Te Araroa Trail - Pukeatua Track

Parambulators' September Outing - Organiser Noel Winsloe

This as a serious, fit walk, 1 way from Otaki Forks to Mangaone South and includes a big climb.

Date:                                       Sunday 20^th September 2020

Track:                                      Pukeatua Track (part of Te Araroa walk)

Shuttle pick up at:                 Mangaone South Road, Waikanae, to transport to Otaki Forks start.

Shuttle pick up time:             8:00am  (allow plenty of time to get there as we will need to be on the road promptly)

Trampers:                               Shuttle can take 10 at total cost of $100 – will require a commitment from walkers by Sunday 13^th to book shuttle – pay on day. If more than 10 then could use a private car to transfer to Otaki Forks (subject to willing driver)

Finish:                                    Mangaone South Road, where cars were parked

Distance:                               14km – estimated time of 5 hours from Otaki Forks – arriving 2:00pm at Waikanae

Description:                           From Schoolhouse Flat camp at Otaki Forks there is a steady climb of 700m to summit of Pukeatua Peak (812m) then a drop of 300m over 2km. Track then follows a mix of 4 wheel drive, pine forest and finishing with a stream crossing. A good level of fitness required as this is a one way walk and no opportunity to opt out by returning to start point.                                                                                                  

Bring:

• Sturdy tramping footwear required 
• prepare for any weather eventuality by carrying quality outerwear and warm clothing 
• pack lunch and snacks,
• plenty of water, even a hot drink for the lunch break.

See further descriptions and maps:       

https://www.teararoa.org.nz/wellington/pukeatua/  or here   https://www.doc.govt.nz/parks-and-recreation/places-to-go/wellington-kapiti/places/tararua-forest-park/things-to-do/tracks/pukeatua-track/