New far north multi-day walk
The Department of Conservation has spent $1.3m on two new campgrounds, upgrading tracks and installing boardwalks at the tip of the North Island to create a new multi-day walk called the Te Paki Coastal Track. DOC believes the 53km three to four day track – also known as the Cape Reinga Coastal Track – will be fully completed in March 2013, has the potential to become as popular as the Abel Tasman Great Walk. DOC Kaitaia’s community relations manager Carolyn Smith said the track upgrade is the second stage of a major overhaul of Te Paki reserves, which included the now completed upgrade and rehabilitation of Cape Reinga. “It’s about changing the public’s perception of Te Paki Reserves as more than just a lighthouse at the end of a road, to a world-class destination offering a variety of activities, including multi day trips,” Smith said. “With equally stunning scenery and beaches to rival Abel Tasman, and a variety of unique places including vast dune systems, pristine wetlands, coastal forest and excellent marine life, DOC is confident the site will be a huge hit, especially as it also incorporates Cape Reinga, one of New Zealand’s most iconic sites. She believe the temperate climate is another reason the track’s popularity will increase: “It’s warmer for longer, even over the winter months, making it possible to enjoy tramping, swimming and camping for a much longer period than further south.” There are two new campsites called Twilight and Pandora, which are located, respectively, just north of Scott’s Point on the west coast and about halfway between Taputaputa and Spirit’s Bay campsites. Both are small, basic campsites with composting toilets, rain water tanks and shelters for cooking under. Seven sections of track between Spirits Bay and Te Paki Stream have been rerouted and upgraded, including a 2km section around Waitahora Lagoon. DOC also installed a 300m boardwalk over the lagoon which was previously dangerous to cross at high tide. Smith said the upgrades are part of an effort to improve economic development in the Far North by encouraging visitors to stay in the area for longer. She said the track network has been there for a long time, but with the upgrades it will allow the department to market the recreational opportunities in a different way and to provide a better visitor experience. Walkers can start the Te Paki Coastal Track at either Spirits Bay or Te Paki Stream.New bill seeks to prevent river pollution
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