Archived content: This media release was accurate on the date of publication.
Date: 29 September 2017
“Kids are encouraged to go on epic guided adventures and earn rewards, turning them into guardians of the land and sea,” says DOC Community Ranger Rachael Mora.
Toyota Kiwi Guardians is an activity-based programme that’s run in partnership with the Department of Conservation and Toyota New Zealand, to help connect kiwi kids with nature.
Go kiwi hunting at Catchpool Valley, have fun on the farm at Whareroa, go mad for mud snails at Pauatahanui Wildlife Reserve and snorkel in the rock pools at Taputeranga Marine Reserve – and that’s just to start.
The latest launch means there are now fourteen Kiwi Guardian adventure sites in the Wellington region, including Matiu Somes island, Kaitoke Regional Park and the Botanic Gardens.
The adventure sites are close to urban areas, often on public transport routes, allowing parents to get their tamariki out into nature and have them participate in conservation at little or no cost.
“Toyota Kiwi Guardians offers fresh air, adventure and education at a fraction of the cost of traditional school holiday activities,” Rachael Mora says.
Head to www.kiwiguardians.co.nz and download a free adventure map, before hitting the great outdoors and following the self-guided trail to experience some natural highlights of the site.
Once they have completed an adventure, kids can visit the website and claim a medal online, which will be posted at no cost.
“We’re involving the next generation in conservation from an early age. We want kids to develop connections with conservation land – so they feel part of it and want to care for it in the future,” says Rachael.
“Kids are leading more sedentary lives than ever. Incentives like Toyota Kiwi Guardians get them out into nature and help build good habits for active lives.”