Link to Newsletter - Parawai Tramping Club

CLUB NIGHT PROGRAMME
October 2014 – April 2015
5 November
Solly's wild animal
photos, taken in the hills, and his entertaining stories
!9 November
Paul Callister talking about trapping undesirables in Whareroa
Farm Park. (volunteers required!!)
3 December
Peter Laurenson from Wellington, telling us about "The
Occasional Tramper"
17 December
Christmas BBQ and Parawai end -of -year wind-up. Steve in
charge.
South
end
of
QE2
Park
(in
Paekakariki), 6pm onwards
A MERRY CHRISTMAS BREAK !
7 January
First club night of the year. Bring your tramping Xmas
presents and recent phtos.
21 January
A celebratory walk. Meet in the Otaihanga Domain 7.30pm
4 February
Club Members' Photos, post break.
18 February
Chantal demonstrating pack-packing, and a surprise note for
the evening
4 March
Dr Adrian Lumsden talking about night photography
18 March
Trip Planning Night. Bring your Autumn and Wintry plans for
further never-a dull-moment adventures
1 April
Marian and Owen's Alaskan and British Columbian photos
15 April
Darrel's World Trip photos
Editorial
Brian Solomon
Well the Winter of 2014 has come and gone. I took refuge from New Zealand’s
wintery blasts in the hallowed green fields of England. I had the opportunity to
introduce Freddie, our 7 year old grandson, to the not too well known pastime
of trail camera photography. I believe I have him partially hooked. If he asks
for a trail camera for his birthday I will know I have done my evangelical trail
camera introduction well. We spent many quality hours treading on and off the
path in the New Forest. (The New Forest is actually a very old forest
established as a hunting estate by King William 1 but fortunately King William
and I have come to an understanding in the use of it). There is definitely no
shooting done in the
forest unless it is with
a camera.
To the traveller the
sense of history is
very
evident
everywhere
in
England, from the
cathedrals and castles
with stone steps worn
away from the passing
of many English feet,
to the forests tracked
and tamed (by kiwi
standards). Walking
and cycling access
over a myriad of trails
through the country
and the city is very
The tramping to and from the trail camera was a
well established and
journey of discovery.
accepted as a right by
all.
In New Zealand we are still in a state of change in establishing permanent
public access to our back country. Often to gain access to our tramping
country we must travel over private land.
Respecting and preserving the rights of farmers and land owners for the
undisturbed undertaking of their business should not be in conflict with public
travel over defined access points.
There is an increasing awareness that public safety is in part the responsibility
of the land owner and this acts as a disincentive for landowners to allow
access. Further the activity of an irresponsible minority can influence the
reputation of the majority of law abiding back country travellers.
Back country users must act responsibly and as tramping club members we
lead the way as ambassadors of those who will tread these paths in the future.
We must do all we can to promote sensible, responsible use of private access
where it is available.
Mark Neeson and his small group making up the Walking Access Commission
have an enormous challenge but fulfill such an important role in negotiating
and enabling access. Currently we and they are on the back foot at least in the
Ruahines where access is being lost road end by road end.
Thank goodness the vast majority of farmers are very practical, accomodating
people prepared to give the public a fair go.
Safe tramping
Solly
Our Chief Guide shows his
lighter side
The Healthy Wanderer
Chantal Heller
Always hire the Red Mustang Convertible
(Unless it comes in pink of course..:)
Being a healthy wanderer not only includes looking after our physical being
but also includes developing a healthy emotional and mental outlook on life.
So how much time do you spend looking at the way you react to life’s ups and
downs? After all, it’s not our feelings that show us who we are… but rather
how we deal with those feelings and project them outwards….or inwards…
I was walking down the beach yesterday and coming towards me was a guy
throwing a ball for two identical dogs of his. The dogs bounded after the ball,
one reaching it quite a bit before the other. As I got closer, I noticed that the
dog with the ball in his mouth, looking real chuffed, had three legs.
I said to the guy “Yay, the 3 legged one won” His reply “Yeah, he always
does..he’s forgotten he only has three legs”
Now how’s THAT for attitude! Forgetting is Health…when you forget what your
limitations are and just go for what you want, you get it… unsurprisingly.
So this is it.- if we do
our own thing, not
worrying about how
others see us, we
grow. The flip side. if we allow others to
be who they are
without
placing
limitations on them,
they grow.
So how do we look at
others usually? Do
we see the real them
or do we only see
what we want to
see? They may be
the
complete
opposite of us but who defines normal?
For example, you may have been part of a minority at some time. What’s it
really like to be…the only English speaker in a bus full of Japanese, the only
vegetarian in a sea of carnivores, the only black witch in a cloak of white
coats? What about a member of the lesbian overlanders caf„ club? (see the
Zelandia photos to understand where I got that from).
In what ways did you play smaller or quieter as a result? Maybe you’ve never
been in a minority, why not? It can be as enriching to step out and become a
minority, so pick up that magazine you never would look at. Take a trip
somewhere you never have been.
I have only 500 words so I guess I have to have a point to my musings. That
being…. that sometimes we are in the minority, sometimes we are the majority
but always, we are with ourselves. If we like that place and we prioritize our
mental wellbeing regardless of outside demands then we may just live our
best life.
I’d bet that dog would hire a Red Ferrari 
Badjelly
IAN BADE
Huts I Have Visited - The most easterly and most westerly huts
This article is a continuation of my theme in the last issue of this magazine. I
will cover my most easterly hut visited – Mt Hikurangi hut and the most
westerly visited – Te Oneroa hut.
Mt. Hikurangi hut is on the mountain of the same name on the east coast of
the North Island inland from Ruatoria and is situated high up to get views and
the first rays of sun in the mornings on mainland New Zealand. An old style
club hut that was once owned by the Gisborne tramping Club, is now operated
by the Ngati Porou Iwi as part of their treaty settlement. To stay in it requires
booking with
the Iwi head
office
in
Ruatoria.
The
hut
sleeps
six
and has a
fire and a
combination
of tank and
piped spring
water,
the
latter being
cool
and
sweet.
Access
to
the
hut
requires
driving east
from Ruatoria to a car park at the base of the
Hikurangi hut
mountain at Pakihiroa station followed by a
steady climb up a farm 4wd road for about 10kms to the hut which sits at the
bush edge. To reach the summit of Mt. Hikurangi a steep marked track climbs
above the hut before levelling out and heading east to the back of the
mountain to where the summit is reached by climbing a scree slope then a
scramble along a rough summit ridge.
Te Oneroa Hut is in Preservation Inlet in south Fiordland, about six kilometres
from Puysegur Point. Te Oneroa was a small township in the late 1800’s and
was the site of a gold crushing plant. The quartz to be crushed came from
Wilson River on the plateau above via an aerial cableway. Around the hut can
be seen relics of civilization as the factory boiler is still in the bush behind the
hut. The bush is obvious regrowth and there are rhododendron plants
amongst the trees. The hut is a little two bunk A-frame hut of which there are
several similar scattered around Fiordland. It has a bench but no fire and
water is from a nearby stream. Access is from the beach which is in front of
the hut. But it can be reached overland in two days from Big River on the
south coast via Lake Kiwi and an old miners track that leads from Wilson
River. From the hut a marked track follows the water pipeline along the coast.
This pipeline fed water to the crushing plant. The track continues for about
four kilometres to the former township of Cromarty which today consists of one
occupied private house – the luxurious Kisbee lodge
Te Oneroa hut
David’s Vegie Patch
David Williams
Some people have gotten the pricker with gorse. It has gotten a bad rap.
Gorse (Ulex europaeus or Prickleus extremaeos) is New Zealand’s most
widespread and well known brushweed. Once established it rapidly forms
dense infestations. It is gorse which reminds trampers they are alive and have
feeling in their legs and softer regions. It is gorse which covers the hill sides in
pretty yellow flowers and persistent gorse seed. For trampers gorse functions
as a prickly, testing plant which is used to sort out those who are determined
to proceed on the trip and those who are just there for the scenery. Gorse has
the potential to be significant in homeopathy with its dried flowers and fresh
twigs being used as a herbal tea. Care must be taken to remove the gorse
twig from the tea immediately before consumption else a nasty poke in the eye
may result. Gorse’s most interesting but unproven use is in the driving out of
demons by the flailing of branches technique. Short sturdy branches are
recommended. Please contact me if you need more detail on this matter as I
have an interest in the area.. As Chief guide I have often found it necessary to
embrace gorse and I have the scars to show.
In production forests, gorse competes vigorously with newly established trees
and restricts access for tramping or silvicultural operations. Dense patches
can also present a fire hazard, as well as providing cover for animals such as
pretty rabbits and hungry possums. Control of established gorse infestations is
expensive and due to the long-lived nature of the seed, and needs to be
ongoing to prevent reversion to new infestations. Of course good old gorse
hosts nitrogen fixing rhizobium and can improve soil fertility. It can also
function as something of a nurse species for the regeneration of native forest.
Gorse is a native of Western Europe, and is now widely spread throughout the
world, particularly in temperate regions. Introduced to New Zealand as a
hedge plant by early British settlers, it rapidly spread from its original
plantings
Gorse is a woody, deep-rooted perennial legume, capable of growing to four
metres high. Numerous small green leaves form hard spines up to 5 cm long.
Bright yellow flowers emerge in autumn and spring and plants produce large
quantities of seed. The hardcoated seeds are spread up to 6 metres by an
explosive opening of the pods in mid summer. Take aim ..Fire! Seed can also
be spread by soil and water movement or contaminated machinery. Seeds
remain viable in the soil for over thirty years – longer than the seed from some
of you old trampers, Gorse seed banks of up to 20,000 seeds per square
metre of soil can be established. Let that be a lesson to all you KiwiSavers –
consolidate in Winter and explode in Summer.
Effective gorse control may require a combination of methods. Control
strategies should have specific objectives. These may be eradication,
temporary suppression to allow the establishment of forestry or control along
property boundaries. Planning and long-term management is essential to
ensure the success of any control programme. As with all weeds, prevention
is better than cure and a healthy, well–fertilised sward of pasture that is not
overgrazed or pugged will be more resistant to gorse invasion than poorly
managed pasture. The best return on gorse control expenditure will be from
controlling isolated or scattered gorse on relatively clear country.
Biological Control A number of insects have been introduced for the control
of gorse. Biological control is a long-term control method that reduces the
vigour of infested plants. Insects are being spread as they become available
and can be obtained by contacting a Plant Pest Officer who will advise on
their suitability for any particular infestation.
Mechanical Control Clearance by tractor and rotary slasher, bulldozer and
blade/rootrake or rollercrusher can be very cost effective. To get the best
result, mechanical control must be carried out in conjunction with a pasture
improvement programme. Burning may be appropriate as a strategy for
encouraging gorse seed germination, prior to mob stocking with sheep or
overall application of herbicide. Additional fencing (and supply of stock water)
may also need to be considered as part of any large-scale control
programme.
Happy tramping
David Williams
Trip Reports
Our Kepler April 19 – 22 2014
Leader Marian Cox
There were 11 of us (I think!) arriving in Queenstown at different times, partly
owing to stormy weather, and different modes of transport. We managed to
meet up at the airport and take our arranged transport to Te Anau, where we
stayed in the Kiwi Lodge. Rata had stayed on at the airport, and was finally
reunited with her pack. The next day we were transported to the beginning of
the Kepler by the side
of Lake Te Anau.
Photos were taken in
the bright sunshine,
and as we walked,
lakeside
amongst
lovely trees, the sky
grew
greyer.
We
stopped at a shelter
where
water
was
provided, then carried
on, climbing, until we
reached
limestone
bluffs, and the large
Luxmore
Hut
(40
beds). It was misty,
and
we'd
had
occasional
stunning
peep-hole views of the
Lake hanging valleys.
We settled in, then
went off to visit a
limestone cave about
20 minutes away.
It was impressive,
other
than
where
people had broken off
bits. That night, Neville
went to grab his
raincoat, and found it
We wait patiently as Graham adjusts his pack straps
missing.
Rata
commanded attention when everyone (a full hut) was in the dining area, and
asked for people to look for it. The next morning, Neville took a coat that
looked like his, and a little later, Owen approached Neville and sheepishly said
he thought he had taken Neville's coat. Peter then said his coat was now
missing. Neville had stolen his!! ("It's all lies" Owen now says!) Once we had
set off, we found ourselves on the tussocky tops for several hours, on an
undulating track. It was wonderful to see and hear at least 3 keas, 2 in close
proximity. It was misty or sunny, and with a bitter wind at times. We stopped at
2 shelters for sustenance on the way, eventually walking through beautiful
bush down to the Iris Burn Hut. This is in a very attractive setting on the flat,
with a backdrop of mountains, and near the Iris Burn river. We took an
afternoon stroll to a picturesque Iris Burn waterfall, 20 minutes away. The
following day, Monday, there was a lot of bush-walking, with an array of many
different types of fungi, until we reached the Manapouri lakeside trees and
eventually
Moturau
Hut. There
was
a
gorgeous
view of the
lake
and
surrounding
mountains.
It
had
become
sunny and
warm, and
some of us
had a quick
refreshing
dip in the
lake.
The
The Kepler. The landscape is on a whole different scale.
air
was
bitter
that
night, and the next day there was a light dusting of snow. We set off to meet
up with our midday transport where 7 of us left our packs, having decided to
complete the full Kepler circuit by walking back to Te Anau, and the Lodge.
About 10 minutes after we had left the transport, Paul found he was really
suffering from his uncomfortable boots, and by then the transport had left.
Bugger! With 3 hours of great discomfort in mind, he managed to shorten the
journey by hitching a lift out from the walk's official start. We experienced heat
and sun through Te Anau, and the autumn poplar leaves were a glorious
yellow. And the ensuing lodge showers were glorious!
Those on the trip were:- Neville and Elisabeth, Peter (Davis),
> Paul (Michl), Brandon, Paula and Graeme,Julie, Rata, Owen and Marian
Hollyford Track – Fiordland National Park (56km) Wednesday 23rd –
27th April 2014
Leader: Neville Grubner, scribe Rata.
Trampers: Neville, Elisabeth, Graeme & Paula, Owen & Marian,
Merlin & Heather, Rātā, Julie, Chantal, Peter, Paul
The Hollyford Track (56km ) is a low altitude track starting at the lower
Hollyford Valley Road and follows the Hollyford River / Whakatipu Ka Tuka on
its journey to the Tasman Sea at the old port of Martins Bay. Sections of the
track
afford
spectacular
topographical views as you
tramp alongside the sheer rock
walls of the Darren Mountains
and Skippers Range.
Hidden Falls
Feeling refreshed and energised
after finishing the Kepler Track
we were looking forward to flying
into Martins Bay to tramp 56km
to the Hollyford Road End.
Because our first day was going
to be an easy day; fly into
Martins Bay, drop packs at the
Martin’s Bay Hut, go onto explore
Big Bay and return to the hut for
tea and sleep, a Masterchef
Challenge was put into place.
Parawai Masterchefs, Peter and
Paul planned, shopped and
apportioned supplies amongst us
to provide the group with a 3
course banquet meal to start our
5 day tramp off fully nourished.
Fully aware of an approaching low, we optimistically waited for the call from
Fiordland Trips and Tramps as to how they would transport us to the Hollyford
Track, Que sera sera. Due to abject, incoming weather, the trip had to be
reversed as flights into Martin’s Bay couldn’t happen. Packs fully laden,
enthusiastically we left in 2 shuttles bound for the Hollyford Valley Road End.
Through steady, drizzling rain we made our way through lowland forest draped
in mosses and ferns bound for Hidden Falls Hut where we were to stop, boil
the billy and have lunch. Just before reaching the hut a short side track led us
to an amazing waterfall.
Bodies and minds replenished we set off on the next 10.5km walk to Lake
Alabaster Hut. Throughout this section were spectacular views of Fiordland’s
Darren Mountains and you climb to the highest point on the track, Little Homer
Saddle (168m).
Saturated,
we
arrived at Lake
Alabaster
Hut
(26 bunks) only to find 15 fellow nature enthusiasts just as eager to find drying
space, bench space and a bunk. 15 & 13 equals 28, so we top n tailed and
jostled around the fire to dry various items for the next day. Parawai
Masterchefs and sous chefs took up the challenge, preparing, cooking and
dishing up cheese & crackers (entr„e), beef and vegetable hot pot with au
gratin potatoes (main), after dinner mints (dessert), a much appreciated
banquet meal for $10 per head. The Parawai Tramping Club now has its own
10 litre cooking pot to take on tramps (thanks to Peter for purchasing it and
packing it daily in his pack).
Parawai Master Chefs and sous chefs took up the challenge,
What a relief, with sunshine breaking through we set off for Demon Hut at
8.45am. Once again scenes were fantastic along this part of the track known
as the start of the Demon Trail. The Demon Trail was an old cattle track in the
1880’s, to the left it sidles the long Lake McKerrow / Whakatipu Waitai, while
on the right it rambles up and down the Skippers Range crossing the many
side streams via 3 wire bridges. Tramping in the Tararua Range held us in
good stead as the Demon Trail is rocky, slippery and boggy and there are tree
falls to clamber over or under. A few tumbles and falls tested our first aid skills
and reflexes.
Stunning reflections
A clearing in the track invited us to
look out across to McKerrow Island with the Darren Mountains providing a
spectacular backdrop, a perfect site for a late lunch (as we ate we got eaten
alive by sandflies) and then head off to check out McKerrow Island Hut.
Absolutely magnificent scenery and to witness 3 kotuku, resting on driftwood,
at the lakeshore felt magic. “He kotuku rerenga tahi”
Reluctantly, we re-packed, crossed the shingle river bed to re-join the Demon
Trail and head onward to Demon Hut (12 bunks). We arrived at 4pm just as
heavy rain began. Quickly Peter & Paul set about getting the fire going. Oh
what a night!!!! Torrential rain, thunder and lightning all through the night, at
one stage we awoke to a thunderous clap of thunder and felt the hut tremble.
Early morning brought no reprieve we opened our eyes and ears to consistent
heavy rain on a tin roof. Eventually there was a break in the weather and we
set off at 9.20 am for Hokuri Hut. There was a certain amount of trepidation as
we set off, as this section of track is known as the backbone of the Demon
Trail so if yesterday caused us some grief what would we encounter today
with wretched weather. We employed safe walking plans, staying close
together, stopping to regroup often and stayed refuelled with snacks and fluid.
Like yesterday there was the up and down rambling but as the rocks were
larger they provided better platforms, tree roots formed ladders and mini
rivulets allowed clarity to walk through and the track was less muddy and
boggy. Like many of our group, I found this section of the trail not as testing as
the day before.
As the day progressed the weather eased and we experienced 4 seasons in 1
day, hail, smatterings of rain with brief fresh breezes followed by glimpses of
sun. 4 more 3 wire bridges more spectacular in length and height, than
yesterday, with raging side streams below kept exhilaration levels high as did
the
flora
boasting
splashes of red from the
flowering rata.
Arrived at Hokuri Hut (12
bunks) at 3.30 pm.
Another memorable day
feeling
absolutely
privileged to be able to
embrace
experiences
and scenes so different
from those of the day
before. We had broken
the back of the Demon
Trail. We all set about
gathering driftwood (in
short supply) from the
lakeshore and managed
to get a respectable fire
going to allow us to dry
out our belongings.
Set off for Martin’s Bay at
7.30am as this was to be
a big day in the hope to
get around to Big Bay in
the afternoon. Hokuri –
Martin’s Bay saw us walking through forest,
The three wire bridges were
crossing the flooded Hokuri Creek to walking
exciting
along a beach and coming across the
deserted settlement of Jamestown. Jamestown was established in 1870 and
deserted about 5 years later due to the extreme isolation. There are remnants
of the once inhabited Jamestown community such as bottles and an old fence
post while the more modern transient community is evident through privately
owned baches and speedboats sitting snugly amongst the bush.
An hour and half on from this deserted settlement is the airstrip and from here
to Martin’s Bay, another hour and half away, the track is well formed. The
thunder of Tasman Sea could be heard long
before reaching it. We arrived at Martin’s Bay
Hut at 11.30am had lunch and then set off to discover Long Point Reef and
Big Bay. Here the sand-flies are rampant and ferocious, even the seals
basking in the sun have to relentlessly flap their flippers to keep them at bay.
The rocks boasted fantastic textures, colours and stone types and are the stuff
that fairy tales are made of. While some of us rock hopped to Penguin Point
others lazed back and gazed in wonder at the mighty Tasman Sea, the
basking seals and amazing rocks.
Mckerrow Lake
Keen to make full use of the new cooking pot and our Parawai Masterchefs
needing a new challenge they conjured up a Billy Combo Tea. To be in you
had to add your packet of dehy to the billy (fish meals exempt). This challenge
saw modest division amongst us, creating 2 factions, the Snobs and the
Commons. These 2 factions went on to compete in the Kathmandu Trivia Quiz
with the Commons just edging past the Snobs (conflict of interest regarding
chief question caller).
Regardless of winners or losers, as a Snob I enjoyed the evening frivolities
learning card games and dice games by candlelight while soaking up the heat
of the hut fires. It was a great last night to spend on the Hollyford Track.
Woke at 7 am to mildly overcast weather that looked like it was going to pack
in by the early afternoon. First group of four of intrepid trampers set off at 8.30
am to catch 10.00 flight to Milford while the rest of us tidied the hut and left at
9.00 arriving just in time to see the first group taking off. Glad to know that we
were able to fly out as the prospect of staying another night meant a lot of re
arranging would need to have been done if we were stuck at Martin’s Bay.
Flying out from Martins Bay was very turbulent and the Tasman Sea was
frosted with white peaks showing that there were very strong winds. This
turbulence worsened as we entered Milford Sound balancing out as the
Milford airstrip came into view. Fiordland Trips and Tramps shuttled us back to
Te Anau to drizzling rain and a very chilly 6c degrees.
So in summarising this Hollyford experience, privileged to be a New
Zealander, strengthened to be a part of a wonderful tramping group, Parawai
Tramping Club and grateful to whānau / family for their support of our walking
endeavours. ‘Ehara taku toa i te toa takitahi engari he toa takitini’ - My valour
is not mine alone but derives from the strength of those who surround me.
He mihi nūnui ki te Ātua, te kaiwhakaora hei tohutohu i a mātou, ki te waonui o
Tane , ko Tane whakapiripriri ai tangata i roto i te ngāhere, ki ngā kaihōpara i
kaha ki tē hikoi haere, āna te painga o te haerenga nā, nō reira ngā mihi nūnui
ki koutou katoa. I give thanks for the blessing and guidance of our God, to
Tane Mahuta who embraced us within his domain, keeping us together and to
the company and strengths of fellow trampers, many thanks to you all for a
memorable journey.
West Akatarawa River 4th May 2014
Leader Neville
This was virtually a repeat of a trip I ran for Tony a couple of months earlier
starting from Kapiti 4X4 in the Maungakotukutuku valley. Our destination for
the day was the West Akatarawa River and places like the Devils Staircase
and Mt Titi. We headed
straight up into the hills and
followed the very direct and
steep trail up that took us onto
bump 613 on the ridge
. After a quick stop to catch
ones breath on top we
followed the long ridge down
the other side into Martins
valley.
The tiny stream we dropped
into on the valley floor still
shows sign of a massive flood
not too long ago and as a
result is very easy going down
to the first major forks. I’ve
always been impressed with
the flood debris in this stream
so we decided to head up to
find the source. To our
surprise the source of the
damage and large slip is in
the very headwaters of the
stream on the slopes of Mt
Maunganui. Must have been a
The things you see in the bush when you
major weather event to cause
haven’t got your gun. Mike pauses in
such extensive damage. This
contemplation 
stream is certainly very open and easy travel at the moment and it will be for
some years until the bush recovers.
Turning around and heading back down the stream to the first major fork we
picked up an old logging trail, which we followed down beside the river to the
junction point at the bottom of the Rock garden and Devils staircase. After
finding somewhere to cross a large pool in the river, we stopped as a bit of
sun came through on the bottom of the staircase for lunch. After lunch
climbing up the logging trail they call the Devils staircase wasn’t as bad as the
name implies it could be. Mike was determined to start up the long abandoned
motorbike about half way up and take the easy way home. With all his skills
fixing cars this one proved a little too much and he continued with us on foot.
I’ve been this way a few times now and someone is always determined to
rescue that long abandoned bike.
With a small group we made very good time and from the top of the staircase
we headed along to Titi and traced our way back down through the bush to the
car park following logging trails and avoiding the roads as much as possible.
We were home mid afternoon with time to relax after a good leg stretch.
Those on the trip were Mike, Alex, Rata, Julie, Tony, Chris, Elisabeth, &
Neville (scribe)
Te Atuaoparapara 17-18 May 2014
Leader Tony Quayle
We listed this trip as "3rd time lucky" and that's exactly how it turned out (good
forecasting!).
A Friday evening departure, and pub meal stop on the outskirts of Palmy, got
us to Triplex Hut a little before the midnight hour. That 10 minute walk to the
hut seemed pretty hard work though.
Saturday dawned fine, but with a slightly worrying wind that we hoped wouldn't
upset our plans. The breeze was still there when we reached Sunrise for
brunch, but was clearly OK for what lay ahead. True to his usual pattern, John
caught up with us here after a very early morning start from Paraparaumu.
There was a cold wind along first stretch of tops beyond Sunrise but soon after
passing the Top Maropea turnoff it eased off and before long we were
sweating our way up the long ridge leading to Te Atuaoparapara. Just beyond
the first of the knobs on the summit ridge we found a sheltered, sunny and
scenic lunch spot looking across the Waipawa headwaters to Hawkes Bay.
The ridge continued, with a 'on top of the world' feeling, and we soon reached
the trig and the steep scree descent beyond.
Stunning conditions on the summit ridge approaching Te Atuaoparapara
The descent wasn't quite as easy as I remembered from past trips but we all
got down without drama and couldn't resist stopping for another break at the
little tarn at the bottom of the scree. There was even a view of two tiny figures
on the skyline, descending from Rangioteatua towards Rangi Saddle: let's
hope they were heading to Waterfall hut, not Waikamaka! A bit of undulating
terrain, followed by more scree, soon put us in Waipawa Saddle - mission
accomplished.
The short stretch of
creek down to
Waikamaka
Hut
obviously
hadn't
enjoyed
the
sunshine we had there was plenty of
frost still on the
shaded rocks.
Packing a dozen of
us into an 8 bunk
hut wasn't too bad,
but suddenly those
skyline
dots
materialised
into
two
life
size
trampers at the
door.
Formative
"bugger" thoughts
were
instantly
doused by the
warm
greetings
they
were
exchanging
with
Neville
and
Elisabeth, so we
made room - one
particularly
chivalrous member
of our team even
The descent to the south is on steep scree
gave up his bunk
for them! So it was that were introduced to Neville's lifetime mate Clive and
his wife Marie, or Bonnie and Clive as our ever-cheeky Diaper Monkey Jnr
quickly nicknamed them.
Sunday was another gloriously fine and f-f-f-frosty morning, demanding care
on the creek bed rocks. Unfortunately Julie did have a fall, hurting her wrist
quite badly (an x-Ray on Monday confirmed a broken bone) but, assisted a
little perhaps by a combination of conventional (Panadol) and homeopathic
(arnica) medicines she completed the walk out very capably without the
faintest complaint - a true Parawai!
We reached the sunshine again on Waipawa Saddle and the walk out from
here was very pleasant, including another long lunch in the sun on the
Waipawa Forks Hut helipad.
Joining me on the trip were: Chris Keating, David Williams, Elisabeth Hynes
and Neville Grubner, John Rowland, Julie James, Marian and Owen Cox,
Patrick Liss, Rata Cornell and Terry Farrelly.
High Ridge, May 31ST –June 1ST 2014
(Or the hills are alive with the sound of teenagers)
Leader Patrick
Having never traversed the length of High Ridge before I was really keen to
see what it was like. The plan was to go down to Totara Flats on Saturday,
climb up the ridge on Sunday and because it was a 3 day weekend, continue
on to Jumbo hut for Sunday night.
After the habitual coffee and pie stop in Greytown we continued on to the
Holdsworth road end. It was a lovely fine and frosty morning. Hmmm… there
were rather a lot of cars in the carpark. We passed a few day-trippers on their
way down as we climbed up to Rocky Lookout. There we overtook a few
people, some dressed in boy scout outfits (complete with scarves and
woggles) who were also headed for Totara Flats. As we were walking along
the new DoC track we snuck past a large group of happy teenagers. We were
starting to wonder how many people were headed our way! The new track
down to Totara Flats makes life easy, no need now to get wet feet in Totara
Creek. There was a queue of people waiting to cross the swingbridge over the
Wahine River. Fortunately Peter and Tony crossed before them and managed
to get to the hut in time to grab us some bunks in a small separate room along
with some hunters. The rest of us (waiting to cross the bridge) had time for a
bite to eat while waiting our turn. (There were nine people in front of us and
they took about five minutes each!) People continued arriving at the hut all
afternoon, once the numbers got to 45 we stopped counting. A noisy evening
followed, but at 10 oclock it all went quiet.
Eventually the bush gives way to tussock and we could see ahead.
.
Getting ready in the morning was fun, there were people sleeping everywhere
(on the stools, under the cooking benches, under the tables, on the tables and
on the deck.) However we were away by 8.30 and had reached a small cairn
that marks the bottom of High Ridge about 15 minutes later.
There are some old markers leading steeply up the bottom part of the route. It
was mostly good going but there were quite a few old wind falls to negotiate.
When we were nearly at Flaxy Knob, Neville, (who was in front) was startled
when a stag roared loudly and not too far above us. He roared back and was
answered almost immediately. They exchanged a few more roars and then the
“stag” crashed through the bush in front of us and it turned out to be John! He
had stayed at Powell Hut the night before, but it was so crowded that he had
not even ventured inside and had cooked and slept on the deck.
Flaxy Knob turned out to be completely devoid of flax but it’s a significant
landmark on the ridge. From here on the ridge is not as steep and turns into
mossy “goblin” forest. Eventually bush gives way to tussock and we could see
ahead to Mt Holdsworth and Isabelle. We also had great views west to Hector
and the Main Range. We could make out numerous people making their way
up and down Holdsworth. It was about now that we decided to head out that
night and not join the expected throngs at Jumbo Hut. It took us about 7 hours
from Totara Flats hut to Powell Hut. After a much needed brew at Powell we
headed on down and out to the cars. The day took about 10 hours all up.
We finished the day with a great meal at The Tin Shed pub.
Those on the trip were: Owen and Marian Cox, Elisabeth Hynes, Neville
Grubner, Peter Davis, Tony Quayle, John Rowland (the stag) and Patrick Liss.
Belmont Regional Park, 08 June 2014
Leader Elisabeth
The weather forecast for Sunday wasn’t great but I decided to go ahead with
the walk anyway. So it was 14 keen club members that met up and started the
walk at Cannons Creek Lake Reserve on an overcast Sunday morning.
Passing the Maara Roa forest restoration project we climbed to Takapu Road,
then past a power substation towards Cannons Head. It was very pleasant
Belmont trig offered stunning views and the opportunity for some clowning
around.
walking through the open farmland and it also turned out to be quite a nice
day, overcast and calm. With it being so pleasant we decided to go on to
Belmont Trig. Belmont trig offered us stunning views over the Wellington
harbour, Porirua harbour, Hutt Valley, Kapiti Island, the Kaikoura Ranges and
even Mount Taranaki and Ruapehu. The children in the group David, Alex and
Cohen had lots of fun clowning around in the surrounding bushes. After
enjoying the views for a while it started to feel a bit cold and we headed back
towards Cannons Head. We found a beautiful sheltered spot where we had
our lunch. The track then passes Round Knob and leads to an old airstrip and
ammunition bunkers from WWII. After a good look around and explore of
these, we headed down hill completing what ended up as a big loop back to
the car. A very enjoyable walk and quite unique with walking through beautiful
farmland rather than bush for most of the time.
Those on the trip were: Peter, Darrel, David, Grant, Owen, Marian, Audrey,
Wayne, Mike, Alex, Kane, Cohen, Neville and Elisabeth (scribe)
Ascent of Mt Hector, 14 - 15 June
Leader Solly
We met at the school, we waited by the railway station, we assembled at Otaki
forks. From many spots we came to lift our packs and depart toward Fields in
a cheerful mood on a sunny Winter's day. Our party of 11 made good
progress up the path to the bush edge where we had a breather and chat. Off
again with Rachel pointing out the old pig rooting and a few birds entertaining
us with song. The calm conditions were enjoyed and good progress was made
through the bush with Parawai chatter filling the air. At Fields we had a brew
and a break.
Inside the hut
was
considerably
cooler
than
outside so we
put a couple of
benches on the
veranda
to
enjoy the sun.
After an hour
we reluctantly
shouldered
packs
and
resumed
our
travel up onto
Table Top and
along to the
Pennn
Creek
Cody, a totally likeable young man who reduced the average
turn
off.
Several
age of the trip members by 50% and increased the amount of
people said how
cheek given by 75%.
much they liked Penn creek and a mental note was made to put that as a
destination for a trip at some point.
Soon after the turn off young Cody (14 yrs, on his first club trip) hit the front
and never looked back. Cody reduced the average age of the trip members by
50% and increased the amount of cheek given by the males by 75%. All good
fun as we ascended Bridge Peak with stunning views over toward
Maungahuka, although the very top of Bridge Peak was temporarily in cloud.
This temporary cloud proved to last for the whole weekend! We enjoyed a mid
afternoon arrival at an uninhabited Kime hut. Could this last? We had brews,
lazed and readied ourselves for the ascent of Hector to coincide with the rising
of the moon and braying of the hounds. Research showed that the sun set at
4.58 and moon rise at 6.18. Off we set in the light mist at 5.30 with head
torches illuminating cones of mist in front of each tramper. In fact those
personal lights were the closest we came to seeing the moon but we did
spend a little time by the moody cross on top of Hector, impressive in the
gloom. We retraced our steps to Kime staying close as a group and making
well lit, caterpillar progress. Ironically the moon showed itself once we
returned to the hut but we had tea to cook and more brews to enjoy before
heading to bed after a full Winter’s day.
The following day was more misty, more windy and more like Winter. Full
storm gear was required and out the door to a chilling reception from Huey
sending horizontal rain as a reminder of Tararua Winters. Once over Bridge
peak and descending the ridge the weather abated a little although we kept
our storm gear on all the way to Fields. This time it was definitely warmer
inside the hut so we had a break and then ambled on down the Field track
having a few friendly regroups along the way. The track was busy with several
groups being met. It is good to see lots of younger people getting out into the
hills and having their first experiences in this area. So it was back to the
vehicles and away after a very enjoyable trip. Thanks to the fine bunch who
shared the journey.
Marian, Patrick, Brandon, Michele, Rachel, Paula, John, Cody, Chantal, Sue,
Rata and Solly
Mid Winter Dinner
Lodge 21st June 2014
Leader Jenny Newby
Parawai
15 hardy souls enjoyed our annual Mid
Winter gathering at Parawai Lodge.
Unfortunately for us a party of 21
Wellington College students were
staying the night in the Lodge. The
weather was not good on the tops &
so the party in front of them decided to
stay at Field Hut forcing the College
team to stay at Parawai.
Not to be put off we continued with our sumptuous 4 course meal on the deck
of nibbles, soup, bbq & salads, & of course deserts.
The few that were going to stay decided not to although the students &
teachers did offer to squeeze up for us. Because the students helped clean up
our few leftovers we were cleaned up & heading home by 8.30pm.
I would like to thank all those that came & shared their food & then helped me
get all my gear back to my car.
Jenny N
Whareroa Farm, Sunday 22 June
Leader Brandon Holman
Campbells-Mill Road and Orange Hut Trip 22/06/2014
Five of us met up at the Whareroa Farm car park at 8:45am on a sunny but
quite crisp Winter morning and set off up the switchback to reach CampbellsMill Road. This road was originally a service road for the electricity pylons up
there. After a few photo stops on the climb up, we reached the Akatarawa
Forest Park gate about 50 minutes later considerably warmed by the climb.
Then began a quite steep descent down Hydro Road to level off in a pleasant
forest, alive
with
birdsong.
Orange hut
offered
a
convenient
place
to
have
morning
tea, and we
chatted with
some quadbike
folk
there for a
while.
Resuming
once more
and taking
the Norms
Crossing
We were considerably warmed by the climb through the Whareroa farm.
Road, we had the first of two river crossings which needed to be walked
through so our feet inevitably got wet. Soon we came to the junction with
Whakatikei Road, and turned west to get us back to the top of Campbells-Mill
Road once more. At one point we came across a column of 4-wheel drive
vehicles that were queued up behind one that had mechanical problems.
It was tough going on the section up to the Titi Road/Perhams Road junction
and some of us had to walk our bikes uphill, but we eventually reached the top
and had an easy downhill back to the carpark, with stunning views of Kapiti
Island on the way. We were back in the carpark by 12:40 pm, after a most
enjoyable morning ride.
Coppermine to Kiritaki 28-29th June 2014
Leader Neville
Living in Woodville for a number of years I had explored most of the access
points and streams around the local ranges, but had never linked them all up
and done the trip all the way through from the Coppermine road end through
to the Kumeti road end. Asking around at the club it looked as if this steep and
leatherwood covered end of the Ruahine range would be new territory for
most, so an ideal destination for a weekend trip. Reading that other clubs had
done the trip through between the two road ends had me offering to lead a
trip, and putting it on the list.
The forecast for the weekend wasn’t too bad and after an impromptu stop for
coffee in Woodville 8 trampers regrouped at Kumeti road end dropping off a
car on the way in the Coppermine car park. This was the opposite way round
to what was planned but seemed the better way to do it with the short daylight
hours. With the expectation of the cloud clearing the group headed up the
Kumeti stream in showery conditions. After a steep scramble up onto the
ridge, the track up towards Maharahara peak was quite pleasant going. We
made quite good time to the Kiritaki hut turnoff and even though the rain had
stopped the cloud remained quite low with a cool breeze. After finding a
sheltered spot for a lunch stop in misty and cold conditions we started the
steep drop down to the Oruakeretaki stream with Kiritaki hut in view on the
opposite ridge most of the way. It might have been a steep drop down to the
stream in places but it was an even steeper albeit brief climb up to Kiritaki hut.
This hut is high on the ridge with good views out over Southern Hawkes Bay.
We were the only ones in residence and after a couple of attempts we
managed to get the fire going enough to warm the hut and make for quite a
pleasant evening.
A steep and slippery section on the descent to the
Raparapawai
Next day it was a
small up from the
hut and a big
down
to
the
Raparapawai
stream, down the
stream for a while,
to be followed by
another steep up
onto the ridge.
This
whole
sequence of up
and down was
then
repeated
again for the next
stream south until
we spotted the
Coppermine Car
Park on the last
decent
through
farmland for the
day as it was just
starting to get
dark. Good to
have done the trip
this way around
as it was a long
(9hr) and quite
hard second day.
After a quick car
shuffle to pick up
the car from the
other car park we
were on the way
home.
This area of the Ruahine range is really quite rugged and steep and I’m sure
we all felt our leg muscles next day after quite a hard trip with all those ups
and downs. Good to have finally done it and at the same time been
somewhere a bit different.
Those on the trip were Sue, Owen, Marian, Tony, Chantal, Elisabeth, & Neville
(scribe)
Battle Hill – Mt Wainui – Whareroa Farm – Sunday 13 July
Leader Glenda Robb
Seven Parawai Sunday trampers were joined by eight members of the
Whanganui Tramping Club for this classic trip across the hill tops on an
overcast, but not rainy winter Sunday.
Help! - we were outnumbered by our visitors ... and the Whanganui people
looked very perky – ready and waiting for us at the entrance to Whareroa
Farm Park when we
arrived for an 8am
start.
They had
already been on the
road for a couple of
hours!
A quick sorting out
of cars ensued, with
a few left behind
(cars, that is, not
people) for the car
shuffle at the end of
the day. Half an
hour later it was
boots on at Battle
The mist closed in on us
Hill and the route march began. First a walk
through the farm paddocks, then across
Transmission Gully with much discussion about whether That Road would
ever really go through this green and pleasant landscape.
A jump across a stream put us on the Puketiro track and a steady uphill walk
through the pine forest. A snack stop on the way up soon had us pulling on
extra layers and woolly hats – that breeze was cool and getting cooler as we
continued on, eventually veering off Puketiro track to follow the ridgeline north
toward Mt Wainui. Here were the best views of the day – no Kaikouras in
sight but at least the Porirua basin showed itself enough to warrant a few
photos.
Shortly our path was blocked by a sturdy looking gate and a Private Property
sign, but fortunately Chris and I had checked this bit of the route beforehand
and had got permission for our group to go through. (Soon, though, milling will
start in this area and it will be out of bounds until this work is finished). It was
pretty easy to skirt around the gate, find some shelter from the wind and
convenient logs for sitting on for morning tea/second breakfast/lunch stop –
depending what time your day had started.
Onward
then, up and
down
the
gentle ridge
line with the
mist closing
in a bit but
the
wind
mostly at our
backs.
Before too
long
the
open hillside
turned
to
bush,
the
track got a
little steeper,
muddier and
more rootbound and
From there it was a long and gentle downward semi-circle
we were, of
course, climbing Mt Wainui. Up and over, with lunch on the downhill side (we
did walk as well as eat!) and before long a hop over the fence for a wee
shortcut (with permission) through Farmer Perkin’s land.
From there it was a long and gentle downward semi-circle sweep around the
hills to eventually link up with Campbell’s Mill Road and the downhill track
through Whareroa Farm and back to the cars by about 4pm.
While the drivers headed back to Battle Hill in a couple of the cars, the rest
managed to squeeze into the remaining cars and head off for tea and cake at
the Keating/Robb residence – a better sounding option than a 40 minute wait
in the Whareroa carpark, especially for those facing a couple of hours drive
home to Whanganui.
All in all, a good day out for Parawai people – Owen, Marian, Patrick, Tony,
Wayne, Chris and Glenda accompanied by 8 intrepid Whanganui trampers.
We should do it again soon, before the track closes for the timber milling.
Mt Mick Sunday 20 July
Leader Tony Quayle
Arriving at the Waitohu road end in steady rain wasn't the best way to start a
trip but incipient mutiny was quickly overtaken by Parawai enthusiasm as we
set off up the valley. The earlier rain had added to the quagmire of cattle
churnings towards the top end of the valley but our fleet-footed crew managed
to pick its way through without getting too plastered. Once we were past that
and onto a typical Tararua uphill grunt we felt more in our element.
Towards the top of the ridge we stopped to look at the well-signposted
remains of RNZAF Lockheed Ventura 4673 which came to grief in February
1946. As a recreational pilot I always find these Tararua aircraft wrecks
poignant reminders of how many young lives were lost while training to defend
our country.
[Read more about this and other Tararua aircraft accidents here:
http://parawaitc.org.nz/index.php/useful-links/9-uncategorised/85-planecrashes]
A short
climb
above
the
Ventura
put us
on the
main
ridge for
a lunch
stop in
the wet
forest
before
heading
south
over
Mick and onto Tangata Maunga where snow flurries reminded us it was
winter. From here it was just a long, straightforward walk down past Waitohu
Lodge (another brief lunch stop) on old logging roads back to the valley.
Thanks to Alex Mullholland, Mike Carruthers, Gareth Rapley, Julie James,
Marian and Owen Cox, Neville Grubner, Patrick Liss and Paula Richardson for
their company on a thoroughly enjoyable day trip.
Kaitoke to Tutuwai 26-27th July 2014
Leader Neville
This was down as an easy overnight trip and ended up to be a very big one as
we ended up with 17 names on the trip list, and two other club members
planning to join us for the night coming in a different way. We had also
planned a special combined dinner to make sure we get good use of the extra
large billy purchased on the Hollyford trip earlier in the year. With that many on
the list I was hoping that there would be no one else in the hut as with our
group alone it was going to be full. A few days before I checked most of the
other club calendars on the Net and yep it looked good.
On arrival at the hut Gareth and John were already there, so it was time for a fire
and the much anticipated meal preparation
With quite a good weekend forecast we assembled at the rear of the school
and headed away with the usual Parawai laughter and enthusiasm. Eventually
leaving the new Kaitoke car park about 9.00am in fine frosty conditions we
had a relatively uneventful walk up over the saddle and up the open river
valley to Tutuwai. With a large group we got a bit separated and regrouped
and stopped for lunch at the swing bridge over the Tauherenikau river We met
a couple of guys with a dog on the way, so we now were certain the hut was
going to be full tonight.
Arriving at the hut Gareth and John were already there, so time for a fire and
the much anticipated meal preparation. Not long after another young couple
arrived on their first tramp and we were all getting well settled for the evening
when the door opens and a girl pokes her head in to say, “Oh there is
someone here”. It looked initially like a couple more for the night, but how
wrong we were as it turned out that a group of 45 from VUWTC had just
arrived. If the hut wasn’t full before it was now overflowing.
The VUWTC group had come to celebrate mid winter and had some tents, but
many were not that well prepared so the hut continued to fill to the stage of not
an inch of floor space to spare. It must have been a bit of a challenge not to
step on a body for those who needed to get up during the night. Getting
breakfast in the morning wasn’t easy until some of the bodies migrated to the
bunks we had vacated. Without sleeping mats and thin sleeping bags a few of
the group didn’t look, as it had been a great night of rest.
Next day was a bit overcast with drizzle for the trip back down the river valley.
Except for a return trip for a forgotten coat, again quite uneventful. With the
large group the walking speeds varied quite a bit, so it wasn’t easy to manage
to all regroup for both lunch and at the end. Never mind we all made it safely
and enjoyed the company and surroundings. In hindsight it was perhaps too
many to walk as one group and it would have been easier to manage by
splitting into two with a second leader. Something to consider next time we
have a large list of names on an overnight trip.
Those on the trip were Peter, Rex, Darrell, Chantal, Heather, Merlin, Mark,
David, Mike, Alex, Gemma, Ross, Sally, Rachel, Liam, John, Garreth,
Elisabeth, & Neville (scribe)
David’s day walk 10th August 2014
Leader David
On the 10th August a small group gathered in the frosty Maungakotukutuku
valley with the idea that David would lead them up to Mt Manganui and
beyond. Problem!! David doesn’t know the way and could Wupert take over
as leader and save the day. Oh no we as usual have Wupert just in the right
place when needed. If all goes to plan we might even find some wimu roots or
possibly talking trees along the way. So it was Wupert who stepped up to lead
a small group of tamper’s up through the bush and light snow cover to the top
of Mt Manganui. From the top we had great views of the snow covered
Southern Tararuas and Chris could even spot his house in Raumati.
How he knew it was his
house I’m not sure, was
it the lack of snow on
Chris’s roof that made it
so easy to spot?
Eventually
Wupert
managed to drag the
group away from the
simply wonderful views
and lead them along the
ridge and down to
Martins valley. After a
pleasant and somewhat
romantic lunch stop in
the sun down on the
valley floor the group
headed up the valley
towards Mt Titi. A few
times along the way
David pretended to know
where he was and take
the lead, but Wupert was
wise to this and always
came to the rescue just
as the group had the
potential
to
get
completely lost.
With a small group and Wupert
in his element we traced our
way back down from Titi through the various bush trails to the car park. We
were home mid afternoon with time for a beer at Monteiths. Thanks David for
a good trip.
Could Wupert take over as leader and save the day?
Yours Wupert.
Te Kopi Homestead trip – August 16/17
Leader Chantal Heller
On a slightly overcast day eight happy trampers left Paraparaumu to venture,
West to East, all the way to the Wairarapa Coast. Bound for the Te Kopi
Homestead, we had an obligatory brunch date in Martinborough and then a
short stormy walk at Lake Ferry, before arriving at the venue no earlier than
12.45 as per instructions from DOC.
Te Kopi Homestead is a 4 bedroom house (sleeps 10 in beds but plenty of
floor space should you require it) two hot showers, fully equipped kitchen and
a warm cozy lounge. It also has a fully functioning laundry which we all fought
to use first and outside beams a fire BBQ which would be wonderful on a hot
balmy summer’s day to drink a G & T or two… or if you are less refined, a
beer or three.
Rex and his son Carl joined us for tea in the parlour room and then we
climbed up the back of the homestead to the top of a hill, along the top and
around following the lower route down to the carpark… giving beautiful views
of the Pinnacles. You can then continue down to the beach and after a quick
10 mins or so, you find yourself back at the house. It’s an easy round trip of
about 2/3 hours.
Many thanks to
Pistol for finding it

Mike, Alex and
Jenna joined us
and soon after we
started to eat…
and then after we
had eaten, we
continued to eat
because this was
down
as
a
gourmet
trip.
Many thanks to
the generosity of
my travel companions it was noted that we had no hope of starving this
weekend.
Rex and his son joined us in the parlour
The next morning, after a substantial meal of leftovers, we headed out to
Ngawi to view the tractors, fishing boats and friendly seals. Cape Palliser
lighthouse beckoned us up to the top with the promise of carrot cake and then
down we came for the start of our coastline walk to the rock walls and
stunning waterfall. Lunch was had and then it was back to the cars to drive to
Pahatanui for a strong coffee and cake.
I had a great time and it was lovely to see some new faces on our trip.
Those on the trip were…. alphabetically 
Alex, Carl, Chantal, Denise, Elisabeth, Jenna, Mike, Neville, Paul M, Paul T,
Peter, Rex and Rob
SLEDGE
2014
TRACK
–
Kahuterawa
Easy - Medium
Valley
24th
August,
Leader: Rātā
Trampers: Brandon, Cody, May
Mountain Bikers: David, Paul, Peter, Rodney & Luke
The day started as we meant it to go on, relaxing, educational and enjoyable.
9am, we met at Levin New World Carpark and with a need to be caffeinated
we enjoyed coffees and hot chocolate at the caf„.
With the bikers in their respective cars and the hikers in mine, we drove
towards Palmerston North (highway 57) to the Kahuterawa Valley. Just before
Turitea, you turn into Old West Road and a quick right turn into Kahuterawa
Road. Right at the end of this road is Sledge Track, a gem of a track, where
there is much more to see than meets the eye. In 2002, a key objective of the
Palmerston North City Council was to develop the Kahuterawa Valley as an
Outdoor Recreation Hub, providing stimulation for walkers, hikers and bikers.
Sledge Track follows an old roadway to Hardings Park, a reserve of native
bush at the southern end of the Turitea Water Reserve. Opened in 2003, the
track restoration was led by retired farmer Ian Argyle and volunteers, using
GPS positioning systems, old survey maps to ensure that the track followed
the old road.
Ample car parking is provided about 200 metres from the start of the track.
When we arrived at about 11 am the car park already boasted a large number
of cars and the fact that we passed 6 cyclists on the way in was a visual
reminder of just how popular this walk and the developing Mountain Bike
tracks are.
At the entrance, a colourful, information board points out the details and
highlights of the Sledge and Mountain Bike Tracks. Here we parted ways,
walkers to the left, to walk the 10.9 km, Sledge Track – Hardings Park Loop
while the bikers to the right, cross the Black Bridge to whizz up and around the
five bike tracks in and around Arapuke Forest.
If you wish to tick of a section of Te Araroa then you also cross this bridge and
walk up the short Back Track to begin at the northern start of Burtons Track to
end up at Tokomaru.
As you walk Sledge Track, alongside the Kahuterawa Stream and then up to
Hardings Park you are prompted to learn of local history; various points along
the way bear names that spark your curiosity; this is only the beginning.
Sledge Track has walking opportunities for all ages and experience
. It starts very easy and affords easy access to shallow to mid swimming
areas. It then becomes undulating, with lots of ups and downs, but with the
various named sign points, sets of steps (all named), small waterfalls, huge
rocks (Argyle Rocks) numerous bait stations (one was home to a big fat, rat),
bellbirds and tui trilling and an ever changing flora, the going seems effortless.
Arriving at “The Elevation Viewpoint" (just over an hour) you begin to climb up
into "Hardings Park" and begin the loop walk along Platinum Ridge where the
platinum mines are.
Prospecting for platinum started in the Kahuterawa area c1875. A German
geologist, Alexander Menesdorffer (left) with George Brown and Williams, had
two fifty acre claims in the Kahuterawa Valley. He came to the Hardings Park
area in 1903 from Melbourne to search for minerals (platinum), and returned
twice more, the last time at the age of 70. Traces of platinum were confirmed
in 1906, but mining was never commercially established in the ranges.
Knowing that it was quite a hike up to this ridge, we took a quick snack and
drink before starting our ascent. While climbing we were often cooled off by
the crispness of a rogue easterly breeze. Just before you break out onto the
top of the ridge you reach the first of the horizontal mine shafts. This shaft is
very muddy and boggy to enter so we decided to leave this and wait and
venture into the other horizontal shaft on the Toe Toe Loop.
At the top, is the
junction of Toe
Toe Loop Track,
turn left and
head
towards
Red Rock Knob
a 1/2 hour (a
great
lookout
point and a
must if you want
to climb down
into the vertical
mine holes), or
go right and
follow the longer
part of the Toe
Toe Loop Track
(2hrs to Red
Rock Knob and a must if you want to walk into the horizontal mine shaft where
the cave wetas are).
Knowing that Red Rock would be a fantastic place to lunch and only a short
distance away, we veered left. What a brilliant place to eat and take up a welldeserved break, we climbed up and over to shelter on the west side, soaking
up the sun and admiring the view. We were able to look over and down at
Arapuke Forest where you could see various past and present environmental
changes in the land / whenua and wondered where amongst the working
forest our bikers were.
At Red Rock Knob you can choose to follow the additional Platinum Mine
Loop Track which takes you past a number of old vertical mineshafts, we
opted to explore this additional loop. Our young, but not so brave Cody
pleaded with Brandon to break the cobwebs and climb down the ladder into
the mineshafts first. Arriving back at Red Rock Knob junction we headed right
along the longer Toe Toe Loop and soon came to the second horizontal shaft.
This is well worth entering as this is where the cave wetas are. Cody poked
his head in just enough to catch a glimpse, preferring to ponder if the clod of
earth he held in his hand would yield platinum.
Back on the Toe Toe Loop track, you’ll walk through a section of cleared bush
that shows evidence of early logging of native trees. Logging occurred from
the early 1900s with occasional logs still being removed up to the 1960s.
This stark difference from the bush to cleared land reinforces the proverb
‘Toi tu te whenua, toi te mana’ – Leave the land undisturbed and the mana /
integrity remains intact’. You soon realise that this clearing is wanting of
birdsong.
Back into the bush we walked until we came to the junction and headed back
down towards the car park. Halfway up or half way down we met up with our
bikers who were now keen to visit the caves. However, as it was now 3pm
David, Paul & Peter decided to leave it until another day while Rodney and
Luke continued to climb up for a gander.
By all accounts the bikers had had a fantastic time on the MTB Tracks and
were fortunate to be in the right place at the right time. The president of the
Palmerston North MTB and fellow bikers were up on the tracks and were able
to advise our boys of the places to go as well as share riding tips.
Although I have walked Sledge Track 3-4 times before, I felt truly rewarded
from this walk. The pace of my fellow hikers encouraged me to take stock of
the environs around me and in doing so was able to take a lot more learning
from this experience. Also having the enthusiasm of young hikers playing
around in the water and bush, asking questions was satisfying.
Well worth the trip, ‘He haerenga ki ōku kāinga waewae’
A place where my feet have trod and feel at home.
RANGIWAHIA – TRIANGLE – DEADMAN’S TRACK
FIT
Leader: Tony
Organiser: Rātā
Trampers: Patrick, David, Gareth, Marian & Julie
After walking to Rangiwahia Hut with the Manawatu Walking Festival earlier
this year (in summer), I vowed to return and walk further up onto the
Whanahuia Range. Club Trip Planning provided this opportunity, uniting
Tony’s field knowledge and my willingness to organise the trip. Our planned
trip was to tramp to Triangle Hut starting from Renfrew Road car park, lunch at
Rangiwahia Hut, up onto the Whanahuia Range to the junction and drop down
into Triangle Hut. The next day complete the loop known as Deadman’s Track
back to the car park.
Parawai trampers not only know a lot about tramping they also know where
the best food stops are so after meeting at Levin New World we headed off to
Robert Harris Coffee Shop in Fielding. The food and service lived up to its
reputation, bellies full and paper bags of yummy slices to sustain us on our
tramp we headed off to Rangiwahia to begin our tramp at the Renfrew Road.
DOC have done a lot of work developing the access to the Ruahine Range
from Renfrew Road. There is now a large, lower car park complete with toilet
facilities and a smaller, top car park where you enter the bush. Just as you
enter you will see the Deadmans Track junction on the right.
The walk begins and stays with a steady grade, I was grateful for this, as the
last time I had carried a full pack was back in June. Alongside the edges of the
track lay remnants of snow indicating that there had been heavy falls. In
comparison the Tararua Range had only had slight dustings.
There had been further upgrades to the track since February, largely due to a
slip that appears to keep breaking away. The new track zigzags up and over
the slip and to make the climb easier and safer, lots of wooden and concrete
steps have been put in. Also the wooden arched bridge that crosses the ravine
of the Mangahuia Stream (a fantastic photo spot) has had new foot slats put
in.
You know you are not too far from the top, because you not only can see the
rounded snow covered top, but it gets slightly steeper from here on. More new
wooden steps and around the corner a cute waterfall complete with a plastic
dinosaur precariously perched on top of a rock.
The track past here became quite slippery as there was lots of snow which
had iced over. It was here that Gareth tested his new ice axe to retrieve
Marian’s camera which had slipped out of her hands while capturing the
picturesque 360 views.
Just past this waterfall (about 10 mins) you come up to Rangiwahia Hut. The
hut has extensive views, taking in the volcanic plateau and the rugged hills
and valleys of the Rangitikei district. During the 1930s the rounded open top
of the ranges attracted ski enthusiasts and in 1938 the Rangiwahia Ski Club
was formed. A ski tow was built and a shepherd's hut extended. The hut has
since been replaced (Rangiwahia Hut on Rangiwahia Track) and little
evidence of the former ski-field remains. A nice reminder of this ski history is
the skis attached to the outside walls of the hut as hooks to house coats,
packs etc;
Here we stopped for a brew and tuck into our yummy slices before we headed
up the Whanahuia Range to Triangle Hut. The 12 bunk Rangiwahia Hut
currently had 3 occupants which was pleasing should we need to turn back if
we were unable to make it over the alpine tops. As all good trampers know,
travel on the open tops should not be attempted in poor visibility or bad
weather and while the sun was shining, the wind was picking up and heavy
black clouds to the east forecast gloomier things to come.
Dressed to deflect whatever Ranginui threw at us, we headed off up the snow
covered ridge on to the tops of the Whanahuia Range. The just visible
waratah poles marked the track. The snow got deeper the higher we went
making the going much harder. We all had several tumbles as the snow
concealed drops in the track. For every 6 – 7 steps your foot would go through
up to knee high, however I soon realised to keep to the clumps of tussock for
better footing.
David and Gareth eager to unleash their childhood instincts enjoyed bum
skiing off the side slopes of the ridge as they climbed. While climbing there
were times when the wind nearly blew you over as it whipped up snow and
slashed it against your face. And yet the sun shone on our backs as we
headed into the east against the wind and the heavy black cloud hung
suspended in a threatening manner. Photo opportunities were swiftly taken of
some great views, but it was too cold to linger.
Dressed to deflect whatever Ranginui threw at us, we headed off up the
snow covered ridge on to the tops of the Whanahuia Range
We made it to the track junction in just over 2 hours and the sign said another
2 hours to Triangle Hut. David showed us the glimpse of Triangle Hut in the
valley deep below. The descent to the hut looked rather steep from up high.
With the wind now whipping at us, the time 4 pm and another 2 hours of hard
yakka seemed too much to take on so we decided to turn back to Rangiwahia.
We pretty much flew down the track with the wind at our backs. I managed to
fall over with a full face-plant where I became cast in the snow and needed
David to haul me out. Further down the ridge Gareth and David began their
onslaught, ambushing me with snowballs. It was a lot of fun. Rather than stay
in wait to attack the other members of our group, we headed on down to
Rangiwahia to put the billy on.
Entering the hut, we were met by a heatwave from the wood burner and a sea
of children and adults. In our 3 Πhour absence a school party of 10 had
arrived as well as 2 frozen hunters swelling the hut numbers to 15. With our 7
we were aiming to squeeze 22 bodies into a 12 bunk hut. Where there’s a will
there’s way, top n tailing, sleeping under bunks and in corners, we managed
to settle ourselves in.
By 7.30 – 8pm we were all in bed and begging the Sandman to visit, even the
school kids were settled; they were fantastic, thoughtful, polite and respectful
to fellow hut users.
In the morning we were up fairly early, 7 am. The hunters had gone and the
kids were up organising their breakfasts so that they could be out by their
intended departure of 8 am. We weren’t far behind them leaving at about
8.30am. The bad weather still hung off, but hovered overhead with the wind
doing its best to stir up the mix. Dressing up for the occasion we headed off
down to the car park. Part way down the track, looking back up you could see
that it was now snowing up on top, we knew we had made the right decision
not to venture on yesterday.
Rather than head back home straight away we headed off to see the glow
worm caves at Apiti. While there were none to be found, the short walk was
interesting with the fossils and walls of dripping moss. After numerous photos
of the cavern (unfortunately hard to capture on film the absolute beauty of
what the eye sees) our stomachs dictated our next stop.
We are so fortunate to have within the club, people who know where to go to
find interesting sights as well as good wholesome food outlets. Hansen’s of
Kimbolton, yummy lambs fry & bacon and lamb burgers washed down with
dark ale. The eatery is warming with a big open fire and with service, much
improved, now comes with a smile.
So in the words of Arnie “I’ll be back”, not only to Hansens’, but to knock off
the Rangiwahia, Triangle, Deadman’s Loop.
‘Hokia ki ngā maunga kia purea koe e ngā hau a Tāwhirimātea’
‘Return to the mountains to be cleansed by the winds of Tāwhirimātea’
Zealandia Sunday 7 September
Leader Paula
It has been quite a few years since I last went to Zealandia ( in fact I think it
was still called the Karori Wildlife Sanctuary when I was last there) so I
Up close and personal
thought it was a good idea to revisit it.
Zealandia opens at 10am so there was no hurry. Graeme ,Chantal and I made
our way leisurely into Karori (via a very nice breakfast stop at Poppies in
Mana) and met up with Gareth.
Fortunately for us Gareth has been a volunteer guide at the centre and so he
knows his way around really well, we let him be our guide for the day!!
The first amazing sight for the day were the Wellington Green geckos sunning
themselves in an enclosure not far from the entrance , they are delightful wee
creatures and the most amazing green. We made our way along the lakeside
via the birdsong gully and shag lookout to the Takahe enclosure and spent
some time here with the elderly Takahe pair, always a privilege to spend time
with these stately birds. We carried on along the popular tracks, stopping at
the feeding stations to watch the Kaka, the Kakariki, the Hihi and lots of
Saddlebacks, then up to the lookout to get our bearings. We walked over the
upper dam then left the main tracks to continue onto the turbine track up to the
turbine for a lunch stop in the sun with a mighty view down the valley. Heading
back down the valley after lunch we were really lucky to see a Tuatara not far
from the track (we would probably have gone right past if Gareth had not been
with us!)
We adventured
into the Morning
star mine on our
way back down
and saw more
Tuatara in the
research area.
Holy smoke a Moa. Stay away
from the sharp end guys.
In one day we
saw
a
great
variety of birds
and all day the
birdsong
was
beautiful (it must
be magical in the
early
morning
and
the
evenings).
The
Zealandia display
is well worth a
look (especially
the Moa he’s great) so, if you haven’t been to
Zealandia lately get along there.
I recommend it !
Pukeatua Track – 21-September-2014 (Otaki Forks to Mangaone
South)
Leader Chris
Nine hardy trampers braved
the weather and were
rewarded with a very
pleasant lunch break on top
of Pukeatua in the sunshine.
The previous day (Election
Day) had been a rough,
stormy, miserable day when
most of us would have
stayed at home (apart from
voting).
I had cancelled the shuttle bus two days before so we took all the cars to
Mangaone South road end before making our way to Otaki Forks in two cars
as part of a car shuffle. The Tararuas were covered in mist and we could
make out patches of snow on the tops but we started our climb in clear but
cloudy weather.
The Pukeatua track is now part of the Te Araroa Walkway and the track is well
marked with blue poles in the clearings and orange triangles in the bush. After
an initial climb of around 300m the track levels out on the long ridge up to
Pukeatua, and after about two and a half hours we walked out onto a clearing
below the top. Here we had lunch in the sunshine looking out to the Kapiti
Coast in front of us. Behind us we could see the snow on the Tararua Peaks
and not far away to the South was the peak of Kapakapanui.
The rest of the trip was all in
sunshine – a pleasant amble,
despite some muddy sections
of track, down through the
bush and on to the pine forest
and logging tracks. We arrived
back at Mangaone South road
end at around 3:30pm (a trip
of about 6 hours).
Participants: Chris Keating
(leader and scribe), Wayne
Williams, Paul Michl, Patrick
Liss, Brandon Holman, Codey
(Brandon’s 13 year old
prot„g„), Tony Quayle, Mike
Carruthers, Alex Mulholland
Rimutaka Incline Sunday 5th October
Leader Chantal
The day started ominously with my car window falling out of its hinges but I
managed to get (with the help of duck tape) to the start of the school meet up
at 8.30 to meet 6 keen bikers chomping at the bit (well actually… they were
just hangin’ loose). Anyway we headed off and on our way, collected a few
more people and finally ended up at the start line with a total of 14.
A bike almost falling off its bike rack, one
flat tyre, one forgotten helmet….no
challenge was too great for us and so we headed up the valley. The summit
arrived surprisingly quick for us fitter types . After a quick snack, everyone
headed down through the long dark scary tunnel and down to the Siberian
turnoff finally making it to the lunch stop at the end of the track. This was great
as there were plenty of mutterings of “maybe just riding to the summit would
do”.
Riding back up was a different story..some rode all the way (showoffs) while
the more mature of us walked the first bit and on reaching the summit again
hopped on our bikes and zoomed to the finish line.
Afternoon tea can only be described as a symphony of delicious tastes.
Choices of freshly baked scones (cheese, date,raisin…) with a selection of
homemade jams, chutneys, clotted creams, teas and even something for our
coffee addicts.
Thanks to Owen, Marian, Neville, Elisabeth, Paul, Lynda, Joy, Phil, Paula,
Rex, Wayne, Gareth, Dave…for making this a fun day with me. Scribe Chantal
No challenge was too great
TRIP SCHEDULE: Summer 2014/15
24-28
Oct
Labour
Weekend
Organiser: Peter
Old Ghost Road (Buller to Mokihinui)
Ph: 9022905
Grade: F
Fare:
$tba
(circa $300)
Explore the long forgotten gold miners road on the west coast.
25-27
Oct
Labour
Weekend
Organiser: Phil C
Tararua Middle Crossing
Ph: 9024014
Grade: F
Fare: $tba
Phil wants to do a middle crossing visiting Powell-Mid Waiohine-AokaparangiAndersons Memorial and Waitewaewae huts.
Saturday 01 November
Organiser: Phil G
Parawai Lodge Re-Paint
Ph: 9048534
Grade: Working
Bee
Show our club hut some love.
Sunday 02 November
Organiser: Darrel
Baring Head
Ph: 9022966
Grade: MTB
Fare: $0
Fare: $15
Bike the popular track to Baring Head lighthouse.
Sunday 09 November
Organiser: Owen
Kime-Waiotauru
Ph: 9058094
Grade: F
Fare: $10
Up to Kime and out via the Waiotauru river from the saddle between Field
Peak and Hector.
Sunday 16 November
Organiser: Rodney
Beehive Creek
Ph: 9056768
Grade: E
Fare: $25
A great day out for the family and an opportunity to visit the Pohangina Valley
Sunday 23 November
Organiser Solly
Whareroa
Ph: 9040226
Grade:
(E)
MTB
Fare: $5
A fairly easy ride exploring the new Whareroa farm mountain biking track and
a bit more.
Sunday 30 November
Organiser: Tony
Mt Reeves circuit
Ph: 2399232
Grade: MF
Fare: $20
Normally a weekend trip but easily managed in a day: Waiohine road end Cone Hut - Tutuwai Hut - Mt Reeves and back to the road end.
07 December
Organiser: Neville
Maharahara Crossing
Ph: 9056084
Grade: M
Fare: $25
Over Mt Maharahara and through the largest, unbroken mass of leatherwood
in New Zealand. Car swap or key swap needed on this trip.
Sunday 14 December
Organiser: Patrick
City to Sea
Ph: 9047885
Grade: EM
Fare: $15
A great day out exploring our beautiful city.
New Year
Organiser: Owen
Multiday Trip in the South Island
Ph: 9022966
Grade: F
Fare: $tba
Seven days just after Xmas. Meet in Picton and drive to the road end. A loop
trip in some new country away from the crowds. A mix of track and tops, some
huts and some camping.
Sunday 11 January
Organiser: Brandon
Rimutaka Rail Trail or Hutt River
Ph: 2981337
Grade: MTB
Fare: $tba
A Summers' day cycle ride and maybe a river swim.
17-19 January (Wgtn
Anniv)
Organiser: Chantal
Kaimanawas – Clements Rd End
Ph: 2990600
Grade: M
Fare: $50
Staying in tents will be the plan. Driving up to Taupo Friday night with free
accomodation courtesy of Chantal.
24-25 January
Organiser: Rata/Owen
Triangle-Irongate (river)
Ph:
06 Grade: F
3684992
An overnight stay at Triangle and out via Irongate.
Fare: $25
29 January-01 February
Organiser: Steve
Kayaking Marlborough Sounds
Ph: 9020902
Grade: EM
Fare: $tba
Ferry to Picton Thursday night. More details to come.
06-08
February
(Waitangi)
Organiser: Tony
North East Ruahines
Ph: 2399232
Grade: F
Fare: $35
We might tack an extra day onto this trip and loop around Nomans, Diane's,
Taruarau, Shutes, Ruahine and Dead Dog huts.
14-15 February
Organiser: Peter
Barlow Hut
Ph: 9022905
Grade: E
Fare: $35
Grade: F
Fare: $20
A walk up the river to Barlow hut.
20-22 February
Organiser: David
Three Kings
Ph:
027
4875814
Some big country in the Tararuas (note: walk in on Friday night).
25 Feb- 01 March
Organiser: Chris
Three Passes
Ph: 9050074
Grade: F
Fare: $tba
A classic South Island trip from the Arthurs Pass area to Lake Kaniere near
Hokitika on the West Coast. The trip goes over the Southern Alps main divide
three times, crossing Harman Pass, Whitehorn Pass and the historic Browning
Pass.
Sunday 08 March
Organiser: Paul
Mountain Bike Ride
Ph: 9043555
Grade:MTB
Fare: $tba
Paul will think of something closer to the time.
13-15 March
Organiser: David
Mt Taranaki
Ph:
027
4875814
Grade: F
Fare: $tba
A challenging day walk up a stunning North island mountain (note: travel up to
Stratford Friday night).
21-22 March
Organiser: Sue
Toka-Leon Kinvig-Ngamoko
Ph: 9047261
Grade: F
Fare: $30
Up Shorts track and down to Leon Kinvig via Toka.
28-29 March
Organiser: Mike
Penn Creek
Ph: 2990509
Grade: MF
Fare: $10
Into Penn Creek hut the usual way and out via Penn Creek and the Otaki
River.
03-06 April (Easter)
Organiser: Owen
Waiohine Pinnacles
Ph: 9058094
Grade: F
Fare: $15/20
A loop taking in the Waiohine Pinnacle, the headwater flats of the Waiohine
and Dorset Ridge and back out over Mitre.
11-12 April
Organiser: Phil C
Shingle Slip Knob
Ph: 9024014
Grade: F
Fare: $20
Holdsworth road end to shingle slip knob, stay at Jumbo hut Saturday night.
Sunday 19 April
Organiser: Heather
Kapakapanui
Ph: 9021000
Grade: MF
Fare: $5
A favourite day walk doing the loop around Kapakapanui.
25-27 April (Anzac)
Organiser: Peter
Pelorous River Richmond Ranges
Ph: 9022905
Grade: F
Fare: $tba
Explore some river valleys (and maybe a few hills) in this beautiful region.
More details to follow closer to the time.
Trip Grades: - Walking times
Family easy walking 1 - 2 hours.
E 1 - 3 hours
M 3 - 6 hours
F 6 - 10 hours
Trip Costs
Paid by you to the driver of the car you travel in.
Kapakapanui / Maungakotukutuku / Pukerua Bay
$5
Otaki Forks
$10
Kaitoke / Ohau / Orongorongo / Wellington
$15
Mangahao / Holdsworth / Palliser Bay
$20
Putara Road / South Ruahines (east) / mid Ruahines (west)
$25
NW Ruahines
$30
Mid & north Ruahines (east)
$35
Tongariro / Kaimanawas / Kawekas
$50
There may be additional costs determined by the Trip Leader. (e.g. where one
car tows a trailer of gear, or car shuffles involve extra driving)
Trip Leaders
Before the trip.
Trip Leaders must email or text the Chief Guide (and additional contacts) with
the names of people going on the trip and provide a summary of the planned
route and estimated times for leaving and returning.
A reminder that all Trip Leaders are expected to take a Club First Aid Kit and
the club EPIRB with them on all club trips. Let Elisabeth know in advance of
your trip and the gear can be picked up at a Club Meeting.
AFTER THE TRIP:
Report back to Chief Guide within a few hours of return.
Make sure someone on the trip has agreed to write a report for the newsletter
within the next week.
Make sure someone on the trip is responsible for collecting a few photos for
the club album.
Photos and newsletter report can be emailed to Brian Solomon at
Solomon.brian0@gmail.com
FIRST AID
A reminder that all Trip Leaders are expected to take a Club First Aid Kit and
the club EPIRB with them on all club trips. Let Elisabeth know in advance of
your trip and the gear can be picked up at a Club Meeting.
CLUB DIRECTORY
Meeting nights
The first and third Wednesday of each month
Meeting Venue Kapiti Primary school (opposite Paraparaumu Police Station)
Time
7:30pm get together. Meeting starts at 7:45pm
Mail Address
Email address
Website
P O Box 771 PARAPARAUMU
parawaitc@paradise.net.nz
www.parawaitc.org.nz
Office Holders
President
Marian Cox
Phone
email
905 8094
marianicox@paradise.net.nz
Vice President
Owen Cox
905 8094
owencox@paradise.net.nz
Chief Guide
David Williams
027 4875814
dr.williams@paradise.net.nz
Secretary
Neville Grubner
905 6084
ngrubner@clear.net.nz>
Treasurer
Phil Glasson
904 8534
kereru501@gmail.com
Gear Steward
Elisabeth Hynes
905 6084
hynes.kapiti@paradise.net.nz
Newsletter Editor
Brian Solomon
904 0226
solomon.brian0@gmail.com
Committee
Patrick Liss, Tony Quayle, Peter Davis, Chantal Heller, Steve
Hudson, Jenny Newby, Darel Sutherland, Chris Keating.
Like to put yourself in this picture?
The good citizens of Kapiti can rest easy each first and third Wednesday of
the month as the bright eyed, grey haired roustabouts, who make up the
Parawai Tramping Club, are not out putting road marking cones on top of
telegraph poles but instead are, at 7.30pm, at the Kapiti Primary School
sharing their recent tramping adventures and planning their next outings.
Why not come along and check us out?