31 January to 1 February 2026

Leader: Robyn Wilson

Not wanting to squander the good weather, a trip to Totara Flats was quickly and thoroughly organised.

This meant that only three could attend and the others had to lament missing out on an awesome experience. Stopping briefly at Greytown, we eventually travelled down to the end of the much-improved Waiohine Gorge Road. The carpark was nearly full as many were enticed by the cloudless sky.

Immediately, we were confronted by the imposing Waiohine Gorge Suspension Bridge. This feeling was overcome and the tramp began in earnest. By now the sun and cicadas were out in full force. It was very reminiscent of the Australian bush.

The route to the flats was well trekked but one had to be mindful not to trip over the numerous stones and roots. A few pigs had been culled near the start of the track with one left to rot mere metres from the path.

By the time lunch was consumed we were well ahead of schedule. The heat was starting to dissipate and we soon arrived at the final crossroads. Just as warned on the DOC website, a slip has rendered one route to the flats inaccessible. The final leg would take us along the riverbank where we utilised the opportunity to take a “30 Peaks, 30 Rivers” photo in the Waiohine River.

As we had plenty of daylight left, we proceeded through the Totara Flats to its namesake hut. This rather stylish abode was crawling with inhabitants and likely would have been a noisy place to spend the night. Once another confronting swing bridge had been crossed, we took another banner photo, this time in the Totara Creek.

Sayer Hut was not visible from our side of the river but a section of disturbed foliage betrayed its position. Not wanting to be immediately downstream of the hut dwellers and wishing to avoid their ‘human juice’ in the river, we retraced our steps to find a suitable camping spot. We were seeking a secluded place that offered protection from the wind and easy access to water. Eventually, after some deliberation, we withdrew to an area on the edge of the flats some 45 minutes away from the hut.

Our tents were set up and bellies were filled. We awaited nightfall before turning in. Quite comically, we each had brought along some solitary activity to while away the time: Robyn had a book, Shauna had crochet and I brought Sudoku. Ironically, or perhaps testament to the camaraderie, these would go unused. The sun set and with it the wind quietened down. A spectacular full moon beamed down onto us.

There was no pressing need to flee at dawn like thieves, so we arose at our leisure. With only a hint of dilly-dallying, we managed to set off homewards sometime after nine. Our plodding back kept a measured pace due to the hot conditions. Lunch was had by the river near the starting point and there was time for a quick dip. Begrudgingly, we then had to rejoin the unnatural world.

Those on the trip were:

Petr Kure, Robyn Wilson, Shauna Powel

Currently there is no photo album for this trip.