This article was first published in the Tararua Tramper Volume 95, no 3, April 2023
Eastern hills E
1 March 2023
Six TTC members joined me for this circular tramp from Lees Grove, Wainuiomata. The track climbs quite steeply to Rata Ridge. As we passed the junction on our way to Lowry and the lookout, we were delighted to smell the Earina autumnalis orchid that we were hoping was in flower. Back to Rata Ridge to continue our circuit and to find the huge patch of orchids we knew from previous trips. Stopping for lunch gave us time to enjoy them and take photos. From there we continued on Rata Ridge Track until we found the junction with the Ferry Road and could make our descent. A very pleasant bush trip on a hot autumn day. Michele and I enjoyed a cooling swim at Pt. Howard on the way home.
- Party members
- Diana Barnes, Anne Bond, Michele Dickson, Margaret Foden, Julia Fraser (leader and scribe), Peter Nixon and Kerry Popplewell.