16 November 2016

Summer Bat Walks in Waitakere Ranges

Bookings are now open for the popular January bat walks in the Waitakere Ranges, and Arataki Visitor Centre Manager Glenn Browne is urging families to sign up early or miss out.

“These walks have limited numbers so as not to disturb the wildlife. Last year some people didn’t try to book until after Christmas and there were no spots left.”

The walks with Auckland Council bat experts provide an interesting evening out for those who would like to know more about the Waitakere Ranges and the unique forest inhabitants that live there.

The initial part of the evening is spent learning about the interesting ecology of New Zealand’s native but reclusive long-tailed bats, and trying to spot them as dusk approaches.

After dark, visitors are taken on an easy, one-hour guided walk along a bush track to look at other nocturnal animals that inhabit the bush and stream.

The walk is within the capability of most able walkers, but Glenn cautions visitors that the second part of the evening involves track walking in the dark.

“This may not be the best walk for people who are scared of the dark or who have trouble seeing their way in the dark. People are welcome to participate in the bat information session only and opt out of the walk, but the cost will remain the same,” he says.

When: January 4, 9, 11, 16, 18, 23, 25, 30
Where: Cascade/Kauri, Waitakere Ranges Regional Park
Time: 8.15pm
Duration: 2 hours
Cost: Adults $12.50 Children (17 years and under) $6.50 Family (2 adults and 2 children) $32.00
Bookings essential: Spaces are extremely limited - Contact Auckland Council tel (09) 301 0101
Dogs: For safety reasons please do not bring your dogs on this evening. These night walks are within the Ark in the Park Sanctuary at Cascade Kauri where dogs are not allowed.

ENDS

© Scoop Media