Egg Lake, East Ahuriri
Sunday 12th February
Leaving Oamaru at 8am enabled the four of us to start tramping at the Quailburn Track at 10am. I had been informed of trees that had fallen due to snow, in the Quailburn and DOC had been through with chainsaws so in places, a new track had been developed. Generally though, the track was as it usually is and still with several creek crossings. About 45 minutes later, at the fenceline on the saddle, we veered off to the north crossing over undulating tussock clad ground for an hour. Reaching the saddle at another fenceline gave views up the East Ahuriri valley including the East Ahuriri Hut. From here we followed the fenceline down to the river which was steep and lastly a bit of rock climbing was necessary. We crossed the river and walked straight up until reaching the Te Araroa trail, turning left and walking on the trail for only about 400 metres. At this point, we left the trail and walked up a ridge to the top of the hill. Going up, we were delighted to see many skinks, cicadas and other various insects. We reached the top of the hill about 1pm and lunched while looking down at Egg Lake which was another 500metres away. We left Egg Lake at 1.45pm and returned back down the hill, opting not to visit the hut this time. We virtually returned the same way back to Quailburn and were back at the vehicle by 5pm after a good day out.
Thanks to Mary, Geoff and Jenny for your company. Bess
