TOSSI

Lyn Hamilton-Hunter www.tossi.org.nz

People in the park

Just recently, I was in a meeting, surrounded by lots of hardworking staff and volunteers at Tawharanui, and our senior ranger stated with some passion, “the park is for people”, as are all Auckland regional parks. They are an outdoor resource for everyone to enjoy for free. This resource means different things to different people, this is especially evident in the summer months, as I found out by manning the TOSSI information trailer on a few occasions.

TOSSI volunteers have been out every weekend over the summer (storms excluded) to share with the public the joys of a visit to Tawharanui. The trailer is an education resource for people. It depicts the various habitats on Tawharanui and what wildlife you can expect to see, from sea birds, shorebirds, wetland birds and bush birds, reptiles and bugs. It’s fascinating for children and adults alike. So even if you only hang out on the beach, there’s still wildlife to appreciate! If you do stop for a chat, you will be amazed at what’s out there. So, the people: those that get there early with chilly bins on wheels, gazebos, BBQs, blankets, toys, furniture and so on, and all the whanau and friends arrive, and they spend the day together enjoying the beach, surf and sun. Then there’s a family with a trolley full of a toddler, picnic and togs. There was a moment when we did have a good reminisce of days gone by, when we rocked up with only togs, towel and sandwiches, not a wheel in sight! Then the young friends in togs, ready to soak up the sun and surfers running to sit out there and catch a wave. All these peeps are only there for a day at the beach. Generally, these are the groups that passed us by. Aside from the odd person who thought we were a coffee cart!

Some visitors stopped to chat, while others headed straight for the beach.

So, who did we chat with? Those going for a walk, those going to spot some native wildlife in the ecology bush and those with kids that really wanted to check out the predator stand. Who can resist a life size stoat! Where were they from? Many from the Auckland region, some regulars to Tawharanui, some first timers, some from other parts of NZ on holiday and quite an interesting mix of overseas visiting grandparents – Russian, South African, Chinese, Korean, English, German and French, to name a few.

So, the park attracts a diversity of people, but the people need a diverse ecosystem, so let’s also appreciate the incredible biodiversity of our parks as they are essential for long term human wellbeing.

If you wish to contribute to the efforts of TOSSI in any way please get in touch with me at news@tossi.org,nz and next summer please stop for chat!

Warkworth Lions Club Presents The Annual Take A Kid Fishing Day

Sunday, 26th March 2023

10am to 1pm

For kids 5 - 12 years old. Kids must be accompanied by an adult. From Sandspit Wharf, Warkworth. Limited numbers.

Registrations are compulsory and close Thursday 23rd March 2023 at 5 pm. NO LATE ENTRIES will be accepted.

Registration forms available from Monday 27th February 2023 at takeakid shingwarkworth@gmail.com and Hunting & Fishing, Warkworth.

Rules and information on Registration forms. Alternative weather date is the 9th April 2023.

Prizes & Sausage Sizzles!

Thanks for the main sponsors