SOUTH WAIRARAPA TRAMPING CLUB – ZEALANDIA

11 of us (plus Freddy) met at Zealandia at 10am. Although misty as we drove down, Wellington was dry, cloudy, calm and mild.

We started up the main track, past the lake, which is being drained for cleaning and removal of perch, turned left up the Valley View Track, and then on to the Perimeter Track. This route gave us views through the pest-free mesh fence out to the city and harbour on our left, and bush on our right. Croaking and squawking kakas circled round above us, in and out of the treetops.

We had morning tea at a dilapidated table and seating area. 18 month old Freddy offered to share some baking, carefully placing a box of biscuits on the table. He looked so mournful about this that we all said No thanks, which cheered him up tremendously! 

We climbed on up beside the fence, detouring slightly into the bush and out again by the wind turbine, turning slowly above us despite the apparent lack of wind. As we ate lunch beside the perimeter fence, we felt rather like caged zoo inmates, as walkers, runners, and mountain bikers passed by on the outside.

The Eastern Firebreak Track took us down a cleared spur into the bush again, where we were surrounded by wonderful birdsong. We paused from time to time to focus on tui, bellbirds, saddlebacks and stitchbirds flitting and feeding amongst the trees. After crossing the Upper Dam we followed the main track back to the visitor centre, and were back at our cars after a good 4 hour walk of approximately 7kms.

SWTC welcomes new members! Phone or email Ed and Juliet Cooke, 06 304 9497, or efjac@xtra.co.nz. See our Facebook page and website.