Waitakere Ranges - HURRAH FOR THE PARARAHA!!
 

Early cloud and rain in the Waitakeres failed to deter our dauntless team as they set off from Lone Kauri Rd.  Motivated by Claire’s stylish “Magnum” gaiters  the party  soon descended to the Pararaha Stream, where leader Rob’s skill and wisdom were soon validated: the weather improved, the river was manageable, and there was even consensus as to which way was downstream!

The next few hours were spent in enthusiastic descent of the river’s myriad of pools, rapids and gorges. Camera’s had little rest, with folk balancing precariously to catch a picturesque cascade, clambering up to set Neil’s sunny yellow parka against the deep forest greens, or twisting necks and lenses in optimistic attempts to frame towering cliffs in combination with swirling waters.

The going varied from wading placid pools (whose depth made Carl especially nervous) to cautious, adrenalin-pumping steps high above the water. The short periods of tension were soothed by the beautiful setting and a restful lunch in the sun.

Pondering the Pararaha

Our Leader "walks on water!"

Even in such a confined valley there were route finding challenges as we down-climbed cascades and bypassed cliffs. Having forgotten his pack liner Lindsay went to great lengths to avoid overly deep water, while Carl showed a talent for finding dry tracks as the others negotiated boulders and pools.

Eventually the gradient eased and we followed the valley’s final sweep round to the sands of Whatipu. A steady climb back to the cars was happily interrupted by an orchestrated range of feeble excuses to rest (“bootlace”, “photo”, “interesting plant” etc.). Back at the road, toes enjoyed the air as sodden boots were removed, and the team all snoozed contentedly as the car found its own way to the Titirangi ice cream shop.  

4TCers were Rob, Neil, Carl, Lindsay (scribe) and Claire 

Footnote:  New gaiters did not keep the water from rising to my middle!!! ...Claire

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