Pukemokemoke – a gem in the Waikato

Pukemokemoke – what a gem in the Waikato.  How come I have never explored this delightful trail before?

I have lived in the Waikato (New Zealand) for 37 years and it is only this year that I got to explore the Pukemokemoke Bush Reserve.  Pukemokemoke means “A hill standing alone” aptly named I would say.  Visiting and exploring this delightful reserve is thanks to my good friend Sharon.

One step at a time

Having recently had open-heart surgery it is now time to regain my fitness.  ‘One step at a time’ is my current mantra!  It has been one of those occasions where you do not realise how good you had it until you don’t.  Here I am referring to my previous fitness level.   I guess many of you have had to crawl back up and start again.  I would love to hear about your journey and what it took you mentally and physically to do so?

Hiking in bush is one of my happy spots.  It not only helps with my fitness but restores my mental wellbeing.  So when Sharon suggested we visit Pukemokemoke I was keen to explore.

Location

Pukemokemoke Bush Reserve is only 20 minutes drive north of Hamilton on the Tauhei Road.  It is a loop track with many different track options. When I did a Google search, it revealed over 300 native plants and trees, such as matai, totara, kauri, kanuka and kahikatea within this 40 ha reserve.  It has nine sites of interest, which are marked along the track; these include a log hauler site, the kauri grove and the lookout.

Tracks

As you can see below there are a variety of tracks to choose from.  We chose the Loop Track.  This track starts out as a gentle incline and well maintained dirt track with numerous tree roots to step over.  We were surrounded by regenerating bush and we could hear the birds singing – how good is that?

Wooden steps

Then I saw the start of wooden steps – my mind sunk, oh no, they look never-ending!!  ‘One step at a time’ I reminded myself as I struggled to keep my breathing under some sort of control.  Trudging up those steps required an in-depth mental conversation with myself.  “Remember it’s early days and your heart needs to get used to its new and amended functionality.  Be kind to yourself.  You have nothing to prove.”  Pretty hard to accept as I saw Sharon disappearing in the distance.

Kauri Grove

Thankfully, part way up to the summit there was a reprieve from the continuous steps – the Kauri Grove.   Unbeknown to me at the end of this short track was a delightful little wooden bench.  This gave me a chance to sip some water, gather myself and admire the view.

The reward for the day

The reward on reaching the summit is something quite special, especially on a clear day.  Where else can you get 360^o views of the Waikato?  We saw the  Hakarimata Ranges, Mt Te Aroha, Wind Farm Te Uku, Mt Pirongia, and with really good eye sight Mt Karioi.  Unfortunately I could not capture the panoramic views, you will have to take my word for it, but it is spectacular.  Perhaps this may encourage you to hike up there and see the views for yourself?

After a brief stop we then started hiking down the Loop Track still surrounded by bush.  This did require careful foot placement.  With our heart rates back to normal the conversation increased and it wasn’t long before we were looking at a large clearing – ideal for a picnic.

From here you can continue to explore the various tracks or take the low track back to the carpark.  On this occasion we took the low track back.

On returning to the carpark we were surprised by the number of other vehicles parked up.  They also enjoying this gem of nature.  Well worth the huffing and puffing!

As my fitness has improved I have enjoyed exploring the other track options.  They add time and distance to your hike which is always beneficial.

Additional scenes

It is great to feel the desire to be out exploring our beautiful country again.  Whether that is on foot or on my bike.  It has been a couple of years since I have felt that desire to explore and have an  adventure.  I am thankful that I finally got the medical care that I needed.  I am grateful for the excellent care I received from the staff and specialists at Waikato DHB.  On my recent visit to my (electrics) cardiologist I was informed I still have arterial fibrillation.  He has recommended a cardioversion (my terminology ‘a heart reboot’) to see if it is because of my recent surgery or something else which I may need to live with.  Whatever the outcome I will manage.  I’m realizing how hard it is to get back to a good level of fitness, but what options do I have?

Before I sign off, here’s a little quote:

“What day is it?” asked Pooh.
“It’s today,” squeaked Piglet.
“My favorite day,” said Pooh.”
― A.A. Milne

That is it until next time.  Take care out there, Goldcardgal.  🙂