5 July 2005

Fun, adventure and learning at Karori Wildlife Sanctuary these school holidays

Head into the wilderness these school holidays and follow an Orienteering Mystery Trail, or pick up an Explorer Pack and find out about Wellington’s fascinating history of gold mining and dam building.

Located only minutes from downtown Wellington, Karori Wildlife Sanctuary is a unique conservation attraction where you can step back in time, experience a slice of New Zealand’s natural heritage and enjoy the peaceful scenic surroundings. Numerous rare and endangered species have been released inside, such as the little spotted kiwi, saddleback, kaka and hihi. Other attractions include a scenic boat ride on the lower lake, two unique historic dams, historical buildings, Morning Star goldmine, bird feeding stations, bird cameras and much more.

Over the School Holidays kids can go on the new Orienteering Mystery Trail where they will have a fun adventure, be challenged and learn at the same time. Pick up an orienteering trail map from the Sanctuary Visitor Centre, hunt for clues to answer the questions and then submit your entry to the Sanctuary to go in the draw to win fantastic prizes. The cost is just $1 in addition to the normal entry fee.

Explorer Packs are also available. Kids will have fun discovering all sorts of things as they walk along the Sanctuary’s beautiful pathways and tracks. Visit a historic goldmine and look for the gentle shy cave weta. Each pack contains a trail brochure with fun questions and activities, stickers, pencil, postcard and a sweet.

Explorer Packs are suitable for children of all ages with or without parent’s help – however, please remember children under 14 years of age need adult supervision in the Sanctuary. Packs cost just $2 in addition to the normal entry fee and will take about two hours to complete.

The Sanctuary is situated at the end of Waiapu Road, Karori, Wellington (first turn left at exit of Karori Tunnel) and is open daily from 10am to 4pm (or 5pm at the weekends). Last entry one hour before closing time. Entry fees: $8 adult, $4 child, $20 family (2 adults, 3 children), no charge for Sanctuary members or pre-schoolers. For further information phone 04 920 9213 or check out the website http://www.sanctuary.org.nz.

ENDS

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