13 ladies from WINGS and one man, enjoyed a private tour and talk by the Doc Ranger, Jono, on Thursday 21sth March. We all enjoyed the short boat-ride across from Onerahi wharf, ably skippered by Emma. After a short introduction about life on the island, conservation projects and the island’s history, we set off on a walk and exploration. The sun shone and the views were beautiful. We visited a ‘Wetta’ hotel (like a bird-box but for Wettas), the old cement workings and the visitors centre where we had a rest and lunch break. A few relaxed while the more fit and able climbed the cliffs or rambled along the seashore. All back on board for the slightly choppy return crossing at 1.30 p.m. during
It was a lovely dry sunny day. There were 15 of us from WINGS who went on a mini bus trip to Matakana. First we visited the Saturday Markets. The Farmers Market has lots of different food stalls. Most of the group bought our lunch there. We ate our snack food under the shade in the Market area, on wooden benches. We heard the live music of a young woman singer, who sang with her band, in the Market place. We boarded the mini bus again and went to Matakana Country Park. In the Park area are several buildings and different attractions these included, - a restaurant and bar, a separate cafe, an art gallery, a mini railway, a children's play park, an arts and crafts shop and a small church.
