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aorangi
An interesting and intimate forest
range hugs the southerly tip of the North Island around
storm-battered Cape Palliser. This miniature neighbour of the
formidable Tararua Range is so remote and dissected by waterways
that it presents an intriguing challenge for experienced trampers
and hunters.
Aorangi Forest Park (also known as 'The Haurangis') lies between
Martinborough and the southern Wairarapa Coast, two hours drive
from Wellington. The main mountain system is the Aorangi Range
with Mt Ross (983m) in the northern block as the highest point.
Aorangi means ‘cloudy skies’ alluding to frequent
southerly squalls that assail the bleak Wairarapa Coast. The
sea’s influence keeps the range relatively free of fog and
rain.
Access to the Aorangi Forest Park is from Martinborough following
the Pirinoa Road towards Lake Ferry, which leads to the village
of Whangamoana and nearby Putangirua Pinnacles. These statuesque
pillars of rock resemble a jumbled profusion of giant organ pipes
rising out of the gravels of an ancient riverbed. They rise 40
metres in narrow canyons forming artistic shapes etched by the
forces of erosion.
The coast offers superlative views of the South Island mountains
as you drive past lonely baches and the quaint fishing village of
Ngawi. Further on is Cape Palliser seal colony, the North
Island’s largest breeding area. Along this coast there is
foot access up several of the streams that flow out of the park.
A 3-4 day tramping route starts at the Mangatoetoe Stream and
heads across the range to the Te Kopi ranger station. Experience
is needed here, as there are a high number of river crossings.
The northern block is accessed from Turanganui Road, just south
of Pirinoa, and tracks lead into the main catchment of the
Tauanui River. From the east the narrow, winding Ruakokoputuna
Road provides a link to old logging skid tracks in the forest.
After visiting the park stay over in Martinborough and visit the
celebrated Wine Village. There are 20 vineyards close by and the
salubrious wine trail walk is a civilized way to cap off your
visit to the forest park.
Savour the southern Wairarapa lifestyle. Boutique wines
compliment the beautiful Aorangi Forest Park.
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