Todays Trip Report

Day 12 started at 8am from Lake Ferry located at the south end of the Waiarapa. Some found it a little difficult to rise especially after the food and hospitality extended at the Lake Ferry Hotel. Some from the "J" team would claim a substantial victory on the pool table, however, this is a totally unsubstantiated rumour.

Todays route was to be the last and take us around the south coast to the capital, Wellington. The south coast is well known for its fishing and can be extremely rugged at times. I've certainly experienced this area during a southerly storm and can be, in its own way, a beautiful place to be. Todays weather is calm, if somewhat overcast but will allow for some magnificent views.

Our route takes us north by road to drive around Lake Onoke, cross the Ruamahanga River and then joins up again with the south coast. We slow down considerably and follow the coast along a track that had often been washed into the sea.

A brief stop at Turakirae Head and at a fishing boat that had gone aground allowed us to take in some of the view. Further along we headed inland along the Orongorongo valley floor until we began our climb up a steep track onto Cattle Ridge. From here the views of Wellington were visible, our team having lunch on the ridge while enjoying the views.

After lunch we headed further north then east down into the valley through which the Wainuiomata River flows. Back up the other side of the valley we headed through Pencarow Station to once again see Wellington in the distance across the harbour.

Down to the coast and we were at Pencarrow Head. Further north and we were in Eastbourne and "civilisation". At this point we regrouped, had our photographs taken and then headed around the harbour in convoy to our finishing place Te Papa, our National Museum. This route had us travel through Petone, onto the motorway and into the centre of the city.

A welcome by the director ofTe Papa, Kerry Prendergast (Wellington City Council Deputy Mayor), and Dominic Outram (of BF Goodrich) was well appreciated.

It was a long and enjoyable trip, but for us Wellingtonians, it was nice to be home. We hope that all those visting Wellington had a good time over the next couple of days and we look forward to meeting up with you all on the next challenge.

Antony Royal

Heading up the Orongorongo River towards Cattle Ridge	Mouth of the Orongorongo River from Cattle Ridge
Wellington Heads from Cattle Ridge	Looking south from Pencarrow Station
Welcome a Te Papa museum	Grant Purdie (left) introducing Kerry Prendergast

Route Map

The map below shows the route followed the Challenge vehicles today.

 
Hutt Valley Nissan - Williams and Adams - Pudney and Lee Wormalds
Johnson, Lawrence & Elder

The North Island Four Wheel Drive Challenge has been put together by a small dedicated group of 4WD enthusiasts (all experienced club members) on a non-profit cost-recovery basis.

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