Summer fun in the rainforest

There's a rainforest in Wellington, and it's much closer than you'd expect. Kaitoke Regional Park, near Upper Hutt, is the venue for three fun family events as part of Greater Wellington's summer Regional Outdoors Programme.

"The park showcases some of the best temperate rainforest in the lower North Island," says Kaitoke Regional Park Ranger Steve Edwards. "We're very lucky to have such a beauty, right in our backyard."

Steve says the forest is not only home to an incredibly diverse range of plants and animals - it also acts as a natural filter for Wellington's drinking water. "These events are a great opportunity for the public to learn more about how the rainforest works and why it's important for our region's biodiversity and our water supply."

The Beginners' Guide to the Rainforest 1 and 2, which take place on 3 January and 10 January (respectively) are easy guided walks through the native bush, introducing participants to the wonders of the rainforest.

On 5 January, the Nature Discovery Treasure Hunt gives families clues that they can use to find treasure that's hidden in the forest.

And on 13 January, the Ridge Track Adventure will provide a moderately demanding nine kilometre walk through regenerating bush and mature beech forest, giving panoramic views of the Hutt Valley and the Tararuas.

Beginners Guide to the Rainforest 1
When: Thurs 3 Jan, 7 - 8.30pm
Where: Follow SH2 and turn of at Waterworks Road 12km north of Upper Hutt. Drive past campground to meet at the Pakuratahi Forks carpark.
Bookings essential. This event is free.

Beginners Guide to the Rainforest 2
When: Thurs 10 Jan, 7 - 8.30pm
Where: Follow SH2 and turn of at Waterworks Road 12km north of Upper Hutt. Drive past campground to meet at the Pakuratahi Forks carpark.
Bookings essential. This event is free.

Nature Discovery Treasure Hunt
When: Sat 5 Jan, 11am - 12.30pm
Where: Follow SH2 and turn of at Waterworks Road 12km north of Upper Hutt. Drive past campground to meet at the Pakuratahi Forks carpark.
No bookings required, just turn up. This event is free.

Ridge Track Adventure
When: Sun 13 Jan, 10am - 3pm
Where: Turn off at SH2 at Waterworks Road, 12km north of Upper Hutt. Drive to the information kiosk 50 metres inside the park entrance to meet the ranger.
Cost: $5 per person
Bookings essential.

Bookings and information: bookings@gw.govt.nz, P 04 381 7735