Hawke’s Bay Regional Council and the Hawke’s Bay Department of Conservation office are bringing back the popular summer walk and talk series, starting with a wander around Ahuriri estuary at the end of this month. The first walk on Sunday 31 January will take a fresh look at Ahuriri estuary in the heart of Napier. “We all drive through this area, but Ahuriri Estuary is really the heartbeat of Napier with the tides coming and going. By taking time to wander around you can learn about its unique history and enjoy its special environment for birds, fish, plants and people,” said Barbara Curtis, DOC’s community officer. The walk and talks were held a couple of years ago and were popular with people who found new places to visit or learnt more about their favourite spots. “The Walk and Talks are a great way of rediscovering our beautiful natural Hawke’s Bay heritage, and learn what work DOC and the Regional Council are doing to protect and enhance these places for you all to enjoy,” said Anita Murrell, Community Engagement Coordinator for Hawke’s Bay Regional Council. There is one event a month until May in this summer walk and talk series, and walks range from 20 minutes to 2 hours. These events are free and although no buses are being provided this year, DOC will coordinate carpooling where possible (people registering can advise DOC of spare seats or the need for transport). An evening visit to Ball’s Clearing on 10 February will be an intriguing outing to spot the local long-tailed bat population heading out for their evening meals; Department of Conservation staff will provide bat detectors to help people spot these elusive creatures. Ball’s Clearing is about 1 hours drive inland from Napier past Patoka. In March, a walkabout of Waitangi Wetland south of Napier coincides with Seaweek and explores another important estuary that many people drive past. In April, a visit to the Panpac kiwi crèche at Lake Opouahi and then onto the Boundary Stream mainland island (near Tutira) will provide an insider’s view of these valuable natural areas. Bring a picnic lunch to the last event in May, a Mother’s Day Picnic by Lake Waikapiro at Tutira Country Park, and ‘find out what the locals are up to’ in this conservation and superb natural area. People need to register for a walk with the Department of Conservation phone 06 824 3111 or visit them at their historic Marine Parade office. |