Wonderful views on the Takaka Hill Walk

We had an on-again-off-again relationship with the trip to the Takaka Hill Walkway planned for September. Twice postponed because of snow, wind, cloud and/or rain, we finally left Richmond on a day forecast to be fine. The group was small as several members who were going to come, had grandparenting duties with the school holidays and the change of date didn’t work for others.

A glorious 360o view incorporating mountain ranges to the east, south and west, and Farewell Spit and Tasman Bay was a great reward for the initial grunt up the short steep section of the track to the summit. It was calm on the top, but the clouds were gathering around the mountain ranges so the snow, clearly seen from Richmond, was not as evident. There was a moody look in the Takaka Valley, and around the mountains near where Rutherford Probus visited earlier this year.

What is very special on the Takaka Hill Walkway is the spectacular karst landscape. This weather-sculptured marble is everywhere, with very sparse vegetation. Very noticeable throughout the walk, however, was the number of lancewoods. These were mostly young with the long serrated leaves, but some are beginning to change to adult form, albeit vertically challenged.

While photogenic, the marble was not the easiest to traverse so the lunch stop at the edge of the bush was welcome. Lunch finished when rain threatened. Wet weather gear was donned, but wasn’t needed.

The scenery changed after lunch with the track passing through some lovely bush.  We had to negotiate the steep down-hill again, but all returned to the cars without incident.

Many thanks to Rebecca for sharing her knowledge, botanical and topographical, and, of course, for her fabulous photos. (Allan & Jean)

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