15 WOPs ladies showed up on Thursday morning at the Lower Huia Reservoir, despite the weather forecast not being very encouraging. Nevertheless, it wasn’t too bad at the beginning of our walk, the sun even came out every now and again. Our leader Jeanene didn’t feel too well, and Kirsten came to the rescue to take us through lush bush in the Waitakeres. 

We started at the Lower Huia Dam and had a brisk walk uphill along the stream. The tracks were mainly asphalt which made it easy to talk while walking. The bridge view at the northern end of Lower Huia was great. The birds were chirping along, and we all enjoyed the company. 

Morning tea was on a grassy spot in an open space. The moment we stopped, it started to rain. But it was only a short sharp shower. We continued our way up to the Upper Dam. There were some nice groves of kauri on the ridgeline along the way as well as a lot of nikau palms.

As we approached the tunnel to go through to the twin dam for lunch, we were informed by a signpost that there is a considerable risk entering the tunnel. The group decided not to take the risk and instead walk back thinking about other places to have our lunch. It took us a bit over an hour to return to the place where our cars were parked, where we had a quick bite.

After lunch the weather started to deteriorate, and we decided to head for the lovely little café in Huia to support local business. It was the best idea ever, because as soon as we sat in front of the cosy fireplace at the café, heavy rain started with thunderstorms, lightning and hail. What a blessing to be warm, enjoying coffee and sweet treats. It was a great end to a wonderful hike, although we missed the Lower Dam’s twin.

Doris E.

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