Mt Tutamoe: A Muddy Climb and a Burrito at the Top

The Mount Tutamoe Track climbs through forestry roads and Kaihu Forest to the summit of Mount Tutamoe, near Dargaville. DOC suggests allowing around four hours for the return walk, with panoramic views across Northland from the top. 

It was wet, muddy and steep in places, but that was part of the fun. I really enjoyed the climb, especially once we left the wider forestry roads behind and headed further into the bush.

The final section up to the summit certainly made us work for it. By the time we reached the trig, I was more than ready to sit down, take in the view and unpack lunch.

A Mexi Rice burrito at the top

For this walk, I decided to prepare my Vince Mexi Rice before leaving home.

I added the boiling water, and then packed it into an insulated lunch bag while it was still warm. That meant there was no stove, cooking gear or waiting around once we reached the summit. I just opened the bag, spooned the Mexi Rice into a wrap and lunch was ready.

I had packed enough wraps to share, and one meal was plenty for my friend and me. After a wet and muddy climb, a warm, smoky Mexi Rice burrito tasted extremely good. Summit food always seems to have its own altitude-powered seasoning.

An easy lunch idea for shorter walks

Preparing the meal before leaving worked much better than I expected. It stayed warm in the insulated bag and made a really easy option for a half-day walk.

For walks where you would rather not carry cooking equipment, this is a handy way to take something more substantial than snack food:

1. Prepare your instant meal before leaving home.
   
2. Pack it securely in an insulated container or lunch bag.
3. Take a wrap and turn it into a warm trailside burrito.

Just make sure you eat it within a safe timeframe and keep it properly insulated until lunch.

Would I walk Mt Tutamoe again?

Definitely.

It was challenging enough to feel rewarding, without taking up the entire day. There was mud, a good climb, beautiful Northland bush and a wide summit view waiting at the top.

And, perhaps most importantly, there was a Mexi Rice burrito in my backpack. 🌯🥾