Monday Walkers

Looming Christmas deadlines and the threat of yet more rain may have put a damper on our numbers but not our spirits.

We left Kinloch Marina in sunshine and returned, only slightly wet, a few hours and 16 happy kilometres later.

We walked the easy uphill section of the W2K to the shelter at the

intersection of the Headland Loop Track and returned with a detour to a lookout overlooking Whangamata Bay.

Hours of labour by Bike Taupō members and other volunteers lead to the completion of this segment of the Great Lake Trail in 2010.

With a healthy dose of optimism, determination and co-operation, and armed with hand tools, trusty chainsaws and, of course the infamous Red Digger they forged a track suitable for both bikers and walkers while conserving the bordering bush.

This day the mā kaka or NZ native broom was in flower. Its delicate

mauve blooms are a stark contrast to its showier yellow cousins. Puawā nanga was also in flower, draping its white flowers down from high, and, not to be outdone, rewarewa were decorated with red, furry flowers and the path below was scattered with their coiled mass.

The sweet song of the riroriro was interrupted by the harsh shriek of a koekoea, presumably a recent returnee from wintering-over on one of the Pacific Islands. Along the track there were thickets of kā nuka. In some areas other natives were thriving in the shade and shelter they provided. In others there was plenty of evidence that animal rotary hoes, aka pigs, had made themselves at home.

Although we did not see or hear them, extensive areas of undergrowth were deeply ploughed up. From the lookout we had great views of Kinloch village and the Western Bays.

There are a few slippery, muddy patches but this is an enjoyable track well suited to walkers. Next week we have a short walk planned. If you would like to join us or for more information, please get in touch by emailing walkersmondaytaupo@gmail.com or follow us on Facebook at Taupo Monday Walkers.