Nelson 4 Wheel Drive Club, New Zealand

Nelson 4 Wheel Drive Club, New Zealand.
Four wheel driving at the top of New Zealands South Island

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Past club trips

2008

Tory Channel

Tory Channel

Date: 11/05/2008

Trip Leader: Malcolm Higgins

Trip Report by: Paul & Yvonne Fenemor

Mother’s Day started clear, cool and frosty as a group of 8 vehicles assembled at the Waikawa boat ramp (no, not the Waikawa marina!) to drive out to Tory Channel. Recent heavy rain, and storm clouds looming meant that we proceeded with caution, after being warned by trip leader Higgy that on previous excursions vehicles have had to get left at the end of the road after a shower of rain made the steep clay track out impassable.

The first stop was at a stunning lookout point well onto the track, with views north and south, and a strong Cook Strait wind. After looking at the clouds racing by, discussion about whether to proceed (from those who had been before) took place. All agreed to continue, but at the first sign of rain we would turn back. So on we went.

Having never been on this trip before, we had been told stories about the gorse, but it had to be seen to be believed! The trip information sheet said ‘some brush marks possible’; this was putting it mildly! At times the track was scarcely visible, but we just pushed our way through.

Around midday, we arrived at the farm house at the end of the track. We were able to enjoy our lunch out of the wind in the farm house conservatory, thanks to Elsa (caretaker for the farm owners), who accompanied us on the trip. The ferry obliged by sailing by close to shore while we were having lunch, and the captain acknowledged us with a blast on the ships horn!

We didn’t spend as much time as previous trips had at the road end, and didn’t walk to lands end, because of the inclement weather. We headed for home again in the early afternoon and had a hassle free trip out; once again enjoying the incredible scenery. The group split up on the way – some going via Rarangi, some straight home and others enjoying a slight detour via the Maungatapu.

This was a great day out, and thanks must go to Malcolm Higgins for his organisation and Elsa for her hospitality and inside knowledge. Malcolm hopes to run the trip again during the summer (daylight saving hours), so we can spend longer at the end of the track.