DAY 7: NAURO TO UA ULE CREEK

Wednesday 15 July

The day began with a tough climb straight out of camp – a steep hour-long ascent to a summit with stunning views over the Maguli Ranges. It was from this vantage point that Japanese forces once reported seeing the lights of Port Moresby.  

From the summit, the group continued on a long 90-minute traverse and descent before a rest break, then pushed on for another 60 minutes to visit a series of Japanese slit trenches. A short hike down brought them to Ofi Creek, where a much-needed swim provided welcome relief from the hot, dry conditions. From there, they climbed up to the campsite for morning tea.  

After the break, they faced another demanding ascent to Irobaiwa Ridge in hot conditions– the furthest advance of the main Japanese army along the Kokoda Track. Packs were dropped here for a short side trip to a Japanese ammunition dump and additional slit trenches, before returning to the main track and descending the ridge into Irobaiwa Village for lunch.  

In the afternoon, the trekkers continued down to Ua Ule Creek for a brief stop, then followed the fast-flowing creek, crossing it a dozen or so times on the way to Ua Ule Creek campsite – 4:00 pm arrival into their final night on the track.  

There is a real sense of excitement in the group as they look ahead to Imita Ridge tomorrow and then the finish line at Owers’ Corner, where they hope to be celebrating by around 1:30 pm.