There is always a selection of outdoor trips on Sunday, like tramping, bushwalking, and exploring streams and rivers. It’s a great time for getting to know other people and is an important part of the camp. Kāpiti and Horowhenua have some seriously lovely spots to explore. The trips (and the stay-at-home option) provide a chance to connect with and learn more about the local area.

Of course, being in the bush and around rivers is safer and more enjoyable when you are well-prepared. You will need to bring:

• Outdoor shoes or boots that you don’t mind getting wet (it is important that shoes and boots are comfortable)
• A spare set of clothes that you don’t mind getting dirty and wet
• A raincoat
• An extra warm top
• Togs
• Sunscreen
• Snacks for the trip
• A water bottle
• If you have one, a small backpack lined inside with a large plastic bag to carry these things
• A picnic lunch will be provided!

The trips are weather dependent, so should we be faced with weather extremes, we’ll find safe alternatives.

This is the longer and more challenging of the tramps. It starts from the end of Poads Road, behind Levin and takes us through the gorge and into some truly beautiful native bush. The tramp involves some crossing back and forth across  the river, so you will need good shoes, and be able to walk comfortably over river stones. You need to be able to swim. Although it is challenging – it is really safe, very beautiful, (and fun). Also, we’ve shortened the trip a bit from previous years to make sure everyone gets back on time.

It is a great introduction to tramping or a satisfying tramp for experienced people. If there’s rainy weather, there will be an alternative non-river trip. 

Each group of about ten trampers is led by an experienced trip leader.

Note: If the weather is too awful or the river too full, the alternative will be to explore the Kapakapanui Circuit Track.

 

 

This tramp starts in Waikanae and takes us on a two hour walk on a bush track through beautiful coastal native forest. We’ll head up a track til you come into the open and are met with stunning view of the Kāpiti coastline. We’ll have lunch at there before walking back down and then heading to the Waikanae River estuary, where you can walk along the river bank, spend some time bird-spotting and/or go for a swim.

You need good shoes for this trip so as not to slip on the track.

Each group of about ten trampers is led by an experienced trip leader.

This trip takes us to a big, beautiful, mountain-fed river, and provides a great opportunity to discover the world of freshwater ecology.

The trip will be led by two water ecology experts and includes about an hour of walking, with plenty of time for a swim and a picnic.

 

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This trip is to an outstanding piece of coastal rainforest and learning in detail about the plants, ecology and history.

This trip involves involves minimal walking (on a gravel track and boardwalk) but lots of observing.

There will be time for a swim at the beach swim as well.

Note: This is the most accessible of the outdoors trips and includes wheelchair access (with assistance).

 

This will include several low key workshops based around living off-the-grid, ecology and gardening. We’ll picnic together and there’ll also be time for a river or beach swim – and/or free time if you are just wanting to chill out and recharge.