Twilight Tramping

Auckland Summer.  It’s hot and often 100% humidity.

Larry the pet goldfish finally ventures out of his bowel and into the backyard.  Unfortunately his evolutionary passage is struck short by raging sun-burn.

I exaggerate. But, summer in Auckland can get a little intense.

So when, over a beer, the subject of twilight tramping came up, I was immediately keen.

We set out 7.30pm on Friday night, arriving at Huia in the Waitekere Ranges just after sunset.

We stomped up the Tom Thumb Track towards Goat Hill in the cool evening air, entertained by the call of moreporks along the way. The 352m hill is an easy climb and rewards walkers with expansive views of Auckland city and Manakau Harbour, both day and night.

Heading back down the other side, there was more nocturnal wildlife to be seen scampering about, including a wee bushy tailed possum directly in our path. We did ponder whether we had a ethical obligation to kill him with our maglite, but were soon overcome with cuteness overload as he clambered up a tree. So,  we decided we’d instead blind him with flash photography. He didn’t seem too mind to much.

All up, it was a refreshing cool 90 minute walk, taking in stream crossings, hills, views, and a hint of intrepidness. Despite the waning gibbous moon (which allowed for some creative night time photography), and occasional glow-worms, our own light source was just a little underpowered, and I am now on a mission to find the world’s brightest head-torch, in time for our next mission.

View all photos here.

View GPL photos here.