Table
Top
Getting to
the Cache
From the
Boielle Flat carpark in Otaki Forks it is approx 8km up to the
cache which sits at around 1050m. The sign-posted walking time is
3-4 hours up to Field Hut and a further 45-60 minutes from here to
the cache. However, depending on how sprightly you're feeling and
how well your knees hold up on the way down, the return journey can
be completed in under 4 hours. A reasonable pace and a
lunch break should see you back at the carpark in 6-7
hours.
From the
carpark, follow the sign posted route to Field Hut. It is a
constant climb up a track which begins as well graded gravel before
heading into bush where it becomes rocky and boggy in
places.
From Field
Hut, continue upwards for about 30 minutes where you emerge at
Table Top at about 1000m. This is a relatively flat area with good
track and boardwalks across boggy areas of tundra. Being
above the bush line and in the open it can be windy and snows here
in the winter. The cache is located about another 15 mins along
Table Top, a couple of hundred meters past the
Penn Creek junction.
Some well
placed rocks make this a perfect spot to stop for lunch on a clam
day and (hopefully!) enjoy the fantastic views.
Views from
the Cache
If you haven't already, be
sure to grab the Field Hut cache on your way up or
down.
The
Cache
The cache is
a 1L Sistema with a logbook, pencils and a pencil sharpener. Please
try to ensure it is replaced snuggly. Note that it may be covered
by snow during winter.
Otaki
Forks
Otaki Forks is the main western entrance to the Tararua Forest Park
and 19km inland from Otaki township. The easiest turn-off from
State Highway 1 is at Otaki Gorge Road, just south of the State
Highway 1 bridge over the Otaki River. The last 5km of the Otaki
Gorge Road is unsealed, narrow and windy. There are several
carparks for both day walkers and overnight long-term
parking.
Other
Notes
- Ensure
you are properly prepared.
- The Tararua's are renowned for their changeable
weather so bring extra clothing and food.
- There is little or no cellphone coverage.