Wednesday 12th January 2022
Location: The end of Lees Grove, Wainuiōmata, Lower Hutt 5014
The Lees Grove track starts from the Wainuiōmata side of the East Habour Regional Park.
The track begins as a lush podocarp/broadleaf forest which quickly changes as you start the ascent up the ridge. Transforming into a beach/rata forest with towering trees, complex root systems and a thick layer of slippery leaves. The climb was quite steep so we took it slow and stopped once for water.
Once you reach the top you can either take a left towards Rata Ridge or a right towards Mt Lowry. We headed for Mt Lowry (which was maybe 5-10min further up the track). The signage was great! Well done Greater Wellington Regional Council :)
If you're expecting a fabulous view at Mt Lowry you'll be disappointed, there's a gap in the tree's which gives you a hint of what the view would be like...if all the rest of the trees weren't blocking it... but that's about it. Miss 7 found a painted rock so she was the only one thrilled with Mt Lowry.
Another water break and then we speed back down the hill.
The way down was a lot of fun. The kids loved how slippery all the beech leaves were and practiced skidding across the leaves.
They then practiced running and jumping on uneven surfaces. Important life skills :)
This walk was a real surprise to us, we hadn't heard of it before (we found it on this website) so didn't have any idea what to expect. We were pleasantly surprised and are now planning to complete more walks in the East Habour Regional Park.
Age of Kids: 7yr and 9yr
Walking Time: 1-2 hours (It took us 1.5 hours including a short stop on the way up and at Mt Lowry)
Length: 4km
Elevation: 250
Difficulty: Moderate (just because it's a little bit steep and slippery)
Wet Feet: No
Amenities: There is a seat at Mt Lowry Lookout
Dogs: Yes
Cellphone Reception: Yes
Be Aware: The tracks at the top are used for mountain biking so you need to be extra careful.
