Celebrating Conservation Week
Conservation Week, celebrated nationally between 13 - 20 September, gives all New Zealanders the chance to get actively involved in conservation.
Waireinga / Bridal Veil Falls will be the focus for staff from the Waikato Area Office encouraging the public to visit and enjoy the new developments and raise their awareness about the conservation values at this site.
Te Papa Atawhai staff are planning free guided walks for the public on:
- Wednesday 16 1pm – 3pm
- Thursday 17 1pm – 3pm
- Friday 18 1pm – 3pm
- Saturday 19 1pm – 3pm
- Sunday 20 1pm – 3pm
More than 50,000 people visit this spectacular, 55m free fall waterfall each year. The site has unique volcanic rock formation complemented by exceptional views from several specially designed viewing platforms.
The walking track upgrade in 2008 to wheel-chair and push-chair standard, from the visitor car park to the top viewing platforms is also a feature. Three new viewing platforms were also constructed during the upgrade to allow people in wheel chairs to enjoy the spectacular views.
The well designed viewing structures at the base of the falls will be open for public to view and enjoy. Interpretation panels profiling forest and stream ecology, geology and cultural values will enhance the recreational experience for visitors.
Waireinga Scenic Reserve is the most visited scenic attraction (>50,000) on public conservation land in the Waikato Area. Unfortunately the forest condition and native animal life are in a poor state due to the effects that pest animals (rats, possums, goats, pigs) have had on this environment over time. Waikato Area staff commenced the first stage of a possum control programme late last year. By controlling possums and other pests down to low densities, we will witness an improvement in the forest condition and greater abundance of native bird species.
To register your interest contact:
Jack de Thierry
Programme Manager - Community Relations
Kaiwhakahaere- HÄpori Hononga
Department of Conservation
Waikato Area Office
Te Rapa, Hamilton
Ph: 07 850 8438
0274 385 044
jdethierry@doc.govt.nz
