Maungatautari Sanctuary - South

On Saturday we will hike Maungatautari Sanctuary - South. This will take us up Te Tonga Track to Pukeatua at 753m. Thereafter we will descend a short distance back to Wairere Traverse track junction and go further north along same before turning around and heading back to the Southern starting point. If we have time, and we aim to, we will explore the Southern Enclosure at the end of the hike. The views today will differ in that they'll be in the form of bird life rather than wide open vistas as apart from one small location, there are no views.

We can expect to take up to 5.5 hours of walking time depending on the speed of the group. The Te Tonga Track is definitely Advanced Tramping Track and there are possibly a couple of places where you'll need to use your hands/arms to climb. Once we reach the Wairere Traverse Track however you can expect the going back will be a bit easier.

We are looking at capping the numbers on this to around 30 (or possibly 40 if we split into two groups on separate routes) attendees. This one isn't suitable for New Members as we need to have a degree of confidence in attendees ability so for the benefit, safety and enjoyment of the group as a whole. If you like this one, you will have already attended prior events.

Possible longer route option - let us know in the RSVP.
The route of this event is as described and depicted in the image attached as a photo.

• If you are interested in doing a harder, longer hike that takes in both Pukeatua and Maungatautari Peaks, please comment "Longer Twin Peaks" on your RSVP. This Longer Route works with staying overnight and doing the South Waikato cumecs event on the Sunday.
• If you want to do the shorter option as described answer "Pukeatua".

I have spoken to the Trust that looks after Maungatautari Sanctuary and by November they might have some Biosecurity procedures in place for entry and exit but that they expect they will be open for us to enjoy.

THE DIRT
Distance: estimated as 11k (NZ Topo 50)
Vertical metres: 535m (NZ Topo 50)
Terrain: formed trail, advanced tramping track & intermediate level track
Time: estimated 4-4.5 hours
Grade: 3.25 moderate

SOUTHERN ENCLOSURE
Distance: estimated as 4k (shorter version about 2k)
Vertical metres: 93m
Terrain: formed track
Time: estimated 1 hour - (shorter version about 30 minutes)

The shorter version of Southern Enclosure refers to the fact that, if you are running out of puff, there are a few options on this hike to manage this. So don't be deterred, this is not a hard hike.

LOCATIONS
Maungatautari Sanctuary, 99 Tari Road, Pukeatua
https://maps.app.goo.gl/GP23xbH4HNr7tszUA?g_st=ipc

There are eco toilets adjacent to the Visitor Centre, 99 Tari Road our start point.

Good Union, 98 Victoria Street, Cambridge
https://maps.app.goo.gl/CrcpWUhPChEqry746

LOCAL INFORMATION
https://www.sanctuarymountain.co.nz/visit/walking-and-hiking-trails/over-the-mountain

SCHEDULE
5.49am Sunrise
6.45am Leave Auckland
8.45am Southern enclosure last time to arrive
8.55am Introductions
9.00am Start hike - we go without you
2.30pm Estimated finish time
3.10pm Refreshments at Good Union, Cambridge - optional
4.00pm Depart Good Union
5.30pm Arrive Auckland
8.00pm Sunset

The cost for this hike is $10 including a $5 pp donation to the Sanctuary. Please pay online Moa Outdoors new bank details. For this one, everyone will need to prepay. Everyone moved to Going will have 3 days to pay, and then will be moved to Not Going if payment is not received.
Noel Keenan
12-3238-0727203-01
Ref - Maunga
Amount $10
Your MU name

If you have enjoyed previous Moa events, please feel free to invite others to attend via Meetup and leave us a review.

RSVP QUESTION
1. Have you read the description/disclaimer and are you confident you can hike the advanced tramping track ascent and intermediate track descent in the time prescribed?
2. If you are interested in doing a harder, longer hike that takes in both Puketua and Maungatautari Peaks on this event, please comment "Longer" on your RSVP. If you want to do the single peak, please answer Puketea.

Due to Prepayment requirement, please do not RSVP if you are not committed to attend. No refunds will be given.

RSVP opens Sunday 13 September.

HOUSEKEEPING
CAR POOLING:
We suggest passengers pay drivers $65 return for this one.
Because Moa is a small and friendly group, it’s super easy to carpool with us. Our driver members are very happy to bring new people along. Post in the comment area below if you need a lift, include your area and a phone number. The willing driver member will contact you. As organisers, we will also monitor and help out. Please be organised and on time for collection, don't withdraw last minute. Please also don’t expect the driver to go out of their way to collect you. You might have to get to a nearby location on their route.

BRING:

• At least 3L drinking water.
• Lunch or snack food.
• Suitable footwear for surfaces described.
• Sun & rain protection.
• Bags for wet and dirty footwear & clothing.
• Appropriate clothing for the season and forecasted/possible conditions.
• First-aid items (at least for cuts and scratches).

PREPARATION:
It is important to be well prepared.
Before we meet

• Know how to get to all meeting places.
• Study hike details.
• Prepare everything you need to bring.
• If you are the driver, have car refueled or recharged ready to go.
• Find and confirm your driver(passengers) whether they go to the pub or going home directly after the event.

TURNAROUND
We don't intend to leave people behind. However, at any time on a hike if it is the opinion of the leader that you are struggling to keep with the group the leader may decide that you are unlikely to be able to complete the hike in the time prescribed. In this case, you may be asked to turn around and make your way back to the car. This decision will not be taken lightly but will be done with the principle of the entire group enjoying their day and everyone completing in a timely and safe manner.
HEALTH & SAFETY:
Our hiking activities come with some hazard & risks; our organizers are volunteers. By RSVP'ing you accept full responsibilities for your own safety and that you have read the description and are you confident you can complete the hike in the time prescribed?

Looking forward to a great day outdoors.

Regards

Moa Outdoors