November 2016: Spotlight on Taranaki | New Kiwi Guardians sites | Royal cam update No Images? Click here Spotlight on TaranakiIt was great to see the Taranaki region in the spotlight after Lonely Planet named it their number two region in the world to visit in 2017. Exploring North EgmontIn their review, Lonely Planet named the Pouakai Crossing as contender for one of the best day walks in New Zealand. The track winds across the lower slopes of Mt Taranaki. You'll discover towering cliffs, a mighty waterfall and stunning views. For a longer walk, the 2–3 day Pouakai Circuit is a popular option. Both walks start at the North Egmont roadend - just a 30 minute drive from New Plymouth. North Egmont is also a Kiwi Guardians site, so it's a great place to explore with kids. Update from LouDirector-General Lou Sanson talks about the world’s largest marine protected area in the Ross Sea region of Antarctica, and his visits to Whanganui, Whakapapa and Pureora. Read Lou's update. New Kiwi Guardians sitesNew Kiwi Guardian sites have been added in Westport, St Arnaud, Arthur's Pass and Glacier country. Kiwi Guardians is an activity programme for kids to learn about nature and earn rewards. Get outdoors this summer and discover adventures near you. Meet the new Royal cam starsThe albatross web cam at Taiaroa Head near Dunedin continues to stream live as the next breeding season begins. Moana, the last Royal cam star, fledged in September. A new adult pair have since arrived, and have begun building their nest. Their egg is expected late-November. Trees That CountIn 2017 we want to see one tree planted for every New Zealander – that’s 4.7 million trees. Trees That Count will keep a live count of the number of native trees planted across New Zealand. The project is being led by Project Crimson. Young people making a differenceWalking the talkRead their story and follow their journey @steps for change and @southward. Outward Bound adventureWe offer Outward Bound course scholarships to say thanks to the young people protecting our nature. Natalie de Burgh, a young conservation volunteer, was awarded a scholarship earlier this year. Read about her experience. EventsMahi Aroha Summer ProgrammeExplore the Central Plateau at Mahi Aroha this January. From a kite flying day to bike trips and heli-hikes, there will be plenty of opportunities to experience the stunning natural and historical treasures in the area. Bookings open mid-November. Tamatea: Art and Conservation in Dusky SoundExplore one of this country’s most precious, remote areas through the eyes of New Zealand artists. The Tamatea exhibition will be on show in Wellington until 2 December. It will open in Southland on 17 December, followed by a national tour in 2017. Photo of the monthIconic Mitre Peak is one of the most recognised (and photographed) peaks in the world. Its sheer rock walls rise 1,692 m from the water. Enjoy some of the best views of Mitre Peak from the Milford Sound Foreshore Walk. Photo by Bernard Spragg © Have your saySouth-East Marine Protection ForumThe forum is calling for submissions on 20 site proposals for possible inclusion in a network of marine protected areas located along the south-east coast of the South Island. Make a submission before 20 December 2016. |