Auckland Baptist Tramping Club HOOTON RESERVE Albany           Sun 16 Feb Predicted wet weather and some sickness, reduced numbers from the enrolled 22 people to 13. There was rain just prior to the departure but the trip was carried out without any further rain but at a cooler (pleasant) temperature. There is a walkway on both sides of Lucas Creek and we choose the northern side as it has full cover, has recently been restored, avoids conflicts with cycling and gives a better view of the creek and waterfall. Kell Park was a suitable place for a toilet stop and afternoon tea. Ted gave the devotions at this stage.  He asked questions about the key ingredients of a successful garden and pointed out the importance of the a gardener but noted the gardener's lack of ability to actually MAKE plants grow. Then compared this to 1 Corinthians 3:6-9 where Paul and Appolos can water, and tend a believer's growth, but only God can "give the increase" in our lives. After Kell Park the tramp followed the Oteha stream, initially across park land and then into bush by crossing the Albany Highway using the underpass. The path on the east side is still under repairs from extensive damage by cyclone Gabrielle and we followed the relatively poorly formed temporary track until a ford allows the stream to be crossed to join the restored track. The walk ends at Bush Road and becomes a road walk until the Albany mall where people were offered the option of a coffee at the food court or walking back to the car park.