Whatipu loop - Gibbons & Muir Tracks to Pararaha Valley
Details
PLEASE REGISTER AT MOA OUTDOORS
On Saturday we will do a long loop hike from Whatipu up a very steep climb and then its all downhill from there (if only!). It is a 15 to 17 km hike, and after that initial climb to the ridge on burning legs, you will be rewarded with great views. We will follow the track back down to the Pararaha Valley camp site and on to the tunnel and the beach. Then we will slog about 8km round the beach to get back to the cars.
The loop track has parts that allow spectacular views over the Manukau Harbour. With the views comes the chance of exposure to strong and cold winds. We can hope for a clear day, but if it is blowing with showers, it will come at you sideways.
Because of the challenges of the walk, if in the view of the leaders you are not keeping up after the first 3 km steep climb from the carpark, we may ask you to turnaround.
THE DIRT
• Time: Approx. about 5-6 hours
• Distance: 17k loop
• Elevation gain 500 m +/-
• Difficulty: All Trails says hard, Plan my walk says intermediate
• Terrain: good quality track and then a long deep sand beach walk
• Grade: 3+ (3.25). It’s a long walk in the sand on the way back
Because the grade is above 3, for new members, you will need to reply to a message we send you, where you will confirm that you can complete such a grade. We would prefer you walk with us on an easier walk before you do the harder grade walks.
LOCATIONS
Whatipu Beach Car Park - hike start and finish
Whatipu Road, Huia, Auckland 0604
https://maps.app.goo.gl/LssoSSocrAs73h1x9
Note keep going to the end of the road to the carpark – don’t go into the lodge.
There is a toilet available at the start of the track, and about halfway, at the Pararaha campsite.
REFRESHMENTS
Workshop Bar, Kelston
https://maps.app.goo.gl/3p1zYuaNyJapHQn58?g_st=ic
SCHEDULE
7.12 am sunrise
8.45am last time to arrive
8.55am introductions
9.00am Hike Start
2 to 3 pm approximate arrival back to cars
3.30pm refreshments at Workshop Bar - optional
4.30 depart for home
The cost for this hike is $5.
PLEASE REGISTER HERE AT MOA OUTDOORS
https://www.meetup.com/moa-outdoors/events/314740131/?slug=moa-outdoors&eventId=314740131