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Ancient pathway in New Zealand's Bay of Islands open for guided walks
Nineke Metz - 22/01/03
The newly opened Cape Brett Peninsula Walkways in New Zealand's Bay of
Islands will offer visitors guided walks, where experienced guides will
share with the walkers their knowledge and appreciation of nature, Maori
history and culture.
History of the peninsula
Maori first named Cape Brett peninsula Rakaumangamanga mai Hawaiiki: branch
of many tribes. The seven distinctive peaks that mark the peninsula's
dragon-like spine are said to represent the seven waka (canoes ) from the
great migration on which Maori sailed to New Zealand from their mythical
homeland of Hawaiiki 1000 years ago.
Opening of the walkways
On the 10th December 2002 Cape Brett Walkways Ltd officially opened the 16
kms track for independent and guided walks. Tourism New Zealand CEO George
Hickton attended the powhiri at Te Rawhiti Marae and unveiled the carving
at the start of the walk.
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George Hickton and the Cape Brett Walkways whanau
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The attending of Mr Hickton at the official opening in Rawhiti shows the
international significance of the track according to Cape Brett Walkways
Ltd Director Gary Hooson.
"George Hickton has a very busy schedule," said Mr Hooson. "He was flying
to New York the next day together with the Prime Minister to launch the
release of the Discovery video filmed by Helen Clark earlier this year. We
really appreciate his visit to Northland and trust he will tell the
Americans all about us."
Company Director Peter Stuart says the Cape Brett team is looking forward
to a busy season.
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The carving at the beginning of the track
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"We are ready to show tourists this off-the-beaten-track part of New
Zealand," he said. "People will be able to walk through native bush, enjoy
spectacular ocean and island views and experience Maori culture. Walkers
can either decide to do the eight hour Cape Brett track or choose from
three half-day guided walks. We can organise water transport, land
transport, hut bookings, and exclusive packages for couples or small
groups. We hope to cater for most people's walking wishes."
The ancient track in the Bay of Islands starts at the small seaside village
Te Rawhiti and follows the seven peaks to the Cape Brett lighthouse.
Experienced guides will share their knowledge and appreciation of nature,
Maori history and culture with the walkers.
Cooperative venture between Maori Trust and Department of
Conservation
Since 2001 Cape Brett Walkways Ltd have worked hard to get the venture
going. Cape Brett peninsula is administered by Te Rawhiti 3B2, a large
Maori Trust, and the Department of Conservation (D.O.C.). After lengthy
discussions and meetings Cape Brett Walkways Ltd received a concession from
D.O.C. to conduct guided tours, and an agreement with 3B2 Trust to
administer the track.
This agreement was applauded by locals, track users, the Department of
Conservation and tourism organisations. It is seen as a prime example of
how co-operation between a large Maori Trust and D.O.C. can successfully
open up business opportunities for Maori. Since reaching the agreement the
company has put a lot of hard work into track clearing and maintenance,
research, product development, the writing of a marketing plan and the
production of quality marketing materials.
More information about the Cape Brett walk can be obtained from the website.
For bookings phone 09 403 8823.
Published with permission from NZine
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