Otamatakou Scenic Reserve Saturday 19 May
Departing at 7am from Timaru, Christine, Catherine, Christine, Lindsay, Neville and Barry set out for a day’s walk. We arrived at the start which is on SH 83 next to the Glenburn Camping Ground on Lake Benmore (Ahuriri Arm). Following a poled easement through farmland for approx. 5km, easy walking till we reached the reserve. There was lots of briar bushes covered with rossip berries which today with the fine weather, green farmland dotted with the odd mob of cattle made for great colour and pleasant scenery. The reserve appeared as well fenced and offered a number of options for areas to explore. Largely scrubby remnants of native shrubs, briar bushes and interesting rocky outcrops. We made a climb to a higher spot to get views down the gully we walked up looking back down to Lake Benmore and the outflow of the Ahuriri River and in the other direction into the craggy mountain surrounds. Returning the same way downwards then after lunch a walk in the other direction to a craggy gorge just to see what was around the corner – as you do.
From here time to head home, so returning back down the way came. Out to the road by 3.30pm and home for 5.15ish.
Thank you to Catherine for organising this trip.
Christine M.