Waimangu and Lake Rotomahana 

A volcanic and geothermal experience.

This field trip will begin with a bus ride to Waimangu Volcanic Valley - the world's youngest geothermal system which was formed following the 1886 eruption of Mt Tarawera. The field trip will be led by people experienced in the botany, pest plant, and pest animal management, and geothermal features of the site. Waimangu supports examples of most of the vascular flora unique to geothermal sites of the Central North Island, including significant populations of “Threatened” and "At Risk" plant species (e.g. Dicranopteris linearis, Christella, Nephrolepis flexuosa, and geothermal kanuka). The time of year for the field visit may be suitable to see rare orchids if we are lucky.  

Management issues relating to this site include pest animals (e.g. wallabies and deer) and pest plants. The valley walk will include several outstanding geothermal features, including Frying Pan Lake, Echo Crater, Inferno Crater, geothermal terraces, hot springs, and geysers.  

The walk will be followed by a boat trip on Lake Rotomahana.  This will be a good opportunity to see many of the water birds of the Central North Island, including weweia/New Zealand dabchick. Mt Tarawera, which can be viewed from the valley, will be discussed, including the wilding pine control operations and the regenerating vegetation following the 1886 eruption.  

Timings: 

7.45am pickup at i-Site in CBD,  8.05am Pickup at Toi Ohomai and 8.45am arrival at Waimangu Volcanic Valley

The trip will start with the boat trip followed by a guided walk led by Chris Bycroft and Sarah Beadel (Wildlands). Bring a packed lunch or speak to the team at the conference registration desk about ordering one in advance. 

Return transport departs at 1.00pm with drop off at Toi Ohomai by 1.25pm (if required), drop off at i-Site (CBD) by 1.45pm and Rotorua airport drop off around 2.00pm.

Cost: $123 per person (GST inclusive)

Kai: Lunch is not included in this field trip booking. A cafe is at the entrance but bringing a packed lunch option may be preferred for timing purposes. The pre-trip communication sent out closer the offering may advise of additional options along with the detailed timeline.

Field Trip Leaders: Sarah Beadel & Chris Bycroft

Lake Ōkataina and Tauranganui:

A Journey through Ngāti Tarāwhai Ancestral Lands

Join us for a captivating field trip to Lake Ōkataina, where we’ll explore the deep connections between the Te Arawa iwi Ngāti Tarāwhai and their ancestral lands at Tauranganui. This trip offers a unique opportunity to learn about the remarkable story of how Ngāti Tarāwhai reclaimed ownership of their land after 135 years and how they continue to manage and protect their ngahere (forest).

Guided by Ngāti Tarāwhai, you’ll visit exclusion plots that show the impact of pests on the ngahere, providing a firsthand look at the damage caused by wallabies and other introduced species. We’ll delve into the iwi’s pest management strategies and discover how mātauranga Māori principles are being integrated into contemporary conservation practices.

During our visit, we’ll also explore the ecological challenges facing Lake Ōkataina, including the spread of invasive Gold clams, the impact of introduced trout, and the threat of invasive weeds. The day will be enriched by the sharing of traditional knowledge and practices that have sustained these lands and waters for generations.

Our journey will include a relaxing lunch at the picturesque Lake Ōkataina Lodge, offering time to reflect on the day’s learnings and enjoy the serene beauty of the lake.

Timings: 

Depart from Toi Ohomai at 8.45am and the i-SITE at 9am on Friday, 29 November. 

Return departure will be at 1.30pm for an airport drop at 2pm, i-Site drop at 2.25pm and Toi Ohomai (if required) drop at 2.45pm. 

Cost: $118 per person (GST inclusive)

Kai: This field trip includes casual outdoor lunch of woodfired pizzas.

Field Trip Leaders: Kathryn Ross & Craig Morley

         

Photo (c) Sarah Wharekura