While Covid-19 thwarts our travel how can we stay motivated and fit utilising local
resources?
Tora Coastal Walk
Gythlian highly recommends this fully catered three day, three night coastal adventure situated in the Southern Wairarapa. She presented an excellent PowerPoint presentation with enticing photography and track conditions etc. As well as the main track there were several options to scenic viewpoints. The accommodation was of a high standard, and the images of the food were mouthwatering. Included in the price, $695, was access to the private track, accommodation and food for 3 nights, tasty packed lunches, a guide book,
maps and an introductory talk from owner.
Bookings are open for the season 22 September/ 22 April 2023. There is a wait list
available for the 20021/22 season. See toracoastalwalk.nz
Encounters on the South Island’s Te Araroa Trail.
Steve presented an excellent PowerPoint presentation on his and Clare’s encounters with sections of the South Island Te Araroa Trail. Inspired by a talk given last year at a local sport shop, Clare resolved to tackle this iconic walk. In his detailed slides Steve discussed the equipment required to cope with the terrain and conditions, which include poor signage river crossings and camping.
They decided to try out a 4 day walk on the Ta Trail to the Hamilton Hut, 2 days in and 2 days out on the same track. Although they were well prepared with a PLB etc. they realised that the New Zealand high country was not to be taken lightly. They followed this up with the 4 day walk on the easier Queen Charlotte Track. Upon return to Christchurch they enrolled in a practical residential course with ‘Outdoor Training New Zealand’ wwwoutdoortraining.co.nz to improve their skills. With this new knowledge they have been walking sections of the trail, eg. East Ahuriri Track and the Mellish Saddle near Lake Heron.
Te Araroa Trail You Tube Reviews (by Philip)
Up and Down – 3000 km on New Zealand’s Longest Hiking Hiking Trail,’ Dylan
Moron, 2021, [20 min 598 secs] You Tube.
Enhanced by the very real photography, drone shots and excellent interviews with Te Araroa Trail walkers.
An informative and professional documentary, with stunning photography.
‘One Foot in Front of the Other, – Te Araroa,’ Jean Hacquart, October, 2020, [23 min 57 secs], You Tube.
Filmed to show the guts, and determination required, and reward for completing this adventure. Great use of walking poles! Wow what a stunningly beautiful, and wild country we live in! And then there is a surprise near the end. This guy is a legend! A beautifully filmed and narrated film.
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