Wanderlust: Out and About with the Auckland Tramping Club PDF Free Download
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Auckland Tramping Club Inc, PO Box 2358, Shortland St, Auckland 1140
Website: www.aucktramping.org.nz email: secretary@aucktramping.org.nz
CLUB CONTACTS
President:
Dennis Brown 021 1955590
president@aucktramping.org.nz
Secretary:
Jim Morrow 021 264 6085
secretary@aucktramping.org.nz
Treasurer:
Michael Champion 027 225 4451
treasurer@aucktramping.org.nz
Weekend Day Tramps:
Martin Woodhead 021 397 734
martin@aucktramping.org.nz
Weekend Tramps:
Andrew Murdoch 021 489 206
trips@aucktramping.org.nz
Midweek Tramps:
Ian Roberts 021 02675675
Anna Roberts 021 1347408
roberts.anna.ian@actrix.co.nz
Transport & Equipment:
Keith Ayton 027 3200 102
transport@aucktramping.org.nz
Membership Admin
Liz Ware 524 7409
membership@aucktramping.org.nz
Distribution:
Colin Wright 620 6713
distribution@aucktramping.org.nz
Wanderlust Editor:
Dennis Brown 021 1955590
wanderlust@aucktramping.org.nz
Website:
Tony Walton 027 478 5223
website@aucktramping.org.nz
Social Convenor:
Chris Burnett 021 1430676
burnett102@icloud.com
Ngaro Te Kotare Hut:
Robin Houston 0274 310 010
(8am – 5pm)
8177849
(7pm – 9pm)
ntkhut@aucktramping.org.nz
No calls after 9.00pm please
03 President’s column
04 News and views
08 ATC Centenary
10 Your ATC diary
11 Tramping programme
20 Trip reports
20 Old Ghost Road in winter
22 Tangihua Fit (? Epic) Group –
Matariki
25 Matariki Weekend – Medium Fit
29 Waitākere Winter Weekend
32 Trip information
Cover photo: Ghost Rd views – see report page 20.
In this issue
The next Wanderlust will be our
September 2025 edition, deadline for
contributions Friday 22 August.
Please send contributions to
wanderlust@aucktramping.org.nz with
Wanderlust as the subject.
The deadlines for contributions each
month can be viewed on the Club
website on the Wanderlusts page
under the About ATC menu.
The deadlines for
contributions each
month can be viewed at:
www.aucktramping.org.
nz → News →
Wanderlustsis issue
3
From time-to-time Wanderlust publishes notices of the
passing of members. Generally, these are older folk,
often former members no longer actively tramping but
well-remembered due to their long association with the
Club.
Every loss is sad, but particularly so the unexpected
death of a fit and much-loved current member. The
recent tragic passing of Grace Yong has affected many
in the Club. Her bubby personality, incessant smile and
zest for life will long be remembered and missed.
Grace was an active participant on day and weekend
trips, leader of day walks, and wonderful trip report
writer. The affection with which she was held within
the Club is reflected in the strong ATC turnout at her
memorial service and participations of members at the service.
On another matter, the Complaints Sub-committee has recently had to deal
with a case where a member defied a leader’s instructions on a Club weekend
trip and headed off alone for the day. This is an absolute no-no and viewed
very seriously by the Club. It not only creates potential safety and liability
implications but also undermines the leader’s authority and our entire
philosophy of shared group responsibility on any tramp or trip.
Members are reminded that when you join any Club trip you must follow the
leader’s guidance and under no circumstances can you leave that group or do
your own thing without the leader’s OK. Our Code of Conduct spells this out
and members’ other obligations – have a read of it on our website.
A lot of work takes place behind the scenes in the Club, much of it unnoticed
by members. A meaty project just underway has seen the formation of an IT
Sub-committee led by Stephen Martin to review and oversee the upgrading of
several of our key background processes and systems. These include the
conversion of Wanderlust to digital format next year, with implications for our
website processes and content; an improved NTK booking process; a new
membership system; and a transition away from Access for the Club’s data
recording. A lot of work to do and hopefully nobody will notice a thing…
Dennis Brown
President’s column
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Club Nights
July – A keen audience of 35 enjoyed a captivating talk from Neil Henderson
on long-tailed bats in the Auckland area. Who would have thought these
creatures in our back yard can sing as sweetly as a tui! An excellent night, and
especially so for the 40 lucky winners of 100-mile challenge prizes.
Wednesday 20 August – Dolomites, Stubai, Libretto
Teresa Janssen recently completed two week-long
tramping trips – in the Italian Dolomites and the
Austrian Stubai High Trail. Hear about how these trips
were tougher than expected with lots of wire sections
with steep drop offs and see some jaw-dropping
photos from talented photographers.
Robin Houston will present on his February trip from
the Deer Valley Campsite on the Lewis Pass Road to
the Aickens carpark Otira via the Libretto Range & the
Nelson Tops. A tough and spectacular trip!
Wednesday 17 September – Peter Laurenson
Fabulous, fabulous photos – guaranteed! Peter will
share some of the beautiful images featured in his latest book AOTEAROA
LIGHT: Moments of wonder and realisation in New Zealand wilderness which
appeared in bookstores in August 2025. He’ll also
talk about some of the issues placing all of this at
risk.
Many of you will know Peter as editor of FMC’s
Backcountry, from his previous books KHUMBU:
Gateway to Mount Everest. Pathways to kinship,
and OCCASIONAL CLIMBER: A Journey to Mount
Clarity, and from his Occasional Climber website
showcasing his mountain and travel adventures.
News and views
Venue: Remuera Bowling Club, 6 Market Rd, Remuera
Parking: Down driveway between 3 and 5A Dromorne Rd
Time: 7.00 pm for a 7.30 pm start
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ATC / HTMC Safari 2026
We are inviting members of our sister club HTMC to join us on the Club
‘Safari’ for 2 weeks from 13 - 27 March next year. The programme includes:
- Saturday 14 Auckland Coast to Coast
- Sunday 15 - Tuesday 17 at NTK with possible day hikes to Arataki /
Karekare / Kitekite Falls / Piha / Cascade Kauri
- Wednesday 18 - Monday 23 at Mt Ruapehu staying at Arlberg Lodge with
possible day hikes to Skyline Trail / Summit Plateau / Whakapapanui to
Tama / Mangatepopo Valley - all weather dependent
- Tuesday 24 - Thursday 26 at New Plymouth staying at a central motel with
possible day hikes to summit of Taranaki / RTM track from Dawson Falls to
North Egmont / Makatawa Hut circuit / Pouakai Tarns – all weather
dependent
- Friday 27 departure New Plymouth and drive back to Auckland
Big Blue will be used for transport.
Cost: TBC but expected to be in vicinity of NZ$500 - $600
We will be looking for volunteers to host HTMC members for 3 nights –
13/14/17 March; please let us know if you in a position to act as a host for
these nights.
If you have any questions and / or are interested in joining us for any sections
of the Safari please register with us at: roberts.anna.ian@actrix.co.nz
Summer Trips
What a great variety of summer adventures on offer again this year!
Now is the time to register your interest with the organiser of an event you
are keen to be part of. To be permitted to join these events you need to be a
regular attendee on our weekend and longer tramps or be able to explain to
the leader that you have been on comparable trips recently.
For more information on these trips, visit the Extended Multiday Trip Calendar
on our website.
Molesworth Dec 26 to Jan 5 – principally a loop taking in the Saxton, Leatham
and Severn catchments, followed by a few days of shorter trips. Medium to
Medium Fit. Leader Tony Walton tonywalking@gmail.com
Molesworth – in parallel with the previous, a medium easy option involving
shorter walks in the Molesworth / Hanmer Springs area. Contact Tony if you
are interested.
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Rabbit Pass and 4 Peaks Dec 26 to Jan 10 – two separate trips with the option
to join one or both in the Mt Aspiring National Park. Fit. Leader Robin Houston
robhouston@orcon.net.nz 0274 310 010
Otira to Hokitika Gorge Feb 6-15 – a Fit trip crossing a rugged portion of the
Southern Alps. Leader Robin Houston robhouston@orcon.net.nz
St Arnaud Range Traverse Feb 14-21 – a Medium Fit trip following this
spectacular range from south to north. Tops camping at its best with tarns
galore. Leader Tony Walton tonywalking@gmail.com
Cobb and Mt Arthur Tableland Feb 16-27 – a Medium trip involving a
refinement of last year’s trip in the same area. Leader Christine Major
christinemajor25@gmail.com 021 1095750.
Safari – Auckland and Taranaki Mar 6-21 – see previous page.
Travers Sabine Mar 11-17 – The classic trip with a side trip to Blue Lake.
Medium to Medium Fit. Leader Carmen Pope carmen.fookes@xtra.co.nz
And not forgetting that over Auckland Anniversary Weekend we are planning
a weekend trip to Tuhua / Mayor Island – January 23-26, and a Tongariro
Wilderness trip for an extended Waitangi weekend.
Grace Yong
We were very saddened on hearing that our
little tramping buddy Grace had suddenly
passed away at the end of June. Grace was a
very active member of ATC since she joined
early in 2021 and regularly participated in day,
weekend and extended tramps throughout
the country from Reinga to Rakiura.
And in 2024 she joined the ATC group that
went to join our sister club HTMC in Hawaii –
this not only gave her the opportunity to
indulge her love of hiking but also to indulge
her love of swimming and snorkelling (she
never gave up on the hope of meeting an
octopus in its habitat…).
Grace was a ‘water baby’ swimming in any
body of fresh water and the sea (aided and
abetted by Martin of course) when the
opportunity arose.
Grace’s infectious smile will long
be remembered
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Her bright, bubbly presence will be greatly missed by those of us who shared
the trails (and coffee!) with her over the years. R.I.P. Grace.
Anna Roberts
Trapline volunteer(s) needed
Here’s your chance to tramp an area of the Waitakeres currently off-limits to
the rest of us.
We need a person/people to join an enthusiastic team to service the ASC and
Remus Roe trapline once every four weeks. This involves a walk through lovely
bush, clearing and re-baiting traps and recording the catches and filing a short
report. There is even the chance of seeing/hearing the kokako. Time taken
depends on one’s tramping speed.
For more information and no obligation, please contact Leone Morrow 022
097 0400 or email leonemorrow@gmail.com or Sue Grant 09-8465821
kiwiguide@xtra.co.nz.
Chatham Islands update
We now have one space available on the Club’s Chatham Island adventure in
November. Contact Dennis Brown if you’re interested 021 1955590 and see
our website for more info on this superb trip.
New members
The Club extends a very warm welcome to new members:
Paul Kelway Dave Bell Joe Renwick
Tania Cibulskis Christopher Pitts Prdanya Gadkari
Matthew Ballantyne Tony Nemaia Catherine Guo
Mark Hoyle Wendy Heap Elanor Zou
We hope you enjoy many great tramps with ATC!
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Celebrating our Centenary Year – 2025
To all lovers of our back country huts…
We’re looking to borrow material to mount a display at our Centenary lunch
of our favourite or interesting huts we have appreciated in our tramping. This
may be in the form of posters, photographs, artwork, interesting stories, or
entries in hut books etc.
If you can help, contact Chris Ashton ph 0273098007, 096223381 or
chrisashton10@gmail.com.
Thanks!
Can we borrow your (really old) tramping gear?
On the day of our Centenary function we are keen to have a great collection
of really old tramping gear on display so that everyone present can marvel
about how trampers managed before super lightweight everything.
If you have some items that would fit the bill, please contact Jim Morrow
jwmorrow@slingshot.co.nz 021 264 6085 or Tony Walton
tonywalking@gmail.com 027 478 5223
100-miles challenge update
We are just over halfway through the year – so if you haven’t reached your
100 miles yet, there are still plenty of ATC trips to get you there!
Here is the 100 Mile Challenge spreadsheet link. If
you need to know the miles for past trips you have
been on here is the complete list of 2025 events.
So far 65 people have started on their 100 miles
challenge, 20 have achieved their 100 miles, and
the total miles walked is over 5000.
In addition to regular prize draws for participants,
everyone achieving their 100 miles will receive an
ATC Centenary coffee mug at Club Nights through
the year.
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100 Years with Boots and Pack
With next to no marketing, we have now
sold over 160 copies of our impressive 100th
anniversary book and have less than 30 left.
If you haven’t yet ordered your copy, you’d
better be quick – there’s no guarantee we’ll
do a reprint. More info and an order form
here – at just $35 (plus $10 if we need to
post it to you) the book is a bargain.
ATC centenary weekend 18-19 October
There’s still time to join the over 100 who have registered for our anniversary
afternoon tea and dinner at Manukau Cruising Club – more info here.
And over 50 have booked for Sunday’s ‘down memory lane’ trip to Rangitoto
Island. As we have to book ferry places, if you’re intending to go on this trip
but haven’t yet registered, please do so asap at this link.
ATC centenary prizes for you during 2025
As you know, we have managed to secure a large number of products from
our very generous sponsors for our centenary year. Prizes for the rest of this
year will go to:
• People participating in the 100 Mile Challenge – drawn and announced
at our October centennial dinner and in December, date TBA. To be
eligible, you need to be in the 100 Mile Challenge spreadsheet with
some miles to your credit – so time for you to get walking on our Club
trips and ensuring that you update your miles total after each trip
Good luck!
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August
August 2-3 Day Walk Weekend – Whangamata Walks
August 7 Midweek walk – Orakei Basin and Kepa Bush Reserve
August 7-10 ATC kokako weekend
August 10 Sunday tramp – Coastal Howick
August 13 Midweek walk – Westmere Parks and Reserves
August 15-17 Kaimai work weekend
August 17 Sunday tramp – Waharau and Tapapakanga Regional
Parks
August 20 Club Night – Dolomites, Stubai, Libretto
August 22-24 Weekend tramp – Whangarei Heads
August 27 Midweek walk – Waitakeres in Winter
August 31 Sunday tramp – Clevedon Scenic Reserve and Waitawa
Regional Park
September
September 6-7 Day Walk Weekend – Southern Kaimai
September 10 Midweek walk – Whatipu to Pararaha
September 11-14 ATC kokako weekend
September 14 Sunday tramp – Te Araroa Walkway South of Dome
September 17 Club Night – Peter Laurenson, AOTEAROA LIGHT
September 19-21 Kaimai work weekend
September 21 Sunday tramp – Mt Te Aroha, Waiorongomai and the
Stope
September 24 Midweek walk – Wetlands and Waterways of Ayrlies
September 26-28 Weekend tramp – Broken Hills – Rangihau
Coming up
October 24-27 Weekend tramp – Tongariro National Park (Labour
Weekend)
Your ATC diary
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Centennial Event #80
Day Walk Weekend 2-3 August – Whangamata
Walks
This weekend we return to the Whangamata area with some great coastal,
bush-clad valley walks and some super waterfalls on offer. All of this
weekend’s walks are rated as Medium Easy or Easy, but in all cases we need
to walk at a good pace to ensure we have the maximum time for enjoying
each walk, as well as the evening in the seaside town of Whangamata. See the
website description for details.
Saturday night accommodation will be at Whangamata Motor Camp.
Leader: Tony Walton tonywalking@gmail.com 🕿 027 478 5223
Transport: Club bus
Driver: Keith Ayton
Cost: Members $48, Non-members $60. Add $25 if sleeping in the
bus.
Accommodation: Book your own or arrange to pay the required amount
direct to the organiser of a cabin if sharing a cabin. If you
Tramping programme
To join a day tramp
•
Phone the leader if this is your first tramp with the Club.
•
Register your interest for a midweek tramp.
•
Then just meet at the departure point.
Pay in cash on the day.
To join a weekend tramp
1. Discuss the trip with the leader and obtain their approval to register.
2. Register online via the trip description page (find this from the Programme,
Weekend Tramps Calendar menu). Any problems, contact the Bookings Officer:
Christine Major 021 1095750 bookings@aucktramping.org.nz
3. Pay the trip fee into the Club account within 48 hours: 02-0100-0024675-00.
Quote your name, the trip number and “weekend”.
You’re only confirmed on the trip when you’ve completed all 3 steps!
Important: Don’t be put off if a weekend trip is showing as full. Contact the leader
anyway – often there are cancellations, and sometimes we can take extras.
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want a bunk in a shared cabin, or have booked your own cabin
and want someone to share with you, contact Tony.
Whangamata Motor Camp: Ph 07 865 9128 Website link
Departure time each day: 7.30 am – please be ready to leave with your gear
on the bus before that time
Saturday departure: 31 Sandringham Rd, Kingsland
Centennial Event #82
Thursday 7 August – Orakei Basin and Kepa Bush
Reserve
From the end of Lucerne Rd, Remuera, we will hike down to and along the
shared pathway towards Glen Innes to connect with John Rymer Place. From
here, across Kohimaramara Rd and down Allum St to the Waitemata
waterfront. Head west along the waterfront to Mission Bay then up to the
Savage Memorial for our lunch stop. From here we leave the coast heading
along Kupe St, down Kepa Rd to Orakei Rd taking the track that circuits the
Lagoon to return to the cars.
Approx 11km; 7 miles.
Leader: Liz Ware 🕿 027 364 7170
Transport: Private cars or public transport
Meet: End of Lucerne Rd at the trailhead to Orakei Lagoon by 10.00am
Register: If you plan to join us, please text or phone the leader and
provide your name and contact details so we can inform you of
any last-minute changes.
Centennial Event #107
Sunday 10 August – Coastal Howick
Medium Easy Logan Carr Park, Kellaway Reserve then cross Point View Drive
and down Hayley Lane. Along Mangemangeroa Walkway to Shelley Park
Beach then follow the coastline to Eastern Beach then over to the top to
Bucklands Beach finishing at the southern end. Coastline is a mixture of
beaches and rocky shelves and boulders – some of which can be slippery.
Time 5-6 hours. Approx 14km.
Leader: Martin Woodhead 🕿 021 397 734
Transport: Club bus
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Driver: TBA
Destination: Logan Carr Park, Dannemora Drive
Departure: 8.30am Club garage, 31 Sandringham Rd, Kingsland
8.45am Marewa Rd, Greenlane, behind Woolworths
Walk starts approx. 9.30am.
Cost: $15 members, $20 non-members. Pay in cash on the day.
Low Tide: 1.40pm
Centennial Event #83
Wednesday 13 August – Westmere Parks and Reserves
From Garnet Rd hike through some of our lesser-known parks and reserves
including Westmere Park, Jagger’s Bush, Arch Hill, Western Springs, Meola
Reef Reserve. Shared walkways / cycle ways / footpaths will be used as
needed to connect these. Approx 11.5 km; 7 miles.
Leader: Linda Webber 🕿 021 440 711
Transport: Private cars or public transport
Meet: Garnet Rd – park near #190-198 or angle park on opposite side
of the road by 9.45am
Register: If you plan to join us, please text or phone the leader and
provide your name and contact details so we can inform you of
any last-minute changes.
Centennial Event #108
Sunday 17 August – Waharau and Tapapakanga
Medium Today’s trip involves a visit to two of Auckland’s eastern regional
parks – Waharau and Tapapakanga on the edge of the Hunua Ranges. The
Waharau loop track climbs up to the Waharau Ridge high point 405m with
good views over the Firth of Thames to the Coromandel. Around 3½ hours,
approx. 11km.
Tapapakanga Regional Park provides a variety of walking options with great
views out over the Firth of Thames, also with swimming potential from the
beach. Coastal sections are on stones / boulders and involve a stream crossing
so wet feet highly likely. Around 2 hours, approx. 6km. Low Tide 7.05am.
Leader: Terry Chubb 🕿 021 870 158
Transport: Club bus
Driver: Chris Davidson
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Departure: 8.00 am Club garage, 31 Sandringham Rd, Kingsland
8.15 am Marewa Rd, Greenlane, behind Woolworths
Cost: $20 members, $25 non-members. Pay in cash on the day.
Centennial Events #110, 111
Weekend Trip 22-24 August – Whangarei Heads
Outstanding views of Whangarei Heads area.
Easy Medium Saturday from the camp, climb Mt Manaia (2-2½ hrs return)
then drop the other party off at Urquhart Bay and continue on to Ocean
Beach. Walk back along Ocean Beach Road for 10 mins. and take Peach Cove
Track up to ridge and down to Peach Cove Hut. Back up ridge and return to
Ocean Beach either back down Peach Cove Track (4.5hrs total) or following
the Med Fit Party route along Te Whara Track (6hrs).
Sunday after packing up & cleaning the lodge, drive to Amalin Drive carpark,
Pukenui Forest. Walk Pukenui-Taraire Ridge & Pukenui Forest Loop tracks loop
(11km, 4-5hrs). Anyone wanting less exertion could confine themselves to the
Pukenui Forest Loop (3-4hrs).
Leader: Martin Woodhead 🕿 021397734 martinwoodhead@xtra.co.nz
Medium Fit Saturday from the camp, climb Mt Manaia (2-2½ hrs return) then
drive to Urquhart Bay. Te Whara/Bream Head Track to Ocean Beach with a
side visit to Peach Cove Hut (6-7hrs).
Sunday after packing up & cleaning the lodge, drive to Amalin Drive carpark,
Pukenui Forest. Walk Pukenui-Taraire Ridge & Pukenui Forest Loop tracks loop
(11km, 4-5hrs). Anyone wanting less exertion could confine themselves to the
Pukenui Forest Loop (3-4hrs)
Leader: Andrew Murdoch 🕿 021 489 206 livingscapes@hotmail.com
Transport: Club bus
Driver: TBA
Transport Cost: $49 members, $61 non-members
Destination: Manaia Baptist Camp, 26 McDonald Road, Whangarei Heads
Accommodation: Two nights in Cottrell Hall, Manaia Baptist Camp. Bring own
bedding, breakfasts, lunches & dinner for Saturday night
Accommodation Cost: $46 per person for two nights.
Total Cost: $95 members, $107 non-members
Departure: Friday 7.00pm, Club Garage, 31 Sandringham Road
Bookings now open
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Centennial Event #84
Wednesday 27 August – Wairoa Dam loop, Hunuas
Drive to Otau Rd off Mountain Rd in the Hunuas. Tramp along Suspension
Bridge track to the Wairoa Dam and Reservoir. Cross the dam to the Wairoa
loop track. Climb up to the lookout for extensive views then continue along
and complete the loop by descending back down the track and connect with
the car park.
A diversion to the Hunua General Store for refreshments on the way home a
distinct possibility. Approx 10km; 6 miles.
Leader: Issac Railey 🕿 021 994 021
Transport: Club bus
Driver: TBA
Fares: $15 cash (members); $20 cash (non-members)
Meet: Club garage, 31 Sandringham Rd by 9.30am. Greenlane at the
corner of Omahu and Lillington Rds by 9.45am on request to
the leader
Register: If you plan to join us, please text or phone the leader and
provide your name and contact details so we can inform you of
any last-minute changes.
Centennial Event #109
Sunday 31 August – Clevedon Scenic Reserve and
Waitawa Regional Park
Easy Medium First stop is Clevedon – Trig loop anticlockwise, side trip to
quarry waterfall (3 km) then on the bus again to Waitawa following
Piwakawaka Loop / Puweto Loop plus Waitawa Wharf (9km) to take in the
spectacular views of the Hauraki Gulf. Approx 5½ hours.
Leader: Tony Walton 🕿 027 478 5223
Transport: Club bus
Driver: TBA
Destination: Clevedon – end of Thorps Quarry Road
Departure: 8.30am Club garage, 31 Sandringham Rd, Kingsland
8.45am Marewa Rd, Greenlane (behind Woolworths)
Cost: $15 members, $20 non-members. Pay in cash on the day.
Note: High tide is 12.41pm
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Centennial Event #100
6-7 September – Southern Kaimai
An ever-popular combination of day walks in the Southern Kaimai, with
holiday park accommodation on Saturday night.
SATURDAY Walk from the Kaimai Summit on SH29 then along the West
Henderson Tramline Track to Old Kaimai Road. Then walk the Rapurapu Kauri
Track enjoying multiple stream crossings, a swimming hole or two, and some
superb kauri at the end.
SUNDAY From the end of Ngamuwahine Road, walk in to pick up the Leyland
O’Brien Tramway Track at Cookhouse Clearing, then the North South Track to
Hurunui Hut. Then continue out to the Old Kaimai Road via the North
Henderson Tramline Track. 6hrs.
Shorter options available. For the two main walks, a second party with a
second driver can walk the reverse direction.
Leader: Stephen Martin, Ph 021 775 032 sm1971@gmail.com
Transport: Club bus
Driver: TBA
Destination: Kaimai Summit SH29
Departure: 7.30 am Club garage, 31 Sandringham Rd
Accommodation: Opal Hot Springs Holiday Park. Book your own
accommodation www.opalhotsprings.co.nz OR advise if you
want to sleep on the bus. Hot pools available for guests until
9pm
Saturday Dinner: The bus will go to Matamata, or BYO to eat in
Cost: Bus $56 members, $70 non-members. Add $25 if sleeping in the bus
Bookings are now open
Centennial Event #86
Wednesday 10 September – Whatipu to Pararaha
Meet at the car park at Whatipu and hike Gibbons and Muir Tracks to descend
to the Pararaha Valley (lunch in the shelter) then return to Whatipu along the
beach (direction of the hike can be reversed depending on weather
conditions). Approx 15.5km; 9.5 miles.
Leader: Teresa Janssen 🕿 021 264 4434
Transport: Private cars
Meet: Car park at Whatipu by the campground by 10.00am
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Register: If you plan to join us, please text or phone the leader and
provide your name and contact details so we can inform you of
any last-minute changes.
Centennial Event #85
Sunday 14 September – Te Araroa Walkway South of
Dome
A must for all those wishing to experience a local section of the Te Araroa
Walkway.
Medium Pick up the walkway where it crosses Woodcocks Road and Mathew
Road and follow the trail through to Cook Rd near Puhoi. Time 5 - 6 hours.
The route includes Woodcocks Rd; Matthews Rd; trail; Moir Hill; trail; Remiger
Rd; trail; Cook Rd; finish at Puhoi Village, approx. 16km.
Note: The bridge across Puhoi Stream, Remiger / Ahuroa Roads junction, was
washed away in the January 2023 storms and has not been replaced. The
stream crossing is on slippery rocks so care required (wet feet inevitable) and
may not be possible after rain.
Leader: Bill Mancer 🕿 027 230 4850
Transport: Club bus
Driver: TBA
Destination: Woodcocks Road and Mathew Road, approx. 7.5km west of SH1
Departure: 8.00 am Club garage, 31 Sandringham Rd, Kingsland
North shore pickup at Des Swann Drive on request to the driver
or leader. Walk starts approx. 9.30 am.
Cost: $15 members, non-members $20. Pay in cash on the day.
Centennial Event #116
Sunday 21 September – Mt Te Aroha, Waiorongomai
and the Stope
Medium Waiorongomai - Piako County tramline - Butlers Incline (steep
ascent) - High Level Pack Track - Quartzville - The Stope - Premier Creek - May
Queen Incline - New Era Branch track (very steep descent) - Water Race track -
Low Level pack track - Waiorongomai. 6 hours.
Note: The side trip to the Stope is on a steep overgrown track.
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Leader: TBA
Medium Fit Waiorongomai - High Level Track - Cadman Track - Buck Rock -
follow ridge up to Mt Te Aroha - descend via Bald Spur to Te Aroha domain.
6.5 hours.
Note: Parts of this trip are steep, overgrown and there is a fair amount of
clambering. Suitable for experienced trampers only – hence medium fit rating.
Leader: Dennis Brown 🕿 021 1955590
Transport: Club bus
Driver: TBA
Destination: Waiorongamai car park
Departure: 8.00am Club Garage, 31 Sandringham Rd, Kingsland
8.15am Marewa Rd, Greenlane (behind Woolworths)
Trip cost: $30 members, $40 non-members. Pay in cash on the day.
Centennial Event #87
Wednesday 24 September – Wetlands and Waterways
of Ayrlies
From the car park at the end of Porterfield Rd, hike the coastal bridle
pathways along to Waikopua Creek. Loop through the wetlands to reach
Turanga Creek then climb through coastal forest to reach Clifton Rd. Drop
down and along the bridle pathways to return to the carpark. Approx 13km; 8
miles.
Leader: Martin Woodhead 🕿 021 397 734
Transport: Club bus
Driver: TBA
Fares: $15 cash (members); $20 cash (non-members)
Meet: Club garage, 31 Sandringham Rd by 9.30am; Greenlane at
corner of Omahu and Lillington Rds by 9.45am - by request to
the leader
Register: If you plan to join us, please text or phone the leader and
provide your name and contact details so we can inform you of
any last-minute changes.
19
Centennial Events #117-119
26-28 September – Broken Hills - Rangihau traverse
A two-day traverse of some of the most impressive terrain in the Coromandel.
Easy Saturday day walk from Broken Hills campsite – take Paton Stream Dam
Track to Patons Dam (500m vertical climb), return via Collins Drive (500m
tunnel), 7 hrs. Alternatively, make a day of exploring all the low-level tracks
from the campsite.
Sunday Finish exploring local tracks, drive to the Whenuakite Kauri Loop walk
(easy metalled track through excellent regenerating kauri forest) on the way
around to Rangihau Road. Walk in to meet the other groups.
Leader: TBA
Medium Saturday take Paton Stream Dam Track up to the main ridge, cross
Hihi and descend to Billygoat Basin Campsite for the night (booked), 6-7
hours.
Sunday take Billygoat Walk to Hydro Camp, head up towards Pinnacles Hut
and take Rangihau Track down to Rangihau Road and on to the bus, 7-8 hrs.
Note: On Sunday the bus will be at approx. 388068, about 4kms down the
rough 4WD track that is shown as Rangihau Rd on most maps.
Leader: TBA
Fit Saturday take Paton Stream Dam Track up to the main ridge, cross Hihi
and descend to Billygoat Basin, continue to Hydro Camp area to camp for the
night, 7 hours.
Sunday head up to Pinnacles Hut, drop packs and climb The Pinnacles, return
to junction and take Rangihau Track down to Rangihau Road and on to the
bus, 7-8 hrs.
Note: On Sunday the bus will be at approx. 388068, about 4kms down the
rough 4WD track that is shown as Rangihau Rd on most maps.
Leader: TBA
Transport: Club bus
Driver: TBA
Transport Cost: $48 members, $60 non-members
Accommodation cost: Broken Hills $18 per night, Billygoat Basin campsite $10
Total Cost: Members: Easy $84, Medium $76, Fit $66. Non-members add
$12.
Destination: Broken Hills campsite, Puketui Valley Road, Coromandel
Departure: Friday 7.00pm, Club garage, 31 Sandringham Road
NO DINNER BREAK EN ROUTE
20
Old Ghost Road in winter – June 2025
by Stephen Martin
DAY 0 We flew to Nelson a day early in case of weather delaying flights which
almost came to pass as the storm swirled around Wellington disrupting their
flights but not ours. Lovely apartments at Tahuna Holiday Park and a fine
dinner in Nelson.
DAY 1 Off to Lyell in our rental van with occasional glimpses of blue sky
between the squalls. With the van key deposited in the lock box for our
relocation driver, we started
up the first hill. 18km of gently
sloping, well-formed hard
track birthed surprise blisters
for a couple of our
unsuspecting experienced
hikers. Several stops to add or
remove coats as the showers
teased us. While the forest
was lovely, the inviting and
comfy Lyell Saddle Hut was a
welcome sight.
DAY 2 Only 12km today, more
showers as the trail slowly
climbed above the bush line to
tease us with views between
the clouds, the cool winds
encouraged us to keep moving
except for Rhonda who read
the clouds right and waited in
a sheltered nook for the views
to be revealed. The rest of us
were nearly at Ghost Lake Hut
before the clouds parted and
were then stunned by the
views.
DAY 3 With Ghost Hut pushing
its way up our Top 10 NZ Huts
Trip reports
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list and only 12km to hike, we lingered after breakfast as the sun crept across
the Buller Valley making the snow atop the Spencer Range sparkle. Eventually
we dragged ourselves onwards only to stop for a leisurely lunch atop the
ridge, identifying mountains previously hiked or adding them to our future
plans before we dropped into Stern Valley. Stern was yet another great and
unique hut, no spectacular views but an icy river braved by Martin & Ali.
DAY 4 An early start with 25km
to cover, undulating our way
down and west to Specimen
Point, following streams and
rivers, broken up by the cute
little Goat Creek Hut, the
larger Mokihinui Forks Hut,
and a stunning range of
colourful fungi. Specimen Hut
sits above the river where we
watched the fog roll up the
valley from beside the warm
fire.
DAY 5 Inspired by plans to get
to Westport before the pie shop closed, we knocked out the last 17km soon
after midday, checked out the (closed) Rough and Tumble Lodge (next time),
and piled into our waiting rental van. Late lunch in Westport, the pies living up
to the hype – for those of us fine with the gluten and meat. Leaving Martin to
branch off and hike Paparoa,
we drove on to stay in the
quirky old Hampden Hotel in
Murchison. Fawlty Towers vibe
and 100-year-old insulation
standards aside, it was a nice
place to wrap up our trip.
DAY 6 On to Nelson and flights
home.
The Old Ghost Road is well
worth a visit, longer than the
great walks but equivalent
difficulty with a good quality
track, fine huts, and nice to
have almost exclusively to ourselves in the quiet of winter.
We were Alireza (the Ghost), Andrew, Catherine, Martin, Phillipa, Rhonda,
Sallie, Stephen, Terry, and Tina.
22
Tangihua Fit (? Epic) Group – Matariki
by Vanessa Kay
Six of us had signed up to the fit trip, with Robin agreeing to lead, replacing a
Covid-infected Louise. We started out on a fairly well marked Te Haua Ura
Track in light rain, all in waterproofs and Fay in her multicoloured umbrella
hat. The path was certainly quite undulating and slippery with mud. Our first
photo stop was on decking beside a large kauri
tree. From then on the track became less defined
and we started proper bush-bashing.
Once on the ridge there was no definable track at
all (perhaps that is why it was ‘unnamed’). This led
to various track search parties at key points, trying
to decide whether to go up a spur or to the left or
right. Amazingly we kept finding orange triangles
(but I started to suspect they were randomly
placed throughout the bush). There were
occasional breathtaking views of the densely
forested valleys below.
As we ascended the ridge it became more of a commando event, having to
crawl under and climb over various obstacles (Tania was the expert at this). I
felt as if I was walking along the Skye ridge, with a thin ridge and steep
exposed drop-offs on either side but additionally having to negotiate dense
bush. This made foot placements perilous. The dense tufts of the kiekie were
particularly difficult to cross and felt like swimming through treacle (and
sometimes resulting in cuts to fingers and faces).
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It is fair to say we were making very slow progress by this time (I estimated
100m/hour). We reached the high point of 627m and were then on the
lookout for the track that turned off the ridge before the spur. But this never
appeared and so it was decided to keep on the ridge. The orange triangles
kept miraculously appearing, mainly thanks to Noelyn and Robin’s scouting
ahead. It was starting to become obvious that the projected 6.5 hours trip
time was unrealistic, and it was starting to get dark.
We had now been walking for over 9 hours and had all run out of water. We
continued bravely on for another hour on the ridge in darkness. So all head
torches on, but sadly my torch batteries were getting flat as they had
managed to be switched on all day (note to self to always bring spare
batteries). I tried to position
myself between those with the
brightest torches but rarely
saw my feet.
There was then some
discussion about whether to
continue, as from the map the
nearest stream started only
200 meters away and we were
thirsty. Robin asked: what
would Bear Grylls do now? and
we agreed he would have a
helicopter on standby. Not
having this option, we sensibly
decided that it was no longer
safe to continue, as we were
tired, the ‘track’ was hazardous
and even more difficult to
follow in the dark.
We had found a small grassy
area, with enough space for a
couple of tents on a mainly flat
patch and one on a slope (sadly
for Robin’s tent). So, a night of
discomfort on the ridge…
Stephen kindly shared his
flysheet with me, and I opened
(for the first time ever) my
survival bivvy bag. Once I had put on all my clothes, I was toasty so managed
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to get some sleep. I worried about whether I was at risk of blot clots due to
my dehydration, so avoided crossing my legs (typical medic).
Under Fay’s instructions we were up at the crack of dawn, with regular precise
time checks to get us going (‘it is one minute past eight’). I had the difficult
decision regarding choice of breakfast: a dry granola bar or a can of spicy
sweetcorn (the sweetcorn won).
The descent was even more
treacherous. It had rained early in the
morning, so all was wet and slippery.
The path was still non-existent and
there were various obstacles, such as
climbs up rocky spurs.
We went for a particularly memorable
traverse across a steep grassy slope,
which had very little to hold onto and
with significant consequence if you fell. I
allowed Stephen to cross in front of me,
partly to avoid being victim to his rock
fall but it also allowed me to assess
the strength of the various dubious
hand and footholds. So glad we didn’t
attempt this descent in the dark.
After 2 hours of descent, we finally
made it to a stream and stopped and
had a one-hour breakfast (much to
Fay’s annoyance as she was impatient
to get going). But it takes some time
to drink multiple cups of coffee and
eat a proper breakfast (or for some, last night’s dinner).
We arrived at Tangihua Hut in time for lunch and met a family of 6 staying
there, including an impressive female hunter dressed all in pink (including
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hair) with matching rifle. They kindly filtered some water for us and asked for
any recent sightings of pig or goats (we had seen both).
After some discussion we agreed to shorten the
return trip and not take the Helipad track. But
our return still took another 3-4 hours on fairly
undulating slippery tracks. I ended up with a few
shin bruises from repeated fallings. I took the
lead for a short 2 orange triangles and then lost
the path: gaining huge respect for others in our
group for their skills at pathfinding. We did make
it back to the Lions hut just before dark.
The next day, all but one of us decided to have a
well-deserved relaxing day. We joined the easy
group for a pleasant 2-hour circular track on
excellent paths. Then enjoyed some sunbathing
and reading books on the deck before the bus
trip home.
On arrival back at my campervan, I discovered I had left the internal light on
and so the battery was flat (recognise a theme here?). Thankfully the AA was
quick to respond with their jump leads and got the van started.
Overall, a very memorable weekend, with Tanya deciding the fit group should
be renamed the epic group. This was sadly my last with the Club before
returning home to Scotland. Thanks to all for making me feel so welcome in
the Club and providing so many happy memories.
Matariki Weekend – Medium Fit
by Nikki Wongsinghadacho
FRIDAY We started our day with 7 members and were ready to go at 8am
with a day walk plan.
Darnielle is our leader in training for this trip.
We took the Kauri Dam Walk where the track led us up through the bush and
in the first 30 minutes we were welcomed by bush lawyer and sharp long
grass then on the way up the “Western Loop” route via stream and ridge line
we went through native bush which had been untouched for a while so the
fallen trees were our obstacle course during our 7 hour trip.
However, it made me realise we were in nature instead of making nature
suitable for us. We humans are better adapted and blend in quickly!! So, we
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ducked, we bent, we crossed, we hopped, we crawled, we went through a
small tree tunnel, we swung, we stumped and we even slipped through it.
We had a couple of quick stops for morning tea and lunch and enjoyed the
view at the summit then descended a muddy track then the last 20 minutes
boardwalk before a rest stop for us to sit and
soak in the breath of the kauri forest
surrounding us. Then we headed back to the
lodge by 3pm for a warm
shower and dinner and getting ready for
tomorrow.
SATURDAY We were now down to 5
members for the overnight trip to the hut.
After dinner last night two members decided
to not continue with us. So, an important
rule of tramping “Selfcare” is always the key
to keep yourself safe when you are out
tramping with a group or yourself. If you feel
you aren’t ready to get out there, then stay!!
We started at 8am and we went straight up
to Te Haua Ura Track then onto the Northern
Tangihua Track and continued west over
point 585 to the top of the “helipad” track.
This track itself was similar to yesterday. It was untouched for a while with
overgrown native plants, rotten trees and lots of fallen trees along our way.
27
After we had practised yesterday it was much easier and fun to go through it.
Especially, when you need to look to find the track markings. It turned out to
be our “I spy game” or in my mind it was more like a “Super Mario game”.
This worked well as we descended the ridge. Nearer the stream, with
markings hard to follow, Tony dropped off from the track then I tumbled
down twice with a soft landing. We were both safe and sound and continued
our journey along the stream then worked our way to the DOC track and new
boardwalk steps to Tangihua Hut with 8 bunks and space to camp. Sense of
humour and using your imagination a bit on the trip makes the time go faster
and improves bonding within your group.
We had a nice clear sky and of course we didn’t miss the rugby. Thanks for 4G
coverage.
SUNDAY We were ready 10 minutes before our scheduled time at 8am which
turned out useful for our last day’s walk.
We started by ascending back along the Northern Tangihua Track to the main
ridge. A lot of climbing, so again nature created the best tools like tree roots
to help us to pull ourselves up. However, you have to make sure you check
everything you touch as sometimes it turns out to be a rotten or loose tree!
We arrived at the track junction ahead of our scheduled time and now the
next challenge began. This track to the Horokaka transmitter had some steep
slippery descents. Then from the ridge near the summit the track became
28
gnarly with holes. We walked with more caution and checked before stepping
in.
Then we climbed up a steep 20 metres rocky slope with patches of grass up to
the top. We met a young local man on the top of the mountain and our
members had a quick chat with him while other members were still climbing
up. Then I turned on my
spiderwoman powers to
continue the uphill scramble.
After arriving at the top with
one hand grabbing a tree, I
really wanted to take a
photo but my mind said
“Nahh!! It’s now in your
memory. Let’s get out of
here”.
It was an awesome scene
and a sense of achievement
as some of us in the group
had never experienced this
before, including me.
Five of us now arrived at the Transmitter safely at 1.30 pm. It had taken a bit
more time than we planned, however all of us were safe. That's a much better
result. Then we continued the mostly descending track with some mud back
to the lodge. We stopped for afternoon tea at 3.00pm then a final steep
ascent then descent down to the junction for the lodge. The last 30 minutes
were on an easy walking path. Check in time at 4pm. Other members were
clapping for us at the finish line (lodge). 8 hours sharp!!
Our well-being plays a big part in our achievement for this trip. Our members
prepared themselves well with their fitness level, equipment (no loose parts
on your bag), gear (long sleeve clothes, layers), food and enough water. We
kept going, quick stops, regrouping and kept our communication in the group
well and encouraged each other even though I had never met them before.
Kapai to everyone!
And a Big thank you to our leader, Tony, for gluing us 4 wonderful women
together on this trip.
29
Waitākere Winter Weekend – July 5-6
by Tony Walton
This was a popular weekend, with strong bookings, albeit a few last-minute
cancellations as happens at this time of the year. But last-minute joiners
meant that we still had a great group of 19 on the Saturday walks, 18 staying
in NTK on Saturday night, and 21 on Sunday’s walk. So the largest number of
Club members staying overnight in our hut in a long time.
Jim drove the bus for the weekend, getting a bit more excitement than
expected. First off was the arrival at the end of Long Road to find cars parked
alongside the fence making the small carpark a huge challenge for turning the
bus around. Those of us sitting
in the back of the bus were
very conscious that directly
below us was a steep drop.
With great skill, and
supporting directions from Ian,
Jim’s Mission No 1 was
successfully accomplished.
So off we set on a tad drizzly
morning with the hills wafting
in and out of the cloud. Our
first destination was the Pae o
Te Rangi summit “Great views out to the West
Coast” …. oh well, perhaps next time, so we scurried
back to the relatively more sheltered Long Road
where it burrowed into the forest.
Progressively the showers diminished to nothing
during the day, ensuring that the forest walk, with
lunch along the way, meant that we could travel in
mostly dry conditions via Fenceline Track, the
Waitākere Dam and Road up to Scenic Drive where
the bus arrived soon after.
The next destination was the Fairy Falls carpark ….
ummm … that was full, so on to the Cutty Grass
carpark instead. As promised, on the walk down and
more down to view Fairy Falls from top and/or
bottom, on the way back up it was …. up and more
up. A major construction there now takes you
alongside then to the bottom of the falls making the
most of the views and protecting the roots of many
30
kauri. A good number of the group then abandoned the bus and walked along
Cutty Grass Track to the hut, with the instructions for the front runners being
to get the hut opened up and the fire roaring before the main group arrived.
Which they duly did – thanks!
As scheduled, dinner was preceded by snacks to share, suitably denting
everyone’s main dinner appetites. Hazel’s mulled wine was a tasty drop,
appreciated by many. Some people opted out of the “mandatory” night walk,
but nevertheless there was still a good group that traipsed out onto Cutty
Grass Track, across Anawhata Road and on to the McElwain Lookout platform
to view the distant sea, the lights of Piha, and star gazing. No one got lost, no
one fell in a ditch or in a stream …. quite ho-hum really … must try harder next
time!
We all had the opportunity to
marvel at Isaac’s comfortable
looking hammock, suitably
revealed by his long string of
fairy lights.
The directions for the next
morning were to be packed up
by 8am ready to clean the hut.
Everyone was so efficient that
we were all in the bus, having
swiftly packed and cleaned,
and driving away by 8.05 –
thanks everyone! The bus was
duly parked in the Log Race
Road carpark and we met up with our additional day trippers, and then set off
for a fine weather day down above Mercer Bay, with some looking longingly
31
down at the low tide exposed beach below. But not today, sorry, as we
continued on to Karekare Beach, Tunnel Point, and a lunch stop at the
Pararaha Valley shelter, with a few people peeling off along the way.
An especial thanks to
Darnielle and her
efficient taxi service for
transporting a couple of
party members.
It’s great to start the
walk from Log Race
Road to Pararaha and
back to Karekare, but
then it is payback time,
as it is a steady climb
back up to the cliff tops
and Log Race Road. But
everyone arrived back at
the bus in good time,
and soon enough we
were on the bus ready
to head home.
Uh oh … Jim’s Mission
(almost) Impossible No 2
now presented itself –
an overfull carpark with
parked cars that left no
more than a few
millimetres each side of the roadway for Jim to inch the bus through. Even
once the carpark was behind us, the narrow road with many parked cars was
not much better, not helped by more vehicles coming towards us. But more
exceptional driving saw us through, without anyone having to call on their
insurance company.
So it was a great weekend enjoying some varied Waitākere tramps and
appreciating the delights of our 96-year-old hut, so well looked after by Club
members over all these years.
We were Tony, Hazel, Jim, Ian, Anna, Darnielle, Catherine, Frances, Amy,
Isaac, Deb, Ini, Kay, Luitgard, Vicky, Christina, Fay, Mike and Emma, with Terry
and Marion joining us on Sunday.
Stay at our Waitakere hut!
Enjoy:
- quiet bush setting
- easy car access
- sun-drenched site
- wood-burner stove
Just $20 a bunk, $180 the hut
www.aucktramping.org.nz/about-atc/book-our-hut
Trip information
TRIP GRADINGS – guide only
Sunday tramps
Easy: 4-5 hours tramping, suitable for
beginners.
Medium: 5-6 hours tramping, good fitness.
Long/Fit: 6-8 hours, fast pace, high level of
fitness.
Weekend tramps
Easy: 4-6 hours, usually on tracks, easy pace.
Medium: 6-8 hours, sometimes off track,
experience and good fitness needed.
Fit: 7+ hours, experienced, fit trampers only.
Note: All trip grades can include lengthy, steep
climbs/descents and off-track travel.
CANCELLATIONS
If you are unable to go on a trip you have
booked for, please notify the Booking Officer
and your leader as early as possible.
WHAT TO BRING ON A TRAMP
Day Tramps
Pack with liner Fleece/wool jumper
Parka, gloves Torch
Spare batteries Lunch, snacks
Water 1 litre min. First-aid kit
Sunscreen Sunhat, warm hat
Toilet paper Hand sanitizer
Change of clothing and shoes, and plastic
bag for dirty boots (can be left in bus or car).
Wear boots or stout shoes, shorts (not jeans),
shirt, polyprop or wool layers as needed.
A waterproof parka with hood is essential.
Weekend trips
Your own food, sleeping and cooking gear,
tent, topo map, compass, storm gear (parka,
over trousers, thermals, warm hat and gloves).
See Weekend Tramp Info on our website.
Contact the leader with any concerns or gear
shortfalls (you may be able to share).
