TRAVEL

Top of the trees, ground level walk, light saber duelling session – our boys loved Rotorua’s Redwoods.

SEEING THE WOOD FROM THE TREES

Kiwis have been urged to support ‘local’ wherever possible; this includes exploring New Zealand to assist the tourism industry. HELEN PERRY has been trying to do her bit (before the latest Covid-19 blip) and although she has travelled to Rotorua many times, another recent visit produced a new experience.

Leaving Auckland, I blithely told my family that in the next day or two they could find me – and my two grandsons – ‘way above the chimney tops’… a quip which was completely lost on them and perhaps, on some readers too.

I was, in fact, quoting from the Judy Garland song, Somewhere Over the Rainbow, thinking it entirely appropriate as we were booked on the Redwoods Treewalk in Rotorua. And, indeed, being between nine and 20 metres above the ground did indicate we could be above a few chimneys tops, if we could only see them.

But I digress, this day trip was part of Bay of Plenty sojourn, staying with my son-in-law’s parents where I was to leave the grandsons for a few extra days during the recent school holidays.

It started perfectly with three hours watching them splash, swim and dive at Baywave Aquatic and Leisure Centre, Mt Maunganui – a wonderful complex with tube slides, several pools and a wave function.

The following day we were off to Rotorua and a further three hours watching the boys ride the luge (not for me), and a marvellous one hour wander (me too) high amongst 118-year-old Redwoods stretching 75 metres up to the sky – what a lofty thrill that was.

I had long wanted to visit the park and do the walk which takes visitors across eco-suspended bridges and platforms designed to accentuate the natural environment.

I should mention, one look at the somewhat narrow plank suspension bridges and we were careful to adhere to instructions – no more than eight people on a bridge at any one time and no more than 20 people on a platform at any one time. Thankfully, everyone else heeded the rules and crossing each bridge was really very easy.

We also made sure to access the 20 metre level (optional) but, on this occasion, the Redwoods Altitude adventure wasn’t viable, partly because of cost and partly because I didn’t think it suitable for our younger, eight-year old grandson.

However, for those with an adventurous spirit, the option of being harnessed, ascending a further five metres and also using the zipline would undoubtedly be exhilarating. Add in some Redwoods history, local Maori legend and information about bird species, it’s a winner!

At $80 for our party of four to do the basic tree walk, with the lovely Treewalk Nightlights included, this seemed extremely fair especially as we were given three nights to return for the night walk if we didn’t wish to do it that same day.

The walk took about 45 minutes giving us plenty of time to negotiate bridges and platforms and to admire the view – up, down and around!

The boys then went around a second time before we all set off on a ground level walk.

As we wandered, by chance we came across three grown up lads practising lightsaber combat.

They kindly invited our two likely lads to have a go and carefully instructed them in three essential movements. I was so impressed they took time out for the boys and equally impressed at the youngsters show of ability.

For those bewildered by the “sport”, the lightsaber is the (fictional) signature weapon of both the Jedi and their Sith counterparts in the Stars Wars movie series and has now become something of a modern day form of fencing or sword-play – my grandsons were right into it.

By time our day in Rotorua had ended and I had departed the greater Bay of Plenty, leaving my grandsons in the capable hands or their other grandparents, I was feeling overjoyed at having some special time with them.

I enjoy a special relationship with my son-in-law’s parents – we are great friends and it was his mum and I who relished these precious personal outings with our children’s offspring.

Furthermore, after all these years of regular visits, there was nothing ho-hum about Rotorua; it still captivated me – roll on next holidays.

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TRAIL MIX – ART IN MANY FORMS

Some of the most interesting things exist down long and winding roads. With 21 studios, galleries and workshops on this year’s Franklin Arts Trail (October 24-26), visitors will view works by more than 50 artists, from painters, potters, sculptors and printmakers, to mosaic artists, weavers and much more.

“Visitors can expect more than just a little inspiration but that’s just the start of what’s on offer,” event organiser, Lynda Jane Dodd, says. “Many artists will be demonstrating their skills and techniques with some offering mini workshops. As an added bonus, visitors will have the perfect excuse to take in the gorgeous scenery and local attractions from Maraetai to the Awhitu Peninsula.” At the eastern end of the trail will be Danielle Fernandez (mosaics) and Raewyn Harper (painter), both based in Maraetai. Other stops of note in nearby Clevedon feature the work of Katie Blundell (painter, printmaker and sculptor), as well works at the popular Riverhaven Artland Sculpture Park and the intriguing Art Industry Gallery.

“The trail is also fantastic in bringing artists together, providing connections– especially important in rural areas – and sharing inspiration. In these tough times, the trail provides an avenue to promote, sell or commission work; they really enjoy it too!”

The trail (supported by the Franklin Local Board) will also help local businesses, Lynda adds.

For more information, including a full list of participating artists, visit www. franklinartstrail.co.nz.

SMALL COMMUNITY BIG ON independence

Retirement living has come a long way in the past two decades. When the homes of seniors no longer suit their needs, many will look for a new lifestyle which gives them independence combined with security and amenities at their fingertips. Here, two residents at Eastcliffe on Orakei explain why the retirement resort suits them perfectly.

ELIZABETH STEGEN – DOWN-SIZING MADE EASY

Formerly owners of two properties – their family home in Thames and a small apartment in Auckland, Alfred and Elizabeth Stegen decided that while their health was still good, and they remained active, they wanted to be closer to family in Auckland.

“We considered moving into our apartment but thought it was only a matter of time before we would need some care, especially my husband who is in his late 80s,” Elizabeth says. “On discovering Eastcliffe we decided it was ideal and even though the move required down-sizing, wonderful staff made it easy. “Now, we not only appreciate the host of amenities, including beautiful community lounges with stunning views, as well as an appealing social calendar, but we can also carry on with our regular outside activities.”

So, while Alfred still enjoys his golf, Elizabeth spends much of her time as a valued volunteer at the Dove Hospice shop, The Pah Homestead Gallery and at Holy Trinity Cathedral in nearby Parnell.

“We love our new location and as we slow, we will When Barbara Scott McGrath was diagnosed with glaucoma accompanied by a gloomy prognosis – she is likely to lose her sight in time – she decided it was time to leave her Great Barrier Island home and settle into a retirement village. “By making the move when I did – two years ago – I knew I’d have time to establish a routine and have care on hand when the inevitable happened.” Warming, from the first, to Eastcliffe’s community ambience,

definitely make greater use of the facilities here but for the moment we have the best of both worlds – our independence to lead life as we will, together with secure living and assistance on hand if

APARTMENTS AVAILABLE NOW FROM $299,000

FOR MORE INFORMATION

P: (09) 521 9015 E: receptioneastcliffe@ eastcliffe.co.nz

217 Kupe Street, Orakei, Auckland

www.eastcliffe.co.nz

BARBARA SCOTT MCGRATH

needed.” nevertheless, Barbara feared having to leave her tiny Maltese/

Chihuahua cross, George.

She needn’t have worried – when she moved into her independent apartment, George was welcomed into the Eastcliffe family and is now a favourite with everyone.

It might have been different if George had been a St Bernard but this tiny ball of fluff fits snugly into Barbara’s handbag and is always at her side, loving and perfectly behaved. What’s more, so far Barbara has maintained enough sight to enjoy bingo and water aerobics at the resort and also accompanies Elizabeth Stegen on cathedral duty at Holy Trinity once a month.

“Eastcliffe is very different from my former rural life but the outlook over green fields with sweeping sea views helped me settle in.

“Now I’m enjoying wonderful new friendships, busy lifestyle plus all the support I need going forward.”

T H E F O R C E S O F NATURE

From shore to sky, our planet has a way of showcasing the intricacies of its make-up in the most remarkable ways. Here, EastLife’s award-winning photographer, WAYNE MARTIN, explores our local district and discovers just how ingenious Mother Nature is. Her artistry is evident in almost everything we see and touch but it has taken his skill with the lens to reveal those finer details so often missed in our daily hustle and bustle. Images like these are a reminder, to slow down, look around and appreciate all of life’s creations.

FOR THE KIDS

THE GREAT OUTDOORS

THE SUSTAINABLE HOUSE HANDBOOK

If what you’re after is a sustainable home, you might get what you’re after by Byrne-ing up your house! A comprehensive guide to building affordable, eco-friendly, energy and waterefficient homes, this book reveals how, by working with our environment rather than against it, ‘going green’ can also help us save money in the long run too.

Josh Byrne: The Sustainable House Handbook | RRP $45 | Hardie Grant Books

FLY-FISHING IN NEW ZEALAND

Some may be content to stay at home online but, for many Kiwis, being on-the-line means something quite different. The perfect catch for anyone keen to learn more about this artful sport, this book (from the author of The Trout Trilogy) is more than just a ‘how to’ guide; in addition to sharing the expertise of top anglers, it features full colour photos from some of this country’s most picturesque fly-fishing locations.

Derek Grzelewski: Fly-fishing in New Zealand – What You Need to Know | RRP $39.99 | Bateman Books

WILD HORSES OF THE WORLD

Renowned for her work with New Zealand’s wild horses, Kelly Wilson takes a broader focus in her latest book. After years spent living among, and researching, wild horse populations throughout the world, Kelly presents a hauntingly beautiful portrait (in words and photos) of something many of these magnificent creatures have in common – despite living in some of the most remote regions on earth, they are endangered.

Kelly Wilson: Wild Horses of the World | RRP $60 | Random House NZ

TOUGH COUNTRY

The term ‘salt of the earth’ may as well have been coined to describe Barry Bellamy. Considered to be the inspiration behind Barry Crump’s fictitious character, Sam Cash, Barry was an agricultural contractor who fenced, scrub-cut, and bulldozed his way across the back blocks of the North Island. This book (by Barry’s son, Mike) is a riproaring story, a quintessentially Kiwi tale about the roughest edges of rural life.

Mile Bellamy: Tough Country | RRP $36.99 | HarperCollins

THE NATURE ACTIVITY BOOK

Featuring a range of experiments, this book is designed for budding botanists, in particular, but is ideal for all children keen to understand the natural world around them. Accessible and inspiring for young, enquiring minds, The Nature Activity Book is sure to prove interesting to grownups too.

Rachel Haydon and Pippa Keel (illustrator): The Nature Activity Book | RRP $35 | Te Papa Press

MY LITTLE BOOK OF BUGS

Big surprises await babies and children on the pages of this delightful little board book. Featuring photos of New Zealand bugs in Te Papa’s collection, My Little Book of Bugs is by experts in entomology and designed to teach children about some of the smallest wonders of our native environment.

Julia Kasper, Phil Sirvid & JeanClaude Stahl (photographer): My Little Book of Bugs | RRP $19.99 | Te Papa Press