Monday Walkers
This Rā hina we had a great morning, walking tracks and trails just on our doorstep.
Not only were the views amazing but we climbed enough hills to get a good workout, revisited a few hidden treasures and delighted in the sun’s warm presence.
We began by heading up a steep concreted path to an Acacia Bay reservoir, pausing long enough to appreciate the great outlook over Taupō township and Tapuaeharuru Bay and to catch our breath. Then it was up a grassy track leading to the top of a hill. Another calf stretching exercise! Our next stop was at a secluded sanctuary called Zuvuyaland. This is now cared for by Friends of Zuvuyaland but was conceived, and initially established, by Vivien Johnson in 1991 on land she had purchased.
She referred to the area as a “place for all people and the Shining Ones”.
Here we enjoyed the tranquillity of the Flowform waterfall tucked amongst the maple trees, the views from the High Rocks and the peacefulness of the Spiral. We emerged from the quietness to the hurly burly of suburban streets and concrete pathways.
We stayed off road as much as possible by using linking steps and grassed reserves and eventually made our way down to the Acacia Bay South boat ramp.
We were not the only ones appreciating the sunshine. Fluffy grey cygnets herded by their black swan parents and sleepy ducks rested on the shoreline. An Australian coot was also seen. Just as we entered a lakeside track a pair of riroriro hovered above us. These tiny songbirds are smaller than sparrows or tauhou and more commonly heard than seen. The track was damp, and the high lake level meant the water was lapping the edge of the path at times with low branches of trees creating the occasional obstacle. The conditions appeared to suit a cluster of hakeke or wood-ear jelly fungi we saw growing on decaying tree trunks. These downy, flabby ear like fungi were once dried for export to China.
From this trail we had tree-framed lake views and glimpses of the township. Eventually our progress was stymied by undergrowth, and we had to return, by way of the road, to our start off point.
It was a morning that reminded us you do not have to travel far in Taupō to find some interesting tracks and that the familiar often hides surprises.
Next week we are partying. If you would like more information about our group, please email walkersmondaytaupo@gmail.com or follow us on Facebook at ‘Taupo Monday Walkers’.