Last time we walked up Mt. Parihaka I suggested that we do a loop walk. This would have been a couple of months ago and we hadn't got around to it for various reasons. (Some of them the same reasons that I haven't posted since February).
Anyway, yesterday morning, Doug suggested that, after walking Sophie, we do this walk. For those that know the area we parked at the Aquatic Centre and walked along Riverside Drive to Dundas Road - photo below looking towards the Town Basin.
We walked up Dundas Road to the start of the Ross Track (No photos as we were too busy chatting).
This is my favourite track up Parihaka - it starts off as a nice gentle incline.
with a small stream running alongside.
This is the entranceway to an abandoned Gold Mine dating back to 1909. This is the first time I have seen inside it as, without the flash, it is very dark.
Next is the staircase alongside a delightful waterfall. This is the staircase that Doug helped three firemen carry a walker down on a stretcher on one of the Parkinson walks.
Looking back down the staircase from the top.
One of the many kauri trees in the park
As one gets higher the vegetation changes.
The view from the summit. (I read recently that the lookout is going to be replaced in the not too distant future)
Rather a lot of photos so the descent will be posted tomorrow (hopefully)
We didn't hurry and, as you can see, I stopped to take photos. I see it took about an hour to the summit.
A pity that the final view was a sprawling townscape. Otherwise it all looks beautiful and wild.
ReplyDeleteThat is part of what makes it so great. This wonderful area is right on the Town Boundary.
DeleteI love looking at these pictures as the terrain is so different than where I live. It is nice to see you back in Blogland.
ReplyDeleteGood to be back - I really must try and make the time to do an occasional post.
DeleteA great walk! So many wonderful sights and the view at the top well worthwhile.
ReplyDeleteYes, this is the first time I have done the complete loop. usually park in Whareora Road and go up from there or, alternatively go to Dundas Road and do the Ross track but this time it was up Ross and down the Dobbie and Hokianga tracks then walk back to the Aquatic centre.
DeleteWhat a lovely walk. Everywhere looks green and lush
ReplyDeleteIn spite of the drought, although we have had a little rain yesterday which is why we did the walk before the rains.
Deletelooked at this on google map...gave us good memories of March 2013, staying in Maungatapere with friends and The Northland Tour
ReplyDeleteI love your walks and the glimpses you give of your wonderful surroundings. Nice to have you back in blogland, Susan.
ReplyDelete