Bethells Beach Sand dunes - sand, mud and yet more sand......

I followed an established track down to a clearly illustrated picture sign which gave details of the walk I was about to undertake.  At this point I had a choice – to take the slightly shorter route up over the sand dunes or to walk alongside the stream leading to the lake. I choose the latter.  Passing through a pedestrian gateway I made my way along a grassed verge until the sand dunes appeared as short distance later, dominating the landscape.  Huge black volcanic sands glisten in the sunlight above the stream.  I carried along keeping to the right hand side of the stream and negotiating the soft sand underneath my feet.  In some sections it was obvious that the path had been flattened and you had to make your own pathway.  Sometimes it was easier to simply wade through the shallow waters of the steam than to try to tackle the steep edges of the sand dune that could easily turn your ankle.

I soon figured out as I came across the orange markers of the Hilary Trail that I would have to cross over the stream at some point.  In some areas the stream is quite fast flowing and deep enough to soak you half way up your leg.  In many others it is passable with a long stride or jump or being prepared to get your boots wet. 

Across on the other side I came to a grassy path and as I turned the corner the lake appeared in all its glory.  Hidden away behind the dunes and surrounded by dense native bush it is quite a sight.  Just past this point is a jetty, slightly broken in parts but a good place to take a photograph.  The track around the lake takes around two hours and I chose to walk it clockwise.  Just after the start of the walk is a steep section to the highest point – not exactly over strenuous but it is quite slippery in the mud after a period of rain.  There is bush all around including prickly Manuka trees. The lake is nearly always visible from the pathway.  At the far end of the lake, around half way round I heard the sound of running water and soon realised I was at the lakes source.  Emerging out of the bush I came into a clearing with a small two tier waterfall descending into a water hole.  A sign here explains the Maori legacy and how small water holes such as this one were used by Maori to teach youngsters how to fish.  It is a pretty peaceful spot with nothing but bush all around.  I can imagine in the summer months it would be tempting to dip your feet in the water.  I continued my walk around the other side of the lake, in spots it was very muddy and difficult to negotiate.  After a while the bush clears and you find yourself on private land with signs stating to stick to the path.  The sand dunes again rear up in front of you welcoming you back to the very start.  It was at this point I noticed a sign pointing to a portaloo perched high up on the top of the sand dune, surreal. 

I continued the final part of the walk sliding down the sand dunes and wading back through the stream.  A great opportunity to wash the mud from my boots.  Be careful at the gate to take the correct pathway to the left as the right side is a private driveway.

Top tip:  take a boogie board and surf down the dunes, great fun.