Chance to explore the world beneath Rotoiti
A marine conservation group is inviting people to look beneath the surface of Lake Rotoiti at a weekend snorkel event.
Experience Marine Reserves, a national organisation offering experiential learning about marine conservation through snorkelling, is hosting a free event at Kerr Bay in St Arnaud on Sunday, January 29.
Small groups will be led on a 20-minute swim from the western shore to see fish and aquatic plants the way the lake’s famous long-finned eels see it.
‘‘We are very excited to guide people to snorkel around the edges of beautiful Lake Rotoiti and see the lake from a completely different perspective,’’ Nelson EMR co-ordinator, Jude Heath said.
The cool, clear waters of Lake Rotoiti are also home freshwater mussels, birds and introduced trout.
The eels living in Lake Rotoiti are fully protected, and some are aged over 100 years old, Heath said.
Department of Conservation community ranger Tracey Grose said that lakes can be just as exciting to snorkel in as the sea.
Everyone over five years old can participate and snorkelling gear will be provided free.
Children under the age of 15 must be supervised by an adult.
The event runs from 10.30am to 2pm.
In the event of bad weather, it will be rescheduled to February 12.
The Cable Bay snorkel day has been rescheduled to February 5 because of the storm at the weekend. Many of you may be planning a trip away for the long weekend or perhaps are heading home after the holiday break. Here are some ideas to keep your children happy while travelling:
Plan lots of frequent stops. Download an audio book and play it. Have conversations with your children.
Quiz games like – I Spy. Have snacks and drink bottles handy. Screens – this is your choice as they may promote travel sickness but simple games or little movies can keep children entertained.
Regardless of the age of your children, always carry baby wipes and an ice cream container, along with a small towel – you never know when you are going to need them. Good luck and safe travels.