ECHO Walking Festival

Walks

Walks / Tuhua Mayor Island Long Walk

Tuhua Mayor Island Long Walk

Walk

Tuhua Mayor Island Long Walk

Saturday, 13 April 2024

Grade 5

Nearest Town: Tauranga

Registration Region: Katikati

Duration: 11 hours return

Start Time: 7:00 am - TBC (Close to Tauranga)

Cost: $150.00 per person

Tuhua is the ancestral home of the Te Whanau A Tauwhao ki Tuhua. Tuhua is also the Maori name of obsidian and is one of the few places in Aotearoa where this important pre-colonial resource can be found. Te Whanau A Tauwhao consider themselves the guardians of the island’s resources and prohibit the unauthorised removal of the jet black glassy stone.

Kaitiakitanga or guardianship is a concept that is deeply embedded in Maori lore. The Trust takes this responsibility seriously and is actively involved in maintaining the island’s natural character as much as possible.

Manaakitanga or hospitality is another important concept that easily aligns with guardianship. The Trust welcomes visitors to share the unique experiences associated with the island. Its pristine waters and rugged natural environment are available for everyone to share and enjoy.

This trip to the island allows time for the group to walk around the island. This takes about 8-9 hours and is one of the most stunning walks in the country. Please be aware that this walk is most definitely a grade 5 walk.  This is not for the faint hearted who think this is just a boat ride over and sit on the beach kind of a day. We do not recommend this walk if you have any injuries or prone to strain to the body.  In the past, people have had to turn back rather than continue on as the steep areas became too challenging.  This walk is strenuous, you need a high level of fitness to be able to keep up with the groups pace.  

BYO Morning Tea/ Lunch, a backpack to carry your own belongings and sensible trekking boots, trekking poles and a rain jacket in case needed. 

Your bags will be checked by the island caretaker/kaitiaki for biosecurity reasons as they want to keep this island pest free.

Then it’s a nice trip back to the mainland.

Date: Saturday 13th April 2024

Start/Meet time: 7.00am

Duration: 11 hours

Meet at: Tauranga Bridge Marina. Pier TBC

Postponement date is on Sunday 14th April 2024

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Checklist:

  • Sturdy Footwear Required
  • Bring Food and Drink
  • Walking Poles (recommended)

PLEASE NOTE: Participants are responsible for their own safety equipment, food, water, clothing and vehicles.

The Festival is a non-profit event which relies heavily on volunteers, and donations to help pay for the organisation and promotion of the month-long event.

Any contribution received towards ECHO is greatly appreciated and helps to ensure the success and continuation of the festival.

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