TRIP REPORT - Kath Varcoe

Despite the promised bad weather 10 people had 2 days full of photographic opportunities and 2 pleasant nights at Hinewai. We were joined by two others in Flea & Fisherman's Bays. Everyone arrived before dark on Friday evening to a hut warmed by a welcoming fire and cheerful faces. Seven were up & away to 'The Stones' on Saturday morning. After an hour & a half puff up the hill (and a bit of a scramble over the rocks) we were greeted by masses of sun hebes dancing in the breeze. Others walked to the big trees that are providing seed for the regeneration of native forest as the gorse matures and dies. After a late lunch we all drove to Akaroa Heads and explored the old lighthouse station, picnicked at Flea Bay then donned camouflage gear to view the White-flippered and Yellow-eyed penguins with Shireen Helps. It was wildlife galore at Red Bay early on Sunday morning, then a leisurely wander through the gardens at Fisherman's Bay (courtesty Richard and Jill Simpson) before packing up and returning to Christchurch via Onawe Peninsula and the Little River coffee shop. Many thanks to Elizabeth for organising a great exploratory trip were everyone saw at least one new place.

Options

Come for a day or the weekend

Staying at Hinewai Lodge (from Hinewai management notes)

Is not commercial accommodation, visitors need to leave the building as neat and tidy as they found it, with firewood replenished.
Is also open to day visitors, contains some displays and information.
You will need to bring your own sleeping bag, pillowcase and food.
There are bunks, pillows, electricity, a small fridge, cooking facilities, pots, plates, cutlery, hot showers and toilets.
It is open plan (one big room).
NO VEHICLE access, 10 minute walk down moderately steep grassy track from the carpark. Do not even THINK about driving down!
Maximum of 12 people. Cost $18/pp/night.

Things to do

Visit waterfalls, big totara and matai trees
Walk the many tracks
See many NZ bush birds (24 species) such as brown creeper, fantail, bellbird, and if we are lucky, tui
Drive to local beaches for walks along the coast
See special local flora with Doug Hueston
Late Saturday afternoon visit to Shireen Helps of Pohatu Penguins (Flea Bay) for a special penguin viewing ($20 per person - please book this when registering for the trip)

Other notes

Saturday evening meal depends on your choice of activity, those visiting the penguins could picnic in Flea Bay as it may be 10pm before we return to Hinewai. (Note: Penguin viewing needs to be booked when registering for the trip).
If all the beds are occupied at Hinewai you might like to get a motel in Akaroa.
The General Kit Lists apply
NB: A torch is essential for coming down the hill at night, no organised potluck on the Saturday night.

Trip leaders

Elizabeth Burtt and Kath Varcoe

Register

On the Forum, at the August or September meetings, or by email

Hinewai reserve, Long Bay Road, RD3 Akaroa 7583

View Hinewai Reserve in a larger map

Wikipedia Article on Hinewai Reserve