This article was first published in the Tararua Tramper in June 1998
Kaitoke Rail Incline - Spur West to 792m - Tunnel Peak - Incline
Saturday 25 April 1998
The suggestions of some new ground and a fine weather forecast attracted 13 members. At about 8.30am on a damp, misty morning we left the Incline carpark. After 20 minutes we noted the results of current pine logging.
Past the first tunnel we descended to the correct side-creek south. It was up a little and wet overhanging branches indicated overnight rain. After nearly 40 minutes wading, we arrived at the forks, from where "our" spur began. A brief refreshment stop here. This spur goes up to the range top west at 792m, giving a steep climb of 472m/ 1550ft. We began into dripping second growth, passing three huge trees. Higher up, old fire damage was evident around clearings, but mist prevented clear views. Then, into substantial forest as the gradient became easier up to 792m.
Now, on the marked route north we moved quickly for the half hour before lunch, which was shortened because of cold conditions. In 10 minutes or so, we were at the Tunnel Gully track junction, and continued north to Tunnel Peak 626m where the trig was found.
Then, the gradual descent east through good forest, avoiding a scrub belt lower down, before coming to pines. A final, steep descent through this tall firewood to the rail incline. The sun now broke through for the walk back to the gate, arriving early at 3pm! The cool, damp conditions had encouraged a fastish trip with minimum stops.
- Members were
- Dave Reynolds, Dave Dyett, David Bartle, Yvonne Ashworth, Glenys Evans, Gordon McKenzie, David and Val Podmore, Ken Fraser, John Thomson, Bernard Molloy, Tim Stone and Peter Jagger - (leader and scribe).
(Note: Michael Bartlett and I had made two recces of the trip previously to ascertain it was viable. PJ)