Blog Day 6: Puhoi - Warkworth

Miles Hadley

Thursday 16th June 2016
Day 6– Puhoi – Warkworth

X km (approximately), X hours including a few stops and a 45 minute lunch break

It was late morning when I left Puhoi to go along the Ahuroa road and I trudged past the immaculately kept cemetery (See picture1) and the Puhoi Cheese factory and cafe. The road was winding but not very busy and much of the roadside I walked upon was carpeted with pine needles. I passed a small suspension bridge, which forms part of the Te area trail and then continued quite a way up hill past bleating sheep and barking farm dogs.

Eventually I reached the obscured opening of the Te area trail, which, for those who might miss it, is situated almost directly opposite the Tolhopf road turn. This path is muddy and narrow amongst lush forested vegetation until there are parts through gorse thickets and then more uniformed plantation trees. I’m quite sure I nearly bumped into some stray sheep in there. Certainly three dark forms seemed to bleat and then rush off into the undergrowth!

Eventually I walked through more uniformed plantation trees. Then I went onto Moirs Hill road, until reaching Moirs road.  Along the forestry road there were stunning views over the valleys (See picture 2) There was a lovely valley called Matthew road, reminiscent of French rural scenes, with orchards. After this, I met a farmer who was still using a Massey Ferguson that he had bought brand new in 1971!

I then walked along the busy road to Warkworth.

Once in Warkworth, I visited the Anglican Christ Church (See picture 3) Much of the Church interior is Victorian with a nice window behind the alter. I also had a nice hot chocolate at a well known Chocolatier and cafe called, “Chocolate Browns” (see picture 4)