We left Auckland just before 9.00am to travel to Ngaruawahia. The beginning of the track is not far from the main township. After final instructions from our leader, David, we set of at a steady pace and soon arrived at a small pleasant waterfall and then an old dam. From here the track branched to the right and we began a steady relentless climb to the summit on well-constructed sets of steps and stairs. To be exact there were 1349 steps to the top I know I counted them. (Only joking I read it in the pamphlet!) Climbing up and down we encountered all manner of people out for some exercise and making the most of a fine morning. On the way down we came across two people in full fire fighting regalia do a training exercise to prepare for the next Sky Tower run to the top challenge. After about an hour and 10 minutes we all arrived at the summit some of us more worse for wear than others. Great views are available from the viewing tower, out towards the coast and across the Waikato Basin and down to Ruapehu, on a clear day. After the lunch stop we all headed back down the track which proved somewhat easier and quicker for most of the group. Down at the base of the summit track we all congratulated ourselves on a mission accomplished and headed north to Taupiri for the traditional after tramp coffee and a chat. The coffee was good with great company and conversations for nearly an hour before we departed and headed back to the ‘Big Smoke.’ Another very successful day out with ABTC - a great club to belong to.