Special week for 'treasures'

Photo / Stephen parker

Conservation Week, which runs from tomorrow until November 9, will highlight "treasures on the back doorstep".

The Department of Conservation (DoC) will be encouraging Kiwis to get out and enjoy local campsites, scenic reserves, wetlands, forests and walking tracks and many other natural attractions.

DoC's partnership ranger at Rotorua, Caraline Abbott, says people will be encouraged to visit nearby places they hadn't visited for a while or never knew existed.

One new event in her area is geocaching at Okere Falls, Ngongotaha Nature Loop and Kaharoa Kokako Track.

In this modern version of hide and seek, participants use GPS-enabled devices to find containers known as caches, which have a logbook to record their 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 Mt Ngongotaha from the bottom to the Mountain Rd intersection in a promotion with prizes.

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," Abbott said.

The New Zealand Scout Association started Conservation Week in 1969.

DoC took it over in 1987 and has worked with many community groups, businesses, councils and agencies to expand activities.