Initial cache contents:
° Logbook, two pens, pencil, pencil sharpener,
° Pair of 'online canines',° Thermometer keyring,
° Glow in the dark alien (ex Starlight Express),
° Screwdriver set.
Directions: There are several ways of getting there. All of them are well described in the book 'From Sea to Silverpeaks' by G Bishop and A Hamel. I will give details of the normal way — check the book for the others (Swampy Ridge or Swampy Spur).
Follow the Northern Motorway out of Dunedin to Leith Saddle, turn left at the top and then immediately right and park in the car park there (S 45° 47.988' E 170° 30.969', elevation 372 m). Cross the gravel road and head down the hill to the marked start of the track. After about 20 minutes (boardwalk for about the first 10 minutes) you come out of the bush and reach a flat area off the path (S 45° 48.092 E 170°30.188, elevation 538 m) where you can stop for a breather while you take in the view, and possibly take some photographs.
After another 20 minutes you reach a fairly dilapidated trig station where you can take a fix for later checking on the LINZ web site. (visit (visit link) scroll down to 'More FAQ >>' and then 'Search for Geodetic marks'. On the next page enter A22L, alternatively 'S Swampy Spur', to get complete information.) Another 20 minutes takes you to the transmitter tower.
Warning: The Silverpeaks is a mountainous area and, although the walking is not difficult, it is subject to extreme conditions and sudden weather changes. Please take adequate precautions — good footwear, sunblock and hat, a parka, some snacks, a torch and a cellphone. Tell someone where you are going and when you expect to be back.