Forest track at Ohakune for disabled

Waimarino Bulletin, Volume 3, Issue 44, 15 April 1986, Page 1

Forest track at Ohakune for disabled

A forest track, especially designed for disabled people, young children and others whose movement is restricted, was officially opened in Ohakune on Saturday. Rimu track, which begins and ends near the Ohakune ranger station, is believed to be one of the first of its type in New Zealand national parks. The track was opened by Arthur Bates, chairman of the Four Friends Trust which helped pay for building the track. He was assisted by Valmai Timmo of Ohakune who later toured the track in her wheelchair. Mr Bates explained that the Four Friends T rust grew out of the tragic deaths of four members of the Wanganui Tramping Club in the Mt Cook region in 1977. The trust was set up by the tramping club in their memory to promote the love, enjoyment and respect for the New Zealand outdoors. "This particular project grew from an idea by the late Bill Cooper of blessed memory, who was one of the foundation stones of recent developments this side of the mountain," he said. Mr Bates said that it was important to remember that all sections of the community have equal rights to enjoy the tonic of the wilderness, including the aged, infirm ' and young school and kindergarten groups.

Tongariro National Park chief ranger Bruce Jefferies said the building of the track had led park staff to think again about what national parks were about. "We have had to think and talk about the natural values of the park a little more," he said. He praised the voluntary work of members of the Wanganui Tramping Club, Ruapehu Lions and Navy personnel from Auckland, and also the efforts of Dennis McDonnell, park foreman at the time, and of senior ranger Lisle Irwin and his staff. The Mayor of Ohakune, Bill Taylor, offered the thanks of the Waimarino people and the wider New Zealand community for the track. He said that access to the national park for the most disadvantaged of the community was very valuable. Kevin Hackwell, member of the Tongariro-Taupo National Park and Reserves Board, said the track was one of the best he had been on in native forest. After the opening the many park rangers present gave fascinating commentaries on the track as those attending strolled round. There are panels along the track which illustrate the natural processes of the forest. The walk is short and level, yet provides a wide range of trees and other plants without the need to climb mountains!