Monthly Archives: November 2016

The Dome to Puhoi

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We set off through forest tracks recently felled which gave us good vistas of the surrounding countryside and quickly walked eight kilometres. We began to have high hopes of how much ground we were likely to cover, travelling along roads instead of tricky bush tracks.

However we were soon confronted by Moirs Hill.  The upward four wheel drive track seemed to go on and  on with annoying  downhill drops.  However we finally made the summit in time for a late lunch.  Then it was a quick  descent down the other side through the bush of Moir Scenic Reserve.

We were looking forward to the next section along the Dunns Ridge track because our notes promised us interesting rock formations, peaceful, picturesque spots and beautiful views. However it was not to be. A notice at the entrance informed us that goat culling was in progress, the track was closed and a road walk was the alternative. We made a note to try out this track when we return on an old people’s holiday.

However we still had the two hour Puhoi track to enjoy and this did not disappoint. A well formed track led us through magnificent bush with towering kauri trees.

It had been a very long day and our feet were getting very sore, so it was a relief to see the historic Puhoi Pub, our night’s accommodation, across the road from the track exit. We had walked 25 kilometres.

We plan to stay here for two nights and on Friday we shall hire a couple of kayaks and catch the high tide to take us seven kilometres down to Wenderholm. At present there is no connecting track.

Govan Wilson to the Dome

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We were up early today. Our trip notes told us that this track would take 6-7 hours and would again be steep and muddy. However fortunately it wasn’t too bad if you were careful. We passed through some beautiful bush and arrived at our destination, the Dome tearooms on State Highway 1  at 3.30 p.m.  We tucked into a large portion of hamburger and fries even though it was only just over two hours since we’d had lunch.

A local farmer has come to our rescue again and offered us a camping spot.

Mt Tamahunga (Te Hikoi O Te Kiri) Track

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Today we left the beach and headed inland to follow this track that was opened by Sir Edmund Hillary in 2001. It was nice to be back in the bush, though it was quite muddy and slippery and I was rather worried about my knee. At the summit there was a large rain radar structure. Alan was particularly interested in this as he often consults the Metservice Rain Radar.

However we made it through successfully and now we are camping in Mandy’s back garden in Govan Wilson Road.  It is huge and has terraces which lead down to a large stage at the bottom. I don’t think there is a concert tonight though.

Tomorrow we tackle the Dome  Forest.