4. 15/12/2021. Hindon. Blacksmiths Gully. Leaders Jill Reid, Sarah McCormack, Linda Partridge, Jan Butcher.
A reasonable day dawned for our combined Christmas visit to Hindon, and about 40 people headed up George King Memorial Drive to the hall. We deposited our “plates”, wrapped up warmly, and drove to Don Graham’s gravesite on Ardachy Station.
Getting sorted (caption and photo Ross)
Don loved this challenging country & he overlooks the hills and Taieri River.
Lovely spot for a tribute stone (caption and photo John)
The hikers walked a gentle track & enjoyed the spectacular scenery.
Nice view of the hill (caption and photo Helen)The group of 19 hikers (caption and photo Helen)
The trampers headed down the hill to Blacksmiths Gully, then looped back up to the cars – about 6 km.
First impression of the vastness of the countryside (caption and photo John)Panaroma – open country dwarfs everyone (caption and photo John)Phil and Peter in their happy place (caption and photo John)Are we going the right way Jill? (caption and photo John)Trampers among the Foxgloves (caption and photo Pam)
Kevin Burke said Ian Fleming’s grace and we then enjoyed the generous pot luck lunch.
Chris Wither told us some Hindon Hall history & her various associations with it during her 38 years living at Hindon. She mentioned how mice often visited during yoga classes……and yes, one brave mouse came under the door soon after!
Lunch in the Hindon Hall (caption and photo Ross)
We greatly enjoyed Grant Shackell playing his guitar and singing along with his “blind date” Claire Currie.
The entertainers – Grant and ClaireEntertainment from Grant and Claire. Interesting woolsacks on the wall from past and present farms in the district (caption and photo Pam)
Thank you both for the wonderful entertainment, and to Jill Dodds and her helpers for organising the food etc. A very pleasant way to wrap up our tramping year!
Jill Reid
Tramper’s route
3. 2/4/2014 Both. Hindon. Machine Creek. Recently Bathgate, now Cowley Farm. Easy+ Leaders: Ian, Ken
GPS of route per Garmin, courtesy Ken.
GPS of route per iPhone app.
30 turned out for an earlier foggy, but later sunny, shorter trek over gloriously stock-free paddocks …
M/Tea in the dry away from the heavy dew on the grass. (John panorama pic)
to reach a ridge overlooking the Taieri River gorge. Wonderful views rewarded us on an autumnal day quite free of the slightest disturbing breeze. So we could just take our time and drink the prospect in.
A few of us ventured via cattle tracks down the steep slope below the ledge to the plateau below (as can be discerned from the iPhone app map) with the majority remaining quite content to laze in the sun. With plenty of time to spare, we eventually settled down for lunch, the majority again staying on the main ledge …
Lunching along the fence (John pic)
with a few taking advantage of the slope …
Lunch on slope overlooking Machine Creek. (Ken pic)
overlooking the dramatic Machine Creek gorge. All in all, an interesting resurrection of a tramp many of us had forgotten. – Ian.
2. 14/7/2004 Hindon, Machine Creek Penno farm Leaders: George, Molly
M/Tea Machine Creek
Machine Creek railway bridge, looking upstream
Machine Creek Lunch. George, Arthur, Pat, Molly, Margaret
1. 5/5/2004. Both. Hindon, Machine Creek, Deep Stream. Easy. George, Molly, Glenys P.
26. 10/11/2021. Three Kings – Heenan Road. M. Leaders: Cathy Ferguson and Sue Nichol
18 Hikers set off from double gates where we parked our cars about 9.15 on a very warm humid day.
Photo Cathy Ferguson
On a well formed farm track it is a steady climb through bush and morning tea was a stop, with views over the Taieri Plain.
Photo Cathy FergusonPhoto Cathy Ferguson
As we climbed higher there was several stops to enjoy the views of Lake Waipori, Lake Waihola and the wider Taieri.
Photo Cathy Ferguson
At the cattle yards where there was a small calf and 3 large cattle we turned right and walked up a rougher steep track until we reached the 3 Kings. Lunch stop was had at this point for a relax and a little banter.
We then headed back down the track to the vehicles. Amazing how going down always goes so much quicker.
A hot but warm day was finished with a drink at the Wobbly Goat.
25. 23/06/2021. Three Kings Trig F. M. Leaders: Eleanore and Peter
On a chilly calm morning, 23 rugged up trampers met at Heenan Road at 10:10am and headed through the gate, where we were greeted by a few cattle, who had made the track quite mucky. It is a steady climb up the farm track, enjoying views of lower Taieri at regroup stops.
By 11am we came across a sunny spot to enjoy smoko, probably halfway to 3 Kings.
Early view of the Taieri [Photo and caption John]Keeping to the farm track we continued climbing to the wooden cattle yards, then headed right up a lesser defined track, arriving at the first big rock, glistening in the sun and surrounded by smaller ones. Even though the air was very chilly, it was a good spot for photos and views.
Apparently Not the Three Kings [Photo and caption Pam Cocks]Next, keeping right, we followed the track up and around to 3 Kings, arriving around 12ish. They are 3 rocks, rather spread out, sort of in a row. There was plenty of that nasty Spaniard grass amongst Dracophyllum — common on the tops of Maungatua. Once again, we climbed on them, to take photos. Thin air up here at 647 metres!!
By now we were thinking about coffee and lunch, so we left on our way back down.
Soon after Trig F was spotted up a muddy cattle track so 16 of the group made the climb to say they had been to this trig which is slightly higher than 3 Kings at 703 metres.
Trig F has seen better days [Photo and caption Pam Cocks]Soon after, round 12:30ish, all met up on the track for lunch in the sun.
We had been given permission from land owners to visit their little hut in the bush near the cattle yards. It is really well set up, with a couple of beds, I would think many good times have been enjoyed in that hut.
Landowners Hut [Photo and caption Pam Cocks[We left the hut at 1:30pm for our downhill walk to the cars enjoying beaut views, particularly the intricate set of channels, swamps and lakes between Waipori and Waihola and also the Taieri river at the start of Taieri Gorge.
The descent [Photo and caption John]It is a nice way to end the day walking amongst the very old Beech trees amongst the native bush.
View over the Taieri Plains from below The Three Kings [Photo and caption Pam Cocks]On returning to the cars at 2:30pm, it was good to remove the muddy boots before going to Willowfield for coffee and cake. Another great outing, thanks Peter Gillespie and Arthur Heenan for great navigational skills leading us. This was the first visit to 3 Kings for some members. Good company, good friends, good fun makes us all happy.
I contacted Michelle & Steve and sent a couple of pics. thanking them for going through their property.
Eleanore Ryan & Peter Gillespie
From Strava courtesy Ross Davies
24. 14/11/2018. Hikers. Three Kings from Heenan Road. M. Leaders: Ian and Doug.
Thirty of those who weren’t away at the Hollyford Camp turned out to tackle the 4WD track up to Three Kings. Three Ramblers, who have chosen for themselves the name “The Eighties Plus” dropped back to continue at their own pace, getting ultimately as far up as the last gate on the track. The rest, with occasional rest stops and regroupings,
Morning tea with views of the Taieri. (Clive pic and caption.)
Ian explaining part of the history of the Taieri. (Clive pic and caption.) [Pointing out the original route up from Wesleydale Camp. – Ed]made it up the steadily graded track, overcoming the last very steep bits to reach the rocks high up on the Maungatua Range at its southern end by lunch time.
The day was fine and calm with only a little sharp wind up here persuading us to find our own sheltered but sunny spot for lunch. Quite a number of us were newer members and for many this was their first visit to these prominent rocks. Well done.
Lunch at Three Kings. (Ian pic and caption.)Our leaders Ian and Doug. (Clive pic and caption.)
After a leisurely lunch, it was back down the track again, this time each at their own pace now that it was a known route, and into the cars, to regather for coffee at Outram. A successful outing. – Ian and Doug.
23. 17/5/2017. Hikers. Three Kings from Heenan Road. M. Leaders: Ian and Doug.
Route map courtesy Ian. Nike pp not turned until 1km into trip so add 1km to all distances. (Ian pic and caption.)
We navigated our cars to what for the Hikers was a new entry spot. Back in 2006 the Todd Group had denied us access through the paddock next to the old Wesleydale Camp which gave us access to a lovely track through the bush above it opening to gorse leading to the FWD track above. Now, back at the bottom of a big dip in Heenan Road, there was an entry point to a parking spot up at the very bottom of that track, thanks to a hospitable owner’s permission.
Only 13 were able to turn out for the day. A first long-grassed paddock was the only steep effort, the track thereafter proving a delightfully modest steady gradient elevating us soon to impressive views over the Taieri plain. We stopped for morning tea at one such view,
Viewing the plain. (Ian pic and caption.)
but low cloud below us was beginning to condense obscuring the former clear air.
Later, where we at last emerged from the bush part of the route, we stopped to point out to newer members the old way by which we used to reach this point. Beyond here, the track now steadily steepened the nearer we got to the Three Kings. We took it slowly, with frequent rests and regroupings. Until behold, there was a new track cut right across an extensive cleared area, changing the whole aspect of what we used to experience eleven and more years ago. The new track was even steeper, but at last all got there.
We hunkered down for lunch beneath the principle rock, sheltering from a brief but wetting rain shower.
Shelter for some. (Ian pic and caption.)A clever perch. (Ian pic and caption.)
But that was it. The day remained calm, if cool. We returned back down the way we had come, all very pleased at having achieved our object. One older member expressed their delighted at achieving a return to the rocks after such a long absence, having given up all hope of ever making it again.
We stopped for coffee at George’s ‘hairy’ goat cafe, delighted to meet up there with the Trampers’ other half of the club, returned just before us.
A satisfying day. Roll on the wintry weekend ahead. – Ian.
22. 8/2/2017. Trampers. Maungatua Summit from Heenan Road. M. Arthur.
I believe this tramp was a “first’ for the club. We have been up to the “3 Kings” area many times in the past, but today we continued on to the summit.
A small group out today, only 4 of our regulars, 1 potential member and 1 guest: 6 in total.
We left the cars parked up a farm drive off Heenan Road. Our tramp began at 9.00 a.m. on the uphill farm road which goes around the south end of Maungatua, and out towards Mahinerangi.
It was a fine day, sunny but with many clouds. A cool S.W. breeze kept the temperature down.
Morning tea was taken in the last available sheltered spot, the leader being rubbished for stopping 5 minutes early though!
Up a farm track and then in to the tussock taking us up more steeply to trig “F” at 702 metres, from where we could look down onto the “3 Kings“.
Onward on a farm track, before turning off into the tussock for the last 3.25 km, single file following the fence line.
Beautiful moss. (Helen pic and caption.)
The summit was reached at 12.05 p.m. for our lunch stop. Sitting down in the shelter of the vegetation was necessary to get out of the wind. The sunny periods were very welcome as we ate and rested.
Before taking our leave, the obligatory photo of the group at the summit marker post was taken.
Arthur Carol Neil Helen and Neil. (Helen pic and caption.)Plaque on top. (Helen pic and caption.)
Just at this time the red helicopter flew over us at low altitude, our waves being returned.
Red helicopter giving us a wave. (Helen pic and caption.)
No rescue needed today, though, thankfully.
After about 2 km on the return journey we took to the farm track for the remainder. It was somewhat easier going, and also gave a little variation from the inward track.
The wind had eased early afternoon, and then changed to a southerly breeze. Showers were visible in the Balclutha-Milton direction, but were then going out to sea and not towards us.
Lower down we stopped briefly to admire the view out over the lower Taieri Plain. The whole area was bathed in sunshine, and was a real picture. The views from the top of Maungatua had been spoiled a little by all the cloud shadows on the landscape.
Back at the cars at 3.00 p.m. it had been a neat 6 hours from go to whoa. A very satisfactory day’s tramp in the leader’s opinion. Total distance was 17 km, and an altitude climb of 800 metres.
The timing was absolutely perfect!
As we sat down after ordering our drinks at “The Hairy Goat” the rain arrived!
Thanks to all who participated in the day’s very successful tramp. – Art.
21. 22/10/2014. Trampers. Three Kings. M.
This weeks tramp was to the “Three Kings” at the south end of the Maungatua’s. Six trampers travelled to McLaren Rd, drove around past the Lavender farm to our parking place just inside the farm yard gate. Jill went & got the key for us, & then drove back home again, leaving us to find our way up to the tops. The walk was on farm 4WD tracks all the way up, with just a short walk through tussock to the Three Kings where we had lunch in the shelter from a strong cold wind. Then it was a quick retreat back down again out of the wind, & back to the cars. Walked 12km; 4.1 km/h ave; 3hrs moving; climbed 690m.
The view from the top was very good, but the cold wind didn’t make for pleasant viewing. We practised our Coffee Club by calling into the Outram coffee shop on the way home where a good chat session was had. – Ken
18/10/2006 Jeff Todd of Todd Group 477 8902 (10/06). Todd Group had bought Wesleydale and paddock and allowed it to be used for army live firing! Access through all this area denied.
20. 26/4/2006. Trampers. Three Kings and Trig. Leaders: Evelyn C, Sabina.
19. 24/8/2005. Both. Wesleydale, Three Kings and option of Trig. Leaders: Ria, Irene, Val and Brian, Eleanor B.
18. 19/11/2003. Both. Three Kings from Farm sheds. Medium. Leaders: Trampers: Bill and Pat; Hikers: Les and Margaret, Carmel.
Down through Gorse. Wendy? Pat
George on rise, below Trig above Three Kings (19/11/2003)
17. 17/7/2002 Three Kings, Mill Creek, Kowhai. Spur Leaders: Bob H, Doug M, Wendy B
Long. Hard. Water. Steep down Kowhai Spur.
16. 10/7/2002. Wesleydale Methodist Youth Camp to 3 Kings. Leaders: Arthur and Barbara, Frank.
15. 22/11/2000 Leaders: Lex, Ian
14. 22/9/1999. Three Kings and Trig. Leaders: Lex, Bill H, Lesley S.
13. 12/8/1998. 3 Kings, Maungatua. Leaders: Irene, Shirley R.
12. 19/11/1997. Wesleydale to 3 Kings and Trig. Leaders Judith and Hugh, Ian.
11. 12/3/1997. Three Kings – Mill Creek Reserve – Kowhai Spur. Leaders: Bill H, Graham, Barbara McC.
10. 1/5/1996. Duncan’s Farm Road and return Kowhai Spur. Leaders: Bill H, Les S, Graham S, Doug M
9. 3/4/1996 Three Kings from Heenan Road to McLaren Road Start past Little Creek. Medium.
Seek permissions Leaders: Jack and Rosemary, Nelson and Dot.
8. 20/4/1994. Three Kings. Medium. Leaders: Margaret and Les, Ivan, Les W.
7. 6/10/1993. Mill Creek (back of the Maungatuas.) Medium. Leaders: Shirley McN, Ria L, Nel, Betty H.
6. 26/5/1993. Wesleydale Camp – uphill following 4WD track to Maungatuas. Great views. Medium. Leaders: Mary Y, Denise, Nola, Judith.
5. 9/9/1992. Wesleydale Camp to the Maungatuas. Follow 4WD Track. Average. Leaders: Joan, Betty, Jean, Diana.
4. 29/7/1992. Wesleydale Camp, up the hill following 4WD track to the Maungatuas. Lovely views. Average. Leaders: Daphne, Betty, Dave and Jean.
3. 23/10/1991. Maungatuas – Wesleydale to ‘3 Kings Rocks’. Steady up hill grade, but not a long tramp. Average+. Leaders: Nancy, Ray, Ted, Jack R.
2. 27/6/1990 Wesleydale to Three Kings. Average, if taken in easy stages. Don’t rush hill please. Leaders: George, Margaret D, Margaret B, Ria.
1. 8/3/1989. Three Kings. Good tramp up the Maungatuas. Great views of Lower Taieri. Leaders: Denise, George, Peggy.
No. 97 on old hardcopy list of 113 club tramps. “Purekanui & Canoe Beach Year Round”
39 km
At LOW TIDE it is possible to walk along the shore to Doctor’s Point.
Also pleasant stroll 1 km down southeastern end to mouth of inlet with scattered cribs.
16. 14 July 2021. Hikers. Purakaunui/Canoe Beach. Medium. Leaders: Betty & Jim
After regrouping at Waitati 4 Vehicles travelled with 16 hikers to park at the end of the Doctors Point Road. The tide afforded us plenty of clear beach for the Canoe Beach walk to Mapoutahi for our tea stop. Of significance were two new barriers recently erected by DOC, warning of the dangerous cliffs.
Looking across Canoe Beach (photo & caption Ady)Looking towards headland of Purakaunui Beach (photo & caption Ady)
From our morning tea stop the southern portal to the rail tunnel could be seen, high on the cliff showing the extreme difficulty that this section that must have been experienced in the construction of this main trunk line.
Weather conditions were pleasant for the Purakaunui Beach walk on firm sand to the Purakaunui inlet.
Purakaunui Inlet (photo Alex)
Entering the inlet, we were faced with soft sand conditions for a short distance to the pine plantation, then it was less than 400 meters through pines to the cemetery. We retraced our steps in comfortable time for the tide past Canoe Beach to the cars.
The coffee stop was at Blueskin before our return to Mosgiel.
Meeting at a suitable parking spot on the Taieri Mouth road at the start of Mount Allan forestry hike 12 brave members set off for a pleasant walk in bright sunshine. As Pine trees had been removed it gave a different feeling from our previous hikes. Great views and an understanding of how rough the hills really are for planting. First stop after a good climb was morning tea break.
“.Morning tea in the sun.” – Photo and Caption Clive
Everybody relaxed. Onward up and down until we reached Big Stone Road .
Before- Aug. 2019 photo.” – Photo and Caption Clive“After – now – trees felled.” – Photo and Caption Clive
Lunch time.
“Lunch at Big stone/Daphne Road.” – Photo and Caption Clive
Down the road until we met the next track and into the forest again. From here it is mostly down hill with more great views until we arrive back at car park.
“A weather station on the way down.” – Photo and Caption Clive
Coffee at Brighton Beach shop with relaxed chatter including meeting Dot and Chris who had just completed there own walk. 12 kilometers in total .New member was welcomed and had a good day. Good company and enjoyable.
Liz and Alex.
18. 22/5/2019. Hikers. Forestry walk Kuri Bush. Dave and Liz.
A little bit nippy for a start
Start of the day. Liz pic and caption.)
but 2o hikers and 3 Ramblers set off what was to be a pleasant gradual climb amongst pine trees and bush.
(Kevin pic.)
A 9.50am morning tea was taken with sun shining brightly which warmed all and accepted. From here the Hikers took the Daphne Road
On pine needle carpet. Easy on the feet. (Kevin pic.)
and Ramblers the Isobel Road. The Hikers continued until reaching Big Stone Road
Lunch. (Liz pic and caption.)
and then onto the downward trip via Katherine Road. The Ramblers did very well reaching the top of Isobel Road and then down Katherine Road. Total distance for Hikers was about 12 Kilometres. Off to Brighton Beach Cafe went very weary but happy Hikers and Ramblers. Thanks to all Liz and Alex.
17. 16/5/2018. Hikers. Daphne, Big Stone and Kathleen Roads. M. Leaders: Alex, Jim and Betty.
pine needle carpeted walk into the forest. (Clive pic and caption.)On the way to the top. (Phil pic and caption.)Lunch on Big Stone Rd. (Phil pic and caption.)Homeward bound along Big Stone Road. (Clive pic and caption.)
Conditions were a pleasant cool day for the hike in the Allanton Block of Wenita Forrest south of Brighton. The majority of 22 hikers stopped off at the Brighton Cafe for refreshments on the return trip to Mosgiel.
It was a successful late change to the planned hike.
Betty & Jim
16. 17/6/2015. Hikers. Daphne, Big Stone and Kathleen Roads. M. Leaders: Alex, Liz and Dot.
GPS of route, courtesy Bruce. 12.2 km. [N.B. Bruce has commented on the interesting difference between the 2012 (q.v. below) and 2015 Google maps. – Ed.]The Google map for yesterday was taken in 2015 and was a little different from that from Ken’s report in 2012 with imagery taken on 17 Sept 2011.
June 17 Map with named roads. (Bruce pic and caption)iPhone GPS of route showing kilometers, courtesy Ian.
About twenty Hikers did the now more customary route of climbing the Daphne Road’s gentler but longer route and descending by Kathleen Roads shorter but steeper. We morning-teaed in the sunny spot at the foot of Daphne Road where the Club has always stopped, and lunched
Lunch on a sunny level. (Looking back along the road).(Ian pic and caption.)
on a level stretch of the road, but still some distance from the top. Older members, presumably familiar with the route found they had failed to recollect the many gully dips on the road. They also appreciatively noticed the rubbish collection by the top gate had been cleared. …W-e-l-l perhaps not all!
Made for each other. (Ian pic and caption.)
Reaching the top of Kathleen Road, a substantial number struggled around and under the closed and apparently locked gate before Les noticed that it was not locked at all. … Sigh.
It was yet another good-weather Wednesday, tempting some to to wonder whether a Higher Power must look after the Club. (Well, it was colder on Tuesday and Thursday promised snow.) Admittedly a cold breeze had driven us into woollen hat and gloves when we emerged from our cars, but this eased in the shelter of the forest and in the patches of sun the trees permitted us from time to time. It was a great Winter’s day tramp and a great location – a metalled road rather than a sloshy paddock or slippery track. (Pity the poor trampers! – see their report.)
Mention must be made of the occasional great views of the coast and down gullies that we stopped to enjoy from time to time.
A misty vista in the ‘dista’, looking up the coast from Kathleen Road. (Ian pic and caption.)
It was further remarked that tramps like this get us to see the other sides of properties that mere car travellers never get to appreciate.
So, thank you leaders, for a well-reconnoitered and led tramp. We were well looked after, with thoughtful stops for regrouping. – Ian.
15. 13/2/2013. Hikers. McLeods Farm. Leaders: Wendy and Peter.
14. 22/8/2012. Trampers. Daphne Road, Big Stone Road, Kathleen Road. Medium. 12 km.
GPS of route, courtesy Ken. We did 11.7 km at 4.7 km/h.
13 . 4/7/2012. Both. Daphne Road, Big Stone Road, Kathleen Road. Medium. 12 km. Leaders: George, Lex.
Morning Tea at bottom of Daphne climb. (Ian pic and caption.)
12. 27/8/2009. Trampers. Queen Street, Highland Street, Big Stone Road, Kathleen Road, Isobel Road, beach return. Medium Leaders: George, Hazel.
Starting at the home of George and Elizabeth, George and Hazel led us along to the corner of Queen Street and up across several paddocks to reach Highland Street where we sheltered from the wind for morning tea. Once we reached Big Stone Road, we paralleled it on a forest track just across the fence, which was much more interesting, if slower, than walking the road. We were amazed to see the extent of forest harvesting on the other side of the road, cleared, replanted and now for sale as lifestyle blocks.
Maori forestry recently harvested.
Later we came across a couple of pig skins on a fence.
George inspecting a pig skin.
Shortly after passing the McLaren Gully Road turnoff on our right we turned off onto Kathleen Road on the left and then again on the right into Isobel Road where we stopped for lunch.
Lunch sheltered from the wind. Doug, George, Ria.
Isobel Road provided a pine-needle-strewn softer surface for walking down to the coast. There we joined the beach, nice and firm on an ebbing tide, but oh so loooong to get back to Brighton and the cars again. 18 km in all, and were we glad to reach the cars again!
There were only six of us, three of whom from Mosgiel who, vehicle-less as it turned out on this occasion (Doug would have gone back for his car had he been required to), depended on first-time visitor Susan who was surprised into having to provide the transport to Brighton, but who most graciously provided it. – Ian
11. 6/8/2008. Both. Margaret Road, Katherine Road. Medium. Leaders: Dot M, Chris.
10. 15/3/2006. Hikers. Margaret Road, McLeods Farm. Easy+. Leaders: Bill & Pat, Dot T
9. 29/6/2005. Hikers. Margaret Road, Katherine Road. (Brighton). Leaders: Chris, Dot B.
8. 18/6/2003 Hikers. Kathleen Road, off Taieri Mouth Road. Easy Leaders: Joan and Dot
7. 25/7/2001. Alt. Margaret Road, Katherine Road, Kuri Bush. Leaders: Dot B, Joan H, Chris H
6. 18/2/1998. Big Stone Road from Margaret Road to McLeods. Leaders: Ray and Diana.
5. 14/5/1997. Big Stone Road from Margaret Road via McLeods to Coast Road. Leaders: Dot B, Joan H, George.
4. 10/7/1996. Margaret Road, Big Stone Road, McLeods. Average. Leaders: Graham, Eric and Dot.
3. 30/11/1994 Margaret Road, Wenita Forestry, Big Stone Road. Medium. Leaders: Eric & Dot, Joan H, George
2. 4/8/1993 Big Stone Road to Smooth Hill to Kathleen Road – return beach. Leaders: Eric & Dot, George, Chris
1. 8/6/1988 Kathleen Road from Big Stone Road. Lots of pines and the ocean. Leaders:
7. 25/3/2020. Trampers. Jubilee Hut from Silver Peaks Station.
A large group left carpark at 8:30 am to drive an hour up George King Memorial Drive, onto Hindon Road—-drove through early fog, and down past Ardachy (where we were spotted half a dozen peacocks), over the Taieri river rail/road bridge, then up past Lamb Hill on Silverpeak road to end of road at Silverpeak Station. Mike and Ginny Cowie own the large 2,500 hectare Station, home to 7,000 stock units (sheep and Beef cattle).
23 eager trampers(including Gordon’s daughter) headed off on a very calm, sunny morning at 9:30am
The start of a big day!I (Pam pic and caption.)
and stopped for smoko at 10:10am.
Morning Tea stop (Always with a view.)9John caption and pic)
Gordon and daughter Kim ,enjoying the sunshine. (John pic and caption.)
We followed the rough vehicle track up the left fork of Christmas creek continuing up the north side of the Valley.
Those views again. (John pic and caption.)Happy Tramper lineup. (John pic and caption.)
This is steep tussock country which has been oversown and grazed to create productive pasture. Mount John hut(an unused Musters hut owned by Silverpeak station) sits on the right hand side of the track).
The undulating walk continued until 11:50am to the junction of Cave creek, at this point the majority walked on another ten minutes to have a look at Homestead (or Christmas creek hut), also owned by Silverpeak station.
The strange patina on Orange Hut. (John pic and caption.)The Team’ at Sarah.The Team’ at Orange hut. (Sarah pic and caption.)
Meanwhile, the smaller group headed off towards the 1.5km walk up along Cave creek to Jubilee hut, waiting half way to regroup. Arthur had carried Loppers expecting to have to use them, however, Green Hut volunteers had the track clear. The original Jubilee hut was opened in 1951 on the left hand side of the creek, it was built in a cold spot. Signpost indicating Jubilee hut 100 metres on——that person had a long stride—— a very long 100 metres!
We had to cross Cave creek a couple of times—cooling on the feet.
Nearing Jubilee hut. (Gordon pic and caption.)
We arrived at Jubilee hut at 12:50pm. This 10 bed hut was built in 2007, some 300 meters up in a sunny spot with great views,
Panoramic view to admire. (John pic and caption.)
at about 600 metres. Staff and materials were flown in by helicopter (over 30 trips). Cost $70,000+. It is well used and just recently a booking system has been introduced.
All enjoyed a leisurely lunch in the sun and hut
Lunch at Jubilee Hut. (John pic and captionSorry Heather ,I can’t find the delete button! (John. pic and caption.)
before heading back along the undulating track,
Heading to the finish. (Gordon pic and caption.)
having rest/water stops along the way. The A team arrived back at 3:35pm, followed by B team at 4:00pm. Followed by an hour’s drive home.
This tramp was a new one for 18 members (1 driver wondered where he was going to end up). It was 2015 when 7 from the club were last there. So——-the 2 Leaders made mental note to self———Been there—Done that!!
Was a great way to spend the day In those very vast hills of Silverpeak Station, good company, good weather—-good life. – Eleanore and Arthur.
6. 11/3/2015. Trampers. Jubilee Hut from Silver Peaks Station.
After a doubtful start to the day with quite heavy rain during the night, [I was worried about high creek levels] 7 hardy trampers turned up for the trip to Jubilee Hut via Silverpeaks Station. We arrived there just before morning tea time so set off along the track to find a spot to stop for morning tea. Then it was on to visit Orange Hut [Homestead Hut, Christmas Creek Hut, whatever you want to call it] having missed the turn off to go down to Cave creek, which has lost it’s large white plastic container that acted as a marker for the start of the track. We then backtracked a bit to the track leading down to Cave Creek valley, & made our way over a few more creek crossings & up to Jubilee Hut for lunch.
Two of the party had their lunch on the track about 10 mins from the hut, & one of them decided to walk back out again on their own, thinking we would catch up with them later. After lunch, we went down to the creek from the hut, & Ian [being the fittest] was voted by me, to go & photograph the sign at the old Jubilee Hut site,…
Sign at site of old Jubilee Hut (Ian pic, Ken caption)
…so we would know what it said. Then it was back along the track retracing our morning steps. When we got to the top track again, I decided that I needed to attend to a sore patch developing on my left foot, so Ian & I stopped while I attended to that. Just as I was finishing, we heard somebody calling out from nearby, & the next thing the person who had set off on their own appeared looking rather worried [lost !!] they had not noticed the sharp LH turn onto the track leading back to Silverpeaks Station homestead, & had instead gone straight ahead along the track towards Orange Hut. We pointed them in the correct direction, & they set off with what I would imagine was some relief. Shortly after this we all met up again into one group, & set off to our next adventure !
One party member while crossing the Christmas Creek where it doubles back on itself, slipped on a rock, & very slowly, & not so gracefully, first put a hand down to steady themselves, but that didn’t work, so they ended up sitting in the creek. [Oh I wish I had my camera handy !!] So this guaranteed a wet walk back to the cars for this person, but they did dry out rather quickly I think.
The rest of the walk out was very uneventful, compared to earlier happenings, & we all arrived back at the cars safe & well. We arrived back at Mosgiel about 5pm from memory.
Something we learnt today was :
1: We MUST stay together better as a group, or one day somebody will get properly lost.
2: Walking poles are handy for crossing creeks, even if you don’t think you need them!!
We walked 16km
3.8km/hr ave.
Climbed 876mtrs.
Max elev. 426mtrs.
– Ken.
5. 12/2/2014. Trampers. Three Huts.
Distance to Jubilee Hut without going to Christmas Creek Hut =15.75km
Add on another 1 1/2 – 2 km for the extra distance to Christmas Creek Hut.
Walking time = 4hrs 25min; Moving Ave = 3.6km/hr; Total ascent = 919 mtrs.
7 hardy souls turned up at 8:30 on a wet misty day at the Mosgiel car-park to go to Silverpeaks Station for our tramp to Mt. John Hut/Christmas Creek Hut/Jubilee Hut.
It was good to see that the ones going on the Motatapu trip were carrying their large tramping packs filled with a bit more weight than they would normally carry.
It took an hour to drive to the starting point, & as it was not looking brilliant weather wise, we decided against going up to Mt. John Hut, & proceeded along the track a bit further for morning tea break. The double crossing of Christmas creek was done without mishap, & we continued on to the turn-off to Cave creek valley.
Most of us dropped our packs here & carried on to Christmas Creek Hut, [which is also know as Homestead Hut, & Orange Hut.] …
Some of the party at Orange Hut, also known as Homestead Hut, and Christmas Creek Hut. (Ken pic and caption)
… before returning & heading down to Cave Creek & the walk up the valley to Jubilee Hut.
The track above the boundary gate is getting badly overgrown with bracken fern, but it is still relatively easy going, but we got rather wet from the knees down as the scrub was holding water from the rain showers.
Up to this point we had only worn our rain jackets for a short time, during a light shower, but as we approached Jubilee Hut the rain drops started appearing again, so we managed to get to the hut before the weather let loose with a heavy shower which continued right through our lunch break, & beyond.
George writing in the Jubilee Hut visitors book. Note the inclement weather through the window. (Ken pic and caption)
After finishing lunch, we were all sitting around wondering how much longer the heavy rain was going to last, when it started to ease, & the visibility improved enough so we could look back down valley & see Christmas Creek Hut, so we decided to put on wet weather gear again, & start heading back to the cars.
By the time we got to the end of the Cave Creek valley, the rain had ceased, so it was off with the wet weather gear again. The only problems with the Cave Creek crossings were some wet feet, & Ken landing on his butt after stepping on a slippery rock. Just as well he had on his waterproof leggings, or he would’ve got a wet butt, as well as one boot full of water.
We made it back to the cars before the approaching rain, which we had seen coming some time before, & had a wet ride all the way back home.
There were some very tired trampers at the end of the day, they were not used to carrying the bigger packs with more weight in them, however, it was a good opportunity to ‘shake-down’ the equipment. – Ken
4. 15/5/2013. Trampers. Mount John Hut and Beyond.
Route of tramp, courtesy Ken. We walked 13.5km, 4km/hr ave. 3h 22m moving. Climbed 814m !!! Max elev. 652m
The day started at 8:30 from Mosgiel carpark, with a very misty/foggy outlook on the Taieri, but we were hopeful that it would be clearer inland. When we were about 3/4 of the way to Hindon, the fog/mist just disappeared, & we were looking at quite a nice day.
We arrived at Silverpeaks station at 9:30. & set off towards Mt. John Hut where we had morning tea, & examined the log entries carved into the woodwork of the hut. [There is no log book in the hut.]
Morning tea at Mt John Hut. (Ken pic and caption)Looking back down at Mt John Hut and Christmas Creek (Ken pic and caption)
After leaving the hut we made our way up the track towards the top of Mt. John, but we took a wrong turn, which led us off to the NE side of Mt. John. However as it was already 12:30 when we reached the top, we decided to have lunch in the sun, & admire the views in all directions.
Wenita wasteland from our lunch stop. (Ken pic and caption)
We then retraced our steps back to the car, & arrived back in Mosgiel at 4:00pm.
Climbing Mt. John was a bit of a grunt at times, & only suitable for the fitter members. If we had gone to our original destination of Popular Hut, that would’ve been another 3hrs or more walking. [Estimate], & it’s a long climb back up again!!! – Ken
3. 5/1/2011. Trampers. Orange and Jubilee Huts from Silver Peaks Station.
16 -17km, including side trip to Christmas Creek Hut. Numerous creek crossings. If the creeks are high, you will get wet feet.
A reasonably hard 8-9 hr. day if you include travelling and break stops. Fortunately, 4WD road along Christmas Creek true right largely follows contour line with relatively short ups and downs.
GPS of routes Homestead/Christmas Creek/Orange Hut (left fork) and Jubilee Hut. (Courtesy Ken)
Double ford on Christmas Creek. 2nd out of sight. Dry detour to left if water high. (Ken pic)
Track beside Cave Creek.
Track washout. Cave Creek. (Ken pic)
Gate on track up Cave Creek. Heavy bracken overgrowth in places.
Sign indicating ABC Cave to right, Mountain Rd car park to left, and 100m (seemed much longer!) up to Jubilee Hut,
Jubilee Hut. (Ken pic)
Bunks inside Jubilee Hut. (Ken pic)
Plaque
Steep Climb out of Cave Creek crossing. (Ken pic)
Crossing Christmas Creek on emerging from Cave Creek gully (Ken pic)
2. 29/12/2010. Orange/Homestead/Christmas Creek Hut from Silver Peaks Station. -‘ recce’.
Morning Tea stop on ‘recce’. (Ken pic)
Jubilee Hut from Homestead Hut. (Ken pic)
Mount John Private Hut, Silver Peaks Station. (Ken pic)
Homestead/Christmas Creek/Orange Hut. (Ken pic)
Plastic jerry can marker at top of track forking right to Jubilee Hut. (Ken pic)
Track to Jubilee Hut. Devil’s Staircase in background upper left. (Ken pic)
1. 24/3/1999. Jubilee Hut and return. Leaders: Les & Margaret, Bev H
Nicols Creek circuit Maintained by Green Hut Track Group. DCC land.
Pineapple Track—the curious name of this track originates from a tradition involving a local grocer in the 1920’s. He guided parties up a track in this area and would provide tinned pineapple as a refreshment at the top. The empty cans were left as litter.
4. 24/6/2020 FLAGSTAFF WALKWAY ONTO SWAMPY RIDGE TRACK and RETURN. Leader Eleanore
After a couple of head counts our group of 24 (including 3 new faces) arrived at the Bull Ring at 10am to a very foggy morning. As well as us, staff were parked up waiting to spread gravel on Pineapple and Firebreak tracks, that was to be dropped by helicopter. We commented that it would be something new to look at as we were walking.
After a short sharp climb we arrived at the Plane Table marked by a drainpipe at a height of round 660 metres for smoko, still in fog and no views we headed off again down and around to the Pineapple junction, passing by damage caused by a fire last year.
Photo and Caption John – “Morning tea – not to be MIST!”
This section of the Pineapple track was wet and slippery along with the odd patch of icy puddles, we had to make sure we kept our feet firmly on the ground!!
Photo and Caption Gordon – “You couln’t have MIST this group of trampers.”
Photo and Caption Gordon – “Still slogging up hill!”
We arrived at the junction of Swampy and Firebreak tracks at 11am, then continued through more mud, noticing quite a lot of broom had been recently cut down—-thanks to those concerned.
After some climbing along the way, passing Moon, Powerline, and Telecom Microwave Station tracks, we arrived at the Aircraft Navigation Station at the Swine Spur junction at 12:15pm. Up till now, the only sight to be seen was the person in front of you!! Occasionally, one hoped for the fog to lift, so the amazing views could be enjoyed—so far, not happening.
Photo and Caption John – “Lunch at Swampy summit.”Photo and Caption John – “Gotcha Dave!”
At 12:40pm, after a shortened lunch it was time to head for home, negotiating the slippery, slidey slopes along the way reaching the Firebreak junction in 1 hour, we took the shortcut back onto Flagstaff track, and enjoyed the mostly downhill walk to the cars, arriving at 2:30pm.
Photo and Caption Gordon – “Homeward bound.”
The boots covered a good 13kms.
This was the first tramp with the Club I have been on that the fog never lifted the entire day. We were ready for coffee, cake and a yarn to celebrate our achievement at Blackstone Cafe.
As always, I hope you all enjoyed the day as much as I did.
Eleanore
3. 16/9/2009. Bullring, Flagstaff Walkway, Swampy Ridge, Moon, Nicols Creek Track, New Track across to Pineapple, Pineapple, McGouns, Davies , Flagstaff Walkway Firebreak/Bullock, Bullring. Leaders: Ria, Hazel.
We walked from the Bullring across Flagstaff and Swampy Ridge until sheltering for morning tea stop some way down the upper Moon Track,
Morning tea on upper Moon. (Ken pic). Ian and Doug. Ria and Hazel partially hidden.
then crossing to the other side of the valley.
Walking across headwaters from Moon on one side to Nicols Track on the other. Doug, George.
Perhaps it was the thinner foliage of early spring, but none of us had remembered noticing before the huge old tree trunk just below Nicols Creek track, with growth still struggling for its old branches far above us if we craned our necks.
George making a close examination of extraordinarily large trunk which he identified as a Kahikatea.
View across to the motorway from one of the few open patches on Nicols Track. Doug, George.
Ria and Hazel surprised us with a track leading off to the right just a little further on.
Surprising track off to the right. Doug, George.
It took us through brief bush out into heavy grass and scrub and led almost vertically uphill diagonally back from the way we had come, and eventually, after a few hundred metres of stiff climbing, coming out onto overgrown pasture and across to join the Pineapple Track just above the point where it enters the bush.
By taking us on this novel route, our leaders avoided any road work, as we were able to descend the Pineapple track and join the McGouns track to come out at the partially vandalised stone cairn and plaque marking City Forests 100 years of forestry planting by the Dunedin City Council begun in 1906. Its surrounding seating made a good place for lunch.
Lunch at plaque. (Ken pic). Ian, George, Doug, Ria, Hazel.
The plaque. (Ken pic).
From there, a short walk along Drummonds Street connected us with Davies Track, which zigzagged up through regenerating natives to eventually continue climbing through mature bush.
Rest stop in Bush on Davies Track. Ria, Ken, Doug.
Dunedin from Davies Track above bushline.
Above the bush line, it was then through tussock and flax till we reached the Flagstaff Walkway. We decided to take the Firebreak/Old Bullock Track back to the cars. – Ian.
10. 17/6/2020. Hikers. Woodhaugh gardens and the University area. Dawn Pool and Pam Clough.
20 people from the Hiking Group had a very pleasant 7k walk from the yacht club car park up 260 steps to the botanical gardens, where we enjoyed a beautiful view and morning tea.
We then wound our way down through the grounds, enjoying lots of things on the way, arriving at the duck pond, where we stopped for lunch.
An interesting walk through the University and back to the cars.
Just as the weather changed we reached the cafe by the stadium and all enjoyed a hot drink before heading back home.
Hope the trampers enjoyed their day.
Regards
Dawn Pool
9. 31/7/2019. Hikers. Treasures around the Leith. Jenni and Judy D.
Despite a rather iffy forecast, 18 hikers met to explore “Treasures around the Leith”. We met our Brighton contingent at the Malvern Street Bridge and proceeded to an early morning tea at the Woodhaugh Gardens. So off we set though the Botanic Gardens admiring the recent rose pruning, through the Clive Lister Garden, along and up through the terraced gardens and finally up a gentle track which lead us to Lovelock Avenue.
The weather held as we investigated the historic bell in the University’s quadrangle. This bell was part of the New Zealand Exhibition in 1865, before being moved to the stock exchange building in 1868. The full story was captured by the ODT on 3 February 2019.
(Jenni pic.)
From there, we ventured to the Otago Business School to view the outstanding architecture and the very cool photographic exhibition “Cuba through Kiwi eyes”. There was a great variety of excellent photographs, and we were fortunate to be able to see this. The exhibition closes on 2 August.
(Jenni pic.)(Jenni pic.)
We meandered along the side of the Leith, noting the exciting new $26m Music, Theatre and Performing Arts Development and checked out the new Leith bridge which links Dunedin with Port Chalmers for both walkers and cyclists.
(Jenni pic.)
We returned to the seating area outside the Stadium for lunch, which turned out to be an excellent shelter from the nippy Southerly.
(Jenni pic.)
Back along Union Street, as we passed the Multi Disciplinary Unit we talked about the world famous “Dunedin Study” and the amazing facilities they are housed in. Time was on our side so we entered the Student Union building and the Information Services building which has been cleverly joined by “The Link”. We marvelled at the space that the students enjoy today and the architectural features including a circular internal Oamaru stone wall. A highlight of the tramp was seeing the developments to alleviate flooding in the area and preservation of the St David bridge.
(Jenni pic.)
How fortunate we are to have so many treasures around the Leith.
Distance travelled around 9kms. Coffee and cake at Village Green. Special thanks to Judy Dennison for being “Tail End Charlie”. Today’s leader: Jenni Wright.
8. 28/11/2018. Hikers. Gardens / Leith Street. E. Leaders: Judy and Elaine.
Nike map of route, courtesy Ian.
After an overdose of rain, 23 hikers and four ramblers abandoned the planned Flagstaff/Swampy hike in favour of the Botanic Gardens area.
We parked in the gardens car park and wandered by various paths to the Rhododendron dell for a leisurely morning tea. The sun shone and the birds sang.
(Judy K. pic.)
Eventually we headed off over the road, into the northern cemetery where a successful search was made for Elaine’s ancestors.
(Judy K. pic.)
Leaving them undisturbed we headed off down the hill, and the steps, to Logan Park and around to the stadium for lunch. (Quite a relief to have toilets available at both morning tea and lunch!)
Lunch time. (Adrienne M pic and caption.)
The sun shone and a one-legged seagull enjoyed lots of titbits.From here it was a stroll across the road into Anzac Ave, then across to follow the Leith up through the University
(Judy K. pic.) [Inserted only at Judy’s request. Ed.](Judy K. pic.)
and so back to the Gardens, coffee, and the cars.
Judy and Elaine
7. 15/8/2018. Hikers. Gardens / Leith Street. E. Leaders: Dawn and Pam.
Edinburgh stone memorial. (Clive pic and caption.)Calm day on the harbour. (Clive pic and caption.)Après déjeuner scene, Upper Garden. (Ian pic and caption.)Nancy Syme fountain, Botanic Garden. (Lester told of Nancy Syme long time Mosgiel resident who dontated the fountain. (Clive pic and caption.)
6. 28/6/2017. Hikers. Leith walk Mouth to Woodhaugh. E. Leaders: Jan Y and Jan B.
Calm yachts where parked cars. (Ian pic and caption.Albatross wing bridge. Wired head and body difficult to discern. (Ian pic and caption.)Woodhaugh lunch. (Ian pic and caption.)Grafitti on lower Leith concrete way. (Ian pic and caption.)
11/03/2020 Hikers and Ramblers Brighton Beach E Leaders Liz and Alex
Brighton Beach is always a beautiful spot to visit, and today was no exception.
Over 25 Hikers and Ramblers set out from the Brighton Bowling Club. The wind was cool so a vigorous walk along the beach towards Taieri Mouth got us warmed up before turning around and heading back to the surf club at Brighton for morning tea.
Photo and Caption Clive – “Brighton beach car park.”
Photo and Caption Clive – “Brighton Beach Surf Club”
We then headed off towards Ocean Beach, a tunnel and sand dunes. The blackberries were ripening nicely and provided a sweet treat. We were able to point out past and present Homes of ex all blacks, Community leaders and some colourful characters from Brighton’s history.
Photo and Caption Clive – “Ocean Beach tunnel.”Photo and Caption Clive – “Ocean Beach”
Photo and Caption Clive – “In the sand dunes”
By lunchtime we reached the old creamery coal mine. There were several tales to be told about the coal mining days and of tragedy in the deaths of two of the coal miners. We sat amongst the gum trees for lunch and listened to stories.
Photo and Caption Clive – “Lunch amongst the gum trees”
Photo and Caption Clive – “The old coal mine was over there.”
After lunch we walked up the hill and met Warren Harris who owns the site of the old coal mine. We were treated to a visit to his ‘Man Cave’ with some historic treasures and memorabilia.
Photo and Caption Clive – “Warren explains his collection.”
Photo and Caption Clive – “Tragic stories of coal mining days.”
Photo and Caption Clive – “Historical photos from Brighton.”Photo and Caption Clive – “The creamery.”
We then headed back into Brighton past some million dollar homes with fantastic sea views, followed by coffee and a natter at the Brighton Café.
3. 27/11/2019. Trampers. Maungatuas Meander via Kempshall Road. M Margreet and Neil
It was warm and balmy as 20 eager trampers set out on our ‘meander’ today. Several in the group were adamant that ‘meander’ slightly understated the nature of the outing – and thought a better description would be ‘a very long Baldwin street’!!
The steep gravel road access to the parking spot proved challenging for some cars and passengers/pushers, but we all made it!
Photo and Caption Gordon _ “And we’re off”
In order to prepare for the ascent ahead we decided to have morning tea on the balcony at the landowner’s bach, which was just a short side trek from the main track.
Photo and Caption Gordon -“A great place for morning tea”
Views from there were stunning and to be honest the group was a bit reluctant to move on.
The steep climb up Mt. Maungatua to the top boundary took around an hour of huffing and puffing and moaning and groaning!
There was no sign of the aggressive NZ falcon and group of fallow deer encountered on the reconnoitre.
Photo and Caption Helen – “At the top looking out over the plains”
But once conquered the vista over the fertile Taieri Plain, wetlands and lakes; was outstanding.
Photo and Caption Gordon – “A view of Saddle Hill and the Taieri plains”Photo and Caption John – “the beautiful Taieri Plain”
Heading south we traversed gullies of verdant native bush and ridges of lush long grass.
Photo and Caption Gordon – “Still climbing”Photo and Caption John – “Further than I would usually take my dog”
We stopped for lunch on a grassy knoll prior to descent.
Photo and Caption Gordon – “Lunch, a disappearing view and a very special birthday shout”Photo and Caption Helen – “Birthday wine shout by the birthday boy Dave”
Within minutes a light easterly brought in low cloud which reduced visibility to a few metres. The leader,using all his native tracking skills, led the beleaguered group safely downhill to the lower track. What a hero!!
Photo and Caption Helen – “Walking down one of the many hills”Photo and Caption Gordon – “”Heading down to the cars we hope”
From there it was uphill and down dale back to the cars, pausing briefly to inspect the adventure course being used by the chatty children from Hampden school.
Recovery was commenced at Outram’s Wobbly Goat with coffee and cake.
P.S. A consensus asserted that this adventure be reclassified from M to H!
Margreet and Neil
2. 19/4/2017. Trampers. Meander the Maungatuas via Kempshall Road. M. Margreet and Neil.
As we drove through Outram heading for our ‘Maungatua Meander’; the rain bearing cold front forecast for lunch-time, arrived 3 hours early! Nevertheless 5 hardy gentlemen and 6 ‘complaining’ ladies set out on the steep 78 minute climb to the top boundary of this private property! We passed ‘Climbing Rock’ and inspected the outdoor adventure course where a tiered viewing platform made a handy stop for morning tea, sheltered from the wind and rain.
Morning Tea. (Margreet pic and caption.)
Confidence course. (Margreet pic and caption.)Jill on the helipad. (Margreet pic and caption.)
Plodding (and puffing) upwards past ‘Falcon Rock’, the top junction was soon reached, but the awesome scenic vistas promised by the leaders, were less than spectacular!
Heading South we followed the farm track passing through gullies of beautiful native Beech forest, and ridges of productive pasture. Destructive wild pigs had been busy in many places. The weather dictated an early descent for lunch beside a waterfall in the sheltering beech forest.
Lunch. (Helen pic.)
A side-trek to visit the landowner’s beautiful ‘Bunker’ completed the meander, during which we covered 8.5 KM and climbed to 1900 ft.
We enjoyed a debrief at the Wobbly Goat Café before heading home. -Margreet and Neil
1. 28/1/2009 Kempshall Road, Maungatua Leader: George
(Off Maungatua Road, beyond Grainger Road.) Permission.
Small waterfall, small pool, big rock. Doug, George. (Hazel pic)Twin rocks. Taieri Plain from Kempshall Rd Track. George, Glenice, Doug (Hazel pic)Back at the cars. Glenice, Doug. (Hazel pic)
No. 1 on old hardcopy list of 113 club tramps. “Maugatua Microwave. J Roy. Year Round.” Permissions from Horsehoof.
Distance from car-park: 24 km.
22. 29/5/2019. Horsehoof, – Maungatua. M. Arthur.
18 of us set off from Mosgiel and travelled through Outram and turning left off on a road into Horsehoof Station. Clear looking sky and the anticipation of a great day.
Parked up in the paddock, we set off up the first hill. The wind was very cold and strong up there, brass monkeys were the call, and numerous layers the call, jackets and hats also.
We stopped in a sheltered spot for our morning tea. Farm trackended and then it was onto DOC land and tussock.Not much track at all and quite hard going. The odd slip on the terrain.
Making it to the top
Finally the Summit. (Gordon pic and caption.)
where photo shoots were taken.
The new Saddle Hill volcanic crater.(Phil pic and caption.)
Great views but soooo cold and windy. Decided to go back to some shelter in the tussocks for lunch.
Lunch out of the wind. (Gordon pic and caption.)
Back up to the corner of Horsehoof,
Out of the West ( Mahinerangi in background) (Phil pic and caption.)
and with three going back down the start track to look for poor old Dave’s iphone lost on way up, while the rest of us went the longer way.
Two things sprung to mind on this tramp. If you go a different direction you need to let the leader know for safety reasons.
Lunch needs to be finished by everyone before some start on their way.
All in all a great tramp in some windy conditions, travelling 14kms. Refreshments well received
Coffee. (Helen pic and caption.)
with great service at the Wobbly Goat in Outram Helen.😉
MAUNGATUA DEBRIEF
It saddens the leader to have to write these notes, due to the fact that a few of the group completely ignored the club’s Safety Rules up on Maungatua.
The club formulate these safety rules many years ago, which were updated 2-3 years back. All new members are given a copy when they join, and they are on the club’s website. (v. Page 7a.) Everyone should be familiar with them.
There is nothing difficult about these rules, just simple common sense things (but of course, as they say, common sense isn’t common any more. (A detailed email is going out to all members about this) – Art.
21. 27/2/2019. Maungatua. M. Leader: Gordon.
A Fairy Tale.
Once upon a time 12 happy trampers set out to climb the big mountain of Maungatua. They wanted to get to the top, and were very determined.
But the nasty rain came just as they set out, and the cold wind joined in to make things unpleasant for the 12 happy trampers.
The cloud came down too, to hide the top of the mountain, but that was no deterrent either. Jackets and gloves kept them warm.
Uphill they went, on the good 4WD track, into the cloud and with the wind and rain attacking them.
In time they were high up on the mountain, and stopped to have their morning tea in the slight shelter of a little hut, beside some aerials.
After a brief stop to enjoy their hot cups, discretion was decided upon, and the 12 happy (still) trampers returned back down the mountain to their cars.
But the 12 happy trampers had had a good morning’s exercise, covering more than 6 km and the rain and wind had given a good test to the weatherproofness of their clothing.
Feeling a bit wet and cold, the 12 happy trampers drove back to Mosgiel, returning safely to their homes.
And they all lived happily ever after! – Art.
20. 10/5/2017. Trampers. Maungatua trig via Horsehoof. M. Leader: Arthur.
Clear skies, a light breeze, and lots of sunshine gave perfect conditions for our tramp up onto Maungatua. The cars were left high up beside the farm road on Horsehoof, a group of 13 happy trampers setting out from here on the uphill dozed farm track.
About halfway up morning tea was taken, with stunning views to enjoy at the same time, in the clear air.
Onward and upward, we reached the top boundary of Horsehoof Station, and climbing through the fence were in the DOC reserve which encompasses all of the top of Maungatua. It was then single file through the tussock and turpentine shrubs on the faint track.
We stopped to admire the Big Rock,
The beautiful rock. (Helen pic and caption.)
photos being taken of the group.
The group of 12 plus me. (Helen pic and caption.)
Just as we were preparing to move on a pair of N.Z. falcons flew in and landed on top of Big Rock just above us. They weren’t at all worried by us humans, and it was marvellous to see them there.
In single file we moved on, and eventually came to the summit post at 12 noon – perfect timing for lunch.
From here, on the highest point (895 metres) we could see in all directions – 360 degrees. A huge fog bank right down the coast totally hid the sea and the Otago Peninsula, but the land was in clear view as far as the eye could see. What terrific scenery.
Margreet pic.
Lunch over we began the return journey, which meant retracing our steps. With an occasional brief rest/regroup stop, we were back past Big Rock, through the fence onto Horsehoof again, and down hill with a brief uphill bit to reach the cars.
A group of 13 happy trampers had had a great day, walking a total of 12 km. The perfect weather certainly added to the enjoyment of the day.
But, the tramp finished too soon (obviously too short), as it was necessary to stop in Outram for a while on the way home so that discussion that hadn’t had time to be had during the tramp could be concluded.
The leader was particularly pleased to have such a good turn out of trampers today – thank you to all. – Arthur.
19. 11/1/2017. Hikers. Maungatua Big Rock and Trig via Horsehoof. M. Leaders: George and Ian.
It wasn’t the best tramp to ease into after the relaxing holidays. However the easier programmed Kuri Bush beach walk had not taken the tide times into account. What to do? Something inland. George scouted Saddle Hill (summit not tackled by the Hikers since 2010) and Horsehoof (last done by the Hikers 2011). Relevant property owners for Saddle Hill could not be reached, so Horsehoof and Big Rock then.
Seventeen turned out on the day. A respectable number, given that some members were still on holiday. Admittedly the road entrance to Horsehoof is easily missed, as happened to some on the day, but eventually all the cars arrived and drove on up to park in the high paddock where the FWD track to the top corner of the station starts. At about 690m here, we had already made good inroads on Maungatua’s Big Rock elevation of 880m.
It was still a bit early so we trudged through that first unavoidable gully to merelyregain the cars’ height a kilometre or two further on, finding a bank to sit on for morning tea.
(Clive pic.)
No more gullies now but it was up, steadily up, with frequent regrouping stops to eventually reach the Horsehoof Station’s top corner. At 865m effectively all climbing was behind us. We had gained 225m since leaving the cars. One of us elected to stop here and await the return of the others, and Mollie, who hadn’t wanted to miss the chance of revisiting Horsehoof, was happy to keep her company.
Now it was 15 who scrambled through the fence onto the Maungatua reserve to push on through the tussock and dracophillum (turpentine bush) till we reached a point opposite to the Big Rock.
(Clive pic.)
Here, along with George, ten were happy to make this their destination stop,
(Clive pic.)
while a remaining group of five carried on with an assurance it was only another half hour to the trig. W-e-l-l not exactly. More likely three quarters, as one found the going harder than others. But we got there! Or rather two did.
Made it! 895m.(Ian pic and caption.)
Too bad,the other three had stopped off short of the last rise and lunched. However with the encouragement of the trig returnees (or is it returners?) they were encouraged to push on so that they could say they had made it too. And they did!
On the return we discovered the hypotenuse short-cut that avoids a right angle in the fence and which we had missed on the way in due to overgrowth disguising it at its other end. A shame. It needs a fence indicator.
When we arrived at Big Rock, we discovered the ten others had long since given up waiting for us, and were back waiting for us when we straggled up the last weary slope up to the cars – at least weary for this writer.
So there it is. A good traditional tramp perforce resurrected for the hikers by an unfortunate tidal assesssment. And an enjoyable stop and chat at the Wobbly Goat to finish it off. And roll on the better weather. – Ian.
18. 10/2/2016. Maungatua Summit. Leader: Arthur H.
Horsehoof Station to maungatua peak. GPS of route, courtesy Ken. (Ken pic and caption) 13.2km; 3.7km/h; 3h 33m moving; total ascent 409m; max height 900m
Nine trampers set out in ideal conditions to conquer Maungatua. The day was sunny with some high cloud. The breeze was light all day – westerly, then changing to southerly for a while, and then died away altogether.
We drove in through Horsehoof Station, up the road towards the microwave. A car shuttle was set up by taking one car back 2-3 km, leaving it at the top of the hill above the woolshed.
We took the dozed farm track that winds its way up to the top of Maungatua, stopping for morning tea at a suitable spot.
We reached the top of the track, where the small shed and various aerials are situated, at 10.50 a.m. Climbing over the fence we were then in the DOC Reserve, which covers a large part of Maungatua.
From here there is a faint track heading to the summit, which is some 2.5 km away. This is undulating country.
We soon came to the large tor, and stopped for several minutes to inspect and photograph it.
Side trip to rock tor (Helen pic)
Continuing on along the track, which follows the fence line, we gained the summit a few minutes before 12.00 noon. A black and white painted post now marks the spot, …
“Trig” post with rock placed on top by one of the party. (Helen pic)
… and is visible from a short distance. Sitting down in the tussock, we had a relaxed lunch on the spot. The slight breeze was just a tad cool, we noted.
Lunch at the “trig”
From the summit there is a great 360 degree view, but unfortunately haze in all directions spoiled this somewhat.
Half of the group had a look over the brow, down in the direction of the 3 Kings -which isn’t visible. All of us then picked our way through the rough vegetation, in an easterly direction, to get a better view down on the Taieri Plain and Airport.
Making our way back up to the track, we returned along it to the shed and aerials, and over the fence. A brief stop here, where it was noted the altitude was 865m, compared to the 895m at the summit.
We now walked down a 4WD track through the tussock, following the western spur.
On fence line track well down to the Lee Creek gully showing ‘uphill grunt’ on other side. (Helen pic)
A restful stop was made at the bottom, in the shade of the beech trees at the north branch of Lee Creek. A short uphill grunt gave a “tang” to the end of our tramp, and we were soon back at the “shuttle” car.
All agreed that it had been a good tramp and an enjoyable day. This had been a first time for most.
Seven held a debrief at Outram on the way back home.
Coffee at Outram. (Helen pic)
The tramp distance was 13.2 km. – Arthur H.
29/3/2010. Private. Horsehoof, Maungatua Trig.
GPS of route from car to trig
At the Maungatua Trig (1)
At the Maungatua Trig (2)
17. 4/5/2011. Both. Horsehoof upper paddock to Big Rock. Medium. Leader: George.
George had recceed the programmed McKendry Road tramp and found the mud too squishy and the undergrowth too thick so elected to fall back to Horsehoof Station again.
We took the cars on through several gates to the paddock that gave us a shorter walk up to the paddock corner at the top.
It was a misty day, but at our tea-break the weather cleared to reveal the wind turbines beyond Lake Mahinerangi.
Beyond the fence at the top corner, we went on to negotiate the turpentine shrub (dracophyllum longifolium), tussock and alpine moss to reach the large rock for an early lunch.
A cool westerly wind drove us to shelter in a cleft in the rock’s SW side.
A sheltered lunch spot.
An interesting bank of fog in the west.
The tarn beyond the big rock.
Obviously scientific, an exclosure on the tarn.
After all that, we returned the way we had come back to the cars. A good outing. – Ian.
16. 15/9/2010. Trampers. Horsehoof to Big Rock. Medium. Leader: George.
Walked up the 4WD track that went by the Microwave.
Morning Tea break. George. (Emma pic)
Lunched at the Big Rock.
Keith and George at the Big Rock. (Emma pic)
Returned back down through the Woodside Creek gully.
15. 6/5/2009 Both. Horsehoof Station. Bridge over Woodside Creek, top corner, back down the more regular farm road. Medium. Leaders: Bruce, Wendy.
Many were discouraged by the wet morning start, but 8 of us enjoyed a farm walk on what turned out to be an cold overcast day (which we were well wrapped up against) interspersed by sun at morning tea and lunch. From the regular parking spot, for a change we turned down steeply click to enlarge
Descent to bridge
to cross the Woodside Creek upper tributary nearby
Woodside Creek
and to then climb steeply
Climb ahead
to enjoy a cuppa at the set of rocks a little way up.
Cuppa.
Then to carry on up to the top corner of the station. This was a route the club hasn’t taken for five years and more. We forewent going on to the big rock and tarn through the rather heavy wet dracophyllum we would have had to struggle through, so lunched at the top under the shelter of a bank
Lunch in sun
and returned by the more regular farm track.
Rock and Pillar Range in sunRecycled car bolstering bridge. Wee waterfall behind.
We all enjoyed a good tramping day but regretted there were not more to share the walk with. Bruce stood in for Marjorie who was indisposed on the day. Our thanks to Wendy and Bruce for their leadership. – Ian.
This turned out to be a tramp from Horsehoof Station rather than from the advertised Allendale Farm. So it was simply up by the regular farm road to the Maungatua Trig and back. click to enlarge
Decorated Trig. George, Hazel, Ria, EmmaSaddle Hill from Maungatua
What was different was the wind measuring masts
Mast for measuring wind?
and various markers presumably installed by Trustpower. A breeze pleasantly tempered the heat of the sun and 8 of us enjoyed a tramp in the tussocks and Maungatua top with the George making it easier and shorter by having the two cars parked further up the hill than on previous tramps. – Ian
13. 27/8/2008Trampers. Horsehoof Station Upland road-walk Leaders: Ian, Ken
Winter conditions decreed a firmer road walk in place of the anticipated soggy ground we would have encountered at the Flagstaff big rock. So it was Horsehoof Station for a look at the fast disappearing snow conditions. click to enlarge
Drift snow remains. Ken
Seven of us set off from our cars parked down at the shearing shed and walked steeply up in the general Maungatua direction. It was a good walk in the fresh air with general sunny conditions turning to threatening clouds later. The breeze was fresh but sheltering in the lee of a gully made for a comfortable morning tea.
Lunch was on the sheltered side of the repeater station,
Emma and Glenys approaching the Microwave. George ahead.
reached by cutting across a couple of wet gullies swollen with fresh snow runoff.
The return. Bill, Pat, Emma
A shorter day but the sun was out most of the time and the views and company were good. – Ian
The return. Bill, Glenys, Emma.
12. 18/6/2003 Horsehoof Station walk. Leaders: Shirley M, Bill & Pat.
Lex, Doug J, Arthur, Doug M
Snow on NE Maungatuas
11. 16/2/2005. Both. Maungatua with Summit option. Leaders: Val and Brian, Arthur and Barbara. 10. 18/9/2002. Microwave – Maungatua Summit. Medium. Leaders: Ria L, Barbara and Arthur. 9. 21/11/2001. Maungatuas Summit from Microwave. Medium. Leaders: Les W, Mary M, Shirley R. 8. 27/6/2001 Leaders: Claude, Bill, Pat 7. 8/12/1999. Maungatua, Microwave. Leaders: George, Hazel, Graham. 6. 18/8/1999. Microwave to Maungatuas. Leaders: George, Doug M, Hazel. 5. 3/12/1997. Microwave to Maungatua Summit. Leaders: Bob H, Judy C, Sabina. 4. 18/9/1996. Maungatua Trip, Micro Stn, Loop and return. Average+. Leaders: George, Ian, Nelson. 3. 6/12/1995. Microwave to Maungatua Summit. Medium. Leaders: Bob H, Jean, Ria H, Jack R 2. 26/8/1992 Leaders: George, Les W, Peggy A, Peggy M 1. 10/2/1989 Leaders: Graham, Shirley, Wendy
9. 17/10/2018. Trampers. Steve Amies – Craig Lowan Falls. M. Dave.
13 keen trampers left their cars not far from the Whare flat school house and started on the Tunnel track.
Starting out on Tunnel track. (Gordon pic and caption.)
This track was fairly flat and one couldn’t help but marvel at the amount of work done by the early water race workers. After reaching McRaes Weir we turned up a somewhat steep track
Heading up to Steve Amies track. (Gordon pic and caption.)
to reach the Steve Amies ridge.The climb along the ridge was very pleasant, with manukas/kanukas dominant, with lush green undergrowth.
We stopped at the memorial Bryan Freeman seat – he used to be a good friend of Eleanor and her late husband.
The Bryan Freeman memorial seat- a good place for a break. (Dave pic and caption.)
Near the top of the track it was obvious the amount of tree planting and track maintenance that Steve Amies and his mates did many years ago.
We then walked down Rollinsons Road and entered the bush that leads to the Whare lake loop track. It was in this area that a vote of thanks was passed to Arthur and Neil for the obvious work on track maintenance that they continually do (you no longer get your boots wet)!!!
Neil & Arthur’s Bridge. (Gordon pic and caption.)
After having lunch on Smithys’ track it was then down through the bush and back onto Rollinsons road. Round the corner and off the flagstaff – whare flat road we followed an un-named track
Dave’s Track to Craiglowan Falls.
through scrub up to a pine plantation on a ridge.On the sides of the ridge were sycamore trees – a pest – but a pretty sight as the trees were coming into leaf. This improved track lead along the ridge finally ending high above McQuilkan’s creek.Everyone took care descending steeply down to the creek.
5 minutes up the creek we were at the Craig – Lowen falls – quite a sight!
Craig Lowen Falls. (Gordon pic and caption.)
Another half an hour down the streamwe were out in the open and back to the cars.
We covered 21,319 steps, 15.9km in 5.5hrs and gained a net height of 349 metres.
A good round trip!Dave
8. 24/9/2014. Trampers. Craiglowan Falls. M.
Enter via MacQuilkin Road up from Whare Flat Schoolhouse.
GPS of route, courtesy Ken. Craiglowan-Bullring-Aquaduct. We walked 15km; ave 4.3km/h; moving time 3 h 30m; climbed 531m.
This week’s tramp was to Craiglowan Falls. We started off at the locked gate on McQuilkans Rd & followed the marked track across numerous creek crossings [where one member got her feet wet at the first crossing] & up over the large rocks just before reaching the falls. We had morning tea break in the bush above the falls, & then retraced our steps for a short distance back to where a side track led off up the LH side of the stream. (Ed note: This was our original, and only, route down to the falls.) We were not sure where this went, but decided to investigate it anyway, as it looked like it had just had some work done on it. I climbed steeply up until we came to some pine forest, & at this stage I was quite sure that it would come out on the Whare Flat-Flagstaff Rd via Sanitarium Rd, which proved to be correct.
At this time it was only about 11:30, so we decided to walk up to the Bull Ring, & go down Longridge Rd to join up with Smeatons Rd,[where stopped for lunch] …
Lunch on Smeatons Rd – Ken pic and caption.
… – McIntyres Rd, [so we could view the remains of Smeatons shack] then down to the Aquaduct. This proved to be more difficult then would seem, as there were a lot of big trees down over the track in places, which made it necessary to detour around them. From the Aquaduct, we walked around to join up with McIntyres Rd. again, & then crossing straight over here onto the next part of the track leading to Longridge Rd. then back to the car.
Some of the tracks were quite muddy & slippery, but all made it safely back, & enjoyed the day. it was new territory for some in the group, & for others it had been a long time since they were there.
7. 30/5/2012. Trampers. Falls, Goat Point, Smeatons Shack, Aqueduct, Longridge Road.
We reached the Falls OK, but stream crossing on wet rocks and climbing over mossy rocks proved rather dicey. (Note: This tramp best done in summer.)
Craiglowan Falls. (Ken pic and caption)
Morning Tea at Craiglowan Falls (Ken pic and caption)
A cautious descent on way back down over large mossy rocks.
Well, to this point, so far, so good. Back at the stream crossing down below the confluence, we failed to locate the track up to Goat Point, despite knowing its general area. So we climbed in faith and hope. Finally we came across track markers, leading left and right. After exploring left, we went right, until they led relentlessly down. So we retraced back up because Ian had it fixed in his mind that we had to go up to reach the pine plantation. Mistake one.
Encouragingly however, Ken found a track indication on his GPS, and it did promise to reach a forest road. So we kept to this, despite no track appearing, only plenty of scratchy blackberry brambles. But we did reach the road, finally.
This we walked down until we reached a junction, with signs indicating that we were on Smeatons Road, crossed by McIntyre road. Hooray. McIntyre was what we had originally wanted. Ian felt we still had to go down so we turned left and down McIntyre road. Mistake two. We should have taken McIntyre road to the right. More of that later.
Anyway we made the long walk down McIntyre Road, left, to where the race crosses it, and turned right, along the race to lunch, as planned, at the Aqueduct.
Linzi at lunch.
Now, have a look at Ken’s GPS of our route. Click to enlarge. Start at the top, and follow to the right to reach Craiglowan Falls at the extreme right.
GPS of route, courtesy Ken.
Start returning to the left a bit. The zigzag you see is where we starting climbing away from the stream. A further zigzag a little further along is where we started following the track markers. The little tail to the left there, is where we turned back, before going back up again. CRITICAL MISTAKE. Notice, however, the short gap beyond to a tail coming up from below. This is the gap we should have traversed.
Now turn to page 8.07 of Antony Hamel’s Tracks and Trails, and find on the map of Flagstaff Forest at the top right, the circled number “seven”. See how it ascends first before turning right along a contour, below Goat Point and then DOWN to meet McIntyre road at its other end next to Smeatons Shack.
That tail from below is where Ken and Ian climbed up at lunch time to check where we should have come down. And lo and behold, we found not only Smeatons Shack but also the marked track next to it where we should have exited from. An aha moment. And it all became clear, as the GPS map confirms.
Ken and I returned back down the end of McIntyre Road to find the others had left, leaving Doug waiting for us. Of course we should have consulted with everyone to get mutual agreement with what we proposed to do and to arrange a meeting place should the others proposed not to wait. But in our excitement at solving the mystery, we had neglected to do so.
Anyway, going on out to the bottom of McIntyre Road at its other end, we didn’t know whether the others had simply turned down there and back along Long Ridge Road to the cars, or carried on along the race. In the absence of any indication, we set off along the race, as that had been the original intention of the tramp. We were relieved to catch up on them enough to see them further beyond us, but stopping to don parkas as the drizzling rain got heavier, lost sight of them again.
Emerging from the race end further up Long Ridge Road, we saw them again rounding a corner further down and caught up on them at the gate at the end. So all was well that ended well.
Quite an adventure and some interesting unplanned bush-bashing. A lesson in how bush conditions can change over two years and a reminder that our smaller numbers means that all our tramps now amount to a recce, – unlike the hikers, whose “reconnoiterers” go through our experience and sort things out first. – Ian
6. 10/2/2010. Trampers. Falls, Goat Point, Smeaton Shack, Aquaduct, Longridge Road. Leaders: Ian, Sabina.
Down Whare Flat Road 1.5 km. Sanatorium Road second on left after Bullring. – Track no longer locatable from top by us.
It all got a bit complicated. First the leaders failed to find the track down from the Sanatorium Road extension track. Many, many fallen trees had obliterated all trace of the track where it first descends steeply down. Well, the leaders couldn’t find it anyway.
However the start of a new track closer in from the gate had been pointed out by a local landowner so that was followed on the day.
It was fairly well cleared but markers petered out down the middle of a steep bouldery stream (the McQuilkin way upstream from the falls?) so after a morning tea rest, we prudently retreated back up and began all over again, this time back at the old school-house. Up McQuilkin Road. Right-fork into bush and across the McQuilkin on a wire hand-hold. On up and eventually back across to the true right and to the stream junction. Interesting notice points to “Watar fall”. Up over the large rocks and now it was lunch-time at the falls.
Then following out along the race to the other end of McIntyre Road, and across it to the far end of the race where the track comes out on Longridge Road. Down the road and back to the cars. What could have been a very short day comfortably filled out to be more satisfyingly longer. Must ask those landowners how that other track gets you to the falls. And must check out whether the old track is still navigable. – Ian
5. 3/8/2005. Both. School House, Craiglowan Falls, – Whare Flat. Leaders: Judy, Jacqui, Hazel
4. 6/8/2003. Both. Craiglowan Falls. Medium. Leaders: Doug M, Hazel, Barbara L, Mary M.
3. 19/7/2003. Craiglowan Falls.
Craiglowan Falls
Craiglowan Falls. Ian
Upstream from top of Craiglowan Falls.
Overlooking top of Craiglowan Falls.
Old Aqueduct. Doug.
Top of old aqueduct.
2. 30/8/2000 Craiglowan Falls, Whare Flat. Leaders: Mavis, Winifred, Val
1. 16/4/1997. Craig Lowan Falls from Bull Ring. Leaders:Hugh, Val, Judy C
30. 22/2/2017. Hikers. Whare Flat. Leaders: Peter D, Janice.
Whare Flat/McRaes Weir (not quite) Wednesday 22nd Feb
26 happy hikers on a lovely sunny morning – what could go wrong?
Seven opted to drive up to the locked gate on Rollinson Rd and walk on to the start of the Steve Amies Track, where they enjoyed a pleasant amble to the picnic area and a leisurely lunch in the sun, before returning to the cars and off to Topiary for the usual coffee stop.
Little did they know of the drama that was developing below….
The other 19 left the cars at the park near the pump house, and set off up the track on the steep grunt that takes longer but avoids the water crossing and the possibility of wet feet.
However, Ian opted to do the shorter, easier version, risking wet boots, and meeting us in the clearing just past the swing bridge.
Ian reached the clearing safely and with plenty of time. In his own words –
’Ho hum. Oh! Time to get out the puffer and see how it might get me up the next climb and manage to avoid that first 5 min. heavy breathing before the blood vessels adjust and let me get away. Bummer.
(I had not used it for ever so long as usually I remember when it’s too late to use. It’s worked well on earlier occasions, but not in this case, standing, waiting, for such a long time before climbing.)
Started to feel faint. Got worse. Lay down, ended looking like a wee gnome in the grass, as one of you said. The rest you know better than I do!!!’
So, here was Ian, looking worse by the minute. While he was attended to by those with medical experience, we debated the options.
Cell phone call for help. No signal.
Use the locator beacon. Was there enough room for a chopper to land? Debatable.
Go back to the cars and phone for an ambulance.
It seemed at this point that Ian was recovering – his colour was better and he was lucid. Two people set off for the cars. Over the swing bridge and just past the gate to the road they realised the house on the right was occupied. But no landline and still no cell phone coverage. The wonderful lady (who had a key to the gate!) drove them out to the cars. One went on to get coverage and call for help. The other returned, to find that Ian’s condition had worsened, necessitating CPR. Gulp. Back down the road – kind lady again drove. The police car was met at the (un)locked gate and immediately radioed URGENT to the ambulance.
Things happened fast. In just over an hour from Ian’s collapse the ambulance was at the swing bridge and Ian was stabilised and stretchered across the bridge, and off to A & E.
It was now 11.30 and we were all rather shell-shocked. Five decided to call it a day. Two went to break the news to Shirley, and the other three heading home.
The remaining 13 headed up the track to the next clearing where a very sober lunch was had. Then up the track we climbed to McRaes Weir Track. It was decided that the weir could wait for another day, and we headed back along the race track to the road and down to the cars, with rain starting to fall and the track becoming muddy and slippery.
Coffee at Topiary was welcome!
Thanks to everyone for the able assistance that was provided in so many ways. Ian is fine – he had a reaction to the ‘puffer’ and after tests and checks, was allowed home that evening.
LESSONS LEARNED:
IF for any reason the group SPLITS, there must be at least TWO PEOPLE and preferably FOUR so that in the event of an emergency, one can stay with the ‘victim’, and two go for help. The same should apply to anyone deciding to turn back and in future this needs to be enforced by the leader.
In a later debrief with Police, we were praised for the efficient handling of the situation. However, they said that we should never hesitate to use the beacon because a few precious minutes could be saved. On the beacon signal, our precise position is shown and authorities can then make the decision as to which services to use. So in future, no hesitation! Better a false alarm than a death.
29. 1/5/2013 Both. Steve Amies. Leaders: Ian and George.
This time we left from the schoolhouse, making it more of a road walk. We had morning tea on the lower Rollinson Rd and lunch in the track clearers’ picnic area, after inspecting the helicopter landing pad a little beyond.
As we returned down the road, we were surprised to see the helicopter, and shortly after the tank truck making their way towards where we had been. Apparently this was the day to carry out the weed spraying we had been notified about – and we were now making a timely exit. A tramp for 25 of us and of 10.5 km according to Peter’s pedometer and 25. – Ian.
Plan 1: Swampy to Green Hill via Sleepy Hollow. Cold winds too fierce on tops.
Plan 2. Schoolhouse, Little Coal Creek, Steve Amies. But wet weather meant steep tracks would be too slippery and dangerous.
Plan 3. The actual tramp (see above). – Racemans level and safer, (except for the gradual Tunnels ascent/descents). However wet tree roots still had to be carefully negotiated.
Although rain for a start, but it soon went off and only drippy bush had to be endured. Track still muddy in places, but in many places a grand avenue and well cleared. Seven of us ventured out and enjoyed what looked at first to have been an unpromising day. – Ian.
GPS of route. Courtesy, Ken. (Route double-tracked for some inexplicable reason.)
12.33 p.m. Ready to return from lunch spot on Racemans.
2.23 p.m. Top of Tunnels track. Rest stop on pine-needles on return.
6. 23/10/1996. Trig Q. Average. Leaders: Margaret and Les, Doug J.
5. 7/6/1995Trig Q from Whare Flat School. Medium+. Shorter trip available. Leaders: Bob H, George, Jack R, Nancy
18/5/2016. Trampers. Lake Whare and surrounding tracks circuit. Leader: Arthur H.
It came on to rain lightly as we met at the car park. At 9.00 a.m. the 11 Trampers present held a brief conference and decided that as it looked very wet in the direction of the programmed tramp to the “3 Kings”, we would change and go to the Whare Flat area. This was a very wise decision as it was very pleasant in the bush even though it was raining.
We decided to do a circuit taking in Smithies, Possum Busters, Swine Spur and Lake Whare loop tracks. Accordingly we parked the cars at the bottom of Rollinsons Road. It was rather wet out in the open while getting ready, but no problem once we got started.
The first thing to admire, before we began, was the bridge at the start of “Smithies”, giving dry access across the swampy ditch from the road. The bridge was of Neil’s design and construction, so it was only fitting that a photo of himself standing on the bridge …
Neil on his bridge he built. (Helen pic and caption.)
… is presented herewith.
Going in this direction Smithies track …
Carol on Smithies Track. (Margreet pic.)
… climbs on occasion. It was after 10.00 a.m. before we stopped for morning tea, as we had to find a suitable spot under the tree canopy to keep us dry. Everything was quite wet underfoot by now, but the track conditions were good.
From our stop, it didn’t take long to reach the end of Smithies. We turned left, on Possum Busters now, passing the junctions of McQuilkans and then Porkies tracks.
Eventually we reached Swine Spur/Possum Busters cross-roads (cross-tracks?) where we stopped briefly. Downhill we now went on Swine Spur, finding that this upper part is quite overgrown.
The sun came out …
Rainbow. (Helen pic and caption)
… and we stopped for lunch at a suitable spot after reaching ‘cutty grass flats’ – which we had track-cleared some months ago. The sun was very welcome and the weather remained dry then till we finished.
Afterwards it was only a short distance to the Lake Whare Loop track which we followed. A stop was made to admire Lake Whare …
Admiring Lake Whare (Margreet pic.)
… after crossing the rock wall and looking at the ruins of the rock-walled building (house?).
We then crossed back onto Smithies Track, and thence back to the cars.
It was agreed that all had enjoyed the tramp, even though it wasn’t all that long. There had been a good variety of up and down, giving everyone a good work out.
Upon returning to Mosgiel, a meeting of the” Taieri Recreational Tramping Club AND Coffee Club” (Tramping Division) was convened at the Wooden Table cafe. – Arthur H.
21/7/2004 Trampers. Lake Whare, Steve Amies, Trig Q. Medium. Leaders: Ian, Bob H
After cancelling our trip to Leaning Lodge, 7 trampers turned up at the carpark to do the Morrisons/Poleline/Swampy/Moon circuit.
We parked on the Leith Valley Rd. by the entrance to the Glow worm track, then walked up the road to the bridge over the Morrison Burn.
The day started off cool, but fine, & the track condition was quite good. We climbed under the barrier at the locked gate on the bridge at the start, & made our way up to the weir,
1 Curiosity (Ken pic and caption)
then backtracked to where the track went uphill through the bush. After morning tea break,
2 Morning tea (Ken pic and caption)
we carried on until we came across a gravelled road, where we took the wrong way!! We soon discovered our mistake, & walked along the road to where the track started again up through the bush. This eventually led us onto the Poleline track that goes up to the top of Swampy. We had lunch sheltered from the wind by the building at the top of the Leith Saddle track, then retraced our steps back …
3 Fog over Mosgiel from Swampy (Ken pic and caption)
… to the junction of the Poleline track & the Swampy Ridge track, where we turned off, & made our way along to the top of Moon track. We had a short stop here before heading off down this very badly rutted [damaged by mountain bikes] & rough track into the bush again where there is a multitude of mountain biking tracks, winding back & forward making it hard to know which track to take. So we just kept looking for tracks that went downhill, & eventually we ended up on the Leith Valley Rd. about 150mtrs from the cars.
An interesting day, & a tramp that a few had not done before, & all agreed that it was a good walk.
Walked 12.8km
Ave speed 3.9km/h
Moving time 3h 18min.
Climbed 658mtrs. – Ken.
5. 19/8/2009. Medium. Morrisons Burn, Morrisons Track, Poleline Road, Swampy, Pineapple, Nicols Creek. Medium. Leaders: Keith and Glenice
Parking the cars at the Nicols Creek bridge, we walked up the Leith Valley Road to Morrisons at the foot of Stoney Ford slope. We scrambled past the large slip immediately across the footbridge and enjoyed the beautiful bush and moss-clad track up to reach the waterfall. Then the steep scramble up the bank to morning tea on the 4WD at the slope’s top. Along that a bit, and then it was further up, up, up through bush to join the Pole Track 4WD to enjoy lunch where it meets the Swampy Ridge track. Instead of turning down the Nicols Creek track junction when we reached it,
Junction of Swampy with Nicols Creek Tracks. Hazel, Ria, Pat, Ken, Doug M, Lex
by common consent Lex took the 10 of us on to the Pineapple Track
Junction Swampy, Pineapple Track. Lex, Ken, Pat, Doug M, Hazel, Wendy
descent to break away from it further down at a stone cairn to cut across the cocksfoot on the left to the bush edge. This provided heightened interest as it had not been reconnoitred but Lex cleverly located the track that led down through the bush and across back to Nicols Creek track. The day had begun overcast and actually rained a few drops after lunch, but got really hot during our concluding descent to the cars. A good way for it to happen. – Ian
No. 58 on old hardcopy list of 113 club tramps. “Taieri Historical Park. Farm”
Location: 11 km.
9/12/2015 Taieri Historical Park, Outram Glen, Whare Creek. Leader: Judy.
Judy and Adrienne did a great job of organising a rather complicated end-of-the-year gathering at the Taieri Historical Park when it didn’t all go to plan. Indeed the ordered trestle arrived, Judy had the key to the historic church where we had planned to lunch later, but there was not promised entry to the park museum, although happily the Machinery Museum at the top was there for us to wander around and gawp at. We we a goodly-sized group – forty-five of us. We were split into three groups:
Trampers went up the “Outram Glen” track, in the event stopping just short of Lee Stream lest they should find themselves getting back late for lunch.
Hikers (group one) went up the Whare/Traquair Creek track where we were informed through some 1912 cell-phone photos that the true “Outram Glen” spot was just across the creek adjacent to a flour mill, sadly burnt down about 1916, an area resorted to by picnickers, now built over by the more sweeping corner of the George King Memorial Drive just where it begins to climb the hill. The group went on to have morning tea at the track end, enjoying the bush and stream setting, and speculating where the dray track must have continued on to, perhaps up the side stream there, over a bridge that Jim noticed traces of. But click on here to see the probable true explanation. As depicted by the route map below, the track is just under a kilometre long. The group wandered back down to what is now termed the “Glen”, splitting up, some to explore where the Trampers had gone and others to wander where they willed. There was ample time to kill before the midday lunch.
GPS route map
Hikers (group two) resorted for a morning tea picnic at the “Outram Glen” Taieri River beach before returning.
Come midday, and others arrived. Many clustered round Jill’s ” bookstall, (an Altrusa project, proceeds to the Mosgiel Swimming Pool). We drifted into the church building and were greeted with a most attractive layout of the shared food we had brought.
The goodies (Helen pic)
Early fears that the pews would inhibit social intercourse were quickly allayed. Fred pointed out to this reporter how blokes at the “shed” had cunningly resized some longer pews so that the collection of pews presented a most genuine setting.
Munching and meeting. (Helen pic)Munching and meeting. (2) (Helen pic)
To round off the day, Bruce and his ukelele led us in singing a number of old unchurchy songs, to two of which he had added clever tramping verses of his own. Well done, Bruce!
Bruce and a couple of ring-ins leading the singing. (Helen pic)
Well, that winds things up. – Except! Plans to “coffee” at Outram were amended to Wal’s Topiary because of its larger size, but which we discovered upon reaching there had been taken over by a group for a Christmas get-together. So nine of us ended up at the Blackstone Cafe for our coffee chat. All in all, the day was a good occasion to finish off the year’s tramping and to wish each other a good holiday season and a good meeting together in the New Year. – Ian.
10/6/2009 Hikers: Taieri Historical Park, West Taieri Cemetery, return road. 3 paddocks to cross. Watch for electric fences Easy. Leaders: Bob & Evelyn E.
12/6/2002 Alt. Taieri Historical Park. Leaders: Jack and Rosemary, Margaret D
9/5/2001. Outram Historical Park. Leaders: Margaret D, Mary Y, Denise.
14/2/2001. Outram Historical Park. Leaders: Denise, Arthur and Barbara.
8/3/2000. Taieri Historical Park. Leaders: Margaret D, Rosemary and Jack.
