This article was first published in the Tararua Tramper Volume 92, no 2, March 2020
Waiotauru Forks
Sunday 5th January 2020
Five people took part in this day tramp, leaving about 9.30 am and arriving at Waiotauru Forks just before midday. There are three slips to cross, one still active. Though they are relatively easy to negotiate, some people may be concerned if they are not used to exposed places. The rest of the track is easy walking, though with four or five short climbs.
We returned via the river, taking about four hours including stops.
Temperatures remained cool around 12-13 degrees, with overcast skies, patchy rain and occasional gusty north westerly winds putting us off any swimming. One of the best water holes is about 50 metres down from t he swing bridge, but there are three or four other great spots further down the river.
One hundred metres up Sheridan Creek there is a useful short cut available, giving access to an easy Rail Track route over the flats and through the grass exiting just opposite the Otaki Forks campsite.
We all enjoyed the walk and returned in good spirits. Total time: Six hours
- Party members
- Paul Bruce (scribe), Sue Boyd, Margaret Cantwell, Ken Fraser, Bill Johnson