A park and grab traditional cache just off the coastal highway. Please note and respect the attributes set for this cache. Although the cache is on a publicly accessible road, the neighbours appear to be very sensitive to nocturnal activities, so please restrict visits to daylight hours.
This cache is located at the entrance to Hoddy Estuary Park.
In 2003, the 4.9 hectare block which adjoins the Waimea Estuary on the Appleby Coast looked set to be developed for housing, following the closure of the Appleby Research Orchard. However, a group of private individuals led by Tasman resident Peter Owen decided to form a charitable trust – the Hoddy Estuary Park Trust – to preserve the area as a public reserve.
Many individuals and organisations have contributed money, time, labour and materials to the project over the years. This has included a significant monetary donation by local orchardists the Hoddy family, following the passing of Peter Hoddy, a highly respected orchardist and innovator who grew up within sight of the land. The Trust subsequently decided it would be appropriate to name the park after him. Tasman District Council is a partner in the project and has contributed funding of $55,000 as well as providing advice and guidance to the project team. The Canterbury Community Trust and Lottery Grants Board have also provided funding, together with a number of individual donors.
The park has been created to be a place of beauty and tranquillity for the public to enjoy. It features a lake with a boardwalk and viewing platforms and a large grassed area with plantings of both native and introduced trees. Picnic tables are provided. The park also includes a wetland area which will provide habitat for endangered species such as the Banded Rail.
It must have been really frustrating for those involved. Work has obviously been happening here for several years but it was not until February 2014 that the park was finally opened and ownership transferred to the Tasman District Council.