Kiwi Ranger launches on Quail Island

Kiwi Ranger, a fun interactive programme encouraging children to explore and experience the natural local environment is being launched on Sunday on Quail Island in Lyttelton harbour.

The programme has been launched successfully in eight other spots throughout New Zealand, but Quail Island will be the first site close to an urban location making it easy for families to enjoy. the programme will be officially launched with a badge ceremony for the children from Tai Tapu school who were the first rangers to test the programme out.
  
“Kiwi Ranger is a great way for families to explore new places together and learn something, as well as having heaps of fun and being rewarded for their efforts with a badge,” Communications and Engagement  Advisor for DOC, Sarah Mankelow said. 

“Research shows that childhood experiences with nature plays a critical role in determining life attitudes, knowledge and behaviours towards the environment. Kiwi Ranger guides families to make the most of their visit by taking it beyond a mere walk in the park, to an experience worth remembering and treasuring.”

Mankelow said in a world that is becoming increasingly disconnected from nature, DOC wanted to help families to fall in love with our natural world again.

The programme started in the South Island but is expanding nationally from early next year. Each site has its own booklet full of fun activities and walks to do. Completing the activities earns children a badge, unique to each location, and the title of Kiwi Ranger.

Kiwi Ranger is currently run from six national parks; Paparoa, Westland, Nelson Lakes, Mt Aspiring, Arthur’s Pass and Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park, as well as at Denniston Historic Reserve and Orokanui Ecosanctuary near Dunedin. Two new sites, Otamahua/Quail Island and the Totaranui Great Walk Campsite are being launched this month. 

Kiwi Ranger Quail Island was developed collaboratively by DOC, Shades of Green, Rapaki Rununga and Black Cat Cruises.