Skip to content

Pekapeka Wetlands ~ Regeneration in Action (Hawke) Traditional Cache

Hidden : 12/15/2010
Difficulty:
4 out of 5
Terrain:
2 out of 5

Size: Size:   micro (micro)

Join now to view geocache location details. It's free!

Watch

How Geocaching Works

Related Web Page

Please note Use of geocaching.com services is subject to the terms and conditions in our disclaimer.

Geocache Description:

This is regeneration in action. Just 12km south-west of Hastings off SH2, the Pekapeka Wetlands are slowly growing back to their natural state providing a home for all types of wildlife. The area is also of significant historical interest to local Maori with two pa sites within the location of the reserve.

Similarly, the cache itself will one day regenerate from a simple micro in to a sizable find once surrounding vegetation has become sufficiently established. Park up at the car park (S39 43.263 E176 46.078) where you will also see the main notice board.

Recent development by Hawke’s Bay Regional Council and many other community organizations has resulted in an interesting spot with plenty of walkways, information boards and picnic places. You could easily spend an hour or two, so bring a camera! Permission was gained from the council to place the cache but stealth could well be required depending upon how busy the area is during your visit.

Note:  You will need to bring a pen or pencil to sign the log and an extraction tool will be handy. A car key was used for testing but an old screwdriver bent over at the end would be perfect.

Photobucket
Pekapeka Wetlands coming back to life

Maori first settled in the area during the mid 16th century but during most of the 20th century poor management rendered the area to became a large stinky swamp. Certain parts were used for landfill, attempts were made to provide drainage and the area was not a pretty sight at all. Thankfully, in 1998 a management plan was put in action to make amends. Willow trees were poisoned, native plants re-established and the site given a general makeover.

Now a walkway system has been started so the public can witness these changes and enjoy the area. Obviously good things take time and the area can not yet be classed as a place of 'complete' natural beauty, but it's getting there. The renewed thriving bird life is one example of the evidence that even better times are soon to return to this significant area - hopefully for many generations to come.


First To Find Honours Table
Gold ~ MorganEd Silver ~ Punga and Paua? Bronze ~ Cougar Hunta
17/12/10
22/12/10
7/1/11

Additional Hints (Decrypt)

Qvq n synfu bs yvtugravat pnhfr gur ubefr gb dhvpxyl eha bhg bs gur fgnoyr?

Decryption Key

A|B|C|D|E|F|G|H|I|J|K|L|M
-------------------------
N|O|P|Q|R|S|T|U|V|W|X|Y|Z

(letter above equals below, and vice versa)