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Conservation Week, which runs from tomorrow till November 9, will highlight “treasures on the back doorstep”.
DOC will encourage Kiwis to get out and enjoy local campsites, scenic reserves, wetlands, forests and walking tracks and many other natural attractions.
DOC partnership ranger at Rotorua Caraline Abbott says people will be encouraged to visit places near them which they haven’t visited for a while, or perhaps never dreamt existed.
For example, key events in our area include a geocaching at Okere Falls, Ngongotaha Nature Loop and Kaharoa Kokako Track. This modern day version of hide and seek, uses GPS-enabled devices to find containers known as caches, which have a logbook to record your visit.
“All you need is a smart phone to download a free geocaching app.”
Rotorua Residents are also being asked to complete the Jubilee Track on Mount Ngongotaha from the bottom to the Mountain Road intersection, a promotion with prizes provided, she says.
Other campaign events include a walk on the Tarawera Trail led by the Rotorua Tramping and Skiing Club, kiwi aversion training for dogs, and conservation themed pub quizzes.
“Nationwide, activities will showcase special species, feature people and groups involved with a local treasure, provide historical and cultural information and provide details of how you can assist conservation in your own back yard.”
The New Zealand Scout Association originally kicked off Conservation Week for New Zealand in 1969. DoC took it over in 1987 and has since worked with many community groups, businesses, councils and agencies to expand activities.
Well known artists including Friedensreich Hundertwasser and Don Binney have contributed work for previous campaigns.
For what is going on in your area, visit doc.govt.nz – Conservation Week 2014.
