Mt Watkin/Hikaroroa is the prominent rounded peak inland from Waikouaiti and eight of us were keen to explore this little visited area. We took the easy way up by driving on the gravel road and parked about 200m below the summit of Mt Watkin/Hikaroroa. We could see the trig on the top of Mt Watkin/Hikaroroa and with no marked track to the top we decided the easiest way was to cross the farm paddock and go through the gate into the reserve.
Once through the gate it was onto the reserve land and the real fun began. Firstly we negotiated our way around the head high tussock and gorse to the base of the columnar basalt rock field. The slopes of Mt Watkin/Hikaroroa are the same rock as the Organ Pipes with large open sections of jumbled columnar basalt. The rocky scramble up the basalt rock field tested our balancing skills as the overnight rain had made the basalt rocks slippery and care was needed to ensure that each foot was securely placed before moving on. Most of us found it easier to use four points of contact by utilizing both hands and feet for the climb up the basalt rocks.
The height to be gained through the basalt rock fields was only a hundred or so metres but for some of us it was slow going, especially when the spear grass and bush lawyer interspersed amongst the basalt rocks. The sharp points of the spear grass drew blood from almost everyone in the group but the reward of the great 360 degree views from the top were worth the effort.
We reached the top in good time and stopped for a snack and drink while we took in the views. With clear views in all directions, we couldn't decide which way was the best direction to be looking. We could see rain clouds towards the Silver Peaks but it looked clear towards Waikouaiti and the coast.
This was the first time on top of Mt Watkin/Hikaroroa for most of us and it was surprising how far we could see after such a short climb. Despite the odd rain drop, the sun was trying to shine on us and we were reluctant to leave. Not wanting to go down the way we had come up, we opted for a 'round trip' and headed down the opposite side of Mt Watkin/Hikaroroa which was easier to travel as the columnar basalt rocks were hidden under tussock, spear grass and flax meaning we had something to hang onto as we stumbled down the mountain, even if our hand holds were a little prickly at times. .
Reaching the road and cars only a few hours after leaving them, this was one of the shorter day trips but it was still worth coming as everyone agreed the views were stunning.
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