9 trampers set off from the entrance of Marawhara Track off North Piha Road, even though the weather forecast warned heavy rain and even thunder. We crossed the creak now widened by the rain overnight and got onto Whites Track. Meandering upwards all the way climbing about 300 wooden boxes (steps), we stopped only once at the first lookout to the ocean on our left, with some photos taken, the group carried on all the way up the hill to Anawhata Road. From there, we took a turn along Rose Track to Laird Thompson Track. With a short stop at the Whites Beach lookout off Rose Track, we carried on to Te Waha Point ('Haven' by the locals). After another group photo to make those who pulled out envious we came back down to stand in shelter for a early lunch/morning tea snack and devotions. Several of us each shared something from our own life experience to reflect on the amazing grace that God immerses us in, we then headed down along Laird Thompson Track to North Piha Beach. Walking along the beach for about 5 minutes past the last cave, we veered left over the sand dune and came to the first car park to get on to the north end of North Piha Road. A short stroll took us back to the Piha Community Preschool Centre car park where we thanked each other for a pleasant and energising start of the week before we got into our own cars and went back to our afternoon plans. It was amazing that the rain was held off during our walk, we only just got our hair damp, the track was dry, so those wearing gaiters appeared over-prepared. Thanks to Carl for his preparation of a detailed map for each of us, and later provided me with group photos and a serial photos of signposts along the track. Thanks to Kevin for his assistance along the track. Thanks to each member for your enthusiasm to come to the walk. DISTANCE: 5.4km