This tour (part 3) is one of the 4 welcoming tours organised by Shama and EarthDiverse for people who want to explore more about Waikato's public, cultural and natural spaces and community services in Hamilton. It is also a chance for newcomers to connect with the Community and build lifelong friendships. "Let's Feel at Home, Settle in, and Embrace the Heartbeat of Our City".

This tour is part of Welcoming Week to show what our natural reserves has to offer for newcomers.

Background:

Pirongia mountain is composed of volcanic cones from successive eruptions about 2.5 million years ago. Prior to European arrival this area was home to a thriving Māori population and Pirongia’s forests provided the indigenous people with berries, roots, birds and other foods.

Unfortunately, early European settlers exploited the forest for its lumber and failed to value or preserve this fragile and important environment. Luckily part of the forest escaped the wholesale destruction by the early Europeans, and today this area is fully protected.

The Mangakara Walk will take us through an ancient forest with native trees and plants, as well as to the beautiful Mangakara Stream.

Accessibility: this walk is accessible to people of most ages and fitness levels, but is not suitable for wheelchairs or prams.

Length of walk: 1.5 km

Duration of walk: about 1 hour

What to Bring:

- Comfortable and sturdy walking/hiking shoes

- Backpack

- Rain jacket and hat

- Water bottle

- Lunch for after the walk at the picnic area

Friday 5 September: Welcoming Tour to Pirongia's Mangakara

9:15 am - meet at Shama parking lot, 8 Liverpool St

9:45 am - cars depart

10:15 am - arrive Mangakara Nature walk

10:30 am - Introductory talk, handouts, depart for walk

11:45 am - gather at picnic area for lunch

12:30 pm - cars depart to Hamilton

Click on "Register" now to join us or contact Suu of Shama at 0226847284 for more information