A permanent orientation course has been launched in the Redwoods and Orienteering Bay of Plenty's Darren Ashmore said it started with a bang.
"The event [yesterday] saw about 80 people of varying ages, young and old, with different fitness levels turn up to take part in trying out the new course."
Mr Ashmore said the new track has opened in time for the summer nav series, a series of weekly orienteering events set in both Tauranga and Rotorua, and was suitable for the whole family.
"Orienteering is a challenging outdoor adventure sport that exercises both the mind and body. The aim is to navigate (on foot or mountain bike) between control points marked on a unique, highly detailed orienteering map while deciding the best route to complete the course in the quickest time.
"Orienteering can either be a highly competitive individual sport or, when family or friends do a course together, a totally recreational activity. It is suitable for all ages, fitness and experience levels. No special equipment is needed to start with, just comfortable outdoor clothing and footwear. Compasses are not necessary for beginners and most people soon master the map reading skills," he said.
