Day out to reveal rainforest's secrets

Pukeiti is offering families an opportunity to discover the magic of the rainforest over the holiday weekend.

An Explorer Club children's fun day on Sunday (5 February) will feature a guided rainforest walk suitable for children aged eight and over, accompanied by parents/caregivers.

The three-hour-plus walk, led by Pukeiti Manager Andrew Brooker, will take in forest giants hundreds of years old, as well as the "paint mines" (pits where minerals were extracted for paint manufacture) and tram lines from pioneer days.

The walk is rated moderate to hard, and starts at 10.30am from the Gatehouse. Participants should bring a picnic, good walking boots, drinks and sunblock.

"Pukeiti has a fascinating history and the walk will offer a unique insight into the history of the property as well as the rainforest environment," says the Taranaki Regional Council's Regional Gardens Manager, Greg Rine. "Come and join us."

Sunday's event is part of the New Plymouth District Council Summer Guided Walks Programme.

Pukeiti, Tupare and Hollard Gardens are heritage properties owned and managed by the Taranaki Regional Council on behalf of the people of the region. All three properties are open daily and entry is free.