The Tararua range runs north from Wellington to the Manawatu Gorge. Levin nestles between the Tasman sea and it's foothills on the western side of the range. You will very rarely find overseas visitors tramping in this range as it is ruggered, but don't let that put you off. If you want to get away from the tourists and are an experienced tramper for NZ conditions then try these blister creating tracks. There are many pathways to cross over these mountains, the most common used is the Southern and Northern Crossing. Like other mountain ranges it is dangerous because weather conditions can change very quickly. In the summer, a few years ago, four Australian soldiers suffered from exposure while participating in an army exercise on the tops. Photos are of a hunting/tramping trip on the Western side of Tararua Park.
A stag's wallowing hole. Stags urinate and wallow in it to give themselves that special aroma for mating.
Michael with a very dead possum.
Michael nearly disappears when crossing a river. The water was bloody cold, glad I wasn't stupid enought to cross there.
A quick snack on the way out.
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