Walked the recently reopened Zion Hill loop out at #Karekare this weekend (~3hrs). It's an uphill start for ~40mins to the top of the ridge, then fairly easy going after that. A couple of very small, shallow water crossings (easy to jump or rock hop), but may become larger after/during rain. Beautiful views, both from up on the ridge as well as down by the wetland/ beach.
There's been a lot of work done on the track and it's now well formed, gravel or boardwalk. A good workout on the loose sand walking back to carpark at Karekare.

#NZ #Waitakere #trampstodon #walk

Today I took part in a river crossing course. It was held at #Wero whitewater park in Auckland, so not exactly a river, but definitely a water body with impressive flow.

The course is primarily aimed at people undertaking the Te Araroa Trail, but I think it's great for anyone thinking of doing more intrepid #tramps where river crossings could be part of it. I highly recommend it.

You learn about river hazards and safe ways to cross. Getting in the water and actually doing it helps you put the theory into practice, but also understand your own limits. Be prepared for you and your gear to get completely wet.

#RiverCrossing #TeAraroa #TA #trampstodon #hike #NZ

If you're into #trampstodon with a lot of mud, then I've got the #tramp for you!

Just north of Warkworth at the top of Dome Valley is the Dome Forest Walkway. Initially it's a well formed, well maintained track up to the lookout (amazing views! No mud).

The track then becomes part of the Te Araroa Trail and starts to become more technical in some sections. Keep an eye out for the trail markers to keep on track. Inescapable mud galore in some places (take poles!), tree roots for days and small rock scrambles/ledges. If you're in a group and organised, park cars at each end of the track, otherwise we did an in (to about half way?) and back out walk over ~5 hrs.

#NZ #walk #TeAraroaTrail