Celebrate summer in Wairarapa by getting active with DOC

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Photo: Walkers enjoy the Mount Holdsworth guided walk during Conservation week 2009. Sandra Burles.

Summer means beaches, walking, riding your bike – getting out and enjoying the warmer weather.

All of the above are on offer during the Department of Conservation’s summer holiday programme which runs during February and March.

It kicks off on Sunday 14 February with a guided walk in the Tararua Forest Park with DOC ranger Chris Peterson. Starting at Kiriwhakapapa, it takes in old tram track pathways through the forest to the Mikimiki Road end.

“It’ll be a great walk for family groups wanting to explore the park,” says Chris.

On Saturday 20 February, experienced mountain bikers will participate in a strenuous ride in the Aorangi Forest Park. Starting at Te Kopi on the south coast, riders will climb to a high point of about 700m for lunch and a rest before the return descent.

DOC ranger Craig Harrison, who will lead the group, is looking forward to an adventurous day with the “reward” of spectacular views at the top.

Activities conclude during Seaweek, 7th – 14th March, with an art competition for children, a Castlepoint Schools’ day and a beach clean-up at Palliser Bay on offer.

DOC ranger Sandra Burles is looking forward to showing off some of Wairarapa’s secrets.

“This year we decided to venture into areas that people may not be familiar with to show off our public land, and have recruited guides with an interest in these awesome places to help bring them alive” says Sandra.

DOC Summer Programme of Events:

14 February 1pm Kiriwhakapapa – Mikimiki guided walk, Tararua Forest Park

Bus transport provided and walk to vehicles $5 per adult (children free!) Please contact Sandra Burles for booking (sburles@doc.govt.nz) or ring 06 377 0700

20 February 9am Aorangi mountain bike ride – experience required

Strenuous 30km ride from Te Kopi. For meeting point and details; Please contact Sandra Burles for booking (sburles@doc.govt.nz) or ring 06 377 0700

Seaweek Programme of Events:

Seaweek Children’s Art Competition – ‘Fish for the Future’ Entries close 1 March Competition details and entry forms from DOC, Wairarapa Area Office, 220 South Road, Masterton Ph 06 377 0700 On display at Aratoi 5-14 March, Greytown Library 15 March – 27 March, Pukaha Mount Bruce 29 March -12 April

10 March 10am Castlepoint An interactive learning day for participating Wairarapa schools

14 March 10am Palliser Bay Corner Creek beach clean-up – Meet at Corner Creek campground, Ocean Beach Road BBQ to follow

Visit the DOC website for more information:

www.doc.govt.nz/getting-involved/events-and-awards/regional-events/wellington/wairarapa-summer-events-programme-2010/

ENDS

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