We scrambled through dense bushes the last meter or two. Presently, we popped through the top of the world. Reclined in dense dry gasses and dining on cut sandwiches and thermos coffee, we observed the world beneath us.
Just one hour and 30 minutes from the city of Wellington lies the Waiohine Gorge. Waiohine Gorge is part of the Tararua Range. Complete with a swinging rope bridge, lush forest and alpine fresh river, Waiohine Gorge is the perfect escape to nature. Our trip was a six hour circuit up the steep incline, across the coal stream ridge to Mount Reeves, down the Mount Reeves track and back across a mountain spur to a gruelling but admittedly short scramble down and then up the river bank.
Judith crossing the swing bridge at Waiohine Gorge.
The first section of our trip was steep. The exposed tree roots formed steps that spiralled ahead. Hundred upon hundreds of steps loomed above use until our lungs burnt and we felt we could burst.
Walking through the forest we could see the changes in vegetation as we climbed higher. Near the riverbed the forest was thick and dense with ferns and moss. The thick dark forest gave way to a more open group of forest trees with sturdy round trunks that towered above us. Closer to the top, the trees became noticeably shorter. Masses of moss formed a fluorescent plush pile carpet beneath our feet and layers of leaf litter on the forest floor cushioned our stride. At the top there were no trees, just hardy bushes and thick wiry desert grasses with bushy heads that waved in the breeze like millions of puppy dog tails.
Three tramping buddies taking in the view. (Gilbert, Michael & Mick)
Atop Mr Reeves, we could see local landmarks including Mount Hector and the Bee Hives. Across the Totara Flats lay the sleepy towns of Greytown, Carterton and Featherston.
Part of the fun in our adventure was finding our way. We followed a trail blazed with bright pink triangles. We occasionally went astray. It wasn’t too long before one of the group realised and we spread out. ‘Over here’ would come the call and we regrouped like a pack of hunting dogs following a scent.
John's turn to cross the swing bridge.
The track down was every bit as steep as the one we took upwards. Vines looped down from the trees to cross our path and caught at our feet. Our first glimpse of the Waiohine river way below gave us an indication of how much further downwards we had to go. Finally, with just meters to go a slippery stepping stone left me with a soggy boot.
Waiohine Gorge.
My day tramp to Waiohine Gorge with the Hutt Valley Tramping Club was only my second outing. The company was pleasant but the going was tough. If the only thing those aching muscles, bursting lungs and tired feet achieved were those few moments of sanctuary atop Mount Reeves, they were worth it.
