This article was first published in the Tararua Tramper Volume 92, no 9, October 2020
Lowry Bay to Eastbourne along Ridge Track E/M
Sunday 6 September
Despite an unpromising weather forecast, seven keen trampers assembled at Cheviot Road, Lowry Bay. We warmed up with an easy stroll up the Cheviot Road Track, through lush native forest. The top of the hill was soon reached. Our group swung round to head south along the Main Ridge Track.
It was great to have strong NW winds at our backs, accompanying our gales of laughter as we strolled along. This trip was a breeze. Conditions underfoot were good at this stage.
At Mount Lowry, we enjoyed morning tea before continuing past exit tracks to York Bay and Days Bay.
It was fun to amble along the well-defined route, our party quite sheltered despite the wind whistling above the forest canopy. Lunch was an informal affair as we sipped hot drinks and chomped on home-made sandwiches whilst relaxing by the track.
After passing Days Bay, it was up to Hawtrey in a misty primeval landscape. Following the orange markers, we descended without incident to Eastbourne, despite some potentially slippery bits.
Rain set in, but our enthusiasm wasn’t dampened. The finishing line was in sight.
A convenient bus turned up promptly on the main road. We clambered on board, dripping wet, and used our gold cards to get back to Lowry Bay, all trampers wearing regulation masks.
A very enjoyable day out, making the most of bleak weather conditions.
- Party members
- Elsie Barry, Alan Benge (leader and scribe), Muriel Christianson, Dianne Lee, Jeanette Martin, Pip Newton, Jenny Olsen.