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How Bizarre (Wellington) Traditional Cache

This cache has been archived.

brucewwnz: I called by today for a pre-WENZ check. The first issue I wanted to check out was access to the cache site. There is now a large map near a new parking area. To me, it doesn't seem totally clear whether or not walkers are allowed to use the track but it was not designated "shared access" as some others shown on the map are. However, there is nothing on the signs on the ground to clearly suggest the track is for cyclists only. The track is certainly wide enough to accommodate multi-users up to the cache site but then narrows soon after.

The second issue was the cache site itself. I was surprised to see gorse growth has been rampant since my last visit and it was very difficult to get to where my GPSr was directing me. I persevered and made my way to what I believe was the correct hint object but could not locate the cache. I had a bit of a look around for a possible replacement site but the only ones I could see that were well clear of gorse were very close to the track and I didn't want to put searching cachers in conflict with mountain bike riders.

In view of both issues, I have reluctantly decided to archive the cache. It's a bit of a shame as it was the first one I placed and I was very happy with the initial set up. However, developments have certainly had a dramatic impact on the area and left it no longer suitable for a cache.

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Hidden : 10/17/2010
Difficulty:
1 out of 5
Terrain:
2 out of 5

Size: Size:   small (small)

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Geocache Description:


The Tunnel Gully Recreation Area is named for its link with the Rimutaka Railway between Wellington and the Wairarapa. It features the 221m long Mangaroa Tunnel which was built between 1875 and 1877 and was in operation until 1955. The area is popular for horse riding, mountain biking and walking/tramping through native bush. There are also several picnic areas and a stream for young children to paddle and swim in.

However, in 2002 public attention was focused on Tunnel Gully as a result of its association with strange criminal activity. Three men planned to kidnap a wealthy businessman and confine him in a plywood bunker that had been built in a hidden location in the Gully area. The bunker was discovered before the planned abduction and police surveillance enabled the offenders to be apprehended at the Wellington Botanic Garden as they readied themselves to carry out the kidnap.

It is understood the bunker is located a short distance off a track that goes east from the grassed area across the road from the suggested parking area. If one makes their way to location S 41° 06.099 E 175° 09.285, the bunker site is a few metres WSW away. Gorse growth has made the area impenetrable. Access to the cache location can be gained by continuing along this track.

The large grassed area near the car park provides plenty of room for children and others to run around. It is also a suitable area for a picnic although there are no tables at this location. More facilities are provided further south. There are also many tracks to explore and other caches to be found in the Gully area.

Additional Hints (Decrypt)

Fghzc

Decryption Key

A|B|C|D|E|F|G|H|I|J|K|L|M
-------------------------
N|O|P|Q|R|S|T|U|V|W|X|Y|Z

(letter above equals below, and vice versa)