Hitting the Wangapeka Track. Back in eight days!
Hitting the Wangapeka Track. Back in eight days!
From Tasman to the West Coast and back. Backcountry-style!
Kia ora and happy 2024 to you, you whānau and all who attempt to do good with each day. Oh go on, and the rest too. It’s early January and people are still saying “happy new year” to one another. Let’s extend it to the baddies too.
I’m excited as I’m heading off on a big mission this week. I’m going to attempt Wangapeka Track from west Tasman District, over a couple of passes and out onto that isolated part of the West Coast, north of Westport, Karamea. I haven’t been there since I cycled that Big Loop thing, so I’m looking forward to seeing how it’s changed. Back in 2015, Last Resort made a very highly rated flat white, so I should pop in and have the inevitable “it’s not as good as I remembered” disappointment served to me.
I’ve been eyeing up this trip for most of a year now, but the furthest I’ve ever reached in that direction is Karamea Bend Hut. This week, the whole thing happens! Have you hiked Wangapeka or part of it? All tips in the comments, please!
My guide to the Hillary Trail
As promised last year, all the details of our three-day trek along the Hillary Trail, in the Waitākere Ranges is now live and you can take a look here:
Officially, the track is closed, but with enough open elements and a couple of road walks, you can number 8 wire a nice three day traverse through Auckland’s finest mainland wilderness area. The campsites are top too!
I’m very excited about the prospect of multi-day adventuring Auckland’s west coast, so please do send this on to anyone interested in this trip. Stoked to answer any questions about it, as well.
Anyway, just a quick note from me, as I have to get back to bagging couscous and checking gear before the big traverse. DOC reckons it’s a 4-6 day trip one way. Can’t wait to go wild!
Dx