Author: Fat Controller

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Tramping Programme 02 October 2024 – 11 December 2024

TEN TRAMP MEMBERSHIP QUALIFICATION YEAR: 1 April 2024 – 31 March 2025

The cost of all tramps is $25.

 

02 October         8.30am                 Halswell Quarry – Kennedys Bush – Signs of the Bellbird and Takahe

P/U: PM Hospital

A long steady climb via the quarry and Kennedy’s Bush Track to the Summit Road. Follow the track through Kennedys Bush to the Sign of the Bellbird. Cross the Summit Road and take Ellas track to the Sign of the Kiwi.

Standard route:  As above but from the Kiwi descend to The Sign of the Takahe via the Harry Ell Track.

Stats: distance 14.5km, ascent 462m, time 4hrs 30mins

 

09 October         8.30am                Mt Grey – Ashley Forest

P/U: Woodend

Standard route: Walk down the road to the river before a steady climb to the Mt Grey trig walk up the Mt Grey track but descend/ return by the Lake Janet track/aka Old Fire Lookout Track.

Alternative route: Steady climb from Lake Janet, returning via the same track.

Stats: distance 16.2/9km, ascent 776/507m, time 4hrs

 

16 October         8:30am                 Morgans Valley to Sumner/Lyttelton

P/U: None tho can leave cars at D/O where bus will return           

Standard route:  A Port Hills walk with steady climbs and descents from Morgans Valley to Evans Pass and Sumner via Urumau Reserve.

Alternative route: A shorter route also starting from Morgans Valley, looping around Urumau Reserve and finishing at Lyttelton.

Stats: not recorded.

 

23 October         8.30am                  Dracophyllum Flat           NB Late return – 5.00pm

P/U: Yaldhurst

Standard route: Tramp through beech forest and alpine pasture following the cycle trail almost to Texas flat, then across country via a crossing of Broken River to Hwy 73.

Alternative route: Follow cycle trail to Texas Flat, then via the Cheeseman Ski Club access road to the Broken River Bridge on Hwy 73.

Stats: distance 13.6/12km, ascent 510m, time 4hrs 30mins

 

30 October         **8.00am**       Mt Oxford – Ryde Falls                  NB Late return – 5.30pm

P/U: Manderville, on Tram Rd just past shopping centre and intersection

Standard route:  Mt Oxford: A challenging climb of Mt Oxford with magnificent 360-degree views to enjoy at lunch time.

Alternative route: Ryde Falls.  Beautiful steady, mostly bush walk to the falls. Some stiff climbs and descents.

Stats: distance 15km, ascent 960/218m, time 5hrs

 

06 November    8.30am                 Awa Awa / McLennans Bush      NB Late return – 5.30pm

P/U: Yaldhurst

Rhododendron plantings and Rata reserve.

Standard Route: Steady climb through bush up Scott’s Saddle Track to the ridgeline and lunch overlooking the Mt Hutt access road. Return via Scott’s Saddle, Ridge and Alder Tracks.

Alternative Route:  Steady climb through bush up Scott’s Saddle Track to the first sub-alpine clearing for lunch overlooking the Canterbury Plains. Return via Scott’s Saddle, Ridge and Alder tracks.

Stats: distance 11km, ascent 740m, time 4hrs 45mins

 

 13 November   8.30am                 Peak Hill Lake Lake Coleridge    NB Late return – 5.00pm

P/U Yaldhurst

Standard Route: Follow track from the bottom of Peak Hill to the summit, a climb of 700 metres. The leader may choose to return by the same or the alternative route.

Alternative Route: A shorter climb from the bottom to the first knob for lunch and return.

Stats: distance 9.5km, ascent 650m, time 4hrs 20mins

 

20 November    8.30am                  McCormacks Bay – Evans Pass – Moncks Bay

P/U: McCormacks Reserve, McCormacks Bay Rd

Standard Route: Port Hills walk from McCormacks Bay to John Britten Reserve, and Eastenders Track to Evans Pass. Then various tracks and roads to Clifton Hill to Moncks Bay. Alternative Route: As above but starting at John Britten Reserve.

Stats: distance 14.3km, vertical ascent 630m, time 5hrs 20mins

 

27 November    8.30am                 Mt Vulcan

P/U: Woodend

Standard route: Undulating tramp over farm land and on farm tracks; steady climb to lunch stop and later on to top of Mt Vulcan. Great coastal and inland views.

Alternative route: As above, but sidling around Mt Vulcan with no major climbs.

Stats:  distance 14km, ascent 609m, time 5hrs

 

04 December    8.30am                 Mt Thomas         NB Late return – 5.30pm

P/U: Ohoka Rd Silverstream between Island Rd & Silverstream Blvd

A steepish steady climb all the way to lunch, then downhill to the bus.

Standard route: Up Ridge Track to Hunter Hill then along the ridge to the summit of Mt Thomas, returning via the Wooded Gully Track

Alternative route: As above with the option to go down the Wooded Gully Track or continue to Mt Thomas and return down the Summit Track (very steep).

Stats: distance 15km, vertical ascent 790m, time 5hrs 45mins

 

11 December                     Christmas Walk and Lunch

Chch Adventure Park rest still to be confirmed

 

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Tramping Programme 03 July – 25 September 2024

TEN TRAMP MEMBERSHIP QUALIFICATION YEAR: 1 April 2024 – 31 March 2025

The cost of tramps is $25

 03 July                  8.30am                  Bridle Path – Lyttelton – Pony Point – Stan Helms

 P/U: Bridle Path track, Heathcote

Steady climb over Bridle Path then undulating to Pony Point. Back to Lyttelton where the Standards continue on up Stan Helms to the Bridle Path and back to Heathcote.

Stats: distance 13km, ascent not recorded, time 4hrs

 10 July                  The annual birthday lunch. Details in the booking system.

 17 July                  8.30am             Mt Alexander NOTE CHANGED FROM Weka Pass Farm

P/U: Woodend

Standard Route: A steady climb on farm tracks to the summit and loop track back to the bus. Wonderful views.

Alternative Route: As above to the summit but returning via the farm tracks.

Stats: distance 15km, ascent 672m, time 4hrs 45mins

 24 July                 8.30am                 Dalethorpe to Annavale

P/U: Yaldhurst

Both groups:  A steady climb on farm tracks to a wonderful viewpoint on the Russell Range for lunch. Descend to Annavale airstrip alongside SH 73.

Stats: distance 14.1km, ascent 383m, time 4hrs 15mins

31 July                  8.30am                 Flock Hill

P/U: Yaldhurst

Farm Track to limestone outcrop area and over Flock Hill, returning via a second farm track.

Stats: not yet recorded

07 August           8.30am                  Sumner – Godley Head – Evans Pass

P/U and meeting point: Clocktower Scarborough.

Alternates taken to Evans Pass.

Standard route: Walk over Scarborough to Taylors Mistake, Boulder Bay, Godley Head and out to Evans Pass.

Alternative route: Walk reverse of Standards from Evans Pass  to Scarborough. There is only one major climb from Taylors Mistake over Scarborough Hill though can take a shortcut down the Annaconda track from Breeze Col or go all the way to Godley Head and around.

Stats: distance 14km, ascent not recorded, time 4hrs 20mins

14 August           8.30am                  Coalgate Forest

P/U: Yaldhurst

A farm walk with short climbs and rolling hills with great views from the Alps to the Peninsula. Return on farm tracks and Whitecliffs Rd to Farr St.

Stats: distance 12.5/ 8km, ascent 250m, time 4hrs

21 August           8.30am                  Kate Valley – Tiromoana Bush Walkway

P/U: Woodend

Standard route:  An undulating descent through Tiromoana wetlands and farmland. Detour from the wetlands track to climb Ella Peak before continuing to the beautiful Pegasus Bay beach for lunch. Steady ascent along a shingle road to the bus.

Alternative route:  As above, except for the climb to Ella Peak.

Stats: distance 12.8km (alternates 11km), vertical ascent 424m, time 4hrs 25min

28 August            8.30am                 Little River – Birdlings Flat

P/U: Halswell    

A road walk with steady climb to the ridge, along Bossu Rd and down to Birdlings Flat.

Alternative option: As above but starting at the top of Kinloch Road.

Stats: distance 17.7km, ascent 600m, time 4hrs 20mins

04 September   8.30am                 Rabbit Hill – Trig M Hill

P/U: Yaldhurst

High-country tussock foothills walk.

Stats: distance 8.6/10km, ascent 1105m, time 3hrs 45mins

11 September   8.30am                 Huntsbury – Mt Vernon Park

P/U: PM Hospital

Standard route: From the top of Huntsbury Avenue, follow various tracks to Sign of the Kiwi, Sugarloaf and Mt Vernon, eventually descending via Mt Vernon Farm Park and Bowenvale.

Alternate route: As above but not over Mt Vernon.

Stats: distance 12.8km, ascent 500m, time 4hrs 15mins

18 September   8.30am                 Charteris Bay – Purau – Diamond Harbour

P/U: Halswell

Some short steep climbs on inland rural and urban roads to Purau. with the return to Diamond Harbour along the undulating coastal margin walking track. Standards continue on the coastal path to Charteris Bay pick-up.

Stats: distance 14/9km, ascent 153m, time 4hrs 30mins

25  September  8.30am                 Washpen Falls

P/U: Yaldhurst

This is a commercial operation where there is an entrance fee that may be paid by the club. Climb through an ancient volcanic canyon filled with native bush and birdlife. Descend following a creek and waterfalls.

Standard Route: As Alternates above though continue to the top of the peak for lunch and wonderful views of the Canterbury Plains.

Stats: distance 15km, ascent 654m, time 4hrs 30min

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Coal Pit Spur 27 March 2024

Leader Mentor Understudy Tail Ender
Standards Warren Chris S Jen C Judy R
Alternates Tessa Norma Pip L Maureen C

Distance: 12.6km                   Elevation gain: 772m (inc Helicopter Hill)             Total time: 4hrs 20mins

With the promise of clear(ish) skies and mild temperatures, 39 trampers including visitors Nicky C and first-timer Glen T, eagerly embarked on a day promising adventure, camaraderie, and stunning landscapes. Birthday chocolates and lollies were passed around the bus. Thank you Bernice. And thank you to our driver Garth.

The Standards, comprised of 23 intrepid adventurers, charted a course up the Luge Track, aiming to reach the ridge before descending to Flock Hill Station. Luge Track proved to be a rewarding ascent, with sweeping views of the surrounding mountains reminding us of the breath-taking beauty of the Canterbury high country.

The allure of Helicopter Hill proved irresistible to many of the Standards who opted to add an extra 30 minutes (in total) to their journey to conquer this imposing peak. A few felt some trepidation on seeing to the north the scree face descent of the upcoming Camp Saddle tramp. The river crossing on the return to the bus was described by a couple of people as “very refreshing”. (Others may have described it as cold and wet!)

Meanwhile, the Alternates consisting of 16 trampers, embarked on a shorter route starting from the drop off at the Broken River access road and looping around Coal Pit Spur before returning to the bus. The Alternates were treated to stunning views, native forest, and fabulous birdsong. In the course of their walk, trampers picked up rubbish left by prior careless visitors. Items such as broken glass, lubricant tubes, coffee cups and McDonald’s wrappers were brought out to maintain the integrity of what should be a pristine area.

It was another day of free flowing conversation as people shared tales of past adventures, current activities and challenges. As they made their way back to Christchurch, the trampers reflected on the day’s adventures with fondness, grateful for the opportunity to connect with nature and with one another. Text By Brent M

Stds Heading off up the road.
Stds In the bush before lunch.
Stds at the top of Helicopter Hill
Stds return from Helicopter Hill.
Stds River crossing
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Tramping Programme 03 April – 26 June 2024

TEN TRAMP MEMBERSHIP QUALIFICATION YEAR: 1 April 2024 – 31 March 2025

The cost of tramps is $25

03 April             8.30am                  Bellbird Loop

                                P/U: PMH

A walk through Kennedys Reserve and then tracks above Governors Bay.

Stats: distance 9km, ascent 480m, time 4hrs

 

10 April                8.30am                 Monument – Mt Herbert – Diamond Harbour Domain

P/U: Halswell

A steady climb to the summit of Mt Herbert with some sections of the track being steep and quite long. A long descent to Diamond Harbour township and the Memorial Gardens.

Stats: distance 14.5km, ascent 552m, time 4hrs 30mins

 

17 April                8:30am                  Flagpole

P/U: Yaldhurst

Standard route: Undulating farm track above the Selwyn River, then a climb through pine trees and open country to the saddle for lunch. Continue up to Flagpole then down the farm road to the bus. The leader may choose the anticlockwise route.

Alternative route: Undulating farm track above the Selwyn River to lunch by the river. Return by the same route.

Stats: distance 17.6km, ascent 827m, time 5hrs

 

24 April                8.30am                Glenafric

P/U: Woodend

Walking over undulating farmland to the coastal cliff for lunch with great sea views.

Stats: distance 14.3/13km), vertical ascent 640m, time 5hrs

 

01 May                 8.30am                 Mt Alexander    NB Late return – 5:00pm

P/U: Woodend

Standard Route: A steady climb on farm tracks to the summit and loop track back to the bus. Wonderful views.

Alternative Route: As above to the summit but returning via the farm tracks.

Stats: distance 15km, ascent 672m, time 4hrs 45mins

 

08 May                8.30am                  Camp Saddle     NB Late return – 5.00pm

P/U: Yaldhurst

Standard Route: Approach via the Broken River Ski Field road, then climb to Camp Saddle. Walk along ridge then down the scree slope and return to the bus.

Alternative Route: Walk along the track to Lyndon Saddle and up Helicopter Hill. Return to the saddle then back to Broken River via the Craigieburn Track.

Stats: distance 13.4km, ascent 853m, time 4hrs 50mins

 

15 May                 8.30am                 Greta Valley                                                                                      

P/U: Woodend

Standard and Alternative Routes: Tramp over undulating North Canterbury farmland with moderate ascents and descents.

Stats: distance 15km, vertical ascent 528m, time 4hrs 30mins.

 

22 May           8.30am                  The Doctors Pyramid Valley

P/U:  Woodend

Standard route: Initial steady climb on farm road, then a descent before a further climb to the lunch stop. Good views. Return on undulating terrain, then downhill to coach.

Alternative Route: Initial steady climb on farm road, then undulating until lunchtime. Good views. Downhill return to coach.

Stats: distance 12.2km, vertical ascent 660m, time 4hrs 30mins.

 

29 May                 8.30am                 Tree Planting followed by a walk.

This will be around the Summit Road area with details to be advised later.

 

05 June                8.30am                 Craigieburn Forest Park – Ski Lodge – Hwy 73

P/U: Yaldhurst

Standard route:  Steady ascent to Lyndon Saddle to join Craigieburn Valley Track. Continue on track to ski field base, and return via ski field road to SH 73.

Alternative route: Short walk along Craigieburn Ski Field Road to join undulating

Craigieburn Valley Track. Continue along track to ski field base, returning via ski field road.

Stats: distance 14km, vertical ascent 612m, time 4hrs

 

12 June                8.30am                 Gebbies Pass – Kaituna Valley

P/U: Halswell

Alternative Route: A gentle climb through pine forest and farmland to the Packhorse Hut, descending to Kaituna Valley after lunch.

Standard Route:  As above, but continue along Mt Bradley Track for lunch before descending to Kaituna Valley.

Stats: distance 13km, ascent 560m, time 4hrs 40mins

 

19 June                **8.00am**  Hinewai Reserve   NB Late return – 5.30pm

P/U:  Halswell

Walking through bush clad valley with steady downhill to lunch then back to the bus.

Stats: distance 11km, ascent 500m, time 4hrs 30mins

 

26 June                8.30am                 Leith Hill Slump – Kura Tawhiti                                                 

P/U: Yaldhurst

Both Groups: A steady climb through bush initially following logging trails, then down across the river before an uphill stretch past the sinkhole. After lunch continue on Castle Hill Station track to Kura Tawhiti.

Alternative Route: This group may elect to omit the logging trail section of the tramp.

Stats: distance 9.5/8.8km, vertical ascent 338m, time 4hrs

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Mt Alford 7 February 2024

Leader Mentor Understudy Tail Ender
Standards Steve Bw Jan Br Jen C Brent
Alternates Ray Norma Jan Bw Ali

Distance 9.72km     Vertical ascent 724m       Duration 5 hours approx

An earlier 8am start was set for this tramp.

Our driver Viktor picked up 38 trampers from Bishopdale and Yaldhurst and we set off down the Main South Road.  At our comfort stop at Rakaia, we had to compete with a bus load of tourists for the excellent facilities.  Some typical Kiwi/tourist interactions quickly established  their nationalities, itinerary and of course how much they were enjoying Aotearoa/NZ.

Thompsons Track is reliably boring with an unrelenting view of dairy farms along the way.  It was a relief to get to the Alford Reserve car park and get underway soon after 10am.  Our intrepid leader Steve, led off across the paddock and into the Alford Scenic Reserve, despite the fact that he’d never done the tramp before.  He reckoned that as he had three mentors and four advisors, he’d be ok!

This DOC managed forest has suffered considerable wind throw and a chain saw would have been useful as we weaved and climbed over trees across the track.  The forest is unusually wet due to poor drainage and the shape of the surrounding hills which catch moist weather from most directions.  In earlier times it grew giant podocarps which unfortunately were logged and burned so that today it is largely black and mountain beech trees.  There are some other native trees starting to be observed: marble leaf (Carpodetus serratus), lancewood (Pseudopanax), horopito/ pepper tree (Pseudowintera axillaris), red matipo or māpou (Myrsine australis). Due to seriously low rainfall recently, the track was unusually dry, with the usual wet and swampy parts reduced to dried mud.  It didn’t take long for the sonorous calls of the korimako to be heard.  After a solid climb up through the bush, we took morning tea at a break in the bush, looking out over the plains.

As we emerged from the bush we were met by a descending, athletic young woman who told us she was celebrating her first day in eight weeks without her children, who were back at school.  She looked so fresh and chirpy, belying the fact that she had just summitted Mt Alford.  She certainly made us feel our age!

After the landmark picnic table, where the Alternates traditionally have lunch, our Leader struck up the hill along the fence line, in preference to the track which zig zags up the hill to mitigate the steepness.  His many advisors must have been asleep!  The direct fence line route was extraordinarily steep and slippery, requiring us to pull ourselves up using the fence.  Eventually we met up with the route markers and we followed them the rest of the way to the summit. The steep route took us through sub alpine scrub, consisting of predominantly Dracophyllum and snow tussock but with the usual smattering of spaniard (Aciphylla colensoi) known as taramea in te reo Māori.  As we got near the summit we observed the Alternates taking lunch on a lower peak.

The summit of Mt Alford (1171m) is an extensive flat area, dominated by a huge cairn.   We had glorious 360 degree views, in overcast conditions but no wind, for our lunch on the top. To the west the skies were clear and blue but to the east, low cloud invaded during our lunch so we commenced the descent in cloud.   This cleared somewhat as we reduced our altitude.

Back at the bus, the bloodied legs of several people told the tale of the damage imposed by spaniard.  Other than that, and the fact that the Alternates had been back for an hour, it was generally agreed that it had been a most enjoyable tramp and definitely one worth remaining on the Club’s programme.                                                        Text by Selwyn

Stds Stream crossing in the bush
Stds heading upon the steep last leg.
Alts getting through the gate
Alts watching standards climb the fence line track
Stds at the top.
Stds on the way down through the bush
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Dry Acheron 31 January 2024

Leader Mentor Understudy Tail Ender
Standards Jen C Chris S Sally Kate
Alternates Norma Gavin Ali Marie-Therese

Distance 13.4km; duration 3hrs 45min; vertical ascent 180m

As the sun painted the skies a pure cloudless blue, 41 eager trampers from Bishopdale Tramping Club gathered, our  destination the iconic Dry Acheron Track, on a day that promised a symphony of landscapes, challenges and the camaraderie that defines our tramping community.

There was a sense of anticipation, the rustle of grass – and pine cones – beneath our boots marking the beginning of a day filled with adventure. The track offers unobstructed views of the surrounding landscape including distant views of the Southern Alps and meanders through flat grasslands, along stream verges and rocky dry stream beds. It presented us with 24 stream crossings before lunch (!)  – a quintessential Kiwi tramping experience.

The history of the Dry Acheron Track includes the early days of European settlement of New Zealand. Originally a stock route, it evolved into a well-traversed pathway connecting the plains to the high country. Its significance in the region’s history was palpable as we ventured along the well-trodden track, tracing the footsteps of those who once relied on this very route.

The moderately graded natural stream verge provided variation, a chance for trampers to appreciate the subtleties of the environment. As we delved deeper into the rocky dry stream beds, the sun rose higher, the day got hotter and the terrain became more challenging, demanding nimbleness and agility. Each step was a dance with the landscape, a delicate negotiation with the rocks and pebbles beneath our feet. The trampers, ranging from seasoned hikers to those new to high country trails, embraced the challenge with enthusiasm – and a few naughty words!

The temperature reached 24 degrees Celsius. Happily a gentle breeze on the return walk added to our overall enjoyment. Departing from Lake Coleridge Road, the temperature in the bus had reached 30 degrees! The Dry Acheron Track had not only tested our collective mettle but had also opened the gateway to the many hikes we can look forward to in this region this year.                           Txt by Brent McC with the assistance of ChatGPT

Stds heading off down the tree line
Std First cross of the almost dry stream
Alt Lunch stop in the shade
Alt sheltering from the sun.
Stds shelter from the sun while all catch up
Std Return from the river bed.
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Hilltop-Cooptown 24 January 24

 

  Leader Mentor Understudy Tail Ender
Standards Chris S Jan Br Kay Ailsa
Alternates Ali Norma Linley Tessa

Distance 13km (approx); duration 4hrs 30min; vertical ascent 504m

It was a lovely fresh 10 degree morning with an almost autumnal feel when 47 trampers including visitors Judy S and Andrea (Linley’s daughter) boarded the bus for Little River with first time BTC driver Geoff.  Shirley and Dave shared the joy of their new grandson Quinn with a generous chocolate shout. Update from last week’s new bidet owner  – it’s not yet installed so no christening to report.

In one of the paddocks stood the statue of a large white cattle beast. One of our trampers when driving to Akaroa on Monday had witnessed a large white beast upside down, legs in the air surrounded by several men. She found it quite upsetting to think it must have died and was waiting to be lowered into a trench. Now standing proudly on a rock. On our return trip a sign revealed more, Silverstream Charolais and Herefords is a stud operation. This set us googling – Silverstream Evolution – probably the best bull ever bred – 50 daughters in the herd – semen to die for, x-factor quality.

 After a slow journey with many traffic cones and a traffic light 32 Standards set off at 1020 from the Hilltop Tavern car park. Through a paddock of friendly cows and over a stile soon had us heading uphill in the Montgomery Reserve which found us posing for the group photo at the massive forked tōtara tree, supposedly 2000 years old. Tōtara trees are slow growing and can live for 1000 years so this one has obviously missed the memo. The forest is stunning with tōtara and mataī and the contrasting orange papery bark of the fuchsia. The monolithic rock steps – slippery in the wet, have not got any closer together so give a whole new meaning to stretching the legs. The track climbs sharply through regenerating bush and a gap in the bluffs to reach open space on the top of the hill and morning tea in the sunshine at 1120.

The next section involves walking through tussocks and bracken some almost waist high and climbing several hills while viewing the sparkling waters of Pigeon Bay to the north. The hillsides are littered with the carcasses of silver stumps and haunting skeleton trees. It is easy to be transported back in time to imagine the peninsula when two thirds was covered by dense podocarp forest of tōtara and mataī and filled with birdsong. The forests were ruthlessly cleared by both fires and felling to clear the land for dairying and provide timber to build Christchurch. In 40 years the forest and native birds had disappeared. Trees came down and cheese production went up. In 1857 there were 18 dairies on the peninsula.

The perfect lunch spot was reached at 1305 with plenty of stumps and logs for resting on with magnificent regenerating bush at our backs and the blue of the bays below. From different positions on the track you can view Pigeon Bay, Lake Ellesmere, Lake Forsyth and Akaroa. The Alternates who had commenced their hike at the junction of Pigeon Bay and Pettigrews Road and hiked uphill though Whatarangi and Sinclair Reserves were looking very contented at the end of their lunch break as we arrived. No shortage of space here and a log for everyone.

Chris our leader led us ably on our descent through farmland on very slippery grasses with several boggy areas and a timely warning to watch out for the tree nettle ongaonga. It has a nasty sting which doesn’t fade quickly. There were numerous slides, a leg caught in the wire of a fence when climbing through (suggest a yoga retreat to improve flexibility) and an unfortunate unplanned swim at the last river crossing but no serious injuries. We reached the bus along the road in Cooptown at 1520, five minutes after the Alternates.

It had been perfect tramping weather with sunshine and cloud but no rain, birdsong in the bush, cow pats ++++, haunting forest, regenerating bush and bay views to die for. It was after 1700 when the bus arrived back in Bishopdale all feeling in good spirits after a great tramp.

Txt by Kate W

Stds around giant Totara
Stds Morning tea near top of Montgomery Reserve
Alt. Crossing one of the many stiles
Stds Lunch looking down to Lake Forsyth
Stds One of the many fence crossings. On way down.
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Trip Report Procedure

The Trip Report is an integral part of the club’s weekly tramping experience.

Roles Involved

  • Trip Report Writer
  • Photograph Manager
  • Trip Report Manager
  • Website Editor

 

Trip Report Writer

  • Each week a trip report writer is appointed to write up a record of the day’s tramp.  This can be a variety of anecdotal (driver, visitors, celebrations, scenery, topical happenings etc.) and factual (location, botanical, historical, geological, terrain, fauna, Māori history/place names, DOC facts etc)
  • Length is approx 350 words and text only.
  • A deadline for completing the trip report and sending it to the Trip Report Manager is the Saturday following a tramp.

 

Photograph Manager

  • The committee nominates one person to be responsible for taking and collating the tramp photos (5 – 10) for each tramp. These are then saved to a file for the club’s record.
  • During the year photos from each tramp are collated for the slideshow at the mid-winter birthday lunch.
  • Trampers are welcome to contribute their best photo of the day’s tramp and send it to the Photograph Manager for saving and using as necessary.

 

Trip Report Manager

  • The Trip Report Manager is responsible for coordinating the writing of the text version of the diary.
  • When the Trip Report Manager receives the final draft from the writer, she/he will need to edit the text, check for errors and format the text.
  • Include the tramp statistics for the day (length, elevation, duration) for both groups (Alternates and Standards) if possible
  • Include the names of each group’s: Leader, Mentor, Understudy and Tail Ender (first names and surname initials only for privacy).
  • The final copy is then e-mailed to the Website Editor by the Sunday before the next tramp.

 

Website Editor

  • The Website Editor is responsible for posting the trip report on the website with a selection from the week’s gallery photos.

 

November 2023

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Tramping Programme 17 January – 27 March 2024

TEN TRAMP MEMBERSHIP QUALIFICATION YEAR: 1 April 2023 – 31 March 2024

The cost of all tramps is $25.

17 January          8.30am                Rakaia Gorge Walkway

P/U: Yaldhurst

Standard route: An easy walk from Evans Family Reserve to the boat harbour and return. Some moderate climbs and descents with lovely river and gorge views.

Alternative route: As above, but via the LoopTrack

Stats: distance 10.3km, vertical ascent 414m, time 3hrs 30mins

 

24 January          8.30am                 Hill Top to Cooptown                                                                    

P/U: Halswell

Standard route: Climb through native forest and a rocky gully beneath cliffs in Montgomery Reserve, then through Whatarangi & Mt Sinclair Reserves.  Descend through farmland after lunch.

Alternative route:  Undulating track from Pettigrews Road through Whatarangi & Mt Sinclair Reserves.  Descend through farmland after lunch.

Stats: distance 15.8km, ascent 504m, time 4hrs 30mins

 

31 January          8.30am         Dry Acheron                                                                               

P/U: Yaldhurst  

A mixture of flat grasslands, moderately graded natural stream verge, rocky dry stream beds and many stream crossings.

Stats: distance 12km, vertical ascent 180m, time 3hrs 45mins

 

7 February          8:30                       Mt Alford                                                                          

P/U Yaldhurst

Standard Route: Steady climb through Alford Reserve beech forest, tussock country and then sub-alpine scrub to top of Mt Alford. Great views. Return via same route.

Alternative Route: Same as above climbing as high as able, followed by side trip through Alford Forest Scenic Reserve

Stats: distance 9km, vertical ascent 730m, time 4hrs 45mins

 

14 February        8.30am                Glenafric                                                                            

P/U: Woodend

Walking over undulating farmland to the coastal cliff for lunch with great sea views.

Standard Route: Returning via the beach.

Alternative Route: Returning via farmland.

Stats:  distance 14.3/13km, vertical ascent 604m, time 5hrs

 

21 February        8.30am                 Pony Point – Barnett Park                           

P/U: Barnett Park

A mixture of gradual and steeper climbs and descents between Lyttelton and Moncks Bay. Connect with Major Hornbrook and Chalmers Tracks, then up to the Crater Rim Walkway and the gun emplacements. Down to the Summit Road and Eastenders Track.

Stats: distance 13km, ascent 583m, time 4hrs 20mins

 

28 February        8.30am                 Hogsback Track – Castle Hill                                      

P/U: Yaldhurst

Standard route: Tramp along an undulating mountain bike track from Castle Hill Village to the western end of Hogsback Ridge.  After lunch on the ridge and return along the same track.

Alternative route: As above but stopping for lunch along the track as suits.

Stats: distance and ascent yet to be recorded, time 5hrs

 

6 March               8.30am                                 Boundary Hill – Red Lakes                            

P/U: Yaldhurst

Standard route: Grassy river terraces and alpine pasture with a climb to the top of Boundary Hill for outstanding 360 degree views.  An initial steep descent, then a four-wheel drive track to the Red Lakes and Lyndon Rd.

Alternative route: The route forged follows a four-wheel drive track up the valley before the fault line, to Boundary Hill. Those who wish to, can climb to the summit for lunch. All return via the fault line.

Stats: distance 11.5/7.6km, ascent 519m, time 4hrs.

 

13 March             8.30am                Bowenvale – Victoria Park – Bowenvale                

P/U: End of Bowenvale Ave

A steady climb to the Summit Road, then siding tracks to Victoria Park and descent to Bowenvale.

Stats: distance 9.5, ascent 625m, time 3hrs 40mins

 

20 March             8.30am                 Kate Valley – Tiromoana Bush Walkway                              

P/U: Woodend

Standard Route:  An undulating descent through Tiromoana wetlands and farmland. Detour from the wetlands track to climb Ella Peak before continuing to the beautiful Pegasus Bay beach for lunch. Steady ascent along a shingle road to the bus.

Alternative route:  As above, except for the climb to Ella Peak.

Stats: distance 12.8/11km, vertical ascent 424m, time 4hrs 25mins

 

27 March            8.30am                 Coalpit Spur

P/U: Yaldhurst 

Standard Route: up Mistletoe track to the ridge then down Craigieburn Road and drop

down Coalpit Spur.

Alternative Route: around Sidle 73 track before descending the Coalpit Spur track.

Stats: distance 14km, vertical ascent 612m, time 4hrs

 

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Tramping Programme 04 October – 20 December 2023

TEN TRAMP MEMBERSHIP QUALIFICATION YEAR: 1 April 2023 – 31 March 2024

The cost of all tramps is $25.

04 October         8:30am                 Morgans Valley to Sumner/Lyttelton

P/U: None tho can leave cars at D/O where bus will return

Standard route:  A Port Hills walk with steady climbs and descents from Morgans Valley to Evans Pass and Sumner via Urumau Reserve.

Alternative route: A shorter route also starting from Morgans Valley, looping around Urumau Reserve and finishing at Lyttelton.

Stats: not recorded.

 11 October         8.30am                Dracophyllum Flat  NB Late return – 5.00pm

P/U: Yaldhurst  

Standard route: Tramp through beech forest and alpine pasture following the cycle trail almost to Texas flat, then across country via a crossing of Broken River to Hwy 73.

Alternative route: Follow cycle trail to Texas Flat, then via the Cheeseman Ski Club access road to the Broken River Bridge on Hwy 73.

Stats: distance 13.6/12km, ascent 510m, time 4hrs 30mins

 18 October         **8.00am**       Mt Oxford – Ryde Falls  NB Late return – 5.30pm

P/U: Manderville, on Tram Rd just past shopping centre and intersection

Standard route:  Mt Oxford: A challenging climb of Mt Oxford with magnificent 360-degree views to enjoy at lunch time.

Alternative route: Ryde Falls.  Beautiful steady, mostly bush walk to the falls. Some stiff climbs and descents.

Stats: distance 15km, ascent 960/218m, time 5hrs

 25 October         **8.00am**       Bealey Spur  NB Late return – 5.30pm

P/U: Yaldhurst

Standard Route: Steady climb up the Spur passing Bealey Spur Hut, where higher up the track passes through tussock grasslands and subalpine scrub and passes near several tarns. Climb to the top of the Spur for more extensive views before descending.

Alternative Route: Steady climb up the Spur with superb views. Lunch at Bealey Spur Hut and then descend to the pick-up.

Stats: distance 12.5km (to hut), ascent 625m, time 5hrs

1 November      8.30am                 Mt Vulcan

P/U: Woodend

Standard route: Undulating tramp over farm land and on farm tracks; steady climb to lunch stop and later on to top of Mt Vulcan. Great coastal and inland views.

Alternative route: As above, but sidling around Mt Vulcan with no major climbs.

Stats:  distance 14km, ascent 609m, time 5hrs

 8 November      8.30am                 Sign of the Bellbird to Evans Pass

P/U: N/A

An open, grassy ridge climb with some rock-hopping to start and then ranging from easy to steeper climbing and descent sections.

Standard route:    Crater Rim walkway from the Sign of the Bellbird to Evans Pass.

Alternative route: Crater Rim walkway from the Sign of the Kiwi to Evans Pass.

Stats: distance 17km, vertical ascent 410m, time 5hrs

 15 November    8.30am                 Awa Awa / McLennans Bush  NB Late return – 5.30pm

P/U: Yaldhurst

Rhododendron plantings and Rata reserve.

Standard Route: Steady climb through bush up Scott’s Saddle Track to the ridgeline and lunch overlooking the Mt Hutt access road. Return via Scott’s Saddle, Ridge and Alder Tracks.

Alternative Route:  Steady climb through bush up Scott’s Saddle Track to the first sub-alpine clearing for lunch overlooking the Canterbury Plains. Return via Scott’s Saddle, Ridge and Alder tracks.

Stats: distance 11km, ascent 740m, time 4hrs 45mins.

22 November    8.30am                 Sugarloaf 13 Mile Hut

P/U: Yaldhurst

Canerbury foothills stream valley clothed in beech forest.

Standard Route: The track follows 13 Mile Bush Stream, crossing several times and winding up through the bush in a series of steep pinches and slightly more level stream terraces.  Returning on the beech forest track with several stream crossings.

Alternative Route: As for Standards for as long as terrain and stamina allow.

Stats: distance 14.4km, ascent 577m, time not recorded.

 29 November    **8:00**             Mt Barrosa, Lake Clearwater  NB Late return – 5.30pm

P/U: Yaldhurst

Standard route: Steady climb to the top of the mountain, then return via same route.

Alternative route: 10km loop track around Lake Clearwater. Option, 2hr up Stour River, return via same route.

Stats: distance 7.8km, ascent 824m, time 4hrs 30mins

 6 December       8.30am                  Mt Grey – Ashley Forest

P/U: Woodend

Standard route: Walk down the road to the river before a steady climb to the Mt Grey trig via Mt Grey track, returning down the same track to Lake Janet.

Alternative route: Steady climb from Lake Janet, returning via the same track.

Stats: distance 16.2/9km, ascent 776/507m, time 4hrs   

13 December     **9:00am**       Otoromiro/Governors Bay Hotel

P/U: PMH

Our Christmas lunch tramp. Lunch details will be advised later. If wet the bus will leave Bishopdale at 10:30am.

Standard route: Walk to Governors Bay from the Sign of the Bellbird via the Carter Rim and Faulkners track.

Alternate route: An easy flat walk on a well-marked track starting from the Governors Bay jetty. The track follows the waterfront and takes around 30 mins before returning the same way.

20 December     Self drive to Okuti Valley carpark at 10:00am.

An optional tramp with details to be advised later.

Possibility of a pizza lunch at the Hilltop Hotel