Nature Exploration on the Taylor River
Connecting with nature helps to make us smarter, healthier and happier, this is the purpose for Blenheim’s new nature exploration space.
Located on the Taylor River beneath a stand of large trees is Blenheim’s new Nature Exploration Space. The ideal spot with the surrounding environment offering an extension to the dedicated space for running, climbing and exploring.
The project started last year with the Council’s Environmental Education team and support from Parks and Open Spaces officer Kiri Whiteman. It began with a consultation process with young tamariki in Blenheim. They were asked what they would like to see, do, feel, hear in the new space. Tamariki were encouraged to discuss, draw and even create a mini version of how they would like it to look.
A range of ideas were shared but the most common ones lead to wanting a space to be curious and creative and physically challenging.
Using only natural resources the created space has been designed to capture these ideas. With the plan being that this is an evolving space that will change over time, just as nature does. With resources being added as they become available.
The tamariki involved in the initial process have now been able to see their ideas become a reality. Some were also fortunate to be involved in an early “viewing” in order to gather more feedback and ideas. What an incredibly empowering process for those tamariki to be a part of.
Moveable balancing stumps
The Nature Exploration Space was officially opened on the 31st March. To celebrate a explosion of colour filled the air as natural confetti cannons fired flower petals and autumn leaves skyward.
To visit the new space, you will find it set back from the Taylor River walkway, down stream from the Monro street carpark, tucked under the large oak trees near the stopbank.