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.
a) Ōhau River Gorge – Advanced river tramp
The longest tramp (tho’ a little shorter since 2025), includes a number of river crossings.
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, and in places scrambling around or wading through deep pools. 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. (similar area as the Kapakapanui alternative advanced tramp).
b) Kapakapanui – alternative advanced tramp
This new tramp explores the valleys of Kapakapanui mountain. It starts from Ngatiawa Road behind Waikanae. The focus of the trip is off-track tramping with time to study and enjoy the native forest, stream life and birds. It is very beautiful country. You will definitely get wet feet (but not deep pools like the Ōhau River Gorge). Tramping by streams and valleys needs care because everything is slippery: you will need tramping boots or shoes with good tread.
Like the gorge trip, this is a great introduction to tramping or satisfying off-track time for experienced people. If there is bad weather we can minimise the stream travel and explore the nature of the higher country.
Each group of about ten trampers is led by an experienced trip leader.
c) Parata Track – Intermediate tramp
Easier than Ōhau River Gorge and Kapakapanui, but a fair uphill hike to the view.
The 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 to a lookout for a stunning view of the Kāpiti coastline. We’ll have lunch there before walking back down and then heading to the Waikanae River estuary, where you can
walk along the riverbank, 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.
d) Ōtaki River – River ecology
River ecology.
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.
e) Lake Papaitonga – Forest ecology, land use & history
Forest ecology.
This trip is to an outstanding piece of coastal rainforest and learning in detail about the plants, ecology and history.
This trip 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). We have frequent stops to observe; if standing is difficult you may like to bring a small stool to sit on.
f) I te kainga – stay at home option
Workshops re living off-the-grid, ecology and gardening.
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 or free time if you just want time to chill out and recharge