Event

Māori called this once pure stream Waitītiko, “the waters of the periwinkle”, but it has suffered as a result of urbanisation. As you walk, you’ll learn about the creek’s history including contemporary restoration attempts. Waitītiko-Meola Creek has a large urban catchment, the stream often submerged in culverts or confined to channels. Waitītiko flows into the Waitematā Harbour, then the Hauraki Gulf, ultimately connecting to the Pacific Ocean.

In this time of environmental degradation, we recognise that Waitītiko, like thousands of other waterways, links with the Pacific and beyond. Whether this connection worsens or improves the world’s oceans depends on us. There will be two guided walks which between them follow much of the course of Waitītiko.

Day 1 is from Ōwairaka / Te Ahi-kā-a-Rakataura / Mt Albert to Rocket Park; Day 2 covers Waiōrea Community Recycling Centre to Te Tokoroa Meola Reef. During these walks we’ll unpack the creek’s history and discuss future restoration plans.

Where meet at the tihi / summit of Ōwairaka / Te Ahi-kā-a-Rakataura / Mount Albert

Where meet upstairs at the Waiōrea Community Recycling Centre, 990 Gt North Rd, Western Springs

When Saturday 5 October, 1pm

Tickets the walk is free but ticketed. Please book through Humanitix for Day 1 and/or Day 2

Getting there numerous buses run along Gt North Rd. Use AT Journey Planner to navigate to Stop 8124 or Stop 8125. There is bike parking at Waiōrea CRC. There is free parking beside Western Springs Garden Community Hall, 956 Gt North Rd.

Getting back plan your journey home from Te Tokaroa / Meola Reef, Rocket Park (Stop 1056). The walk back to Waiōrea CRC is 1.6km. We plan to have free vehicle shuttle available.

Bring dress for the weather including strong footwear. The walk is about 3km long, sometimes on rough ground, and you may need to walk back to your starting point.

Group: STEPS