Lake Rotoroa

One of the walks I love doing after work, is the almost 4 km walk around Lake Rotoroa, a lake in the centre of the city. It is a completely flat walk but the everchanging scenery makes it a pleasure to enjoy after a busy working day. Easily accessed, it is about a three to four minute drive from the CBD.

A well constructed concrete and metalled path, which meanders around the shore line, makes up most of the walk, which can also take scooters, and wheelchairs. Yachting,  canoeing and kayaking are common sports seen on the lake. Innes Common to the East and West of the lake is a multisport ground, which includes lacrosse and hockey.

During December to April a myriad of multihued waterlilies provide a beautiful blanket in the lower part of the lake  - Pink, lemon, vivid chartreuse while the well kept gardens facing them are a blaze of color.

Ducks, swans and geese all paddle happily, disappearing underwater frequently to gather the little bugs growing there. Their calls follow me as I and many others enjoy this peace and tranquility. Pukekos stand sentry like and call raucously to warn others of approaching danger (which is me)




Early springs sees banks of bright yellow daffodils brightening a dull dreary afternoon.

Escape to the Pacific Islands

After an emotionally challenging time, selling my home of 45 years, an island escape, which included lots of swimming and sunbathing seemed a great idea. Tickets were booked and I arrived at Hideaway resort, on the Coral coast of Viti Levu Fiji. Hideaway resort is a one and half hour transfer from the airport which gives  you time to enjoy the passing countryside.Thatched roof fruit stalls on the side of the road, with a bountiful supply of watermelon, pineapple and mangoes. The beautiful African Tulip trees with their vibrant orange blossoms, Unruly grassy paddocks,with creeping weeds fighting for their right to be there and the odd lazy cow, chewing its cud, as it stands in the shade of whatever is available, passing the hot afternoon away.

Hideaway resort is placed on the edge of the coast, which, as well as having a very large swimming pool, the beach offers opportunities to swim, snorkel and look for treasures in the sand.Most rooms looked over the water, either encouraging you to get up and go swimming when you first woke or snuggle further down and just appreciate the stillness. Paddleboarding, kayaking,diving and surfing were all available. Instructors were provided if needed. (I am a snorkeller from way back so was happy with just exploring) A spa providing many beauty therapy treatments, was kept busy.People, who in their normal life, don't think "pamper" now made up for lost time. A complimentary 15 min foot massage was provided to every guest which possibly played a large part in introducing many to the pleasures of "time for yourself".Pool activities were aimed at having fun rather than ending up with abs like Rocky 2. and all ages joined in. Hideaway suits everyone.

The local villagers can be seen wading in the waters of half tide, looking for octopus hidden in the rocks. They carry sharp pronged spears or knives which they poke into the hole. The octopus winds its tentacles around this and is then dragged out of its hole(Sounds easy but I am sure there are many who"get away".) Apparently with each tide the rocks just get filled again as someone new takes the home over.

Unfortunately the coral is dying. Such a shame. When I first visited Beachcomber Island,about twenty years ago, the coral was spectacular - so healthy and so colourful. Apparently there is a move to bring in experts to try and kill the Crown of Thorns starfish which plays a large part in the destruction of the coral. It engulfs it and then feeds off it. Brightly coloured fish darted every which way. Lemon, white and black stripes, Nemo, black angel fish, orange, brown  and green,. Not very large but rewarding to see them returning.

Local buses run frequently and cost 2 dollars Fijian to get to Sigatoka, a small township about 30 mins drive from the resort. The one I caught to get me to the township was just an ordinary one, as we have in NZ but the one coming home had no windows and rolled up blinds which I presume you let down if it is raining!! .There was a beautiful vegetable market which all produce was very cheap. Carrots, tomatoes and tiny finger bananas were stored in my carry bag to bring home. Absolutely beautiful.

Teenagers seem to be the same everywhere. Some with no jobs, looking miserable and restless. Others I met were vital and interesting. One was a taxi driver, who, will own his own business in not too many years time I would think.. Energetic. Enthusiastic. No thoughts of leaving Fiji as with the involvement of China, he can just see things really moving forward. Another was a young woman, who explained how I caught the bus(She forgot to tell me to keep my ticket as it is collected as you leave the bus so there were a few anxious moments as I tried to remember if I had kept it or tossed it. luckily I had kept it) She wanted to be a lawyer. She will study at the University of South Pacific unless she can win a scholarship. With her attitude, I would be very surprised if she wasn't successful. Lovely to hear these young ones so positive about the future of Fiji.

One of the popular evening activities was watching the fire walkers. The fire had been burning all day. The walkers removed the huge logs which were still very well alight, and scraped the stones into a flatter pattern then 6 of them proceeded to walk over these burning hot stones  in bare feet. How can this happen????


The beautiful 83 foot schooner, Seaspray runs trips out to the clean, sandy  beaches of the Mamanuca Islands. Anchoring off Modriki,snorkeling and exploring the uninhabited island fills in a pleasant hour or two. (This island is very close to Castaway where the famous Tom Hanks "Castaway " film was set. ) Coral once again was dead and not as many fish as around Hideawy but still very pleasant to be in  the tepid waters. A tiny shark passed by, suggesting there may be bigger ones not too much further out. A visit to the village of Yanuya provides a Kava cermon as a welcome to the guests.. Kave is far from a pleasant drink but fascinating to be part of the ceremony. The village is self sufficient so there opportunities to purchase crafts from the women are made available. A visit to the local school which has 135 children, some boarders from outer islands and staffed by 7 teachers provides an insight into the private and secure world of these villagers.

Evening entertainment is usually provided by local villages. While amateurish, they were good to watch. Hips twirling in their hula skirts, (wondering if this was harder than pole dancing and wondering if I would give it  try)war challenges being offered by bare chested warriors and guitar strumming (the same ones who serenaded you in your bures if you hadn't gone to happy hour) , to sing songs of the Pacific.

A very beautiful country which is slowly being brought into the 21st century by the presence of  the Chinese. Will they be able to blend both cultures successfully?? I intend to go back and see for myself.

Waikato River Trails

Last Sunday morning, after spending the previous night at "Four Flat Whites in Italy" I leapt (yeah right!) out of bed at 6 a.m. I was off hiking  but needed to vacuum first  as the real estate agent was due out later in the afternoon. Racing out the door at 8 a.m., I picked my two hiking buddies up and off to the Waikato River Trail, which runs alongside the Waikato River.

 

Campervans are often parked along the banks - what a view to wake to. Mist,  resting softly on a gentle flowing river.

 

As we walked alongside the trail, we commented on the amazing planting which has been carried out. Flaxes, native trees, and really enjoying the carpets of autumn leaves covering the track.

 

 

 

Reaching Rhubarb café, 6 kms along the track, which took us about 1 and half hours,we gratefully stopped and enjoyed their coffee and a muffin. I left the other two when they continued their hike, to capture some of the sights in a more leisurely manner. As this is part of a 103 km trail, which can be either biked or hiked, the conveniently placed back packers is an added advantage those who want a rest place

 

 

That night, reflecting on my day, I thought once again, how beautiful our country is.

 

www.waikatorivertrails.co.nz/

PUKEMOKEMOKE

On a miserable, wet but warm summer Sunday, I threw my hiking boots and poles into the car and went to walk Pukemokemoke bush track. The walk itself is only about 20 minutes but really grunty. While it is well marked and easy to follow, it just keeps climbing steadily. The weather cleared as I arrived and the Tui and cicadas sang a I puffed and panted my way to the top. A mixture of Kauri, Ponga, Totara, Kanuka, Kawakawa and Matai trees are found on the track.

 

 

The lookout at the summit (166 mtrs) of the track provides an amazing 360 degree view of the region, with many of the mountains and peaks e.g. Maugatautari, Kariori, Te Aroha, Hakrimates and others very easily seen. The reserve is about 15 minutes from Gordonton village on the Tauhei Rd – just past the Tauhei school. A long right of way opens into quite a large carpark, which would easily take campervans.

Enjoying New Zealand

Who is Denise Irvine? Why is she writing this blog? Where is she?

 I  have been having adventures throughout New Zealand for over thirty years, since the age of forty, and now would like to share some experiences with the hopes that I will encourage you to attempt them as you spend time in New Zealand.  New Zealand with its beautiful scenery offers so many opportunities for exploring. Hiking, biking, black and white water rafting, golf carts along old railway lines, beautiful beaches for lazing or body surfing.

Big tracks to hike on such as the Milford Track, a three night and four day which can either be enjoyed by freedom hiking or by being guided. Guided is a a little more expensive but very comfortable. Roast meals and hot showers win out over pasta made with dried milk powder! Emme (my grand daughter) and I enjoyed the scenery and each others company on the Routeburn in 2015. These tracks are well set up, even for freedom hiking but must be booked early, like a year before.

Biking trails are growing quickly in  number. Often these are formed from old railway track. All created for different levels of fitness. One I particularly enjoyed was the Otago rail trail. A three night, four day event where we were supported along the way by the Otago Milton Rotary Tramping club. All accommodation was booked for us. First night in a school house, next night, cabins in a camping ground, third night a type of backpackers where we spent some of the time learning the art of curling in the local town and the last night at a hotel. Two of the volunteers would arrive each day with fresh bread and fillings for lunch and plenty of water, which we so appreciated, both for drinking immediately and filling our water bottles. Bikes can be rented to ride this trail  and accommodation is cheap and easily accessed.

One of the nicest things about these adventures is that you meet many like minded people. You enjoy the adventures with them and although may never see them again, they remain a special memory.

Do enjoy New Zealand and make every minute count.

Golf carts which have been adapted to run along railway lines is another experience I thoroughly enjoyed.

 

 

Emme at the Auckland airport with her boarding pass to Queenstown on way to Routeburn 2015

Howarth Memorial Wetlands Walk

Advertised as an hour walk I managed it with not too much trouble in thirty minutes but must admit, didn't stop and appreciate the views too much as I have done it many times before. It is a ramble through a lovely wildlife reserve- positioned around a very small man made lake. Oak trees edge some parts of the track.

The car park is situated right beside Kenwyn Rest home, on the Hamilton side of Te Aroha. One of the access leads off from here, but there are other easily accessed tracks around the whole loop which makes it an easy track for children.

The song of cicadas and the chattering of the ducks accompanied me on this very pleasant, easy walk.

Hakarimata Walkway

The Hakarimata walkway is a one way track but can be walked as a return trip to summit from either end. It can be accessed both from Ngarawahia and Huntly with the Ngarawahia track being a little more challenging. It is all stepped and I understand there are 1349 steps!!!! Haven't tried that side yet.  Huntly side can be accessed from Parker Road, and although this too is stepped,  it has some flat sections as well which are very pleasant. Allows the heart and  breathing rate to slow down.

It takes about thirty minutes through beautiful native bush: Rimu, Miro, Matai, Totara, Rata, Rewarewa,  Hangehange and Tawa. to reach the Kauri grove. From here another twenty minutes up steps and a clear track to reach the summit.

Beautiful views over Waikato farmland, Waikato River and Lake Waahi. Easy walk down Loop track.

 

This track is part of New Zealands Te Araroa Walkway stretching from

Cape Reinga to Bluff.

 

Omaru Hut

Saturday saw six of us tramping into the Oamaru DOC hut. This site is adjacent to Poronui Station off the Napier - Taupo Road. Beautiful Weather. Four hour walk in. Hiking food never gets any more enjoyable!! However sitting outside in the dusk, overlooking a most beautiful stream, is a wonderful reward for the hard work.