PIPIRIKI WALKS PROGRAMME REQUIRES PUBLIC SUPPORT

Waimarino Bulletin, Volume 4, Issue 24, 11 November 1986, Page 3

PIPIRIKI WALKS PROGRAMME REQUIRES PUBLIC SUPPORT

The Wanganui River Reserves in Pipiriki are offering another full month of summer activities in the area, despite cutbacks in staff numbers. Pipiriki senior ranger John Lythgoe is happy with the wide range of walks and scenic tramps organised for this year's summer nature programme, although there is no children's programme because of low staffing numbers. Among the walks available around the beautiful scenic wonderland of Pipiriki are guided tours of the historic Colonial House situated near the river. a trip to see the famous 'drop scene' of the river, a half-day jaunt looking at the landmarks and flora and fauna in the Wanganui River area. and full day trips with views of Mounts Ruapehu and Taranaki. The walks are comparatively easy. ideally for people of moderate fitness. with experienced guides who know the points of interest all along the way. Future threatened Mr Lythgoe is hopeful that the programme will receive good support from the public as the area contains sights of rare natural beauty virtually unsurpassed by any other areas in the region. 'If the public don't support the scheme, then we may have to re-assess the whole programme, "said Mr Lythgoe. This may mean reducing the number of activities available to visitors to the area in the future. "I think the nature programme is very important to the whole area and the community and, if we receive little or no support, things may have to slow down," she said. It would be a terrible loss if visitors to the region were unable to experience the unique setting that is Pipiriki.