Southern walking trails explored

Many problems besetting this world were discussed and cured on the latest walk with my friend, Mike. That’s one of the reasons for this column on walks you can do in Marlborough: friendship and exercise; both are good for us.

Over New Year we walked some of the trails at the southern edge of Blenheim. One involved a little gentle hill work. The other two were straight forward on the flat.

The first involved a drive to the end of Cob Cottage Rd and then a walk along the base of the Wither Hills to the west, returning the same way. A seat conveniently situated low on a ridge offers astounding views across the valley and over to the North Island.

The second walk started at Dry Hills Lane off the Alabama Rd extension and took us up to join the first walkway, further along to the west and returned the same way. Again great views.

The third walk involved the Sutherland Stream trail from Alabama Rd and return through side alleys into Kim Cr and Elisha Dr and then back down the Sutherland stream from Wither

Rd. This pleasant walk, favoured by others we met, with or without dogs, followed the stream and its new native plantings. We managed a coffee stop at Mike’s relation’s house; a welcome break that added to the walk’s friendliness.

There are many little connecting accessways within Blenheim’s precincts that lead to new areas and interest. On the Marlborough District Council map ‘‘Discover Blenheim and Renwick’’ available from the MDC office, there are about 40 little walkways and connecting alleys that are worth exploring as well, on foot or on a mobility scooter.

Happy perambulating in the

New Year!

The view west to Blenheim and Wairau Valley from southern hills walkway.