Kirkliston Range
Kirkliston Range
Sunday 16th February, 2014
The Kirkliston range is on the West side of the Hakataramea valley. The actual location of this trip was changed as the runholders’ of part of the route could not be contacted. The trip was changed to tramp up onto the north end of the Kirkliston Range. Permission was kindly granted from the Milnes of Invercroy station. David Milne was waiting for us at the gate as two carloads each of four eager trampers arrived. He had a prepared a map for us, with a marked route, which should ensure good views. The morning fog hindered our early route finding and it wasn’t long before we were climbing up through tussocks and spaniards. Finally the fence on the ridge line came into view and the fog was below us. Morning tea was enjoyed as was the surrounding views. John with his trusty saw took to two wilding pines. We followed the fence which led to a track that slowly climbed the range. After lunch, in the middle of a tussocky plateau, we did the final climb to the top of the ridge at approximately 1500 metres. The views were magnificent 360 degrees – Twizel, Tekapo river, Mt Cook, Mt Dobson the Hunter and Kakanui ranges.
The trip back was steadily downhill and after a day of over 6 hours walking we were glad to reach the cars. Eight trampers enjoyed their big icecream at Kurow after their pleasant day of exercise.
Thanks to Bill, John, Tim, Wendy, Linda, Colin, and Bronwyn for their enjoyable company.
Dave Mellish