Conservation Week is celebrating its 50th year.
This year, the Department of Conservation (DoC) in Taranaki will be reflecting on local groups which have saved species, restored habitats and inspired the next 50 years of protecting native taonga.
Conservation Week runs from September 14-22. This year, the theme is 'nature needs us' and the third annual Legends of Conservation adventure race will be taking place. Last year, 150 people took part in the race.
The race, based at Pukeiti Gardens, is a chance for families or school teams to race around the garden and rainforest tracks, finding checkpoints and meeting local conservation 'legends' along the way.
DoC Community Ranger Ellen Squire says the adventure race is an opportunity for the public to meet those who are on the ground carrying out real, valuable conservation work.