Overview:
This cache is one of a series placed along the McKerrow and Clay Ridge tracks, part of an enjoyable walk starting at Wainuiomata and finishing at the Catchpool Valley carpark. The series complements existing caches “Way to McKerrow” at the start of the McKerrow Track and “OO's Mt McKerrow Cache” at the summit of Mt McKerrow. It is hoped the additional caches along the track will attract more cachers to come and admire the native forest and birds, and enjoy the spectacular views from points along the ridge. Note that if you walk the entire length of the track you will need to have a vehicle at each end or make arrangements to be picked up as there is no public transport back to the start.
Map showing track and the caches along it
Much of the track is through native beech and podocarp forest, but occasionally there are spots where the forest thins out and good views such as in the photo below can be obtained. If you're lucky you'll be serenaded with a good range of New Zealand native bird song - birds you may hear include tui, bellbird, fantail, long-tailed and shining cuckoo, and kereru, the native wood pigeon.
View from near cache site over Wainuiomata with the Hutt Valley in the background
How to get there:
The quickest way to get to the cache is to park at the top end of Sunny Grove in Wainuiomata at S 41 16.889 E 174 58.090 and take the Whakanui Track - there is a Department of Conservation sign at the start. Follow the track along the valley floor past the "Kitty Corner" geocache; after this a steady climb begins and you will gain over 350 metres in altitude over the next couple of kilometres. You will pass the geocache "On the Way to McKerrow" close to the junction where the McKerrow Track starts; the Whakanui Track continues on to the Orongorongo River Valley. At the junction, turn right onto the McKerrow Track and follow the orange triangular markers on the trees. The cache is about 400 metres up the McKerrow Track. Total distance from the start to this cache is approximately 2.9 km
About the cache:
The cache is a 2-litre camo-painted snap-lock plastic container with an inner container holding a waterproof logbook, and there are one or two small swappable items. You will need to bring your own pen.
Further information:
i) - The total track length from Wainuiomata to the Catchpool carpark is 12.5 km
ii) - The track is well maintained by the Department of Conservation and is clearly marked. However be aware that this is a typical New Zealand tramping track for most of the way. It can be steep or narrow in places, you'll encounter tree roots that you may have to climb over, and there are some patches with quite deep mud that you will have to negotiate.
iii) - Good footwear is recommended, sturdy ankle-height tramping boots are best. There is some hook grass along the track so gaiters may be useful.
iv) - As with all New Zealand mountain environments, weather can be changeable and you should take warm and waterproof clothing with you.
v) - You will need to carry water, there is none available along the track. Be sure to take food with you too, and a first-aid kit is recommended for emergencies.
vi) - Good cellphone coverage is available along most of the track, you'll lose it as you descend close to the Catchpool carpark.
vii) - This is a Kiwi Zone. Dogs are not permitted, even on a leash.