11 AM Saturday we set of for a day hike around Pirongia.
We chose Pirongia west road track (hihikiwi track) for this
venture.
This is an interesting track..a mixture of pleasure and pain but
generally what you would expect for this side of Pirongia.
DOC have been busy marking this trail and capping some more of the
boggy areas with short boardwalks.
We were in No hurry and made Hihikiwi summit at 1PM
From here 15min to Hut for Lunch
The Hut is currently being moved 20m east due to failing
foundations.
There are superb toilet facilities here,handwashing,bootwashing and
drinking water available.
The outdoor campsite area is all but finished offering and outdoor
shelter and water facilities.
From here to the Cone allow an hour each way..It is currently (even
now in summer) Quite boggy in parts and sinkholes offering pure
kneedeep pleasure for those who seek it is available.
There is a final push required to the Cone but well worth the
effort.
After a really cool day out we managed to get back to carpark at
6PM for a rewarded foot spa in the river.
Around 15 KM all up!
Cache is a Camo Jar within a larger Jar with logsheet,pen and
bits and pieces...Probably best to bring your own pen with you just
in case.
Plenty of room for geocoins and TBs.
Plan and prepare Many of Pirongia’s
tracks can be muddy,more so after rain.
Weather conditions can change rapidly, especially at higher
altitudes.
Always carry a change of clothing, wet weather gear and sufficient
food to cater for any emergency.
What to expect on a walking track:
- Easy to moderate walking from a few minutes
to a day
- Track is mostly well formed, some sections
may be steep, rough or muddy
- Suitable for people with low to moderate
fitness and abilities
- Clearly sign posted.
- Stream and river crossings are
bridged.
- Walking shoes or light tramping/hiking
boots required (courtesy DOC)
Footnote:
There will be Mud present and you will try to avoid it
and after a while you will realise that resistance is
futile!!
Just learn to Enjoy it!
Cellphone coverage is good all round