DAY 6: MENARI TO NAURO

Sunday 11 October

The trekkers rose in Menari, preparing themselves for a day that would involve steep climbs, open swamp country and some of the most tiring terrain they had encountered so far. Although everyone was carrying the familiar signs of several days on the Kokoda Track—sore legs, tender feet and general fatigue—the group remained positive and ready to move.

After breakfast, packs were secured and the trekkers departed Menari, following the track out of the village and into the surrounding forest. The morning began with a steady walk towards the base of the first major climb. This opening section allowed everyone to find their rhythm, but the heat was already beginning to build, making even the easier portions of the track feel demanding.

At the foot of the climb, the group stopped briefly to rest, drink water and prepare for the ascent. The break was short but welcome, as the track ahead rose steadily through the forest. The climb to the summit took approximately 30 minutes. It was not the longest ascent of the trek, but it was a consistent uphill effort and quickly warmed the body.

Reaching the top brought an immediate reward. Behind them, the trekkers could see Menari spread out below and surrounded by the deep green ridges and valleys of the Owen Stanley Range. Looking back over the route they had travelled offered a powerful reminder of the distance already covered. The village appeared small in the landscape, and the track they had followed seemed almost impossible to pick out among the trees and hills.

After taking in the views and catching their breath, the group continued towards Nauro Lookout. The path moved through a mixture of forest and open sections, with the humid air making the walk feel heavier. At Nauro Lookout, the trekkers were rewarded with another significant view. In the distance, they could see the village that would be their destination for the night. Knowing where they were headed provided encouragement, although the distance still to be covered meant there was plenty of work ahead.

From the lookout, the track led the group across and through swamp country. This section of the journey presented a different kind of challenge. Rather than steep slopes and rocky ground, the trekkers had to contend with softer, flatter terrain and areas where water collected beneath the vegetation. Careful foot placement remained important, even though conditions were still relatively dry at this stage of the day.

The route eventually brought them towards the Brown River and they took the  opportunity to stop beside the water which was greatly appreciated. The group took a well-earned break and enjoyed a refreshing swim. The cool water provided relief from the oppressive conditions and helped revive everyone before the next section of the track.

After the swim and rest, the trekkers continued for another 15 minutes to Amaduri Village. The short walk was manageable after the break, and the group arrived in time for morning tea. The day was hot, dry and dusty. The stop allowed everyone to refuel, refill water bottles and take a few moments to relax in the village surroundings. The hospitality and presence of the local community added another memorable element to the day.

Leaving Amaduri, the trekkers re-entered the swamp for a further 45 minutes. The track remained dry up to this point, which made the crossing easier than it might otherwise have been. Even so, the combination of heat, humidity and the flat, exposed nature of the terrain made the section tiring. There was little relief from the sun, and the group was pleased to know that camp was scheduled to arrive earlier than on many previous days.

Every break became valuable, giving the trekkers time to drink, cool down and prepare for the next stage. Despite the difficult conditions, the group continued to move well, encouraging one another and maintaining a steady pace.

Eventually, the track brought them to the base of the false peaks. Here, they stopped for another rest before beginning the next major challenge: the long ascent of the Maguli Range. From the bottom, the slopes appeared to stretch almost endlessly upwards. The climb was not simply one steep section, but a succession of rising slopes that seemed to continue around every bend.

The ascent required patience and persistence and the group had to manage its energy carefully. Trekkers settled into their own pace, taking regular drinks and pausing when necessary. The track demanded constant effort, but the knowledge that New Nauro was within reach helped keep everyone moving forward.

The slopes of the Maguli Range tested the group’s endurance, particularly after the earlier climb, swamp crossing and walk to Brown River. Legs were beginning to feel heavy, and packs seemed to grow more burdensome with every step. Still, the group made steady progress, gradually gaining height and working its way through the final sections of the range.

The trekkers finally arrived at New Nauro Village, and the early arrival came as a tremendous relief. After the heat and seemingly never-ending slopes, reaching camp at 1pm before the usual late-afternoon finish felt like a significant victory. Packs were put down, boots were removed and everyone took time to recover.

The day’s effort was clearly felt across the group, but spirits remained high. Some trekkers took advantage of the early finish to enjoy a well-deserved afternoon nap, while others washed clothes and hung them out to dry. Clean clothing, fresh water and the chance to sit quietly made the camp feel especially comfortable.

The earlier arrival also gave everyone valuable time to prepare for the next stage of the Kokoda journey. Equipment was checked, belongings were reorganised and plans for the following day were discussed. Although there was still plenty of trekking ahead, the group could look back on the day with satisfaction.

It had been a demanding but rewarding day and the group are grateful for the chance to rest before continuing their journey tomorrow.