Innholdsfortegnelse for February 2025 i Walking New Zealand

The Togitogiga Waterfalls in Samoa, known for its cascading waters and lush vegetation, has had a massive transformation. The upgrade was primarily aimed at improving accessibility and safety with trails now laid out, making it simpler for visitors to traverse the area. The viewing platforms have been strengthened with a new vantage point, offering a safer and more comfortable spot for visitors. New resting shaded spots offer a more laid-back experience and the restroom facilities have been entirely revamped, with changing rooms now available for both men and women. Situated in the Togitogiga Conservation Area, the waterfall is approximately a 45-minute drive from Apia. The conservation area is presently managed by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, which also hosts the Ma Tree Walk and the Coastal Area Walk.…

Westmere lake is a rather scruffy little lake walk in need of some TLC but is an attractive diversion suitable for those wanting an hour forest escape as the path does a gentle circumference around it. Starting at the car park and after studying the large signpost map just inside the entrance we set off to follow the track straight ahead but did notice another track over to our right which we discovered later on was the exit to the end of the loop, so if you wanted you could start there and do the walk in reverse. Keeping on the main track it took us along the side of the lake which was on our left. The track is all grass and was muddy in patches with overgrown foliage,…

The pandemic - and in particular the draconian restrictions on freedom of movement - delivered me two precious gifts. One, I discovered classical music in a deeper way. I discovered Radio NZ Concert. I soon assembled a mountain sized Spotify playlist of that which I found alluring, soothing, beautiful. From Chopin to Vaughan Williams; Maria João Pires to Vikingur Ólafsson; Gabriella Montero to Ludovico Einaudi. I had fallen in love. No words of stern directions to unravel. No podium of truth to intrude my day. An oasis of ngeded calm. And certainly connected to that musical baptism walking. We discovered a route through two backyards, akiwifruit orchard, and across some dairy farm paddocks to a wild section of our local river. An oasis of calm. A hidden way, Scottish historian…

Walking the Waikanae River Trail is an experience that shows off the beauty of New Zealand’s Kapiti Coast. Stretching approximately 13 kilometres, this loop trail offers a flat, easy walk that is perfect for families, casual walkers, and those looking to immerse themselves in nature. To reach the Waikanae River Trail, head to Waikanae, located about 60 kilometres north of Wellington. The trail can be accessed from several points, including the Otaihanga Domain, which is a popular starting point. Here, you will find amenities like toilets and picnic areas, making it an ideal spot to begin your adventure. Parking is available at various entry points along the trail, including Jim Cooke Park and Edgewater Park in Waikanae… As I set out on my walk from the Otaihanga Domain, I was…

Kawau Island, located in the Hauraki Gulf about 45km north of Auckland, offers walkers a unique blend of natural beauty and rich history. The island, which covers approximately 5000 acres, is a popular destination for day-trippers and nature enthusiasts looking to explore its scenic walking tracks and historical sites. Kawau Island boasts several well-maintained walking tracks that cater to various fitness levels and interests. Most of these tracks originate from Mansion House Valley and offer a mix of coastal views, forest walks, and historical sites. Mansion House Loop The Mansion House Loop is an easy walk that takes you through the heritage gardens surrounding Mansion House. You can explore the beach and rock pools at low tide, making it an excellent option for families with children. The gardens contain many…

Co. Waterford in Ireland’s ancient East boasts the country’s oldest city, and is a region of firsts for food and drink. The special blend of history, culture and producers has made it a world-class food and drink region. With stunning landscapes and a warm welcome, it’s just an extra reason for visitors to enjoy Co. Waterford. Taste Waterford is a local operator that offers a range of authentic food experiences. Among these is The Mountain Splendour Taste Tour – a six-hour food tour of the Comeragh Mountains. Highlights include a mountain forage, visit to a sustainable farm, meeting a Foodie offering in Waterford sixth-generation sheep farmer, watching shepherding in action and lunch. Taste Waterford also has three-hour walking tours of Waterford City and Dungarvan. Both tours feature food and drink…

Discover the Magic of Movement: The Manawatu Walking Festival is set to transform the way we experience our stunning landscape, offering an extraordinary journey through some of New Zealand’s most breathtaking terrain from 7th to 9th March 2025. This three-day celebration of walking promises an unparalleled opportunity to explore the region’s natural beauty, connect with local experts, and challenge yourself across a diverse range of walking experiences. The 2025 Manawatu Walking Festival has meticulously crafted a selection of walks that cater to every fitness level and interest. Whether you’re a casual stroller or an experienced hiker, there’s a path waiting to be discovered. The festival boasts eleven unique guided walks that showcase the region’s incredible diversity, including. The Twilight Beach Walk from Foxton Beach to Himatangi Beach stands out as…

Mt Te Aroha, located in the Kaimai-Mamaku Forest Park in New Zealand’s North Island, offers breathtaking vistas, lush native bush, and a rewarding sense of accomplishment. Whether you’re up for a challenge or prefer a leisurely stroll, the mountain provides two notable tracks: the walk to the summit and the shorter Mt Te Aroha walk. Here’s what you need to know about these two walks: The Walk to Mt Te Aroha Summit Distance: 3.9 km one way Duration: 3-4 hours to the summit, 2-3 hours back Track Type: Steep tramping track The walk to the Mt Te Aroha summit is an invigorating hike that promises stunning panoramic views at the top. At 952 metres, the summit is the highest point in the Kaimai Range, offering vistas that stretch across the…

Moria Gate Loop and Mirror Tarn is a 4km loop walk north of Karamea on the West Coast of the South Island that takes about one hour 30 minutes to complete. From the main Oparara car park, walk through original old-growth rain forest, featuring kahikatea, rimu and moss-covered trees. Follow the track to beautiful Moria Gate Arch, named in 1984 after the gate in the Lord of the Rings trilogy. It is worthwhile going underneath the arch via a short side track to view the naturally sculptured limestone and maybe spot a native blue duck/whio feeding in the whisky coloured waters of the Ōpārara River. The track continues over the arch, highlighted by the paving stones embossed with the footprint of the extinct moa who once walked here. Continue past…

Sydney has become the seventh Abbott World Marathon Major alongside New York, London, Tokyo, Boston, Chicago, and Berlin. Officials made the announcement at the New York City Marathon recently.. The 2024 Sydney Marathon, held in September, drew 25,000 runners from more than 100 countries. It underscored Sydney’s appeal and built momentum for its bid for World Major status. Anyone who completed the TCS Sydney Marathon during the candidacy years of 2022, 2023 and 2024 is guaranteed entry to the Sydney Marathon (valid for three years). Clients who did not participate in the last three years will be able to submit an application for the general ballot. The Sydney Marathon will be held 31 August 2025. www.tcssydneymarathon.com/ Correction In some issue of the digital edition 322 it was mentionedthat the Puketi…

Castlepoint on the rugged Wairarapa coastline of the North Island is a hidden gem that captivates visitors with its dramatic landscapes and rich natural beauty. Castlepoint, named by Captain James Cook in 1770 for its castle-like rock formations, offers an unforgettable experience for those willing to explore its scenic wonders. At the heart of this coastal paradise is the Deliverance Cove Track, a mesmerizing walk that showcases the best of what this region has to offer. The Deliverance Cove Track is a 3.4-kilometer loop that takes approximately one hour and 30 minutes to complete. This medium-difficulty walk begins in the quaint Castlepoint village and guides walkers offering breath-taking views at every turn. As you set out on your adventure, the track immediately immerses you in the raw beauty of the…

The historic 400m Whitianga Rock Walk begins at Ferry Landing Wharf in Whitianga, Coromandel, is the oldest stone wharf in Australasia, and continues on to the Maori Pa site and various other historical points of interest. The Ferry Landing Wharf was built 1837 of local stone cut from nearby cliffs and is the oldest stone wharf in Australasia, listed with Historic Places and still in use today as the ferry access. Care is required as the footing isn’t easy and there are steep drop offs on the side. There are beautiful views of the water as you look down through the native trees. The walk passes through several areas of exposed pipi shell middens, evidence of early Maori occupation. A notice board here describes the Pa’s history dating back over…

The Swingbridge Loop Track in Kaitoke Regional Park is a hidden gem nestled in the heart of the Hutt Valley. This picturesque 2.1 kilometre loop of about 60 minutes offers an immersive experience in nature, combining stunning views, lush forests, and the soothing sounds of the Hutt River below. As I arrived at the park, the sun was just beginning to rise, casting a warm golden hue over the landscape. The air was crisp and fresh, filled with the earthy scent of damp foliage. I parked my car at the entrance and made my way to the start of the Swingbridge Track, feeling a sense of anticipation for the adventure ahead. The track commenced with a gentle incline, winding through a forest dominated by towering rimu and rātā trees. The…

Waiheke Island’s Matiatia to the Vineyards via the Coastal Track offers an enchanting walk that combines stunning coastal views, lush native bush, and the promise of world-class wineries at its conclusion. This 4.3 km one-way walk takes approximately one hour and 30 minutes to complete, making it an ideal excursion for visitors to the island. The walk starts at the Matiatia ferry terminal, a primary entry point for Waiheke Island visitors. As you set off, you’ll immediately be greeted by the beauty of Matiatia Bay. The track begins by crossing the bay’s foreshore before ascending through regenerating bush, offering glimpses of the bay below. As you progress, the path weaves around the headland, revealing breathtaking views across the inner Gulf islands. On a clear day, you can even spot Auckland…

The Cooks Cove Walkway, located near Tolaga Bay in the Gisborne region, offers a captivating journey through history and natural beauty. This 5.8-kilometre out-and-back trail takes hikers on a scenic adventure to the cove where Captain James Cook anchored his ship, the Endeavour, in 1769. The Cooks Cove Walkway is generally considered an easy to moderate hike, suitable for those with average fitness levels. The track begins near the Tolaga Bay Wharf and winds through a diverse landscape of farmland, light bush, and coastal scenery. On average, it takes about one hour and 33 minutes to complete the trail. However, allowing two and a half horns to three hours for the round trip is recommended, especially if you plan to explore the cove and take in the historical sites. The…