Stunning Peak, Hill, Lake, Beach, Sea & Church!

Day 39. Te Mata Peak Track. 2 hour return 3.47 miles, summit 1,320ft 

Beautiful walk taking us through Redwood forest on well marked tracks. This was a popular walk/run track for locals as well as visitors. A run here everyday on any of the tracks would ensure optimum workout. Not for me though….

Not quite coming out unscathed from my recent acrobatics in Tongariro National Park, an old nerve issue had reared its ugly head. Electric shock like pain and burning pulsed through my glute whenever pressure was applied especially steps up or steep inclines, of which this walk had plenty!

Although sudden and painful the shocks only last for seconds. The past seven years have seen them come and go, I was hopeful as before, they would soon be gone. NZ still had a lot of walking tracks in store for us according to Long-sufferings full  itinerary! His hipster muse must walk on…..

Steep grassy slopes covered with self seeding Erigeron karvinskianus – a weed in NZ, Valerian and Fennel.

Beautiful undulating hills and views in every direction as we climbed up gently meandering pathways.

Green green valleys….

In the rock beneath our feet and hillsides evidence of fossilised shells….

As always, a challenge was faced – I forgot my hiking pole – as we clambered up steep rock-faces.

Nearing the top, we could see Mount Ruahupea in the far distance it’s snow cap prominent even amongst the clouds in the sky. 

From the summit we were greeted with stunning 360 degree head swivelling views for miles around. 

Looking down from the peak our route to the top….

The peak was busy with people, the red faced walkers/runners laying prone catching their breath and the car/coach travellers – anyone less able/inclined a road winds all the way up to the top – fresh as they snapped away. Of course for Long-suffering and his hipster muse, that was never going to be an option!

Lake Tutira…Lunch stop and drone practice….

 

It would seem even here in beautiful and unspoilt NZ fly-tipping is happening!

Overnight stop, Hawkes Bay Mahia Beach Freedom Camp….

Watercolour and drone practice….

Day 40. Early drive out to Hawkes Bay Peninsula and short half hour climb of Mokotahi Hill.

National Trust look after this track, recently upgraded for our walk.

Worth the steep winding zigzag track for the panoramic views from the top over Hawkes Bay.

Small copper butterflies enjoying the wild flowers on the hillside.

Wainui Beach, tea stop, beautiful long golden sands….

Anaura Bay Campsite. Beautiful long beach two mile return walk.

Day 41. Drive to Waipiro, originally to visit picturesque church. Very hot and getting hotter…

Below the pretty church a track led to a beautiful empty beach and freedom camp. 

Instead of driving on we decided to stay and have some rest and relaxation time, well almost except for ‘Muse’ duties! We strolled on golden sands and dipped ourselves in the still chilly but vigourating turquoise waters.

Fisherman only other person on the beach…

watercolours and drone practice….