Family-friendly fun at Tōtara Reserve Open Day

Horizons Regional Council invites friends and whānau to come along to Tōtara Reserve for Tuia te taiao, Tuia te tangata - connecting the earth to the people, and the people to the earth, an open day event on Saturday 12 October 2024.
 

From 10:30am to 1:00pm, attendees will be able to take part in a range of free family-friendly activities centred around Horizons’ core areas of business, such as biosecurity, biodiversity and freshwater monitoring.
 
Horizons councillor Fiona Gordon says Tōtara Reserve, in the Pohangina Valley, is the only Regional Park in the Horizons Region.
 
“If you have never visited our Regional Park before, this is the perfect opportunity.
 
“Tōtara Reserve is such a special place. Whether you are visiting for the first or fiftieth time, there is always something new to discover.”
 
Cr Gordon says those coming along can expect guided bush walks, fungi and bug hunts, pest plant and animal displays, and to learn more about freshwater monitoring.
 
“There will also be a stand for Tōtara Reserve specifically, featuring information on walking trails and camping.
 
“Local iwi will be alongside sharing traditional knowledge about the meaning and value of Tōtara Reserve to tangata whenua.
 
“Community groups will also be there including Ruahine Kiwi, Ruahine Whio Protectors, Pohangina Catchment Care Group, and Awahou School.
 
“This year we have an activity card challenge – those completing it will receive a free goodie bag, and go in the draw to win two free nights camping at Tōtara Reserve this season.”
 
Alongside the displays and activities, there will be a free sausage sizzle and Mouthwater Coffee will have a cart onsite serving hot drinks.
 
Horizons will also be providing buses from Feilding, Palmerston North and Ashhurst to and from the event.
 
Due to limited seats, those wishing to secure seats on the buses will need to book via the Eventfinda page https://bit.ly/tr-openday-2024 before 5pm Tuesday 8 October.
 
There is a $5 charge per adult bus ticket. Children under 14 years old travel for free, but must be accompanied by an adult. Each adult ticket will receive a token to exchange for a hot drink on the day at the Mouthwater Coffee cart.
 
Cr Gordon reminds those interested in taking the bus to the Open Day to register now for a seat to avoid disappointment.
 
“Bus seats for the day are on a first come, first served basis and are going quick so book now at Eventfinda to secure your spot.”