First up the cliff steps to the viewing platforms overlooking the Gannet Colony. A good number of gannets hunkering down on the Otakamiro Point cliff tops and also on Oaia Island a short distance offshore.
Inland then up two bush tracks, Quarry and Edwin Mitchelson,to exit onto the southern end of Oaia Road. Not to disappoint our driver Campbell Elliot the next section included the obligatory 'bumper road bash' as we made our way northwards and into the Anglican Church owned Houghton's Bush Camp that provides live in character building outdoor experiences for young people.
Out the back end of the camp Houghton's Bush Track drops down to Houghton's Farm through which access had been arranged with owner Glenn Houghton.The route through the farm included crossing a short rather marshy field then working our way around the seaward side of Lake Okaihau. This lake is absolutely beautiful with abundant waterlilly and is well stocked with freshwater fish. As usual there were a few anglers trying their luck as they enjoyed the warm sunny weather.
Past the lake and turning seaward toward the coast we generally followed the Okiritoto Stream until we stopped under a rather large tree that provided a measure of shade whilst we had lunch.
After lunch again following the stream until we exited at the northern end of Coast Road. Under what was now very hot weather we followed a couple of forestry tracks leading into the southern end of Woodhill Forest. A corner cutting exercise brought us to the foot of Pulpit Rock. A very well named rocky outcrop that looks quite impressive from below. About two thirds of the group opted to do the short but steep bush bash to the top and were rewarded with magnificent views across the forest treetops to the surf and Tasman Sea beyond.
A more leisurely way down to exit a bit further to the north where the fit and fast were finally let off the leash for the walk to the coast and back along the beach to the starting point in the southern car park. Us mere mortals remaining formed a larger but slower group that opted to return under the shade of the forest to the northern end of the Coast Road.T hen back along the beach to the car park.
We spent around half an hour back at the car park with many taking advantage of the cafe just around the corner for a very welcome ice-cream or milkshake. A lot of good natured humour throughout the day and on the bus ride back to Takapuna.
Nice to see that the 30 trampers including 10 non members who hopefully enjoyed a great tramping experience that may encourage them to join up in due course.