On a rare, drizzly day in April a large group of Motueka 50+ Walkers drove up the Baton Valley for a variety of walks.
After carpooling at the Recreation Centre, they enjoyed the gorgeous autumn colours driving up the Motueka Valley to the Woodstock bridge.
Then, with glimpses of the Baton River, they headed to the long-settled Baton Run Farm. Gathering at Lublow’s Leap shop on the Great Taste Trail, they enjoyed coffee and home-made muffins, while reading the storyboards which gave early settler and mining history - brought to life with the old Lanz Bulldog tractor standing in the venue.
Richard Lublow, a 3rd generation farmer born on the Baton Run, entertained the group with his iconic poetry, before they set off in three groups.
The fitter walkers headed steadily up a ridge following a 4WD track, to take in the views of Tasman Bay, from an approx. elevation of 750m.
The second group completed a farm circuit through undulating terrain, with great outlooks down the valleys. They admired the creativity shown in the accommodation huts, where the remote, off-grid quirkiness had tempted some to book for a romantic weekend away.
The third group completed a shorter, flatter route through Baton Run grassy paddocks, before crossing a historic wooden bridge to the Baton House Trust property. A circuit of mixed terrain led them to visit the Baton House, a replica of the hotel which was built there in the 1860s ‘gold rush’.
Manager Ange Palmer offered an interesting tour and a sheltered deck, where packed lunches were consumed out of the rain.
The group sends their heartfelt thanks to Fiona and Richard Lublow and Ange Palmer, for sharing their special places.
All of these walks are on private property so permission must be obtained in advance. Alternatively, Lublow’s Leap shop is well worth a visit when cycling The Great Taste Trail.
Anyone interested in joining the Motueka 50+ Walking Group can contact secretary50pluswalkers@gmail.com
