Renowned for its friendliness, and respect for the land and land owners, KTC has a sound reputation in the Wellington area.

In June 1960, Grace Burgess wanted to return to tramping after recovering from a car accident and so, advertised for trampers to get in touch with her. She contacted the local iwi and the Ngati Poneke secretary (at the time) suggested the name ‘Kaumatua’; and the club was born.

Membership is just over 130. Once members have found their feet, they are encouraged to lead trips either by themselves or with a co-leader. Trip schedules are produced 3 times a year and mailed out to members. The latest schedule can also be found on the website, along with a variety of other useful information.

For some members, tramping has led to wider environmental involvement such as pest control, track clearance or guiding in Zealandia Wildlife Sanctuary. Some help the environment in other ways, like Frances Lee who toiled to establish Trelissick Park, in the Wellington suburb of Ngaio. Many of our members have skills in navigation, river crossing and first aid and many have knowledge of our local flora and fauna which they are only too keen to share.

The Wellington region has many options within easy reach: three forest parks, five regional parks, numerous reserves, urban walkways and long stretches of coastline – The club runs five, often six, day trips each week (Tuesdays, Wednesdays (choice of 2 trips), Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays) and these vary from about 3 hrs at a more relaxed pace to over 8 hrs at a steady pace.

Overnight trips are sometimes organised too. Meetings, with speakers, are held on the first Tuesday of every month in Lower Hutt and a monthly newsletter features club news, trip reports and photos. The club website can be found here: Kaumatua Tramping Club