Hikes will be on the first Sunday of the month, starting at 10 am unless otherwise stated. If you would like to join us on a hike please send a message from our facebook page, at www.facebook.com/dykehikesnz or contact Ingrid by email at hike@lesbian.co.nz or call or text 027 222 0608.
Please stay at home if unwell.
Bring all the food and water you’ll need, clothes for any season, a hat and sunblock. The walks are graded as easy (okay in strong walking shoes, not many hills, good tracks), moderate (boots recommended, expect a few hills and stream crossings are possible, moderate fitness needed), and hard (boots required, tracks may be rough and difficult, steep hills possible. A reasonable level of fitness will help you to enjoy these hikes). If you are not an experienced hiker, we require you to complete two moderate hikes before you join us in a hike graded hard.
Kauri Die Back: this disease is killing Kauri in the Waitakere Ranges. To avoid spreading this disease please ensure all boots and walking poles are clean before entering any park or reserve and follow instructions for disinfecting boots on arrival at infected and at risk sites. For more information go to www.kauridieback.co.nz
1st February: Manukau Harbour – Northern Edge
This track meanders along the urban edges of Hillsborough and beyond with coastal sections accessible at low tide. There are lots of steps/uphill to start off with. but your efforts are rewarded by views across the harbour. Time: 3 hours approx.. Grade: Moderate due to the many but small hills.
8th March: Please note this is not the 1st Sunday of March
Omanawanui Track. This track goes from the carpark below Mt Donald McLean to Whatipu Beach. We will be hiking it as a there and back walk, starting at the top end. There are incredible views across the Manukau harbour and out to sea as the track progresses. Limited shade, so bring sunblock and a hat etc. Meet at the carpark at the top of Whatipu Road (before heading down to Whatipu. I expect the walk will be between 3.5 and 4 hours. As it’s a there and back walk, hikers can choose to turn back earlier.
5th April:
3rd May:
7th June:
5th July:
2nd August:
6th September:
4th October: Billy Goat Track, Kaueranga Valley. Spectacular walk through bush and the historical gold mining area. Fantastic views. Mature bush, Steep in places with tallish steps. River crossing at the start of the track. Recommend carpooling as it’s quite a drive. Traveling from the south into Thames turn tight into Banks Road to get to the track. The tracks start 9 km past the Visitor’s Centre on a gravel road. Time: 5-6 hours. Grade: Hard. Meet at the car park at the end of the road past the Visitor’s Centre.
1st November:
6th December:
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