We will climb the Puriri Track through kānuka and hard beech to the Main Ridge Track.  We’ll then head south as far as the junction with Rata Ridge Track, passing black beech, kamahi, and pockets of scrub, before returning the same way (c. 2 hours return if not botanising).  The forest is reasonably diverse for flowering plants and ferns.  Epiphytic orchids are common, including a few good patches of Drymoanthus.  Other species of conservation interest include the fern Lindsaea linearis and the sedge Morelotia affinis.  The clay surface makes for interesting plants in places, but can be slippery when wet.

Meet: 9.30 am at the entrance to the Puriri Track, about 100 m north-west of the junction of Puriri Street with Wainuiomata Road.  Drivers should park on Puriri Street, taking care not to create a traffic hazard for the residents.  Stop 9901 for Bus 170 is nearby for those taking public transport.

Co-Leaders: Lara Shepherd, email lara.shepherd@tepapa.govt.nz, phone 027 363 5854; and Leon Perrie, email leon.perrie@ tepapa.govt.nz, phone 027 419 1378.