Grade 1 (dual usage); Built June-July 2010 by Red McHale and the Dept of Corrections work crews. Bridges sponsored by Red Stag Timber (thanks Paul Laing).
This is a new track from the water tank at the end of Mad if you Don't running alongside the stream to the park under the bridge at Larch and Hill. Nothing technical, just tranquill and relaxing...
Runs parallel to Ball & Chain which is on other side of the stream.
Puarenga - Flowers of Sulphur...refers to sulphur particles floating on the surface, sometimes joining together, resembling petals of flowers, hence the name...
from The History and Placenames of Rotorua by the late, great Don Stafford (thanks to Kiri Jarden at RDC for the head's-up).
Great link track in a picturesque part of our forest, Puarenga features bench seats along the trail for time-out.
A beautiful traditional Maori carving stands as a guardian over the trail about 1/2-way through.
But please get the word out: it is dual usage, 2-way and expect to see runners and walkers (and families).
The perfect place to cruise and stop for a bite to eat, especially on a hot Summer's day.
Photo: click to enlarge.
1) The bridge at Hill and Larch with the entrance/exit steps. To the left there is a trail to roll in or climb out, as well.
2) The Maori carving stands proud.
3) The exit/entrance at the water tank with the exit to Mad if you don't on the left - Red and the guys also made time to tidy that up to merge with Puarenga and add a fast little berm out of the steep drop from Mad...Nice! Take care and NO skidding!!
