The end to Level 4 lockdown had me thinking about a handy piece of track just over the hill from home. It links Ravensbourne to Signal Hill, creating a long, lovely loop walk.
From Logan Park head south of the stadium and across the impressive new Leith Bridge. A cycling and walking track goes down the harbour, past some interesting bits of Dunedin that you don’t see from a car — moored boats, a rowing club and great views of the lower peninsula.
At Ravensbourne, keep your eyes peeled for the war memorial. Cross the railway lines and head up the hill at the Manuka St walking track sign. A steep zig-zag takes you to a still off-limits playground in a big park with a backdrop of beautiful native bush plus a harbour view.
Turn right after this, then left up Junction Rd and left again up Rimu St to the start of the track. Surprisingly quickly, this high-quality track through bush takes you to "The Plateau".
From there, you can head downhill and take the shortcut back to Logan Park or take the Telecom Track on the first right and climb to the top of Signal Hill and visit "the buddhas".
If you return down Signal Hill Rd watch for cars, as they do tend to zoom along, while you marvel at the pleasure of having some freedom back.
- Clare Fraser
