The Grand Pirongia trek

Now that the sun is out more often, I feel like spending more time outdoors. I remember how I spent the first day of August, when I went to Mt. Pirongia and took on the challenge of tramping a 2-hour trail. It was the weekend before my final presentation for my last taught paper of the year, so I felt it was good to let my brain breathe some fresh mountain air before taking on a big academic task. 

Along with my patient and steadfast boyfriend Philippe (merci cheri, for allowing me to drag you out of bed at 8am), I went to the mountains of Pirongia. My mate Josh Southee from the New Zealand Geographical Society and the Waikato Alpine Club is a keen and able outdoor guide, and he was our companion for the four-hour hike. Tramping is a great way of enjoying the great New Zealand outdoors, and I am very happy that Hamilton is very near good tramping trails.

Pirongia is a 20-35 minute drive from Hamilton, and Mt. Pirongia is the most recognised landmark of the 17,000 hectare Pirongia Forest Park. The Department  of Conservation (DOC) manages the forest park, and there are many walking and tramping trails. I really appreciate the tramping trails in NZ; one can choose the level of difficulty for each hiking trail. For example, if it's been a while since you've walked longer than 30minutes up and down irregular terrain, don't despair. The Pirongia Forest trails have different paths suitable for all fitness levels!

 In our case, our group chose the Wharauroa Lookout (or Mahaukura Track).  View image of my reaction when I got to the lookout. This was a 2-3 hour trek with varying terrain. First we had a fairly easy walk through ferns and kahikatea trees, then we gradually went up (and under!) big trees and up some boulders. The last part was the best, because as we neared the lookout point, we can see a good 360-degree view atop Mt. Pirongia!

Josh was a very good guide, because he always pointed out the different wildlife (like a weta here, or a fantail there) and different trees. I was fascinated with mosses, as the moss and lichens here are like carpet! So smooth and velvety, yet so green and alive!

We had the privilege of seeing (and hearing) a woodpigeon. We heard a Tui call out, and a yellow fantail bobbed her hellos when we crossed her path. On the lookout a few feet below the summit, we saw a pohutukawa tree in bloom, with two red blossoms proudly displayed.

When we reached the summit (820 meters above sea level, the sign said), I was awestruck with the view of green mountains on one side, and brownish green farmland on the other. The serenity of the mountain top was matched by the lushness of the valley below. It was an amazing trek, and the tramp down was just as good. I hope to take another route when I return to Pirongia. Join me next time, it can be fun! Taralets (let's go!)