12.12.12 the last of a series of dates and this cache is placed so that it can be found on this special geocaching date.
Pohutukawa Tree is also called the New Zealand Christmas Tree, with its crimson flower has become an established part of the New Zealand Christmas tradition.
The Pōhutukawa (Metrosideros excelsa) is a coastal evergreen tree in the myrtle family,Myrtaceae, that produces a brilliant display of red flowers made up of a mass of stamens. Renowned for its vibrant colour and its ability to survive even perched on rocky, precarious cliffs, it has found an important place in New Zealand culture for its strength and beauty and is regarded as a chiefly tree (rākau rangatira) by Māori.
Balgownie Avenue like Bedford Avenue is lined with pohutkawa trees which are in full flower over Christmas. These two streets form part of the walkway from the mountains to the sea and at the end of Balgownie Avenue the path goes back to the river.
There are several caches hidden along this walkway which can be walked or cycled by the whole family. Starting at the information Centre you walk past Wanganui the River City, The steam train, By another means, Pied Stilt, Imlay Wharf, Royal Spoonbil, Lets go fishing and others just off the path way.
The cache is a small micro hidden within the tree. Please replace and see that it is covered. Watch out for nearby walkers and neighbours. The log strip needs to be tightly wound and place in the LID of the tube before screwing closed. You will need to take a pencil which writes better on the waterproof log strip.