13 of us met at Mangawhai surf club on this stunning day for a walk that I had not done before.  We were blessed with an awesome day, Linda said there were a lot of ups and downs. 

We walked to the first lookout point and we were not disappointed, well worth the climb, beautiful views looking at over Mangawhai Estuary and Dunes and on up the coast with clear views of The Hen and Chicks, Sail Rock and Little Barrier. Back on up the next hill to Don's Rest where we stopped for morning tea and celebrated Laraine's birthday, I hope you enjoyed your special day.  

On looking up to see why the track was named Goldschmidt, I read that Jean and Don Goldschmidt were behind the inception of Mangawhai's Walking Weekend, in fact Jean was awarded a Queen's service medal for services to the community with now over a 100 volunteers, hence the morning tea seat named after Don. 

From here we walked west down the hill to a private subdivision across the road to climb the second steep hill, with spectacular views looking South, then down and up to climb the 3rd hill eventually negotiating the final hill to Cullen Rd. 

Yes Linda, as you said lots of up's and downs, we will forgive you as the views were  awesome. 

We then did about an 1hrs walk mainly on sand, 'Paul's walk'' which passed the Water Treatment Plant and was a nice gentle walk through Kanuka and regenerating bush. This track skirts the golf course and is a pleasant way to end the day. Back to our cars at the surf club and on to Bennetts for a chocolate fix before heading home.  A great day thank you Linda and lovely catching up with some old and new faces. 

Carol W

Click here for photos from Carol