Little Trips

As well as mini-breaks away during my days off, I have taken lots of little day trips, exploring the Waikato region bit by beautiful bit.

On a blue skied, sunny day, I took a drive out west to Mount Pirongia – a rambling mountain overlooking the Waikato area. Having had a snoop on the Department of Conservation website it seemed there were several walks over Mount Pirongia to choose from; from short walks at the base, to multi day hikes to the distant summit. I decided to 'tramp', as the Kiwis call it, to the Ruapane lookout. The track starts with an easy uphill, but before long had become almost a wall of rock which I clambered up using my hands and feet. An hour later I arrived, pretty hot and puffed at the Ruapane lookout. The views were breathtaking – looking out for miles over the vast, green Waikato plateau towards Hamilton, Ohaupo and Te Awamutu. The rest of the Pirongia mountain dominated the views behind; trying for the summit on my own in a day was definitely out of the question, but I spied another little hilltop not too far away which I set my sights on conquering. The track to it descended steeply and followed a lower ridge until I came bang smack into another wall of rock – this one so steep that chains were provided to help you pull yourself up. Undeterred I clambered up to this second lookout point, where I sat and revelled in the beautiful views. 

Back at the car I decided to drive out to Kawhia to check out the beach. The sun was beaming down on the black sand, which was almost too hot to walk on, so I cooled my heels in the ocean before heading back to Ohaupo.

Another day out took me along the Waikato river to the Arapuni dam. Around 70% of the North Island of New Zealand's electricity is hydroelectricity, mainly provided by the 11 dams along the length of the Waikato river. The Arapuni dam in itself is nothing remarkable, but the hydroelectric power station has a spectacular swing bridge leading to it, which was built for the workers in 1929. The bridge spans the broad gorge, with the river far beneath, and is a fun little half hour diversion.

On the second of January (lucky kiwis get two bank holidays for the new year!) Alice and I took a hike on the Te Tapui Loop Track; a steep climb to reach the wooden platform at the summit, which awarded us with superb views of the Kaimai Ranges (which were the Misty Mountains in the Lord of The Rings Trilogy).

Alice and I also took a day trip to the Karangahake gorge. Not only did this mean a diverting little stop in Paeroa, birthplace of the fizzy drink L&P ('World Famous in New Zealand Since Ages Ago!), but also a fun day exploring the tracks and tunnels at this abandoned gold mine and battery. The walk included a 1km long tunnel to wander through, as well as lots of side tunnels great for exploring provided you have a torch with you! After a fun few hours nosing about we headed down the road to a waterfall and natural pool for a picnic and a swim – bliss!

The Hunua Ranges, South-east of Auckland, offered another day of hiking and beauty. The 9km hike started and finished at the Hunua Falls – New Zealand just has so many pretty waterfalls! The track led steeply up to a ridge-way which I followed for a few Kms, getting glimpses through the ferns and palms to the view of Auckland in the distance, and through a Kauri grove before reaching a lookout point with views over a reservoir. This reservoir is one of several in the region providing Auckland with water, and is gorgeous, looking more like an ocean inlet than a man made reservoir! After lapping up the views, I descended to the water's edge and crossed the dam, rejoining the forest track on the other side and following it back another 4km to the car-park. Another wonderful day!!

 

 

Hobbit Holes and Hot Pools

Whilst out on their New Zealand Adventure, Elizabeth and Richard spent a few days at Paul and Carole's. It was really great to see them both, and we got to catch up with all the family, enjoy some adventures together and, some would argue most importantly, play some cards. Inevitably Elizabeth beat us all spectacularly at her special subject; Racing Demons, but I proudly remained unbeaten champion at Play on Words, so all was right with the world.

Our first of two day-trips took us west to MataMata, to see the wonderful world of Hobbiton. This film set has been developed as a major attraction, and contains hobbit holes, gardens and the green dragon pub. It was quite pricey to visit but well worth it if you like all things LOTR/Hobbit. Elizabeth, Richard and I got fully into the spirit of the visit, even donning fancy dress for some photos at the pub! We also learnt a few interesting facts on just how pernickity Peter Jackson was when it came to getting things right; for example, in Hobbiton are planted an orchard of apple and pear trees. However, there is one line in the books describing Hobbiton as having plum trees, so Peter Jackson ordered the existing apple and pear trees be stripped of their leaves and have individual Plum tree leaves wired on instead!!

After indulging in a couple of hours of Hobbity-fun we journeyed onto Tauranga to Mount Maunganui. The mount is an extinct volcano sat at the end of a beautiful beach. A few minutes steep climb brings you to the top, where you can sit under the swooping para-scenders and admire the stunning views. Having climbed up and down, and being a bit hot, bothered and dusty, we decided to indulge in a bit of spa therapy at the salt water hot pools at the base of the mount. For only a few dollars you can sit and soak in the hot outdoor pools, gazing with triumph at the Mount you just conquered!

The following day we headed south to Waitomo. Not to head to the coast as I had previously done, but to see the world famous Gloworm caves. We took a guided tour through the cathedral-esque caves to the gloworms, which you can admire in the pitch black whilst gliding silently through the water on a boat. In case you're interested; the Gloworms are actually the larval stage of a fly, and they hang luminescent strands down from the ceiling to catch their food. I really enjoyed seeing the Gloworms; they definitely have a magical air about them, as they sparkle above you!

On the way back to Ohaupo, we stopped at the Otorohunga Kiwi House. A fun little bird sanctuary where you can see all sorts of native birds, including the reclusive Kiwi. We went into the Kiwi House first, and once our eyes adjusted to the dim lighting, could see, behind the glass, the two Kiwis. It was wonderful to see them, and I have to say their comical run, with their heads bobbing with every step, is just fantastic!! We then headed out into the main sanctuary, where we came across all sorts of birds, including the massive wood pigeon – about 5 times the size of a normal pigeon (no wonder they used to be a Maori delicacy!), and a brilliant little grey, white and yellow bird with a heap of attitude!

All in all a wonderful couple of days with Elizabeth and Richard!

Running, Wining and Dining

A few weeks in, Paul and Carole had planned a trip with their wine group; the Te-Awamutu Wine Appreciation and Tasting Society, or T.W.A.T.S to Paihia in the Bay of Islands. I was invited along, provided I found my own accommodation. Whilst searching for somewhere to stay I stumbled upon the fact that there was a half marathon taking place that weekend in nearby KeriKeri. And so, a plan was hatched to join the wine tour, but sneak off and complete my second ever half marathon in the beautiful Bay of Islands. The plan went perfectly and I had the most wonderful weekend.

The drive up to the bay takes about 4-5hours, but, in true wine club fashion, we stopped for a wine tasting and lunch on the way up. Once in Paihia we went first to my hostel; where the owner surprised me with an upgrade to a private room as a well done for doing the half marathon. We then headed to the TWATS palatial accommodation for the weekend to meet the rest of the crew and head to the second vineyard of the weekend – the Fat Pig – for wine (or water, in my case) and pizza from the outdoor pizza oven.

The next morning I was up bright and early and on a bus headed to the start of the KeriKeri half marathon. The course was pretty sweet, with the first 8km being gently uphill, and the last 13 generally downhill. I surprised myself with quite a fast pace and finding I could keep going at that pace pretty easily (although I still walked up the steeper hills!). The scenery was quite pretty, rolling countryside, although not really coastal views as I had hoped, and despite feeling pretty tired at about 18km I pushed on and before I knew it had crossed the finish line. I was ecstatic to learn I had beaten my previous half marathon time by 17minutes; finishing in a not too shabby 2hours13minutes!!!!!

Once freshened up Carole came to pick me up and I rejoined the wine club as they toured more vineyards, enjoying a truly delicious lunch at the Marsden estate that lasted about 5 hours! That evening, we all headed to KeriKeri to a street party; with myself acting as sober driving and doing 2 car-ferry runs to get the whole club there. We had some lovely food and drink and enjoyed the live music for a couple of hours before deciding to call it a night. On leaving KeriKeri with the first carload I was flagged down at a police checkpoint to be breathalysed; I stated my name and address, discussed the UK a bit with the police officer, and passed the breathalyser test. On the way back in to collect the second carload, I was again stopped and breathalysed – the police officer and I had a good chuckle about it – and I passed again. Not five minutes later on the return I was again flagged down. “Oh its my old friend Jude from the UK!!!!” exclaimed the officer...

On the Sunday, I taxied the TWATS to Paihia wharf, we took the ferry over to Russell, where we spent the day up in the hills overlooking the ocean at the Omata estate. More wines and food were tasted as we sat in the sunshine next to the vines – a perfect summer's day. We spent the evening in Russell at the Duke of Marlborough pub, next to the beach, enjoying... you guessed it; wines and more delicious food, whilst watching the sun go down on a perfect weekend.

Joining the Family Club

A few weeks into my time in New Zealand, I travelled to Lake Taupo to meet up with Lillian; a Kiwi who I worked with in the UK. She was back in NZ for a visit home, and we had arranged to spend a day or two together. It was great to see Lils and we had a good old catch up on the walk from Taupo town to the Huka Falls. The walk was pleasant enough; following the Waikato river from its source to the falls, although we seriously under-estimated how far away the falls were. What we thought was a 15minute walk turned into an hour long tramp; with the return walk beckoning! No matter, however, as we had nattered away about this and that,, before turning our attention to the main reason for meeting in Taupo; the Taupo Bungy!

Back in the UK, whilst discussing our approaching trips to NZ, we came up with the idea that we should do a bungy jump together; a couple of days later we had firmly agreed a plan to do the Taupo bungy! The Taupo bungy is situated over the Waikato river, and is just shy of 50metres high. For me there was a special reason for choosing this particular bungy; I wanted to join the family club! My uncle Paul, and my cousins Laura, Alice and Elgan have all taken the plunge and 'bungeed' at Taupo, and I was determined to be the next member of the club!

The following day, having spent the night at Lillian's parent's bach (holiday house) we presented ourselves at Taupo bungy. Having signed our lives away, paid up, and had our weigh-ins, we were told to head on out to the platform. I asked Lil's if we should flip a coin to see who jumps first, and quicker than a flash she replied she wanted to jump first, as she wasn't sure she'd have the nerve to jump if she had to watch me first! My own nerves jangling with excitement, I agreed and Lil stepped forward.

Watching Lillian jump was not too scary – in actual fact I was more excited than anything. Before I knew it, Lil had jumped and it was my turn. Whilst being fitted into my harness and having my ankles bound, the jump-masters asked if I wanted to have a dip in the river. I told them I didn't mind if my hands got wet but no further. 'Right', he said, 'well in that case you have two options; First you can jump on a shorter rope and you definitely won't get wet, but it might not be very bouncy or comfy. Or you jump on the slightly longer rope where you will get wet unless you jump OUT as far as possible'. Feeling more and more excited and confident by the minute I chose the second option.

As you shuffle your way to the edge of the platform, the rope drops down ahead of you, causing a rather unpleasant dragging sensation; like you are about to be pulled off the precipice before you are ready. However I was finally stood on the edge, my toes hanging over the lip of the platform, with the blue-green Waikato river lazily flowing 50metres below. Having smiled for the photo I was given the go ahead, and with the words of the jump-master fresh in my mind I leapt out with as much force as I could muster. In a fraction of a second I was down, my fingers an inch from the water before being pulled back up as the rope pulled back. It was AMAZING!!!!! Such a great feeling – I let out a few whoops of excitement, whilst being lowered into the awaiting dinghy and taken to shore, where an equally ecstatic Lillian was waiting.

Later, having celebrated with a slice of cake and a coffee, and still feeling as though the whole event was a little unreal, Lils and I headed back to Hamilton.

I saw Lillian once more before she returned to the UK – we took a morning's drive west to see the Bridal Veil Falls. The walk to the falls follows a stream to a platform overhanging the top of the falls, allowing you to look straight over the edge as the water plummets to the pool below. The waterfall was spectacular and beautiful, and as we returned to the car Lil and I remarked, with an air of boasting, that the waterfall drop was the same height as our bungy jump!