Sunrise at The Pinnacles - Inside: Day and weekend tramping programmes Dec - Feb - Auckland Tramping Club
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Volume 94, No 11 December 2019
Sunrise at The Pinnacles
Inside: • Day and weekend tramping programmes Dec – Feb
• 4 great trip reports – Coromandel, Ureweras, Pinnacles
• Kauri dieback – the facts
Auckland Tramping Club Inc, PO Box 2358, Shortland St, Auckland 1140
Website: www.aucktramping.org.nz email: secretary@aucktramping.org.nz
CLUB CONTACTS
President: In this issue
Tony Walton 630 2591
president@aucktramping.org.nz
Secretary:
03 President’s Column
David Holl 309 4906
secretary@aucktramping.org.nz 04 Social Scene
Treasurer:
Michael Champion 027 225 4451 05 News and Views
treasurer@aucktramping.org.nz
Trips Co-ordinator: 10 Your ATC Diary
Andrew Murdoch 021 489 206
trips@aucktramping.org.nz 11 Day Trips Programme
Sunday Trips:
Russell Allen 276 8770 19 Multiday Trips Programme
russell_allen84@hotmail.com 19 Kaimanawas – December
Weekend Trips: 20 Round the Mountain – January
Margaret Law 021 255 4124 20 Canoe the Whanganui – February
margaret.j.law@gmail.com
Wednesday Trips: 21 Extended Summer Trips
Linda Webber 817 5111
Transport & Equipment: 23 Trip Reports
Keith Ayton 630 7010 23 South Coromandel
transport@aucktramping.org.nz
24 Ureweras – Medium
Membership Admin
Liz Ware 524 7409 29 Ureweras – Easy (Hard?)
membership@aucktramping.org.nz 32 Pinnacles
Distribution:
Colin Wright 620 6713 34 Uncle Wacko’s Gear Corner
distribution@aucktramping.org.nz
Wanderlust Editor:
36 Trip Information
Dennis Brown 620 0144
wanderlust@aucktramping.org.nz
Website:
The deadline for our next Wanderlust
Tony Walton 630 2591 (February 2020) is Friday 17 January.
website@aucktramping.org.nz Please send contributions to
Social Convenor: wanderlust@aucktramping.org.nz
Chris Burnett 521 6200 with Wanderlust as the subject.
burnett@eo.net.nz
Huts Co-ordinator: The deadlines for contributions each
Robin Houston 817 7849 month can be viewed on the club
huts@aucktramping.org.nz website on the Wanderlusts page
Ngaro Te Kotare Hut: under the News menu.
John Dalley 021 216 5568
nkhut@aucktramping.org.nz The deadlines for
No calls after 9.00pm please
contributions each
Cover photo: The view for the early-risers – see pcan
month 32. Photo: Andrew Cave.
be viewed at:
2www.aucktramping.org.
President’s column
A few people braved the elements recently to join the Pukekohe
Tramping Club for the opening of their new local 5 Summits
Walkway – the full walk is 21km that takes in interesting
summits, craters and volcanic features in the Pukekohe area. A
real credit to the Pukekohe TC for getting this project across the
line on their 50th anniversary.
I am still in tramping off limits mode. Thanks to those of you that
have been able to take over planned trips that I was scheduled to
lead – your willingness to step in has been much appreciated by
me and all the other trip participants.
We run a range of day trips that are suitable for most active club
members. We do need a few more leaders, so please contact me to join
my list of possible leaders. Our trips are varied, but seldom is there
anything that is navigationally challenging – if you don’t know the route
for a suggested trip, detailed instructions can be provided and / or a pre-
trip reccy can be organised. Do let me know, thanks.
Our Kokako protection project at Tunawaea has thrown up a few
surprises this season, with our highest recorded bait uptake in November,
even higher than in October. We have a good team lined up for the
December baiting weekend (Nov 29 - December 1st ), but would
appreciate a few extra hands for keeping out rat population well supplied
– contact Liz Ware on 524 7409 ASAP if you can assist.
It is not too late to register and attend the ATC Christmas functions – the
evening function at Ryders on Thursday December 5th and the midday
seniors function in Blockhouse Bay on Saturday December 7th. For the
Ryders evening, Chris has scheduled an interesting Antarctica expedition
documentary – “Spectre – To The End of the Earth”, so I am sure this will
be one not to be missed.
This is the last edition for the year. A very big thankyou to all those
leaders, drivers, organisers, our Wanderlust editor, our busy committee,
and all those other people working behind the scenes to ensure this has
been another bumper year for the Auckland Tramping Club.
Tony Walton
3
Social scene
End of Year Film Night/Christmas Party
RYDERS CINEMA, THURSDAY 5TH OF DECEMBER
Enjoy a great roast dinner, socialising and stunning movie.
Movie: Spectre – To the End of the Earth, a captivating film
about a challenging expedition to Antarctica to climb
1263m high Spectre. Plus two short films.
Time: Venue open 6.30 pm for a 7.00 pm start
Address: Ryders Cinema, 177 Riversdale Rd, Avondale
Cost: $30 per person. Pay in advance into the Club bank
account. 02 0100 0024675 00.
Quote your name and “Xmas” as reference.
Booking: Once you’ve paid, e-mail Chris Burnett to let him know:
burnett@eo.net.nz.
See you there!
Veterans’ Christmas Lunch
SATURDAY 7 DECEMBER
Where: Iona Presbyterian Church Hall, Blockhouse Bay
Cost: $5 pp with Lucky Door Prize
Time: 11.30am – 12.30pm Happy Hour (fruit juice provided)
12.30 Lunch (tea, coffee served)
Provided: Juice, tea, coffee
Bring: A plate of Christmas fare to share ... sweet or savoury,
plates and cutlery
We look forward to meeting up with past and present members to
reminisce and chat about past trips, and catch up on current happenings.
Enquiries: Pauline Lawes 473 9719
Anne Sanders 623 3379
Please pass this invitation on to ex members who no longer receive the
Wanderlust...
The more the merrier!
4
Club Nights
A superb November Club night when Uta Machold wowed us with some
stunning photos and tales of her amazing Arctic kayaking trip.
There will be no Club nights in December, January or February.
The next one will be on Thurs March 19. Hazel and Tony Walton will tell
us all about their recent boat journey from Deep Cove through to Dusky
Sound and Preservation Inlet with visits on shore to many historical points
of interest, including the site of Richard Henry’s dwelling near Resolution
Island.
News and views
ATC Nepal Expedition – October 2020
THE LOST VALLEYS
We propose to run an expedition to the Naar – Phu region in Nepal. The
2012 expedition to Mustang Kingdom passed through this area, the
leader has been there twice!
This will be of shorter duration than
past expeditions, hopefully allowing
people who were unable to be away
for so long to participate.
Dates to be confirmed yet, but
possibly leaving NZ on 28 or 29
September, official start in
Kathmandu 1st October. The itinerary
is 21 days, depart Kathmandu for
home 20 October.
Discussion is ongoing with Jamie
Camp at Kyang, below Kangaru Peak,
McGuinness of Project Himalaya. We
ATC 2012 trip
have made 2 expeditions with this
company, to Dolpo and Kanchenjunga, and been very well served. Project
Himalaya provide Sherpa leaders, camp cooks, porters, and sometimes
mule teams. Tents and sleeping mats, eating utensils, and food are all
provided. We carry only our day gear.
5
This year we are extending the invitation to members of the Hawaii club
to join us. Numbers are limited to 12 total.
Trek cost to be confirmed but approx. US$3000.00, plus airfares - last
year we paid NZ$1150.00 return to Kathmandu. No money required at
present, expressions of interest to the leader:
Jim Morrow 834 4227, Mob 021 264 6085
Email: jwmorrow@slingshot.co.nz
DOC News
TE HENGA BRIDGED AGAIN
Here she is, the brand spanking new bridge at
Te Henga to replace the old one washed away
last December.
No more getting the tootsies wet!
Now, what about all that mud ….
Other News
HATS OFF TO PUKEKOHE TC
To mark their 50th anniversary, Pukekohe Tramping Club has helped
create the Five Summits Walk and Cycle Trail in the town. It’s a 21 km
loop from the railway station linking 5 volcanic summits and numerous
small parks and reserves.
The Club spent months clearing weeds, erecting signs, and sorting out the
route and paths for the new trail. And in a neat twist, the ribbon cutting
ceremony involved lopping a multi-metre length of supplejack! Nice.
AND THE WINNER IS …
The hoiho or yellow-eyed penguin.
It’s the first time a seabird has won Forest & Bird’s
popular Bird of the Year contest. Apparently the little
fella won with the help of a number of Russian votes. Go
figure.
The world’s rarest penguin, hoiho face multiple threats
from climate change and fishing practices to predators
and disturbance from humans. Enjoy your reign.
6
OWHA COPS A BULLET
Local celebrity, leopard seal Owha, has apparently been shot in the snout.
She’s been photographed with blood oozing from a puncture wound in
the muzzle and vets have concluded it was probably from a bullet.
They’re hoping it’ll heal without intervention
and are continuing to monitor her (when they
can find her).
Owha is well known to boaties in the Waitemata
Harbour and Northland. But she has a habit of
hauling herself out onto marina pontoons, which
doesn’t enamour her to everyone.
TAKAHE JAILBREAK
Nobody likes being incarcerated behind a double walled fence. Or having
to wear prisoner ankle bracelets.
So little wonder that when the opportunity arose, Walter and Manaaki,
two Tawharanui takahe, up and legged it. There followed 10 glorious days
of freedom before their inevitable recapture. They’ve now been banished
to takahe Alcatraz – Motutapu Island. That’ll learn ‘em!
Kauri Dieback – Your Questions Answered: Part 1
Our very own Christine Major has penned a superb document addressing
the common questions, and misconceptions, regarding kauri dieback. It’s
an excellent piece of work that we hope gets widely disseminated.
We reproduce the “basic” questions here in Part 1, with more to come in
future Wanderlusts. Thanks Christine!
What causes kauri dieback?
A microscopic water mould Phytophthora agathidicida which has two
spores.
1. Oospore: can survive for years in dried soil before germinating on
contact with water. Upon contact with water they become
zoospores.
2. Zoospores: Can move within water film of soil to find kauri roots.
They then germinate and infect kauri roots.
It kills kauri, regardless of the health status and age of the trees
7
Is climate change the cause of or contributing to kauri dieback?
If climate change was the cause of kauri dieback we would see dieback
everywhere, but we don’t. The disease is present in some forests and
absent in others. The disease would also be evenly spread through
forests, which it is not.
Climate change may be stressing our forests due to changes in rain
patterns but this is not the “cause” of the disease.
Unfavourable climate conditions can add to the effect of tree diseases,
killing trees that might have otherwise survived.
Do kauri die for other reasons too?
They don’t like their roots being wounded or compacted with
driveways and buildings placed on them.
They are affected by other diseases.
Like climate change, anything that compromises the health of a tree, or
damages the environment in which it is growing, will make it more
susceptible to disease.
How is it spread?
Mainly by spores in soil and water being moved by people (and
equipment) and large animals like pigs and dogs.
Water ways.
Without help the pathogen will only move within the soil up to 3
metres a year.
Why are the rahui, hygiene and track closures and upgrades so
important?
We human beings are the only way kauri dieback can be moved from
an infected forest or place to another forest or place that has not been
infected yet.
Within a forest or park people are the main way the disease can be
spread from an infected area to a healthy area.
If a track has infected kauri on it, then there is a risk the whole track is
contaminated with Phytophthora, spread by walkers, so it either must
be closed or upgraded.
8
What is the evidence that people are the main spreaders of dieback?
The Waitakere Ranges Monitoring Report showed 71% of the kauri
dieback infected trees and groups of trees are within 50 metres of a track.
The Waitakere Ranges is also the worst affected forest, no doubt owing to
its many human visitors.
Why is there kauri dieback away from tracks?
Pigs, dogs, hunters
People walking off track or on informal tracks and bait lines.
Streams and smaller waterways
Why do many street kauri not suffer from dieback when there are
people walking past them?
The road or footpath is usually a solid surface and people are walking
in clean street shoes, not muddy boots, and they are not in contact
with the tree roots.
Many urban and rural landowners with kauri are working hard to
ensure any visitors, including contractors, are not arriving on their
properties with dirty footwear, equipment and vehicles.
What about birds, rats and possums?
Small animals move only tiny amounts of soil and are considered to be a
very low risk.
Won’t kauri recover like the cabbage tree did?
There is no similarity between cabbage tree decline and kauri dieback
other than both are caused by unrelated plant pathogens.
The disease that killed thousands of cabbage trees during the
outbreaks of the 1980s-1990s was caused by a bacterium spread by
sap-sucking insects such as the passionvine hopper.
Kauri dieback is caused by a water mould called Phytophthora which
literally means “plant destroyer”.
Are there similar diseases in other countries?
Phytophthoras cause many plant diseases across the globe including the
devastating potato blight in Ireland (Phytophthora infestans), sudden oak
death in California (Phytophthora ramorum) and Jarrah dieback in
Western Australia (Phytophthora cinnamomi).
Next time: Is there hope for kauri? – treatments and research.
9
Your ATC diary
December
Nov 29 - Dec 1 Tunawaea kokako weekend
December 5 End of year film night
December 6-8 Weekend trip – Kaimanawas
December 7 Veterans’ Christmas lunch
December 11 Wednesday tramp – Takapuna to Long Bay
December 14 Saturday tramp – Mangakino Pack Track
Dec 27 – Jan 10 Christmas tramps programme – Arthur’s Pass
January
January 5 Sunday tramp – Tawharanui Peninsula
January 12 Sunday tramp – Karekare, Mercer Bay
January 19 Saturday tramp – Waitekauri
January 23-27 Multiday tramp – Ruapehu Round the Mountain
January 26 Sunday tramp – Dome Forest
February
February 1-2 2 day event – Mt Te Aroha, Te Whare Okioki
February 5-9 Multiday trip – Canoe the Whanganui River
February 12 Wednesday tramp – Karekare
February 16 Sunday tramp – Waiheke Island
February 16-22 Interim Trip – Doubtful Tops
February 22-25 Interim Trip – Banks Peninsula
Feb 22 – Mar 8 Interim Trip – Spenser Mountains
February 23 Sunday tramp – Mataia Farm Park
New members
A very warm welcome to new member Martin McGregor-
McDonald
Please chat to all our many recent new members on our
trips and encourage them to be part of our many exciting
Club activities.
10Day trips programme
Saturday 30 November – Kaitarakihi Peak 852m
This is a shortish but
Saturday tramp demanding tramp involving To join a
650m of uphill over newly standard day
cleared tracks and involves use of fixed chains and
some scrambling. A well worthwhile tramp and a trip
chance for those going on the Christmas trips to Just meet at the
prepare. departure point - you
don’t need to book.
Medium/Hard Starting at the highest point on Kopu BUT, if this is your first
Hikuai Rd follow the track up to the summit. Then trip with the Club, please
reverse back down. Time: 5 hours phone the leader
Leader: Terry Chubb 940 7453; 021 870 158 beforehand for advice.
2nd Leader: Russell Allen – so that people can back off Pay in cash on the day.
before the top if they wish.
Destination: Highest point on Kopu Hikuai Rd.
Park on layby opposite start of
tramp or 100m back down the road.
Transport: Club bus
Departure: 8:00 am Club garage, 31
Sandringham Rd, Kingsland
8:15 am Marewa Rd, Greenlane,
behind Countdown
Cost: $20 members, $25 non-members.
Pay in cash on the day.
Note: Early start today
Chains on Kaitarakihi Peak
Saturday/Sunday 7/8 December – No tramp
11Wednesday 11 December – Takapuna to Long Bay
A mostly coastal walk from the south end of Takapuna Beach to Long Bay
Reserve. Low tide: 1.30pm
Leader: Linda Webber 817 5111 Mob: 021 440711
Transport: Club bus
Driver: Brian Alexander 622 2138 Mob: 027 4330050
Destination: End of Hauraki Rd, Takapuna
Departure: 9.00am Club Garage, 31 Sandringham Rd, Kingsland
Only this pick up.
Cost: $10 members, $15 non-members. Pay in cash on the day.
Note: A shorter option will be to go with driver to Long Bay and
explore Long Bay Regional Park.
Saturday 14 December – Mangakino Pack Track,
Northern Kaimais
Medium / Long This involves tramping from Te
Saturday tramp Aroha to Dickey Flat via the Mangakino Pack
Track - a chance to see part of the Kaimai that
we seldom get to, even though it is not far away!
Follow the road uphill for around 2kms, then look for the track on the left
that heads up to the Tui Saddle. Continue straight down the other side
and the track soon reaches the Mangakino Pack Track. Turn left and
follow this past the Mangakino Shelter, and past the turnoffs to Daly’s
Clearing Hut and Dean Track to reach the Waitawheta River. Note that
the crossing is now likely to be before where it is marked on the topo
map. Take care to ensure the crossing is safe – link up if necessary.
Once on the other side, follow the track alongside the river to Dickey Flat,
where the bus will be waiting. Time 5-6 hours.
Leader: Andrew Murdoch 021 489 206
Medium / Short From Dickey Flat follow the track upstream alongside the
Waitawheta River. Take care wih the crossing! Link up if necessary.
Once on the other side, continue on the Mangakino Pack Track, past the
Dean Track junction. At the Daly’s Hut Track junction, take the track to
the hut. From there continue down the track to the Waitawheta River,
then follow the track out to the Franklin Road road end. Time 4 - 5 hours.
(A shorter option is to go down Dean Track to Franklin Rd).
Leader: TBA
12Transport: Club Bus
Driver: Athol Berry, Keith Ayton
Destination: Te Aroha - a short distance up Tui Rd before it comes to a
locked gate
Departure: 8.00am Club Garage, 31 Sandringham Rd, Kingsland
8.15am Marewa Rd, Greenlane, behind Countdown
Cost: $25 members, $30 non-members. Pay in cash on the day.
Note: Early start and late finish
Sunday 22 December – No tramp
Sunday 29 December – No tramp
Sunday 5 January – Tawharanui Peninsula
Medium West End track loop, North Coast, Takatu Point, back track to
South Coast track, back to Takatu Rd. Time for a swim before heading
back to Auckland. Low Tide: 9.22 am
Leader: David Holl 309 4906, 027 9483115
Transport: Club bus
Driver: TBA
Destination: T-junction on Takatu Rd and minor road to West End track
Departure: 8.30 am Club garage, 31 Sandringham Rd, Kingsland
8.45am Des Swann Drive, opposite AON, Takapuna
Cost: $15 members, non-members $20. Pay in cash on the day.
Sunday 12 January – Karekare and Mercer Bay Loop
Medium We will start with the recently re-opened Comans track, then
onto Mercer Bay Loop, at Log Race Rd view the upgraded story (now with
photos and captions) of the WW2 Radar Observation Post.
From there we continue on around the Mercer Bay Loop taking in the
spectacular scenery, then return on Comans and down to the northern
end of Karekare Beach. From there we walk south to Tunnel Point, have
lunch, then return the same way via Pohutakawa Glade, Karekare
Waterfall and to the carpark.
13Leader: Linda Webber 817 5111 Mob 021 440711
Transport: Private cars
Destination: Karekare Beach Carpark
Departure: 8.30am Club Garage, 31 Sandringham Rd, Kingsland
No second pickup point. Walk starts approx. 9.30 am
Cost: $10 to driver. Pay in cash on the day.
Sunday 19 January – Waitekauri Old Mining Relics
Easy We will explore old mine workings in the southern Coromandel
north of Waikino (on the road to Waihi). We will visit the top of the
Komata Reef and the old Durbar mine workings. Around 6 hours.
Leader: Martin Woodhead 021 397 734
Transport: Club Bus
Driver: TBA
Destination: Corner of Scheltema and Waitekauri Road
Departure: 8.00am Club garage, 31 Sandringham Rd, Kingsland,
8.15am Marewa Rd, Greenlane, behind Countdown
Cost: $20 members $30 non-members. Pay in cash on the day.
Note: Earlier start and later finish today
Sunday 26 January – Dome Forest Walkway
Medium Travel north to south down this forested section of the Te
Araroa Walkway in the hills behind Matakana.
After the drop off on Govan Wilson Road we walk past Conical Peak, and
then take the track down through the forest to Waiwhiu stream, which is
followed for a while before being crossed onto a forestry road. From
there it is a solid climb up to the point where we enter the forest again.
Then it is gentle ups and downs with occasional views out to the coast,
before entering the Waiwhiu kauri grove. Here 20 mature kauri of up to
4m girth hint at the forest's original magnificence.
Continuing on, we climb to the Dome summit, and then drop down
gradually to finish at the Dome Tearooms, with time for a coffee and a
bite to eat before we return to Auckland. Reasonable fitness required - 5
to 6 hours.
Leader: Russell Allen 021 0480 380
14Short Stay with the driver and drive via Matakana to the Dome carpark.
Walk up into the Dome Forest, over The Dome, and on through the
Waiwhiu kauri grove to the lookout point towards Kawau Island, before
returning the same way to the bus and the Tearooms.
Transport: Club bus
Driver: TBA
Destination: Govan Wilson Road at the start of the walkway
Departure: 8.30am Club Garage, 31 Sandringham Rd, Kingsland
8.45am Des Swann Drive, opposite AON, Takapuna
Cost: $15 members, $20 non-members. Pay in cash on the day.
Saturday 1 and Sunday 2 February – Mt Te Aroha
and Te Whare Okioki
You must book online and pay in advance for this trip – see below
This weekend will allow us to explore some Kaimai gems without a long
drive there and back in a single day. So there will be more time to enjoy
each stunning location.
SATURDAY
Medium Climb to the top of Mt Te Aroha, which at 952m offers amazing
views all around, then head south to the Waiorongomai Valley with its
interesting tunnels, inclines and other mining relics. The bus will be there
to meet the party
Leader: Hazel Walton - contact details below
Short Climb to the top (2 hours) or as far as you wish with the main group
and then return back to the bus. The bus drives to the Waiorongomai
carpark and waits for the Medium party. Time to explore the mining relics
along the Low level Pack Track
Leader: TBA
Destination: Te Aroha domain.
Departure: 8:00 am Club garage, 31 Sandringham Rd, Kingsland
No second pickup. Walk starts approx. 10.30 am.
SATURDAY EVENING
The bus drives to the Opal Springs Holiday Park for people to check in and
change before going in to Matamata for dinner – or self-cater at the
Holiday Park.
On return, the hot pools (free to guests) are open until 9pm.
15SUNDAY
Depart at 8.30am and drive to the end of Te Tuhi Road. From there the
track heads up initially through open farm land, with great views along
the edge of the Kaimais and across the Hauraki Plains. The ascent then
continues through bush to reach the North South junction – turn right
there and an hour later you will arrive at the new Kaimai hut – Te Whare
Okioki (approx. 2.5 hours). There will be time for a leisurely lunch break in
and around the hut, before returning to the bus the same way.
Leader: Hazel Walton 027 478 5223
Email: hazelwalton1@gmail.com
Destination: DOC track sign at the end of Te Tuhi Road.
Departure: 8:30 am Opal Springs Holiday Park
Transport: Club Bus
Driver: TBA
Bus Cost: Members $35, non-members $44
Accommodation: Opal Springs Holiday Park – see below
Total Cost, no accommodation: Members $35, non-members $44
Total Cost, with accommodation: Members $65, non-members $74 TBC
OPAL SPRINGS HOLIDAY PARK
Make your own accommodation arrangements OR book a bunk via ATC in
a shared standard cabin. Various cabins and campsites available.
Telephone 0800 800 198 Website http://www.opalhotsprings.co.nz/
If you have a cabin booked and have a spare bed to share with someone
else, please contact our ATC Accommodation
organiser - accom@aucktramping.org.nz Note:
If you would like to take advantage of a spare bed You need to bring food
in a cabin already booked, please contact our ATC for breakfast, 2 lunches
Accommodation organiser - and if self-catering,
accom@aucktramping.org.nz dinner.
For requesting a bunk in a cabin, please email as Also bring sleeping bag
above, and then once confirmed, pay the full bus and the usual things for
and accommodation fee to the ATC bank account a day trip and overnight
02 0100 0024675 00 immediately to secure your toiletries.
booking. In the payment details provide your name
and "Opal Springs".
HOW TO BOOK FOR THIS TRIP
1. Register on the trip page on our website.
2. Pay the Total Cost into the Club bank account: 02-0100-0024675-00.
Quote: “Weekend + [your name] + Kaimai”.
16Sunday 9 February – No Tramp
But see Whanganui River Canoe Trip in the Multiday Trips programme.
Wednesday 12 February – Karekare
We will start with the newly upgraded Comans track, then onto Mercer
Bay Loop taking in the spectacular West Coast scenery, then return on
Comans and down to the northern end of Karekare Beach, south down
coast to Tunnel Point, lunch, then return same way to carpark via
Pohutakawa Glade and Karekare Waterfall.
Leader: Linda Webber 817 5111 Mob: 021 440711
Transport: Car pooling
Destination: Karekare Beach Carpark
Departure: 9.15am Gymnasium carpark, Olympic Park, Portage Road,
New Lynn.
There will be no meeting point at Sandringham Rd.
Cost: $10 to drivers.
Sunday 16 February – Waiheke Island
This is an annual feature; Jim offers not only a good walk but tea etc at
the end.
Medium We take the Rocky Bay bus to the end of the run. Walking to
Whakanewha Beach, Nikau Track to Cascade waterfalls for lunch.
Afternoon: Trig Hill and along bush tracks through to Onetangi Beach, to
“Chateau Morrow” for afternoon tea. Time for swimming.
Leader: Jim Morrow Mob 021 264 6085
Transport: Fullers ferry, Auckland via Devonport
Destination: Terminal on Waiheke where Jim will meet the party.
Departure: 9.00am from Auckland ferry terminal
Return: Buses leave Onetangi 40 minutes prior to ferry sailing,
every half hour, so no need to hurry away – enjoy!
Note that only the 4.00 pm and 6.00 pm ferries go via
Devonport
Cost: Fares: Gold Cards free. Ferry return: $40.00
Bus: $3.50 cash each way; $1.95 each way with Hop Card.
17Sunday 23 February – Mataia Farm Park, Kaipara
District
This is a new walk for us, on the edge of the Kaipara Harbour.
The Mataia 12km circular walk starts and finishes at Mataia Homestead
and takes up to 5 hours. We will take time to enjoy the many features of
interest along the way.
The unique circular journey crosses rolling farmland, traverses ancient
and regenerating native forests, passes through unique saltmarsh
wetlands, and touches the coast of the Kaipara Harbour – the largest
harbour in the southern hemisphere.
An intensive conservation project begun in 2005 encompasses the entire
farm and evidence of this will be seen as you journey. Kilometres of
fencing now protect streams, waterways, wetlands and gullies, and teams
of volunteers have planted over 100,000 native trees in the last 12 years.
Pest and predator traps can be seen at regular intervals along the trail
and protect the growing number of endangered flora and fauna that call
Mataia home, including North Island brown kiwi which were re-
introduced to Mataia in 2013.
Leader: Vicky King Mob 021 0736 056
Transport: Club Bus
Driver: TBA
Destination: Mataia Homestead carpark. 2791 Kaipara Coast Highway,
Glorit
Departure: 8.30am Club garage, 31 Sandringham Rd, Kingsland
8.45am Des Swann Drive, opposite AON, Takapuna
Cost: Members $20, non-members $25. This includes the $8 walk
fee. Pay in cash on the day.
18Multiday trips programme
To join a multiday trip
1. Discuss trip with leader - numbers are limited.
2. Register online via the trip description page. Any problems, contact
the Bookings Officer: Dennis Brown 6200144,
bookings@aucktramping.org.nz
3. Pay trip fee into Club account: 02-0100-0024675-00. Quote your
name, trip number and “weekend”.
You’re only confirmed on the trip when you’re completed all 3 steps!
Kaimanawa Forest Park – 6-8 December
Trip full, but there’s a waiting list
A good opportunity for those wishing to aid their fitness for longer
summer trips to come, or just a fine chance to enjoy the peace and
majesty of some marvellous native forest in the run up to Christmas.
Medium 1 Saturday from Te Iringa Campsite, Clements Mill Road along
the pleasant and well-graded Te Iringa & lower Kaipo tracks to Oamaru
Hut (12 bunks, 3 hut tickets/annual hut pass). 6-8 hours.
Sunday from Oamaru Hut out to Poronui Station. 4 hours.
Leader: Martin Woodhead 021 397 734
Medium 2 Saturday from Poronui Station, lunch at Oamaru Hut, continue
up the lower Kaipo track to camp at either of two good campsites – just
before the swing bridge (grid ref Topo50 BH37 796749), or ½hr on by Tiki
Tiki Stream at the base of the climb up to Te Iringa (788759). 6-8 hours.
Sunday out along Te Iringa track to Te Iringa Campsite, Clements Mill
Road. 3-4 hours.
Leader: Tony Walton 027 478 5223, tonywalking@gmail.com
Fit Saturday from Te Iringa Campsite, Te Iringa Track to the Kaipo swing
bridge then hang a right up the Upper Kaipo Valley Route with its
‘numerous river crossings and log jams’, over Kaipo Saddle thence to
Cascade Hut (6 bunks, 3 hut tickets/annual hut pass). 9-11 hours.
Sunday to Clements Mill Road end via Hinemaiaia Track. 4-5 hours.
Leader: Robin Houston 0274 310 010 robhouston@orcon.net.nz
19Transport: Club Bus
Drivers: Chris Burnett, Rudy Melster
Transport Cost: $65.00 members, $82 non-members
Destination: Te Iringa Campsite, Clements Mill Road
Departure: Friday 7.00pm, Club Garage, 31 Sandringham Road
NO DINNER BREAK EN ROUTE
Note: As the area is very popular with hunters, even those parties
aiming for huts may wish to carry tentage.
Maps: Topo50 BH36 Motutere, BH37 Rangitaiki
Extended Anniversary Weekend Tramp – Ruapehu
Round The Mountain
THURSDAY 23 TO MONDAY 27 JANUARY 2020 (5 DAYS)
This trip is full, BUT a reverse trip may also run - contact Robin to
register your interest
Thursday 23rd evening drive down, stay at F&B Lodge at Whakapapa.
Friday 24th from Whakapapa Village to Mangaturuturu Hut.
Saturday 25th to Mangaehuehu Hut (possibly partly-cross country via
Blyth Hut if feeling adventurous).
Sunday 26th to Rangipo Hut.
Monday 27th back to Whakapapa village, drive home.
Leader: Robin Houston 0274 310 010 robhouston@orcon.net.nz
Transport: Private cars
Canoe the Whanganui River – Extended Waitangi
Weekend, Wednesday 5 to Sunday 9 February
Trip full!
A four day trip using Canadian canoes, paddling down the beautiful
Whanganui River as it winds its way between high, bush-covered banks
through a very remote part of the Whanganui National Park.
The trip starts at Ohinepane and finishes at Pipiriki – see our website page
for full details. Relative to normal tramping standards, this trip is easy.
20Wednesday Camp at Taumarunui Canoe Hire in bus and tents. Complete
check in and fill barrels.
Thursday Starts with barista-made coffee and safety briefings, then travel
to Ohinepane by Taumarunui Canoe Hire bus. Canoe to Maharanui and
camp. Along the way see the Ohura Falls. 4.5 hours.
Friday Canoe to John Coull, through the green clad Whanganui gorge. 8
hours.
Saturday Canoe to Ramanui. Stop to see the Bridge to Nowhere. Ramanui
has campsites, hot showers and a bar. 4.5 hours.
Sunday Canoe to Pipiriki, through the exciting 50/50 rapids, 4 hours. We
will be met with muffins and taken back to Taumarunui (2 hours). Depart
in club bus for early dinner in Taumarunui, then back to Auckland.
Contact: Bill Mancer 027 230 4850 or bill@rise.co.nz
Extended summer trips
Christmas Trips 2019-2020 – Arthur’s Pass Area
All trips full!
TRIP 1: THREE PASSES CIRCUIT 27 DECEMBER - 2 JANUARY
Medium Fit Three Passes, Newton Saddle, Taipo, Kelly, finishing at
Arthur’s Pass.
Leader: Robin Houston, e-mail: robhouston@orcon.net.nz
TRIP 2: UPPER WAIMAKARIRI EXPLORATION 27 DECEMBER - 2 JANUARY
Medium Carrington Hut base with day/overnight tramps away to Waimak
Falls, Harman Pass, Barker Hut, finishing at Arthur’s Pass.
Leader: Tony Walton, e-mail: tonywalking@gmail.com
TRIP 3: MINCHIN, HAWDON, MINGHA 2-10 JANUARY
Medium Fit Taramakau – Townsend – Minchin – Hawdon – Lake Mavis –
Goat Pass, finishing at Arthur’s Pass.
Leader: Robin Houston, e-mail: robhouston@orcon.net.nz
21TRIP 4: HAWDON / EDWARDS, OTEHAKE TO AICKENS 2-10 JANUARY
Medium Hawdon OR Edwards to Tarn Col OR Taruahuna Pass, possibly
Lake Mavis, Otehake Route, including hot spring, Lake Kauratapaka to
Aickens, finishing at Arthur’s Pass.
Leader: Tony Walton, e-mail: tonywalking@gmail.com
Interim Trips February 2020 – Lewis Pass Area
TRIP 1: DOUBTFUL TOPS 16-22 FEBRUARY
Medium Shuttle from Christchurch to the Lewis Pass area, then walk
from the Nina Valley through to the Doubtful Valley via Devilskin Saddle.
We then climb onto the Doubtful tops, staying at Lake Man and then
tarns further eastwards, before descending to the valley floor for a
morning pickup and shuttle back to Christchurch.
Leader: Tony Walton Email: tonywalking@gmail.com
TRIP 2: SPENSER MOUNTAINS 22 FEBRUARY - 8 MARCH
Medium Fit A loose figure 8 loop starting and finishing at
Trip full! Lewis Pass criss-crossing the Spenser Mountains in
southern Nelson Lakes National Park and the St James
Conservation Area including the following passes: Three Tarns, Enid,
Thompson, D’Urville.
Time, conditions, and inclination allowing, we may also scramble up
Gloriana and/or Faerie Queen.
Some long days and reasonably arduous alpine terrain anticipated so
good fitness, ice axe and crampons/spikes required. Robust (ie mountain-
worthy) tents to be carried.
Leader: Andrew Murdoch 021489206 livingscapes@hotmail.com
TRIP 3: BANKS PENSINSULA 22-25 FEBRUARY
Medium Bus from Christchurch to Hilltop, tramp through
Trip full! reserves and over Mt Sinclair and Mt Fitzgerald to Rob
Donald Hut. Continue over Mt Herbert and Mt Bradley to
Packhorse Hut. Climb to Gebbies Pass, shuttle to Christchurch.
Leader: Tony Walton Email: tonywalking@gmail.com
22Trip reports
South Coromandel
September 28-29
By Russell Allen
Early in 2018 the club discussed how to alleviate the
problems arising from losing so many day tramps in the
Waitakeres and Hunuas, and considered the possibility of
running 2-day tramps consecutively on the Saturday and
the Sunday so as to make it reasonable to travel further.
This was not the same as multiday tramps where you need
to carry all your own gear, so campsites were needed over
the Saturday night, accessible to the bus.
The first of these occurred at the end of September 2018
and was to the Tangihua Forest and Mt Tutamoe.
The latest, almost exactly a year later was to the South
Coromandel crossing from the Maratoto Rd to the Wentworth Valley on
the Saturday, and exploring up the Wharekirauponga Valley on the
Sunday. It was the sixth such 2-day event.
At the first, to the Dargarville area, we had 14
participants and considered it highly successful. We
had good weather and the walks were stunning, and
largely new to club members.
But they have grown in success, for on this trip to
South Coromandel there were 29 participants, the
weather was great and both walks most enjoyable.
The Saturday walk, up the Wires track and across into the Wentworth
Valley, about 5 hours, had variety and
ended passing the impressive
Wentworth falls.
On the Sunday the walk was shorter but
great value in splendid sunshine with
the opportunity to explore either mine
tunnels or down under the footbridge
across the stream.
A very enjoyable trip.
23Te Urewera – October 25-28
Medium Group
by Lynda Going
Labour weekend, yet traffic was alright heading south on Friday night, so
we had a good trip, usual stop at the pristine Matamata toilets. We didn’t
even have to queue for a change, the security lady was there and she left
the main toilets open for us, so for once it was
a short stop. Then on to the Lodge at Lake
Aniwhenua, once again flush toilets – men’s
AND women’s – wow luxury trip this. Luxury for
the tenters who vacated the bus too, plenty of
perfect lawn. Good night’s sleep, except one
person got cold and all she could find to put
over her sleeping bag was her noisy raincoat – a
sin which she owned up to in the morning
when a complaint was made.
The morning dawned cold, but with multiple
toilets, decks, plenty of outdoor tables and
chairs to have brekkie, mist rising from the lake,
we were very content. We were off by 7.30 tho’
to do the drop-offs. Headed north to drop the
Fit group off first, then we, the Mediums, next.
We headed along a forestry road, then as most tramps seem to do in the
first 5 minutes, headed up. Had a few views over the plains north towards
Rotorua & Whakatane if you turned around. Got to the top and started
down, only for the road to peter out and realise we’d missed the track.
Backtracked a few hundred metres, eyes peeled, and found it. Was really
nice to go straight from forestry road into lovely native forest, soft
underfoot and the track easy to follow, quite steep downhill. Came out at
the Mangamako stream and followed along till we found a sunny spot for
morning tea. More delightful travel alternating between the river and the
soft fern-strewn tracks when we
had to avoid the stream.
Carried on enjoying this until we
came to the sign for Mangamako
Hut – a really steep grunt up to
this hut. Nice to be elevated tho’,
and look out over the bush. The
hut had an absent resident, lots of
belongings and a tidily made bed
by the fire. Was a sunny place to
24have lunch, can’t say relaxing because of the absent resident’s dog
barking the whole time, and the pieces of bone, fur and blood all around.
Off down the steep track to join the stream, we had such perfect
conditions, sunny, warm and the river a perfect level. Enough to make the
crossings interesting, but nothing to worry us, although one of us did fall
in at one stage, thanks to a slippery rock, very glad he was that for once
he had his sleeping bag well protected. But that doesn’t mean we didn’t
need to be tough – was wondering what the heck Geoff was sternly
pushing me away for – a super precious
native plant?? I’d never encountered
ongaonga before, and even tho’ I was
trying to avoid it, I just kept ploughing
straight into it, what a dufus. Trouble
is, it becomes tiresome to keep
scanning your body perimeter, you
want to look at the stunning
surroundings – the second you do that
tho’ – you get stung. None of us were
unscathed by the end of the weekend.
There were regular orange triangles to give us an indication of where to
cross and where there was a river alternative for oh, about 20 seconds.
But what was very helpful were the jumbo sized orange triangles hanging
over the rivers, alerting that this is the place to turn off to the huts. So we
left the Mangahoanga Stream to head for Casino Hut. We were keen to
get there before our ATC fit group, to nab ourselves a reasonable tent
site. Tony HAD warned us that we’d need to be creative. But it soon
became obvious that they would be there before us, this track went up
and up and on and on. There were tree falls on the steep ups, then we
gained a ridge and thought here we are, but more down, then up again,
finally we burst out suddenly into the clearing at Casino Hut, once again
nicely elevated and basking in the
late afternoon sun. A group of 3
hunters were set up in the hut.
The fit guys ’n girls tents were
beautifully situated, they were
comfy and ready to relax. We
were getting desperate to do the
same, so we left our leader to
confer with them, and carried on
down to the river to find a spot
for our tents. By now we’re not
fussy, ready to dump our tents on
25any rock (but not any nettle).
We were very impatient to get our
tents up so we found a spot which was
just satisfactory, one quietly spoken
member suggested we dump our
packs and go just a little bit further,
but she was purposely ignored – that
same member went for a wash and
came back exclaiming about the
stunning flat ‘commercial’
campground just metres away through
the trees. She was still basically ignored – don’t care, too tired. Next
morning when our freshly rested bodies went wandering and found it –
we’d made a real booboo. We’d missed the only perfect camping place
we saw the whole weekend, a dead flat expanse, basking in morning sun.
That’ll teach us for feeling sorry for ourselves!
Sunday morning was another
stunning day, beautiful by the river
with the sun shining through the
mist, not a breath of wind. We knew
we were in for a great day, and a
nice short walk so we were all
smiles. We set off, after a wistful
admire of the perfect campground
we’d missed out on. We left camp at
8.30, and set off down Te Inepa
Stream. Even the nettles couldn’t
take away from this beautiful place, each corner presented another
peaceful sight, sometimes the trees over us like a tunnel, other times
wandering up the middle of the river in the sun, sometimes wading
through deep pools. Whio were a special sight, sometimes they bobbed
along next to us, so effortless for them. The only bit of excitement was
when Geoff lost his pole during a crossing, thought it may be gone, but a
bit further down it was seen glinting under the rapids, wedged between
rocks.
We had morning tea in yet another superb spot where the Te Inepa and
Waihua streams meet, sun, warm stones, glinting pools – perfect. I know
I’m raving, but when you get weather like that…. Then we wandered off
and by 1pm we were at another supersized triangle indicating Waihua
hut. A gentle slope through juvenile rimus up to the hut, not far above the
river. This is a lovely little hut, surrounded by bushy xmas tree shaped
young rimus. Bruce got stuck in right away and cleaned the windows and
26surfaces in the hut, so we were now very happy at our new home. We
lazed around, basked in the sun having lunch and cuppas, went up above
the hut to have a higher view of the forest from the helicopter pad, nice
place to do our stretches and relax. 5
of us went down to the river and had
full-on dive-in swims – obviously
delighted with our bravery! The river
was so inviting, and the mossy rocks
gave us a lovely sunny spot to warm
up after each dip. No-one else arrived
at Waihua Hut, so two of us chose to
sleep in the hut (there were 4 bunks,
6 nice new mattresses), but the
weather was so perfect the other 6 of
us slept out in our tents. Two of us
were very brave and slept on sloping
ledges, it was worth it to listen to the moreporks and cuckoos (at least
that’s what we decided the sound was when we heard it for much of
Monday’s walk). Although Christine filled us in on their nesting habits, so
cuckoos not so popular after that.
Monday morning we reluctantly left our spot, had one river crossing to
make, then straight away a right turn up a new stream, and ran straight
into a tree fall, followed by a beautiful shallow gorge, then some deep
pools. Most went up the steep bypass, which turned out to be easier than
navigating the deep pools - the only time our leader’s lead was a bit
dodgy.
Right after this, we left the stream and headed up the Waihua track, and
it went up and up to 650m. Although we huffed a bit and had the usual
tree fall to negotiate regularly, the track was otherwise lovely, felt so soft
underfoot after all the river walking, and the sight of the huge old rimus
covered in their lacy creepers never got old.
27We relaxed for morning tea at 10.30 up
on the ridge, just before our last uphill.
After that it was downhill again, as we
started heading towards the pine
forest and our exit point. The last little
bit down to the forestry road was
super steep, then out we popped onto
the metal forestry road. Bill was always
very patient with the badgering about
‘are you sure this is the way’, ‘when did
you last check your device Bill’. At all
times he calmly assured us that he was in no doubt we were on the right
track, and heading in the right direction.
Once onto the boring forestry road, we stormed ahead, and so got to our
pickup spot at the road by 1pm. By then it was so hot, but luckily there
was one tree for shade, so we took up spots at different levels on the
bank under it. First half hour ok, ate lunch, 2nd and 3rd half hours ok, had a
snooze. During this time there was not a sound except for the odd car
going by, must’ve been an odd sight seeing 8 lifeless bodies scattered
across the bank. Up to 4th half hour now, awake and chatting again but
starting to wonder?? Everyone wishing we had spare water to make a
brew. 5th half hour starting to wander about, 6th half hour hosting drop-in
visits from locals. A motorbike rider who’d been to Whakatane and back,
did a u-turn to come back and make sure we were ok because we were
there when he first rode by. Some locals in a ute who stopped to check –
each visitor told us there were ‘more of us’ down the road, so we knew
our wait couldn’t be blamed on the easy/medium team. When Bill started
to say that was our other party, he exclaimed “Party! Not much of a party
stuck here eh, you wanna light a fire and keep warm”!! Yes it had started
to chill off. Another ute we’d watched paddock-bashing (apparently
looking for worms) came over to check us out – he was a man of few
28words. When we said we were from Auckland he just said “good on ya”.
Finally – 5ish I spied the bus and shrieked. Some were afraid to believe
me, they were convinced it was a mirage. It wasn’t, and we couldn’t get in
quick enough. Perfect timing, it started to rain lightly.
Wonderful route, wonderful weather, wonderful team – thanks to
everyone, the actual hikers, the drivers, and the behind-the-scenes
organisers.
We were: Joanne Cochrane, Christine Major, Ming Lo, Lynda Going, Bill
Mancer (leader), Bruce Butler, Geoff/Grace (the team within the team).
Photos: Christine Major, Ming Lo, Bill Mancer
Easy/Hard Group
by Kay Willcocks
Photos: Vicky King, Wendy Graham
“HOME TO TUHOE AND THE LARGEST NATIONAL PARK IN THE NORTH
ISLAND - RUGGED, REMOTE COUNTRY!”
Our adventure began with a prompt 7 pm departure from the club garage
and an 11 pm (ish) arrival at Kohutopu Lodge, overlooking Lake
Aniwhenua on the Galatea Road.
It was a real treat to have the use of the bathrooms,
and the view of the lake for breakfast.
Shortly after, we dropped the Fit group off, well up
the Galatea Road, the medium halfway up, and our
Easy/Hard Group back down the road, where we
chatted to a super friendly farmer and his dogs
before following the track up beside the Ohutu
Stream to begin our planned 6½ -7 hour walk to
Duckville Hut.
It was a lovely day and we had smoko beside the
stream before a steep climb on loose, shingly stuff to
avoid an impassable waterfall.
Once that climb was over it was time for a relaxing lunch beside the
stream, before continuing on to a hunter's fly camp opposite a side
stream where we picked up the track over the ridge.
29Ian told us to take extra water, just in case, and then we started a long,
slow ascent in the heat.
The track was marked but it had hardly been
used in 20 years .
There were wonderful trees, but also lots of
pushing through the vegetation, track
finding, and a constant, steady climb.
By 4.30 it was obvious that we were tiring
and it was still 2½ hours to Duckville Hut.
Ian pointed out a low saddle where we could
camp and said that we would need to pool
water.
Unfortunately, despite his earlier warning most of us had little left as,
tiredly, we found spaces for the tents.
I was dehydrated so quickly retired to mine to
vomit!
Keith, however, made better use of his time by
finding a possible source of water and 3 of the
group climbed the steep 100 metres down and
back to save the day.
It was a much more cheerful crew when I
awoke in the morning, feeling fine, and
assuring Ian that we didn't need to turn back.
Re-energised, we set off for Duckville Hut via a steep
and tricky climb into the Te Weramata Stream.
Once we were finally down, the track improved, and
2½ hours after leaving camp we were at Duckville, a
cute little 4 bunker set in a picturesque clearing.
We continued on down the stream and nearing mid-
day met up with the Fit group, and exchanged track
information etc with them.
We then had a glorious afternoon following first the
Te Weremata Stream, and then the Mangamoko,
before staying the night in Mangamoko Hut, a steep
5 minute climb up the hill.
It was an 8-9 hour day and we had done well to have made up the lost
time.
30Both Duckville and Mangamoko huts seem to be used almost exclusively
by hunters, with banana boxes of provisions that they had helicoptered in
and lots of references in the hut books to walking out with loads of meat
and fur.
The next morning we waded down the Mangamoko and had a wonderful
time loitering, watching 2 pairs of blue duck which were delightfully
oblivious to us.
Once we reached the confluence with the
Karihoto Stream we had a break, then less
than an hour's climb to the bush edge
before making our way through a confusing
maze of forestry roads to a high point with a
telecommunications tower for lunch.
We reached the Galatea Road in an easy 4
hours and then had a long wait for the Fit
group, which was lucky, as we avoided the
holiday weekend traffic coming home.
It was a trip that progressed from pretty
bad, what with being sick and initially
having a dry camp, to pretty marvellous.
Walking down the streams, seeing the whio,
the glorious weather, and our terrific team were all trip highlights.
It was interesting to see how Ian's skills with his
map and compass, taking GPS readings, and
counting every side stream, were
complemented by the topo GPS downloads on
the other trampers’ phones.
We were very grateful for his leadership, and
the navigation and searching for markers on
the ridge, undertaken by both Ian and Keith.
Also thanks to Margaret for putting the trip
together.
She was a bit afraid that there wouldn't be any
challenges in it for us!!
The Easy/Hard (A Team) were: Ian Roberts
(leader), Keith Ayton, Phillipa Geary, Vicky King,
Wendy Graham, Kay Willcocks.
31Pinnacles weekend
November 2-3
by Teresa Janssen
Our Pinnacles weekender was a real treat. Normally we do this trip as a
long day trip and this time we got the chance to sleep over in the
Pinnacles Hut which gave us the opportunity to bag
both a sunset and a sunrise from high up in the
Coromandel Ranges.
Despite leaving Auckland at 8 am we arrived to a
nearly full carpark. Voted as one of the ‘101 Must
Do's for Kiwis’ it is a popular track and the 5 star, 80
bed hut needs booking well in advance.
After crossing the swing bridge we took the Webb
Creek track, climbing steps that were cut into rock to
make the journey easier for the packhorses during the
kauri logging era. Lunch at the Hydro Camp clearing
was a welcome break after the big uphill section.
Next it was on to the track to the hut, still steep but
coming onto more open country with views of the
rugged volcanic landforms of Tauranikau and the
Pinnacles.
We arrived at 1.30 ready to bag a
bunk and settle in, but the bunk
rooms weren’t open until 2.30 so we
relaxed on the outdoor decks until
we were directed into one of the two
bunk rooms, each split into two
halves.
Discussions then took place - The
Pinnacles, afternoon, sunset, sunrise
or not at all? Explore the partly
restored remains of the Dancing
Camp Dam, or investigate the plants
and birdlife on the plateau?
The 40 minute (1km) climb to the
top starts with a nice flat walk which
gives great views to The Pinnacles
and surrounding hills, and down to
the coast of Tairua.
32From here it is quite clear that the trip to the top is going to be mostly
vertical and without a head for heights, an additional challenge. It starts
with a set of well-constructed steps, then continues with more, and some
more for luck.
The final stage of the ascent includes climbing two
sets of aluminium ladders set into rock faces, then
some staple bar ladders in the rock in several
spots near the top.
At The Pinnacles summit (759 m) there is a
viewing platform with spectacular views of the
bush, mountains and coastline of the eastern
Coromandel. It was evident that having got this
far, many hikers had the confidence to duck the
barriers and get to the very top peaks for the
ultimate views.
The sunset was spectacular and a great photo
opportunity.
It was so good many of us took the 5 am call for the sunrise trip as well.
Sunrise was windy and cooler but even better, with clouds rolling over
the tops of the inland hills while the sun rose over the ocean.
We returned via the Billygoat track to the river crossing, getting there
early enough to hop on the bus to the Hoffman pool down the road for a
swim and lunch.
We were 7 from ATC and 5 students and 2 adults from Western Springs,
bounding with youthful energy and great company. 20 people booked but
sadly some missed a great weekend.
Photos: Teresa Janssen.
PLUS, don’t miss the amazing timelapse video from Jon Tunnicliffe of
clouds pouring over the Pinnacles ridge on the Club Facebook page! It’s
mind blowing – Ed.
33Uncle Wacko’s Gear Corner
TRAMPING GEAR ADVICE FROM THE EXPERT
The 3 biggest mistakes (mug) trampers
make when buying a rain jacket
1. IT’S NOT ACTUALLY (FULLY) WATERPROOF
Driving rain will always get through a suspect jacket’s defences. You only
need one small weakness, and she’s all over, rover – you’ll be soaked.
The problem is not all jackets touted as waterproof actually
are. Here are the main problem areas.
ZIPS have to be laminated to be waterproof, but the coating
wears off over time. So not having storm flaps is pretty daft
– it’s just a matter of time before your jacket leaks.
But manufacturers often omit storm flaps to save weight.
Some will even freely acknowledge the zips aren’t
waterproof on their “fully waterproof” (but no storm flaps)
jackets (Macpac!). Well what bloody use is that then!
Uncle Wacko reckons you’d be mad to fork out for a rain
jacket without storm flaps over all zips - front and pockets.
Besides, storm flaps give more venting options – a rather
major consideration for any energetic (sweaty) tramper. No storm flaps – it’s only
SEAMS join sections of fabric together, so have zillions of a matter of time
tiny needle holes that water will surge through if not sealed. before this zip leaks
So you’d kinda want all seams sealed, right?
BUT … some jackets are only seam-sealed at
Test for waterproofness hood and shoulders, which manufacturers
at home, first! charmingly call “critical seam sealing”. It’s
Hose your jacket down critical all right - you’ll end up soaked!
vigorously or string it up Check inside the jacket - you’ll see if it’s
and fill it with water. tape sealed. The tape is glued or heat-
Make sure nothin’ gets bonded over the seam so won’t peel off,
through. Take a real and is a very effective seal.
close look at hood, But seams can also be welded and that’s
sleeve seams and zips. not so easy to see. You’ll need to check the
manufacturer’s description.
34HOOD A loose-fitting hood will let water in, or worse a decent blow will
whip it off your face and water will cascade down your torso. Nice!
You need a rear volume adjustment plus side cord adjusters to get a snug,
secure fit around your noggin. Test the fit before buying.
And test that the hood really is waterproof! Uncle Wacko’s missus once
bought a reputable brand jacket whose hood seams leaked like a sieve.
You’d want to know about that before you’re out in the hills in a storm.
2. IT’S TOO WARM
Trampers overheat in rain jackets, many of us big time. So you don’t want
a jacket with a liner – unless you’re going into very cold temperatures.
Use more layers if you need more warmth.
And you need effective venting options. That means pit zips,
a full front zip and zipped pockets, all with storm flaps.
Now the best venting jacket Uncle Wacko’s ever had is a
Paramo (English brand) with upper arm zips instead of pit
(under arm) zips. They’re amazingly effective and way better
than standard pit zips.
It’s a mystery why other manufacturers haven’t followed suit.
Maybe they’ll catch on one day ... Paramo’s sleeve
zips – brilliant!
3. CRAPPY HOOD
Your hood has to stay tight and snug in a howling gale. So effective rear
and facial adjusters are a must.
But watch those facial cords – make sure you can get ‘em out of the way.
Having them whip about in a blow and slice up your face ain’t much fun.
You’ll also want a peak to keep water out of your eyes – apparently it’s
helpful being able to see where you’re going when tramping.
Having a decent hood is crucial for your tramping comfort. Check the fit
works for you in the shop before parting with your dosh.
We could add a 4th mistake - crappy construction
Uncle Wacko was on an ATC tramp once where a bit of a blow on the tops
ripped the sleeve seam apart on some lightweight invention one of the
party was wearing.
Best to stick with tried and trusted brands, eh.
That’ll do you for now. Spot ya.
Uncle Wacko
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