Hopefully the photos tell the story…
It is much more pleasant to have something positive to report. Too often, these blogs appear overly critical, but readers need to realise we are only reflecting direct feedback from tourist inmates. Previously, TRM’s blogs often had to be less than complimentary about the erosion and ruts on the Tongariro River Trail, which climbs high above the river to provide wide scenic views downriver oversuch Lake Taupo. The deep scouring and rutting were challenging hazards for bikes negotiating the downhill twists and turns, particularly in this new era of e-bikes. TRM was not the only motel treating injured guests.
So it was good to receive such good vibes about the improvements to the trail where it zig-zags on the northern side of the SH1 road bridge. The improved drainage and re-metalling should ensure the trail will survive the severe braking of mountain bikes much longer.
At long last the “authorities” have treated the erosion seriously and excavated deep boxed drains along the edge to make more certain the drainage is effective in heavy rain without washing away all the gravel surface. Water is always the biggest enemy of these bike trails and an effective drainage system has to be included in the design specifications.
In other locations on the Tongariro River Trail, i.e. on the rise above the Never Fail Pool, the drainage excavations and improvements were completed by keen local residents. But this climb up above the road bridge was much more involved. The photos should also illustrate the new shrubs also to enhance this busy section of the trail.
We have thanked the “authorities” as we are never quite sure who we are dealing with. The trail signage confirms it is managed by DOC (Department of Conservation), although historically the original trail was developed and maintained by DoC (Department of Corrections), on land that was vested in either the Government as (aka Queen’s Chain) recreation Reserve along the river, or TDC (Taupo District Council). But now everything to do with land tenure has changed so we had better thank the Treaty Partners too – just in case – although we understand they did not sign it and may know nothing about it (?). It is better to be on the safe side as nothing is simple in Turangi.
Other improvements include the new safety rails and removal of wilding pines and other nasties.
The northern 3.7 km circuit was easily covered in about one hour of walking time, after overnight rain, plus about 15-20 minutes for photos while trying to spot giant trout and anxiously waiting for the angler below to net his trophy trout in the Island Pool.
This northern loop of the Tongariro River Trail has received much more traffic since the trail was improved. Tourists (& dogs) have always loved the views along the riverside walking track.
On a beautiful fine Friday morning at the end of school holidays, between 10 and 11am, we counted 10 walkers, 5 dogs, 2 bikers, 1 jogger and only 2 anglers.
