Otari Wilton's Bush

On a windy summers day in Wellington, we love to go for a walk in the bush.  It's still warm in the bush, yet you're sheltered from the wind.  One of Wellingtons best and most popular bush walks is at the Otari-Wilton's Bush.  Parking is free at the south end, between the Otari School and the Wilton Bowling Club, and also at the north end on the Wilton Bush Road.

You may find your way to the Troup Picnic Lawn, which is a lovely sheltered green with picnic area, toilet, water, a stream and plenty of play appeal for dogs and children.  But, be warned, if you go on a weekend in the summer you will be driven nearly mad by the smell of BBQ cooked meat.  Of course, you can nip out to the supermarket at Croften Downs to buy some 'emergency' sausages, steaks or kebabs and other supplies.  The two electric powered hot plate stations are free to use, although we found the one above quite slow at cooking.

All the children found themselves in the water, whether they planned on it or not.  We always plan on it, as we know the appeal it has.  It has that irresistable appeal of shallow slow running water which is not too cold as it doesn't get very deep, and the other most important factor, stones.  We've discussed the water and stones effect on children earlier, and although there is no cafe here, you can bring your own supplies and enjoy a fantastic day outside.  At this time of year do bring sunscreen and a hat for everyone though.

This dragonfly was a big hit with everyone also.  It was very tame, happily sitting as it was oogled by noisy children and amazed adults alike.  It seems to be channeling its inner kitten with those facial features.  And was positively enormous, at 15cm across the wing span.

The Wellington City Council Otari Wilton's Bush information pamphlet can be found here for more details and maps:

http://www.wellington.govt.nz/services/gardens/otariwiltonsbush/pdfs/otari-forest-tracks.pdf

Makara Beach BBQ

Yesterday we ventured out to the dramatic Makara Beach to cook up some lunch on the beach.
This beach is steep and stony immediately in front of you as you arrive at the beach.  This part of the beach lends itself to very satisfying stone throwing.  In contrast you can take the gentle walk to the left to a sheltered spot from the main beach with plenty of rock pools to explore.
We found a sheltered spot on the main beach to set up camp.  Then the kids were sent off to find driftwood for the fire.  A stone circle is set up to encase the fire but the main purpose is to heat up the rocks to allow us to cook our lunch. Whilst the photographer was distracted with taking the above shot it is believed newspaper, fire lighters and matches were deployed, and voila:
  
The next step is dependant on being a little prepared before veturing out to the beach.  We have a kit bag set up with all the cooking equipment, and just needed to stop for a few supplies on the way.


Cooking began and was quickly devoured by our wind swept group.  We also had some hungry seagulls who keenly awaited for scraps that never came.
 As a final treat we took wooden skewers, which we’d soaked in water to prevent them from catching fire, for toasting marshmallows.  This was the highlight for the kids and the grown ups were only too happy to show them how it is done.
 

Before leaving the beach we took great care to douse the fire and rocks in sea water.

Makara Beach also features in our post about Stones, Water & Cafes.