25 February 2008

Sensory treats on offer for nature walk participants prove popular!

There were some sensory treats (and assaults) on offer to participants enjoying the Department of Conservation’s nature walks around Donnelly’s loop in the eastern Tararuas over the past two weekends.

Highlights of the walks, part of a summer programme of events, included tasting kawakawa (pepper tree), smelling the local black beetle (which secrete a pungent odour if disturbed) and viewing a wild orchid, rare mistletoe, fungi and the stunning bluebell flower.

Around 40 people from as far away as Dannevirke participated in the guided walks, hosted by Chris Peterson on the nature walks. Among them was spritely 84-year-old Lorna Young who was taken aback to win the DOC book Wild orchids of the lower North Island as a spot prize

Recently returned Masterton local Eleanor Harper didn’t know what to expect but learnt a lot about her area.

“I’m not familiar with New Zealand flora so wanted to immerse myself because I’ve been away for 35 years. It’s very beautiful” Ms Harper said.

Tony Morris was invited to join his friends on the trip down from Dannevirke. The five people took Tony’s campervan down for an afternoon adventure in the Tararua Forest Park.

“My neighbours invited me on Saturday night so my wife and I took the opportunity to learn some interesting facts from Chris. And it was brilliant” Mr Morris said.

Showing people what’s in their backyard and getting them out exploring was the plan of DOC community relations programme manager Amanda Cosgrove.

“I decided to organise a small summer programme through December-March to encourage people outside and show how valuable our area is in conservation. The feedback has been great and I’ll look to repeat the activities and possibly add more next summer.

“Our next events are more hands-on with planting and weeding for Seaweek from 1 to 8 March. Hopefully the weather will continue to cooperate for these days next week.”

For more details about events being held in Wairarapa check out: http://www.doc.govt.nz/getting-involved/in-your-community/events/

ENDS

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