Karakariki reserve April 10th 2023
We had a beautiful autumn day for our tramp in the Karakariki reserve. A small group set off in two cars with Carol and Colin as our drivers. We were joined on the trip by Etienne who is doing a study of tramping for people as they age.
We drove west out of Hamilton passing Whatawhata on the Raglan Road before turning off up to Karakariki.On the road we encountered a cock pheasant and a hawk and during the tramp we heard magpies.
The first section up to the waterfall along farmland and some native bush following the stream was easy going with swing bridge and stiles to negotiate. The next part was through native bush with a short steep section climbing up and over gnarly roots, and a small shallow stream crossing which then eased off to a steady climb to the top marked by the fence line and gorse bushes. Some bright red flowers of rata were visible at times in the treetops and the large rata vines could be seen climbing up some tree trunks. We stopped for a break for morning tea amongst the trees near the top then made our way back down to the waterfall again for a quick early lunch and swim for Etienne.
Back to the cars and returned to Hamilton at 1pm as expected. Many thanks to Carol and Colin for transporting us and guiding this enjoyable little expedition on Easter Sunday.
Regards
Kerry Allen