There are various ways of getting to the Whitehorse monument. One can drive to it or take the Whitehorse Walkway which involves a 250 metre climb over its 2.2 km length. Another alternative is to take the 7 km Big Easy shared-use biking and walking track. Both these tracks begin from Te Kiteroa at the end of the Point Bush Road.
On this fine sunny day we opted to do the Big Easy that starts in the open but soon passes through gates into the Point Bush Ecosanctuary, a 94 ha reserve that is now protected by a 4.8 km long, two metre high predator-proof fence that was completed in 2021.
The gently graded track passes through several kilometres of native bush called Point Bush that somehow escaped the devastating fires along the Hunters Hills in 1868.
Nearer the top of the hill the native bush runs out and gorse becomes the dominant species. Quite new signs at regular intervals helpfully indicate the distance left to go and the elevation gain (or loss).
The White Horse monument that was built in 1968 and restored in 2022 is a reminder of the contribution made by thousands of Clydesdale and Shire horses to the district’s farming economy. Over recent years there has been considerable development in the area which commands a superb view over Waimate and the surrounding area as well as the foothill peaks to the north, all the way to Mt Hutt. Interesting sign boards telling the history of Waimate, viewing platforms, BBQ tables, toilets and native tree plantings have greatly enhanced the attractiveness of the area.
After a two-hour walk on the Big Easy it was mid-day when we reached the top so one of the BBQ tables proved a very convenient place to have lunch whilst enjoying the views.
After discussion we opted to descend via the shorter and steeper Whitehorse Walkway track and were back at the vehicle by 2 pm. A stop for an ice-cream in Waimate rounded off the day and were back in Timaru before 4 pm.
The Big Easy is a delightful track and, with such a large area of native bush to pass through, along with great views from the Whitehorse, this biking/walking track can be highly recommended.
All credit must go to the Waimate community for all the biking and walking tracks that have been established over the years and are maintained by volunteers, to the Point Bush Ecological Restoration Trust members for their vision to protect and preserve the regenerating forest and to re-plant 20,000 native trees, thereby encouraging the native bird life to proliferate. Many sponsors, supporters and donors back the Trust’s most worthwhile project.
Many thanks to Graham for organising this very pleasant tramp that was enjoyed by Hazel, Veronica and reporter, Dorothy