch.

The Iris Burn Hut came into view, nestled in a large tussock clearing of the valley, close to the Iris Burn river. We arrived at 3.30pm (7hrs), brought in the firewood and cranked up the fire to warm up for the evening. The Bunkrooms were dark and musty, (actually damp) and as they are separate from the dining/communal area the fire doesn’t help alleviate this.

A light drizzle began as we strolled the 20 minutes along the forest path to the waterfalls. Very spectacular and well worth the effort. Another sociable evening with an Auckland group and the Hokonui contingent. Torrential rain began early evening and continued for most of the night, and so heavy at times that it woke you up.

Day 3 - Iris Burn Hut to Rainbow Reach (22km - 7hrs)

Lucky for us, the rain had eased off to a drizzle by daybreak. By 8.30am the skies were clearing and the humidity rising so it wasn’t long before the layers were coming off. The Iris Burn river was running quite brownish as we sidled along it and the forest floor foliage glistening lushly. Over the low saddle through the forest, then out into the grassy valley that is slowly regenerating from the many slips over the centuries. It was back into the forest and mainly downhill to the Rocky Point shelter for a rest and snack stop. An easy walk from here as we meandered along the much wider Iris Burn. It wasn’t long before we could see the sandy beaches of Lake Manapouri and the Moturau Hut. Time for lunch. Outside if you could handle the sand flies, they were seriously hungry!

The last leg, an easy 6km bringing us out along the Waiau River. Crossing the wire bridge to Rainbow Reach, arriving at the carpark in lovely warm sunshine at 3.30pm. A very enjoyable three days, with great company and perfect out of season weather.

Judy, Daryle and Shirley.

April 30th, May 1st-2nd Takitimu Mountains (O)

Princhester Hut to Aparimu Hut – Takitimu Mountains – 30th April – 2nd May 2021

Friday evening two cars went up to the Takitimu’s, we left Neroli’s car at the end of Dunrobin Road, about 8km off the Mossburn/Wreys Bush Road. Then with four of us in Serena’s truck and packs on the back we went to Princhester Hut 6km off the Mossburn/Te Anau Highway. There was no one at the six bunk Princhester hut so we all got a bed and got the fire going. Princhester is a lovely cosy hut and the fire soon had us warm.

Saturday morning we were away at 9am going up the ridge from 420m to 758m over a saddle to the Bog Burn. The bush was beech forest, the track was well graded and sided along in and out on ridges. We were soon going down and found a sunny flat area next to a creek for lunch. After lunch we were going from chest high boggy tussock flats and then back to bush. The track was well marked as it is part of the Te Araroa track. At 4.30pm we found we’d been going a bit too slow and the Aparimu hut was still 6km away so we decided to make camp before it got dark. We spend the night next to a creek, had a fire going and slept under trees in our pack liners.

Sunday morning we awoke to Serena announcing the billies were on the boil. We’d had a frost so donned our wet weather gear for going through the long wet frosty tussock. We were soon in the sun and going along the Waterloo Burn with beautiful open scenery of mountains, bush and tussock flat land. And a few bogs.

At the Aparimu Forks junction one of our members was too ill to continue and we had to use the PLB to call in a helicopter. Thankful all services went to plan and he was delivered to Southland Hospital two hours later.

The three members left walked to Aparimu hut and had a well-deserved cuppa tea, then out to the car on Dunrobin Road. Reading track signs as we went as to where our next adventure in the Takitimu’s was going to be.

Members on tramp: Serena, Neroli, Terry and me Judy.

April

24th Routeburn Challenge

Two teams - Anne, Sally and Judy stayed at Homer Hut on Friday night before proceeding to various positions near the old Howden Hut as checkpoint charlies for the race. The other team of Graeme, John, Shirley, Barbara and Megan hiked into the McKenzie hut on Friday and were at various points as checkpoint charlies. A successful race was held and our members were wearing their STC vest proudly to advertise our Club.

17th-19th Otago Central Rail Trail

Otago Central Rail Trail: 7 of us in the Mini Bus, Graeme & Jan joined us on Sunday and Monday (so +2). We also Had Duncan and Mary McKay with Hamish and Ashley McKay doing their own thing on the trail but joining us for evening meal on Sat & Sun (so +4 more). Duncan has a Hi tech 3 wheel electric cycle with the ability to not only assist but to power on without pedalling, this was useful for him on a couple of occasions such as the Tiroiti Bridge which is about 750mm wide. His bike is 850mm wide. He was able to get access off the trail, onto the road, use the horse access and climb a reasonably steep, rough, grass covered track and back onto the trail. We had excellent weather, it was calm and sunny every day with some cloud. On the first day there was little or no wind, on day 2 & 3 it was a NW up to about 20K.

11th Forest Hill Cancelled

3rd Waikaia Walking Track

Waikaia and Piano Flat 3 April

Three of us headed up towards Northern Southland to walk the Waikaia river track but it was closed (yellow taped off as Dangerous at the swing bridge (start of track.)

But just across the road was the Waikaia loop track a 1 1/2 hour walk in the bush and there was a gradient!

After lunch in one of those pleasant little camping grounds in the area we drove off to Switzers just along from Waikaia to suss out the tunnel track 1 1/2 hrs . I backed out as too dark and gloomy for me while others armed with torches persevered on only to meet up with another barricade about 20 meters in.

But what made this area rather defining the tracks were surrounded by blackberry bushes all laden with ripe fruit for scoffing! And we did!

After a cuppa at Barbara and Simons caravan it was back to Invercargill.

It was a very pleasant trip- away from the maddening crowds often associated with Easter and great weather too.

Thanks to Barbara for the opportunity to meander around a rather nice area!

Samples of our foraging might be on the table at next club meeting!

Barbara Neroli Jackie

March

27-28th Homer Stoat Trapping Trip

Three volunteers arrived at the hut on Friday evening to find Anne & Judy with the kettle on. After tea and many games of scrabble we retired. Owing to a dubious forecast for the weekend, while Anne was hut warden, she had completed the possum line and some of the odd traps around the hut before the others arrived but Saturday dawned fine and everyone headed up the Gertrude valley. Annabel and Judy attended to the top traps and also wandered up to Black Lake while the rest of us completed the lower traps, before the rain sent us inside. This time we played Rummy O after tea. Sunday was wet and with the mist coming and going, but we headed up to the car park and once again split into two teams to replace eggs and meat in the traps, before returning to the hut for lunch. One rock wren paid us a visit while at Homer traps. Total catch from the traps 1 Possum, 1 Weasel and 1 Stoat.

Annabel, Judy, Shirley, Christine and Anne

24th Walk Talk & Cuppa - Invercargill Estuary -

1st - 14th Whangamata

Day one – 4 flew to Hamilton and were picked up by 3 escapees from Auckland who managed to get thru a check point to pick us in a Scotties van. We visited Hamilton Gardens where we wandered through Tudor, Indian, Maori, Botanic, American English, Japanese and other gardens before heading to Taumaranui and a meal at the RSA.

Day two – drove to Ongarue where we met the Camp Epic crew who sorted bikes for us and transported us to Pureora for the start of the Timber Trail bike ride. 3km on where we came to a D2 bulldozer, and had a broken chain on one bike. Lunch was enjoyed at the Log In swing bridge at the 22km, 971m high point. We saw a totara tree house and at the 40km mark bikers headed off trail to glamping site at Piropiro, where tents were sited on wooden floors and an open air kitchen provided the cooking site for our BBQ. It poured with rain overnight and the tent I was in had puddles on the floor in the morning.

Day three – It dawned overcast and misty. On our bikes to the Maramataha swingbridge (longest and highest) before getting to timber tramline and relics appeared at various places on the side of the track. Completed 45km to the track end where our van was waiting and headed back to Taumaranui for tea at RSA again.

Day four – Group One – 4 of us departed for a Forgotten World Tour “Tokirima 10 Tunnel Tour” At Okamukura we got into a petrol driven golf cart mounted on railway tracks. Taking turns at driving we passed through unique hand built tunnels for smoko at Matiere and a ploughmans lunch at Tokirima, before boarding our bus and visiting Laurens’ Lavender Farm and a steep walk down to the Whanganui River. Drove BJ’s ute to Ohakune where we joined the others.

Day four – Group Two – 5 left Taumaranui, visiting Raurima Spiral and drove to National Park and walked to Silica Rapids (2 hr return) and got rained on, but undeterred they then walked to Taranaki Falls in sunshine (2hr return) and earned tea and scones at Whakapapa Chateau and then drove to Ohakune to meet us.

Day five - Hired bikes again, and were transported to Horopito where several of us visited Smash Palace which is a 14 acre car yard of wrecks. There were several buildings of car parts, racks and racks and racks and racks of every car part imaginable, filled and overflowing – junk everywhere!!!!. Onto our bikes to ride the Ohakune Old Coach Road, crossing a viaduct, biking through a tunnel and biking on a butt jarring, shoulder wrenching ride on old cobblestones back to Ohakanue before driving to Hamilton, via Te Kuiti and Colin Meads statue to pick up Jan and on to Whangamata. BJ & Robyn had departed to do a park run.

Day six – Visited to Onemana (One Man A) and competed a short walk before lunch. BJ & Robyn then joined us before we headed to J & G’s friends to check out their kiwifruit farm on our way to Broken Hill Rec Area where we walked to Golden Hill Mine and walked along a mine tunnel and also saw the relics from Broken Hill. On our return we drove through Pauanui to see how the other half live. Very flash waterfront houses with private floating docks.

Day seven – Drove to Coromandel for a ride on a narrow gauge railway train through Barry Bricknell’s Driving Creek Railway and pottery. Lunch on Long Beach followed by a Kauri walk before the winding road trip back to Whangmata.

Day eight – Kevin Daly from the Whangmata Tramping Club took us down to Homunga Bay for a 11km walk along the cliff tops and beaches to lunch at Orokawa Bay with 3 taking the opportunity to have a swim. Our walk then took us to Waihi Beach. A drive to Bowen Town lookout where we could check out the estuary and surroundings was followed by a coffee stop before heading to Waihi township and spend an hour or so in I-site museum learning about the history of Waihi Mining, before having a quick look in the “hole” of Martha Mine before returning to Whangamata.

Day nine – 1^st stop was the butcher to stock up on food for the inner man and then off to Waihi to pick up some bikes at the historical railway station to start a section of the Hauraki Rail Trail. A short detour over a bridge and through a culvert to Waikino station, before heading back on track to check out the relics at Victoria Battery and checking out Owharoa Falls and then into the 1.2kmn Karangahake Tunnel (all downhill and with lights) to a lunch stop at Paeroa where J & G caught up with their daughter Helen. This was followed by a 22km bike ride through farmland and over numerous cattle stops to Te Aroha. A swim in the hot pools and an ice cream completed our day, or so we thought, but Graeme had other ideas and we then visited the Karangahake Windows Walk for an hours walk.

Day ten – In the bus at 7.30 again and off to meet Barbara at Katikati for a 12.6 km Lindemann Loop track see old kauri stumps and a dilapidated kauri dam. Many different varieties of fungi were spotted from bright blue to red and in between. A tour of Barbara and Wilson’s avocado orchard was followed by a quick trip into the Katikati township to see the murals painted on the buildings. Our hosts then turn on an amazing BBQ for us, followed by a dark, windy road drive back to Whangamata.

Day eleven - Cathedral Cove and a beach walk through an archway and back to Hot Water beach. Manning the shovels we finally managed to dig a hole big enough for most of us to get our butts in. Man was it HOT!!!. Next stop was at Cooks Beach and off to catch the ferry to Whitianga. A look round the shops, museum, beach and harbour and back to the ferry with all the school kids before heading to Tairua for J & G to catch up with son Steve while everyone else climbed to Puka lookout for a town and island view. J & G are certainly giving us a grand tour of their old backyard.

Day twelve – Rest Day – Leisurely breaky and a visit to Kauri Carver “Ooops” “CLOSED!!” All got dropped off to explore the town and walked back to the house. 10 members of the Whangamata Tramping Club joined us for a BBQ.

Day thirteen – BJ & Robyn left early to attend Taranaki Park Run. The rest of us went on Wentworth Waterfall walk in the morning and visited Opoutere Beach walk in the afternoon.

Day fourteen – Whangamata to Auckland and fly home. A very special thank you to Jan & Graeme for organising our trip and for hosting us at your house in Whangamata.

Graeme, Jan, BJ, Robyn, Adrian, Ann, Shirley, Judy, Gillian and Anne

February

24th Walk Talk & Cuppa - Edenview - ( Kamahi ) Cancelled, weather

20th Navigation Skills Course - Combined With Southland, Wakatipu, Hokonui and Fiordland Clubs.

Held at the Southland Community Nursery, Barry started the day with an introduction to navigation, followed by getting the maps out and learning how to use them and how to find out where you were. After lunch it became more practical and we were split into teams and heading out through the pest lines in the bush round Bushy Point. As the teams turned up on a clear site we were given instructions on direction and distance measuring between pre determined pegs Barry had set out. This was followed by a BBQ at Barry's place where the members of the various clubs had a chance to socialise. Thanks for the tremendous time and effort you put into organising and running this course Barry.

14th Waituna Lagoon -

A great way to enjoy Valentine's day outdoors! Seven stalwart Sunday strollers met at the Tuatara statue by the old museum at 1300, and in two cars took the 33km journey to the start of the Waituna Lagoon walkway on Waghorns road. Stinking hot - 24' - but lovely easy going, very well formed walkway for 4.5km. Lots of interpretation panels along the way describing the history of the Wetlands, the custodial Hansen family from the 1870s and how they drained the bog, tarns, salt marshes, fertilized and ploughed the land to make it what it is today. How the lake was opened up to the sea and the migration of eels etc. Numerous panels describing the flora and fauna etc, which informed us that in this area of manuka and scrub the water holds trout, eels and whitebait; is popular for duck shooting - not that we saw any of these! Some of us in the front were lucky enough to see a Pipet on the track(smaller version of a Skylark but flicks it's tail up and down) plus seed heads of orchids, also sundews (insect eating plants). Sunhats were definitely the order of day as the manuka was trimmed along the path and the sun was bearing down from above. Lots of little dark coloured tarns to walk past, insects like dragonflies but nothing in the way of birdlife. A 'dial a sign' in the right direction had a few figuring out the way to go to Stewart Island, Invercargill, Takitimu Mountains etc from 'way outcountry' where we were - just like the yellow AA Road Signs on the roads. Barely an hour and a half, which included time at the lookout across some of the wetlands and tarns and a shingle bank, to the ocean and we were back at the car park. But, it didn't finish there - the trip leader provided a most scrumptious afternoon tea, including a bigbanana cake!! The picnic table to partake of this concluded a most enjoyable day out.

January

26 - 30 Jan 2021 – ST JAMES WALKWAY - Lewis Pass. 66km, 5days/4 nights ( map in gallery )

Day 1: Boyle Lodge to Ada Pass Hut (1006m) - 12km/6hrs Three of us shuttled from Boyle Lodge, 30 minutes north to the start of the walk. A 20 min Nature walk and basic facilities grace the track start. We soon entered the beech forest and traversed down into Cannibal Gorge. Crossing the Lewis River over a wire bridge and continued northward. Crossing countless tributary streams and passing numerous scree slips through the forest. Arriving to an open flat at the Cannibal Gorge Hut, then on through these and the odd swampy flats before reaching the Ada Hut around 4.30pm. We were hot and tired but nothing the cold stream and a hot cuppa wouldn’t fix. Time to put the legs up, prepare tea and have the billy boiling when Graeme’s exhausted party arrived around 6pm. (They had come from Nelson Lakes over Three Tarn Pass).

Day 2: Ada Pass Hut - Christopher Hut - 12km/5 ½ hrs Perfect weather and great views of the Spenser Mountains to the north were the memorable features of this stretch. Passing the Ada Pass marker post (1008m) from a boardwalk in the beech forest was not what we expected! Descending through beech forest which opened out into surprisingly meadow like swamp and tussock laden Ada valley where numerous Canadian geese made home. More beech forest before reaching the Ada and Christopher River confluence where the Historic Christopher (Ada) Cullers Hut stands. 1km north of our lunch break and hut destination for the day. Sitting on the Christopher Hut balcony, we enjoyed the surrounding mountain views, open valley and roaming wild horses.

Day 3: Christopher Hut - Anne Hut (890m) 13km/4 ½ hrs. A storm hit through the night, battering the hut with at least 80km winds bringing with it the moody clouds and steady rain. It eased off after 1 ½ hrs of walking southwards down the Christopher valley to where it meets the Waiau River valley and nearby Glenhope homestead. Sidling the river and mountainside, the valley opens up with more boggy/swampy flats and stream crossings of the Waiau valley. We now headed west, crossing over and following the Henry River to reach Anne Hut grandly sitting all alone on this vast flat above the River.

Day 4: Anne Hut - Boyle Flat Hut 17km/6 ¾ hrs We awoke to a dusting of snow in the ranges giving full circle majestic views. With a fresh wind to our backs we meandered down the Anne River to the saddle in amongst the beech at 1136m . An inspection of the Rookby Hut (a rustic 2-man hut) before lunch in the sun by the nearby stream. An enjoyable but easy walk through more beech forest, clambered over several wind falls and arrived mid afternoon to Boyle Flat hut.

Day 5: Boyle Flat Hut - Boyle Village 15km/5hrs A perfect day walking, sidling along the Boyle River, in and out of the forest onto the flats where Glenhope Station bounds DOC land. An unexpected meeting with other trampers from Barbara’s home town of Katikati, who had overnighted at the Magdalen Hut. Quite a herd of beef cattle grazed the river flats as we sidles along the bush edge. Not sure about the riparian planting or fencing off the waterways here! Birdlife became more plentiful in these lower elevations (not forgetting the flocks of Canadian Geese along the way). The sight of Boyle Lodge was welcomed by the seven weary bodies at the conclusion of a very enjoyable five day St James walk.

Monday 1st Feb: Lewis Tops Track - Return 5hrs After a rest day on Sunday the minds were eager to go again, though I’m not so sure about the wary bodies who had done the double tramp! From Lewis Pass (opposite the start of the St James track) we climbed up for 1 ½ hours to above the treeline. Great views of Cannibal Gorge (where we had walked) and Maruia River. We continued up to ‘The Tops’, among the mountain flowers, then along the ridgeline past tarns, dollops of snow and a majestic Mt Technical in the background. Definitely, a day walk worth doing. Back to the car park and with boots discarded to cool off we managed a stroll round the Nature walk before heading back to camp.

Tuesday 2nd Feb: Nina Hut - Return 15km/ 7hrs Nina Hut walk begins 6km north of Boyle Lodge, crossing the Lewis River then follows the Nina River westwards. It’s undulating through the beech forest, crossing several streams, the odd boggy spots before arriving at Nina Hut, high above the river for lunch. Stopping to chat to the AUT and Lincoln Uni. research teams about their ‘Beech die back’ and ‘flora’ studies respectively.

Wed 3rd Feb: Lake Daniels - Return 17km/ 5hrs At Marble Hill - where the Alpine Fault line movement is measured, (30km north of Boyle Lodge), The track follows the Alfred River to the picturesque Lake Daniels. An easy walk to the lovely quiet trout lake for lunch was so rewarding. A new 20-bunk hut with the most up-to-date, odourless, worm/composting toilet systems is to be found here. The forest, mainly beech is reminiscent of Fiordland.

This was the perfect finish to Graeme’s epic 2021 Lewis Pass/ Nelson Lakes tramping trip. Huge thanks to Jan and Graeme for the delicious meals they provided for the whole party and to Graeme for organising the trip. To Barbara and Shirley for providing the connecting transport. Annabel, Graeme, Barbara B, Shirley, John K - STC; Barbara Mc, Chub - Whangamata Club.

Nelson Lakes Epic Journey (Check out the photos in gallery)

Day 1- Friday 22nd

The long day started with Annabel up at 3.45. Met up with Graeme and John in Invercargill for the 6.30 flight to Nelson via Wellington. We joined up with Mike, Chub and Kevin on the shuttle at the airport. John got his lunch out and was disappointed that he wasn’t allowed to eat in the shuttle- he was surrounded by warning signs. We were driven down to Lake Rotoroa, with a few zzzeds on the way. Then we enjoyed crossing the lake on the water taxi, eating lunch on board at last. We looked at the big mountains we were heading into and went oooh.

At D’Urville Hut we jumped off and started our trek up the D’Urville Valley. The first 10 km to our accommodation at Morgan Hut took nearly 5 hours, a quiet indicator of things to come. The relatively easy walking through beech forest was tempered by the many wasps, which gave us a good few stings. We were all tired.

Day 2- Saturday 23rd

A day of uphill climbing, following the D’Urville River. The map showed about 17km, but at the end of the day the GPS told us 21.8km. The going was slow, through beech forest and the river bed, often with steep slippery drop-offs into the river.

We had a comfortable lunch at George Lyon Hut, but the day got damper, turning into rain in the afternoon. By the time we reached our night quarters, after 8 ¾hrs tramping, the valley was pretty steep sided. 2 bunk Upper D’Urville Bivvy is perched on the valley side, with nowhere to pitch a tent. The fly was strung between trees for the packs and we all squished into the Biv for the night, with two lots of top and tailing and 2 on the floor.

Day 3- Sunday 24th Jan 21

Up at 6. Had to unpack ourselves in the right order to get out of our tiny quarters. The rain had stopped. Followed the valley up to a decision point river crossing, that turned out to be safe enough.

Then the serious climbing started up through the beech forest. So steep! Almost vertical. I had my first of 3 meltdowns that day. Up, up, up, up. Very steep. Following a gut. Beside a waterfall. Onto the tussock. Up, up, up. Hard going. Slippery snow-covered tussock. Finally got to the edge of the top basin. Could walk without hands for a bit. Into the serious snow on the scree. Final scramble to David Saddle 1788m. Sat and ate lunch about 11.30 and enjoyed the views. Patted ourselves on the back for what we had achieved so far.

Looking at the descent, general dismay at the depth of snow on the south facing slope. Decided not to go down the gut. Took over 3 hours to slog down between sharp rock outcrops in knee deep snow. Graeme trail blazed for Kevin and me. Chub, Mike and John picked another route. I had over trousers on and slid down on my bum in the snow, following the footprints and blood trails from rock cuts. Trying not to fall too often. Exhausting thigh deep break throughs. A couple of uncontrolled slides on thinner snow, struggling to dig my heels in. Really tough and tiring.

Had a much needed break once we reached clear tussock at 3.15, about 500m descent from the saddle. Then descended to the East Matakitaki River, crossed it and followed the valley for 8km, sometimes along deer trails and sometimes bush bashing. We were so happy to see East Matakitaki Hut after 12 hours of slog.

Day 4- Monday 25th

A promise by the brains trust that it was going to be a short day. However as usual reality wasn’t quite as planned. Had orange triangles to mark the track for a change, but when we got to the West Matakitaki junction 2 ½ hrs later we had to laugh that the DoC sign claimed 1 hr in either direction to the huts. A highlight along the way was hearing, then spotting a Whio.

To cross the West Matakitaki we had to cross a cool 3- wire bridge over a raging blue gorge. Well, 3 of us crossed it, but the other 3, assisted by Graeme, walked back down steam and waded across in crutch deep bouldery water. A tough option.

Another couple of hours walking brought us to Bob’s Hut, next to his grave, where we had a relaxing hour for lunch, in blissful ignorance of what was coming.

There was a short section with orange triangles and good going. Then there were windfalls. Aagh. Huge areas. Massive bush bashing detours. Trying to re-find the track with the GPS. Back on the track sometimes. More windfalls. Lots of bush bashing. Then a huge cascading waterfall of a creek stopped us short. Graeme did a recce up the hill, so we slogged up and carefully went across a wider section, one at a time, between the boulders in the torrent. We finally arrived at the promised river flats where we could camp. 18km and 9hours for our easy day. Bed 7.30, knackered, under fly and in tents.

Day 5 - Tuesday 26th

Knowing it was another big day, we left at 7.40. (Chub was up ay 6, waiting for us to get ready). Up the West Matakitaki. 20-30 river crossings. We’re getting good at them now.

Steadily ascending the river. A big area of Spear Grass/ Spaniards. Sidling above the river no more than 10m from it. Cris-crossing. Rock hopping. Sometimes in the river bed. Steeply climbing up the valley. The valley opening out with amazing views behind us.

Saw 3 stags run up the valley side: the magnificent 8 or 10 pointer stood on a saddle above us silhouetted against the sky.

The main creek forked into 3. Followed the left one up a spur that was finally easier underfoot, although steep. We thought (hoped!) the 3 Tarns were above this but the false top teased us. Finally made it across the rock field to the edge of the first beautiful tarn. Sat in the sun and ate a relaxing lunch, deciding where the pass was.

The final 100m height gain was a scramble up the scree with hands and feet, trying not to slip back, holding onto sharp rocks, because the strata was vertical. 3 Tarns Pass at last, 1874m.

What a view. Wow. Stunning weather so lots of photo taking. 3 tarns and a circle of grey peaks behind. 2 tarns and miles and miles in front. And joy. No snow to worry about. I enjoyed the variety of alpine plants, including vegetable sheep. Rested and soaked up the views until a huge wind gust got us moving. Descended the scree, rock hopping, to the tarn. On the lip we could see all the way down to our destination, Ada Pass Hut, looking tiny below.

Lots of rock and scree then into slippery tussock, sidling and descending into the creek, then through more of our favourite spikey Spaniards. Lots of runnels to catch and trip us. Slow careful going, following a barely discernible deer track. Tired legs left us stumbling into Spaniards. The beech forest treated us to a half decent track for a while before losing itself at a creek crossing, where the bush became flipping impenetrable (there was swearing at this point). So another final crash through the beech, out onto a swampy flat, where we came across a miracle- a bridge and boardwalk. 10 minutes to Ada Pass Hut on the St James Walkway. 11 ½ hours of huge effort. A great welcome from the rest of the party who had walked into the hut from Lewis Pass that day, bringing more food for us, and preparing a huge dinner. We were exhausted. 5 days. 2x 1800m passes. 45hrs toil. 74km.

D’Urville River to Ada Pass Hut 22.1.21 to 26.1.21

23 years ago Graeme and Mike climbed up to the tarns below the Three Tarn Pass from
Ada Pass Hut and this inspired Graeme to return, so in January the dream was fulfilled
Graeme Appleby, John Kennedy, Annabel Newman from the Southland Tramping Club
and Mike Morrison, Chub Quigg, Kevin Daley from the Whangamata Tramping Club
completed the difficult traverse from Lake Rotoroa, up the D’Urville Valley, over David
Saddle then over the Three Tarn Pass to the Lewis Pass. This was over five long days
experiencing rain, deep snow and very hot days. It was a very demanding tramp
After being dropped off by the water taxi at D’Urville Hut it was 4.5 hours to Morgan Hut
and along the way the wasps reminded us of their venom by stinging some of us
On day two we continued up the valley passing George Lion Hut after 3.5 hours and the
Moss Pass Junction after another hour. Then the rain arrived so it was a damp afternoon
before arriving at the Upper D’Urville Hut after another 3.5 hours. Somehow we all
managed to sleep in the two bed hut that night
Next morning the rain had cleared and we were thankfully able to cross the large side
creek. We continued upwards, climbing around a large waterfall and onto the tussock tops
of the top basin. Still climbing and due to recent snow we ploughed through 0.5m deep
snow to reach David Saddle at 1788 m, 4.5 hours from the Upper D’Urville Hut. Deep
snow covering the gully below made the three hour decent very difficult down to the East
Branch of the Matakitaki River.
Then it was another four hours down river to the East Matakitaki Hut, a long day of 12
hours
Continuing down beside the East Branch the sighting of a Whio (Blue duck) was very
special. Arriving at the junction of the west branch after two hours, some of the group went
over a three wire bridge while the rest of us forded the river. It was then on up to Bob’s Hut
for lunch, another two hours. The track then became very difficult with fallen beech trees
blocking our way but eventually we arrived at the river flats and decided to set up camp,
another great day of 9 hours
Next day we continued up the West Branch climbing up around another gorge before
going around a huge corner in the river. Now above the bush line and climbing up towards
the upper basins, a stag and two hinds raced across the tussock in front of us. It was a
magnificent sight and we finally reached the three tarns after five hours and a lunch stop.
Another 40 mins after climbing up a very steep rock gut brought us onto the Three Tarn
Pass at 1874 m. Dropping down to the tarns below the pass, then a long trip down the
scree and tussock to the beech forest and the St James Track, we arrived after 11.5 hours
exhausted
Good planning and decision making and also all the team being LandSAR members and
experienced trampers made this a very memorable and enjoyable tramping trip

3-7th Annual Bike Trip Around the Mountain

Day 1 – Sunday 3rd January 2021

A small number of us gathered at our place for a 23K bike ride out to Sandy Point, and onto Oreti Beach via the South Entrance. A 4 K ride to the main entrance and we were back on the main road heading home. Weather was somewhat miserable but we enjoyed the ride.

Day 2 – Monday 3rd January 2021

Cycle trip began very early on Monday 4 January and headed for Mossburn to meet rest of party joining us. Grey overcast day not summer weather at all. We headed to Walter Peak via Mavora to discover a fast flowing ford which was a no go so u turn into Lake Mavora. Plan B bike from Lake which was thru the bush lined road with lots of puddles bonus NO dust along the road to Centre Hill.

Cycled to Centre Hill where we had lunch amongst a mob of Ewes whom had emptied out in the small off road paddock after being weaned from their lambs. Day had warmed up and so had the smell and flys. !!!

On toward Mossburn via trail which was almost like cycling down Dee Street. Some of us encountered a Bull on the trail just as well he was friendly or it could have been a different outcome. Destination Mossburn Camping ground some 60 plus kms for trip. We enjoyed a few drinks and a yummy BBQ organised by BJ and Robyn.

Gillian Knarston

Day 3 – Tuesday 5th January 2021

Our biking group knowing we had a easier day was slow in getting going but that was ok as the venue was so relaxing. BJ did his safety briefing mentioning the power poles on the track which I feel is a little pointless as if we can’t see a power pole in front of you then you shouldn’t really be in charge of a pushbike. It was drizzling a little as we started out for Mossburn about 3 km away with the group spread out over a significant length. When we crossed the bridge over the Oreti River there was general agreement not to cycle to Lumsden for morning tea due to the rain.

We all waited below the bridge for everyone to catchup and of course when Jimmy arrived he inadvertently used his front brake on the gravel and arrived in our midst on his belly. A nasty rash on his leg plus other injuries but typical of Jimmy, got up, brushed the gravel off and kept going. I waited around till everyone had left then Jenne and I cruised to Five Rivers together arriving at a steamed up cafe where the others had already ordered food and drink. We were all very wet and am sure that the owners must have been a little annoyed by the wet floors etc but tempered by the money factor.

Jenne stopped at Five Rivers so I teamed up with Jimmy and we slowly made our way to Athol. All the rest had motored off at great speed so we didn’t see anyone until we arrived at Athol. The track at times was in stunning condition but in places the rain had made the track quite soft but in good weather it would have been hard and fast. The many gates were fine and made a lot easier with two of us working out an acceptable process to get through each one in fine style. Getting close to Athol the track was headed straight to our destination until just before the road when it went off on a tangent in a different direction. At that point I heard an exasperated Jimmy behind me say “Just what I need, someone’s shifted the bloody town”.

However all was well when we were finally on the home stretch to the finish line. Last again with most of the others topping up with ice creams and pies while waiting for us with the sun now drying us out to some degree. Nevertheless we were all keen for the hot showers at the Mossburn Campground prior to driving to our evening meal. That evening we dined sumptuously at Route 6 in Lumsden content that we had just about completed the trip Round the Mountain with the last leg the next day.

Day 4 – Wednesday 6th January 2021

Cycling in the fine weather again. This was a short day with us driving to Athol and cycling from there the 30Km to Kingston. It was quite pleasant cycling in the dry and some didn’t listen to instructions and when they cycled across the road to join the trail on the Southern side of the main road they instead headed towards Lumsden. It was like a mob of sheep, once one went others followed. However Speedy Gonzales (aka Anne McDermott) in her Electric bike herded them up and sent them in the right direction again. 12K up the road we stopped for the standard regulation latte’s and hot chocolates before the final18K stretch to Kingston for further latte’s etc. Some decided to cycle back to Garston while the rest of us drove. It being a nice warm day Garston had a new business, real fruit ice creams. So I think everyone indulged. Back at Mossburn for the clean-up, social hour 9or two) and then off to the Mossburn Railway Hotel for a really good feed.

Day 5 - Thursday 7th January 2021

This was the last day of our trip. We had been asked the night before about whether we wanted to bike on the last day we decided to head home via the Dome Café though the sky did not look that threatening. We knew we had made the right decision when the rain came pelting down as we were drinking our coffees. We left for Invercargill after dropping off the Kennedys and were deposited with all our gear and bikes at our respective homes and meeting points.

Our thanks to Barry, Anne and Robyn and anyone else who helped make it another wonderful four days biking, eating, and having fun. What a great bunch you all are. PS I do have one recommendation, if you have an electric bike you do need to turn it on.

Ann Irving