Bethells Bonanza

Greetings Everyone - Secret paths to stunning viewpoints. Dark wave cut tunnels you can walk through. Exploring abandoned and now overgrown trails. Stream crossings to cool your toes. Mysterious trapper trails off the beaten track and not on any map you'll find on the internet. Crossing slips caused by tropical cyclones now covered in regenerating vegetation.

You might think Bethells beach is not worth visiting because the main track over to O'Neils Bay is non operational. But do I have a bonanza of sites, tracks and experiences for you today.

Low tide is at 2:20pm. So our last activity will be walking through the tunnels before returning to the car park.

Expect to get your feet wet as we cross the Waiti stream twice. Shin deep.

I recommend wearing long trousers or gaiters to save your lower legs from being scratched. Pampas grass is growing over the many slips in the area and it will give you cuts if you brush up against it the wrong way. We also hike along abandoned trails with foliage frequently growing over the trail that you will brush against.

On the way back to central Auckland we will stop at the Good Home in Henderson for some well deserved refreshments.

Duration: About 4 hours hike including stops.
Distance: Approx 10-12 km.
Difficulty: 3.0 on our 1-5 scale for day hikes.
What the Grade means
Low tide: 2:20pm

Toilets: At the main car park

● Cost: $10 for New World car poolers

● PLEASE: No smoking, animals, children or guests.

● Post-Hike Gathering (Optional): After our adventure, you're welcome to join us for some well deserved relaxation and camaraderie at the Good Home in Henderson.

● First Timers & Regulars:
Welcome first timers to Auckland Global Trekkers, we look forward to meeting you. We ask everyone to bring a gold coin donation to help pay for the website and more safety equipment for the group, or donate online. Bank Account is: 12-3430-0791504-00 - Many thanks

● Important Notes:
Care must be taken walking. Make sure you have the appropriate footwear for hiking.

● Health and Safety Information:
All Auckland Global Trekkers organisers work on a strictly voluntary basis and hold NO responsibility or liability for any injury, or loss suffered during the events organised. Each person who participates accepts responsibility for making their own determinations and for their own safety, conduct and well being; recognising that there are hazards in attending group and outdoor activities and agrees to participate solely at their own risk.

● Preparation is the key to having a good day:

• Check the weather
• Do you have the correct clothing and shoes?
• Bring food for your lunch
• Do you know where the meeting places are?

● Meeting Places:

• New World Victoria Park - Scotland Street, by the stairs
• Bethells Beach - In front of the Bethells Cafe at the car park
• Good Home - 159 Lincoln Road, Henderson

● Carpooling:

• Carpooling will be arranged for everyone meeting at New World.
• Just ANSWER the RSVP question.

● Time Guideline:
9:00 - Good time to arrive at New World
9:15 - Car pooling organised and leave
10:00 - All arrive at Bethells Beach car parks
10:15 - Introductions and start the walk
12:30 - Lunch at the viewpoint in the photo above
15:00 - Hiking finish
15:30 - Good Home
17:00 - Arrive back at New World

● Maps and More Information:
Driving instructions

● Bring:

• Suitable clothing for the conditions
• Food for lunch
• Shoes suitable for track walking
• Sun and emergency rain protection
• First-aid items

● Additional Notes:

• Safety and togetherness are our priorities. We will make stops at all track junctions to ensure the group stays together.
• Punctuality is key, and we will depart on time, so please be prompt.

We can't wait to explore the great outdoors with you this Sunday.