Tag Archives: National Wetland Trust

Wetlands at Awakaponga and Matata

The National Wetland Trust is a nonĀ­profit organisation established in 1999 to increase the appreciation of wetlands and their values by all New Zealanders. On their Wetland Trails page there are links to download information sheets on wetland trails in Southland, Whangamarino, and Bay of Plenty. Some of the locations in the Bay of Plenty information sheet have already been covered on this site. This post covers the Awakaponga Wildlife Management Reserve and Matata Lagoon walks.

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Lake Rotopiko, Ohaupo – Te Awamutu

The National Wetland Trust is developing a National Wetland Discovery Centre at Lake Serpentine/Lake Rotopiko next to Ohaupo Road/SH3 between Ohaupo and Te Awamutu. An area of about 9.5 hectares, including Lake Rotopiko and a wetland forest area, is enclosed in predator-proof fence. There is a well-formed track encircling Lake Rotopiko with some activities for children along the way, and a track through the kahikatea forest adjacent to the lake. The Department of Conservation is also involved, together with the Toyota Kiwi Guardians organisation.

A parking area for visitors to Lake Rotopiko is accessible directly off Ohaupo Rd/SH3, but due to a wire rope median barrier the access is only for vehicles travelling south from Ohaupo. The entry, through a gate which is closed at night, is unmarked and is located between McFall Rd and Jary Rd. There is a turning bay on Jary Rd for those heading north after a visit to Lake Rotopiko, as only a left turn is possible when leaving the carpark.

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