Cruising up Karetai

Consulting several different forecasts, it looks like a perfect time this Thursday to return to the Peninsula - should be a high sitting over/close to the South Island, so not too cool and light northerly breeze forecast. We'll return to the eastern end of Smaills Beach (see location). We begin by ascending up the Karetai Track. The gradient eases as we reach Karetai Road and enjoy the gentle climb up to Highcliff Road. A short stretch on Highcliff Road before the descent down Buskin Track begins. Eventually, we swing onto Highcliff Track. The climb up Highcliff Track is the stuff of legends and occasionally tricky underfoot. All that remains is to connect again with Karetai Road and enjoy the glide back down to the cars! Although the forecast is good (at the moment) it's a good idea to have an extra windproof layer. Headlamps essential on this one, as you may need your hands free on the Highcliff Track climb. Estimated distance of 11.5-12 km and approximately 500 metres of total ascent.