The fenceline walk
February 24th, 2013 at 1:32 pm by David FarrarFenceline
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An 8.5 km hike around the fenceline of the Karori Sanctuary, Zealandia. It has 460 metres of vertical elevation so is a good challenge. It is the same route as the annual gutbuster run.
We started at the Zealandia and climb up to the Brooklyn Wind Turbine. The odd flat piece, but mainly uphill.
From the wind turbine you continue along the fence towards Hawkins Hill but then veer back towards Karori. You think you do not have much more climbing to go, but actually the track drops down into a valley which then gives you another big climb up to Wrights Hill.
From Wrights Hill, it is mainly downhill. The track next to the fenceline is so steep at parts you are advised to use an alternate zigzag down, which we did.
Some great views, and a reasonable distance to go from Karori to Brooklyn and back.
Big ups to all the cyclists on the shared path. Everyone helpfully yells out that they are approaching you, what side of the path they are on, and how many of them there are.
If anyone knows what the berries are in one of the photos, feel free to comment.
Tags: DPF, walks, Wellington, Wellington Walks
February 24th, 2013 at 3:46 pm
The berries you refer to are Poroporo http://www.taranakiplants.net.nz/natives/lowland/poroporo.html
The pools you mention at the end of the track are the StJohns pools. Used for swimming for Kelburn and Karori Schools as well as the bible classes from St Johns in Willis St.. One for the boys and one for the girls. http://natlib.govt.nz/records/17475450?search%5Bpath%5D=items&search%5Btext%5D=st+johns+pool
Vote:February 24th, 2013 at 3:53 pm
The berries belong to the native shrub poroporo, Solanum laciniatum. The berries are toxic to humans whilst green, but can be eaten when ripe, if you dare.
Vote:Maggy Wassilieff
February 24th, 2013 at 4:32 pm
Ta – I was not quite hungry enough to try them!
Vote:February 24th, 2013 at 5:24 pm
0did you happen to wander across garrolous Gareth out there on the fencleine doing his cat patrol?
Vote:February 24th, 2013 at 5:27 pm
Cheaper than walking round inside the fence, for sure!
Vote:February 24th, 2013 at 5:59 pm
One for Gareth Morgan – I remember reading that when the fence was built, a frustrated tomcat was seen pacing up and down outside the fence wondering how he could get in.
Vote:February 24th, 2013 at 6:24 pm
good going farrar
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