This article was first published in the Tararua Tramper Volume 83, no 7, August 2010
Te Araroa: Mangaone- Pukeatua- Otaki Forks, (M)
23 July 2011
Te Araroa (’the long path’) is the planned track from Cape Reinga to Bluff. It is increasingly becoming a reality and it is great to see this recently opened and interesting section so close to Wellington. (See map of route on p. 10)
The track from the South Mangaone road end to the Forks is well marked, easy to follow and, being new, nicely manicured. It steadily climbs to Pukeatua (‘hill god’) from each of the two roadends. There are plenty of interesting views along the way, including the occasional giant rimu. Pukeatua is the approximate mid point. From this open top there are great views across the surrounding valleys to Table Top, Dennan and around to Kapakapanui. At Otaki Forks the track starts at the fence-line carpark, which is up the valley from the warden’s house.
The club trip on 23rd July met at Waikanae where we split into two groups, one starting from each end. We organised ourselves so that drivers would have their own vehicle ready at their end point. The forecast was terrible but by, some miracle, we found ourselves in an oasis of mild and dry weather. We had an enjoyable ramble of six hours. This included the relaxed lunch break where our two groups met and swapped both stories and car keys.
- Party members
- Dave Bartle (leader and scribe), Colin Cook, Colleen Davey, Ken Fraser, Peggy Munn, Tim Stone, Bob White, Alan Wright.