Taupo Kowhai Quest

Trip Name: Taupo Kowhai Quest
Date:     11 – 13 October 2013                                                 Branch: NORTH SHORE AND TAUPO
 

Leaders	Ruth Henderson
Cell Phone Number	021 298 8120
VHF Call Sign &/or Vessel Name	Rudolph ZMS4968
Vehicle make, model, registration, colour	Toyota SW, CFT347
General Plan	In the summer the North Shore and Taupo Yakity Yak clubs combined for the “Taupo Taster” and had such a ball we are returning. In spring we expect to enjoy the kowhai floral display and the aerial antics of tui, plus the thermal delights of Lake Taupo. Friday night – after grabbing some takeaways on the way down and settling in to your accommodation gather at Jude Sherning’s place, (directions will be emailed after registration) to sort out any car- pooling or changes to the programme and to socialize. Saturday meet 8.30am at Jude Sherning’s place. Drive to Kinloch, Whangamata Bay and paddle along the shore to Kawakawa Bay and Point. 24km return. Can turn around sooner and make this day shorter. Saturday night pot luck dinner at Jude’s. Let’s know your signature dish; otherwise you’ll be given a category (e.g. Pudding) to bring along. BYO nibbles and drinks. Sunday meet 8.30 at Jude’s place. Drive north to Tutukau Rd and the first bridge. Shuttle a few cars up to Orakei-Korako ready for the end of the day. Paddle up to the thermal area and into the hot water inlet at Weihunuhunu Stream. On the return, stop and do the ‘squeeze’ and soak in a hot pool. Coffee and cake at the café before shuttling back to our cars and heading home.11km one way. If wish can do the return paddle. Another alternative for those wanting a longer paddle on Sunday is to start at the Mihi Bridge. (add 14km)   Plan B’s - Alternative for a super windy day is Lake Hinemaiaia with its sunken forest. Alternative paddle from the Taupo town centre to Two Mile Bay, then onto Five Mile Bay. 18km return. Can also shorten this day. Plan C – De Brett Hot pools and slides.
Latest Time Off the Water	Sat 1600; Sun 1500
Distance	Sat 24km return, can do less; Sun 11km (or 22 or 25)
Minimum Ability level	The trip is aimed at all paddlers who have completed the skills course and have the confidence and fitness to paddle 10 kms or for 2 hours without a break in 15 knots.
Tide	Low  N/A	High
Weather Parameters	15 knots head wind
Communications	We will be communicating as a group on VHF Channel 16 ship to ship VHF Channel 61  for  Coast Guard
Facilities /Car Parking	Jude can accommodate seven others in two dble beds and three mattresses, plus 2 pup tents on the lawn. BYO bedding. Jude’s place now all booked. Alternatively: freedom camp at Reeds farm (long drop and tap); stay at Top Ten Holiday Park 07 378 6860 or De Brett’s 07 378 8559. Both have camp sites, cabins and motel style units.
Equipment	Usual safety and kayaking gear, including spare warm thermals, beanie. BYO breakfasts, lunches, and drinks. Pot luck dinner dish.
Emergency Exit Points	Along lake shore and river bank.
Registration	Mention what your signature dish is, and where you expect to stay e.g. De Brett’s or your own home. First in first served at Jude’s.
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