PANZ HIKE: Training Hike at Ernies, Lilburn, Rata Ridge Tracks

This is a moderate to hard hike, What this means is:

- it's at a slightly harder level of difficulty than our standard hikes but won't bother regular hikers

- requires good level of fitness

- pace will be faster than normal

- there are two stream and river crossings, so your feet will definitely get wet. Removing your boots before crossing will be discouraged as it's not safe to walk on bare feet

- tracks are muddy and wet in places so a good pair of tramping boots or trail running shoes are recommended

- stops will be less than normal, we will have 2 short breaks, a longer lunch break and a few photo stops

- difficulty is 4 (out of 5) due to the duration and steep hills

Meeting place: Mangatawhiri Campground car park

Google map: https://goo.gl/maps/xUX6Ui2gbbJ87Bj87

NOTE: There is no mobile coverage in this area.

Meeting time: 8:00AM

Estimated finish: 4:00PM

Distance: about 17.5km

Elevation gain: 811m

Duration: About 8 hours including stops

Difficulty: Moderate to Hard (4 on a 1-5 scale with 5 being advanced/expert)

Weather: to be updated closer to the time

Walk description:

Ernies, Lilburn and Rata Ridge Tracks is a 17.5 km lightly trafficked loop trail located at the Hunua Ranges that features a lake and native bush. The track has a good climb over the ridge line and can get very muddy when it has been raining.

Bring/wear:

- NO jeans/denims/cotton please

- tramping boots/trail running shoes. No trainers/sneakers as tracks can be slippery and wet.

- packed lunch, high energy snacks and at least 2L drink

- FIRST AID KIT + personal medication

- clothing suitable for Auckland winter

- sun and rain protection

- printed topo map attached

- torch/head torch

+++ lots of positivity and fun

Transport:

Car pool fuel share is $15 cash, please pay directly to the driver. If you need a ride or are willing to give a ride, please comment below and indicate your location/space available.

Cost:

This is a free hike but a gold coin donation towards operating costs will be highly appreciated.

Important Disclaimer:

Pinoy Adventurers NZ (PANZ) and its organisers work voluntarily and hold NO responsibility or liability for any injury suffered during the events organised. By signing up to attend PANZ events, you are acknowledging that you are a legal adult, have read the details and will take full responsibility of your safety and the safety of the minors with you.