Simply allowing children to play in nature in a safe way is invaluable. Friends often share stories of their tamariki/children meandering and picking up interesting shaped sticks off the paths such as feathers or other nature-discarded treasures! There’s a great sense of independence and adventure, and tamariki/children often return with a new observation, idea or story to tell of their adventures in McKenzie Reserve.
The ephemeral stream and the wetland on rainy days are a magnet for exploration and experimentation. These stream beds are shallow and safe for unstructured play. Come and enjoy breath-taking views and rekindle your energy all within an easy stroll to an enclosed swimming spot at Enclosure Bay, or take the Sandy Bay track which brings you close to the waters of this neighbouring beautiful beach.
THINGS TO DO
We highly encourage nature play and outdoor education
for our tamariki/children. They delight in discovering interesting sites for casual play.
The Department of Conservation/Te Papa Atewhai has generously allowed us to share these incredible resources with you! Check out the links below for creative activities on the themes of our natural world and some handy tips around identifying weeds.
BIRDS
OUR NATIVE TREES
WEEDS
ART
40 KA PAI THINGS TO DO OUTSIDE
Make sure you come back to visit this section of the website, as we update the resources to provide new activities for you and your whānau to do in McKenzie Reserve.
