12 Club members, (some of whom were new), departed from Timaru at 8.30am on Saturday 1st August and set out for Waihi Gorge which is one of our close local, easily accessible areas where there is great opportunity to get out and have a pleasant days walk. It was a mild day with high cloud overhead and very calm – great walking conditions. The walk followed a farm track following the Waihi River through forestry areas to our destination, a historic stone hut, and a close by private hut which was a great spot to relax and enjoy lunch and the surrounds. This was a pleasant days outing and it was great to meet and catch up with fellow trampers. From here it was a return trip back to cars, all up about 16-17kms for the day. The return drive took in the promised coffee/icecream stop at Geraldine. Special thanks to Barry for organising this trip. Christine M