Situated at the top of the Takaka Hill, this walkway is a 6 km loop track traversing karst outcrops, sub-alpine scrub, tussock ranges and dense beech forest with a magnificent view point at the lookout taking in Mohua (Golden Bay), the mountain ranges of Kahurangi, and Tasman Bay.
Overlooking Mohua (Golden Bay) and the Kahurangi ranges
We investigated the derelict falling over shed at the start of a side track that houses a mummified cow, OR WAS IT? Well, there was a mossy tarpaulin draped over a cow shaped lump. Reportedly it has been there for approximately 35 years. The loop passes through some lovely beech forest and bypasses the less interesting 4WD road that takes you to the start of the walkway loop.
Fallen down shed and cow???
We elected to travel in an anti-clockwise direction to summit early then descend to shelter for our lunch break(s). From here there was a steady climb in semi open scrub to the transmitter towers at the summit of the track, 950m, where we were treated to the panoramic vista of the bays and ranges. We descended into the nearby bush to shelter from the bracing wind for a breather and snack, (or a pie for 1st lunch for somebody….)
Group at highest point
Tripping merrily, for some (or picking my way carefully) over the rocky karst field, we appreciated the tenacious qualities of the vegetation that survive in this extreme environment of arctic winter blasts, and arid summers.
Looking over the kast landscape to Tasman Bay
The remainder of the walk varied from tussock, a gorse corridor and beech forest. Beside the track were many tomos (well-marked, PHEW!) to peer down and wonder where they lead to.
I really enjoyed this relatively short but varied walk with our leader and co walkers.
Participants: Maaike (leader) Kath, David, Beth, Debbie, Era and Jo (scribe).