It was a slightly crisp but beautiful morning when we set off from the carpark to explore all the trails contained within the Park, previously known as the Wainuiomata Recreational Reserve. We started on the Gums Loop Trail following the Wainuiomata River before turning right onto the Nikau Track, a short 30-minute return track through some very lovely bush. It climbs gradually following the Nikau Stream before coming to a stop at 2 bench seats. It is an area that kiwi have been found roaming in. We retraced our steps back to the Gums Loop Track and came into the open area surrounded by the gum trees that the track had been named for. A bit further along we turned right and proceeded up our challenge for the day! This track, the Tama Umaga, wasn’t named after one of Wainuiomata’s most famous sons for nothing! It went straight up. ¾ of the way up we passed what had once been a viewpoint but now overgrown by vegetation. The Regional Council seems to have a policy of not trimming native trees. It is a shame when you have made an effort to climb a hill, to be offered no view. It was another shorter but equally sharp climb before rounding a horseshoe bend and down a bit to join onto the Sledge Track. This track led us back down the hill gradually through more beautiful old bush. The Sledge Track was originally a logging track created in the 1880’s. We made our way back to Gums Loop stopping to look at some swimming holes before heading across the swing bridges (there were 2 to choose from) and following the road up to the Lower Dam. This is one of New Zealand’s oldest dams and there were a number of information boards to read. It is now a wildlife reserve and very pretty area. After lunch it was a quick walk down the road to the cars and then off to Compass Coffee Shop at Seaview Marina for refreshments right by the marina.

Trip Leader - Judith
Walkers: Christine, Sharon, Suzanne, Brenda, Lynn, Lynda and Veronica (potential new member)