Please note that the Hunuas-Mangatawhiri Dam on Thursday 24 March is a 5-star tramp. This is not about your determination and ability to eventually finish the tramp; it is an opportunity for fitter trampers to enjoy a longer walk, at a faster pace, and with a few more challenges.

The circuit around the dam begins with a fast but steady 4.5 km ascent up Lilburne Road, which is a semi-grassed access road. We have morning tea at the campsite at the top, at the beginning of Ernie's Track. Then there is a steep climb up Ernie’s to the high point of 397 metres before descending to the dam. This is a proper trampers’ track: steep, slippery and undulating, 4.8 km in length and finishing at Waterline Road, a mostly metalled access road.  It is then approximately 4 km of road walking back to the cars.

Please think carefully if you are considering this tramp. As the programme says, you need to be self-sufficient, happy with heights, balancing, stepping over exposed gaps/water and be able to maintain a faster pace and/or longer day. Participation is at the discretion of the leader.  Please book with Kay if you are intending to do this walk.