Colourful Kiwi story-trail
Fancy something fun and free to do with the kids, out in the open air?
Matamata-Piako Libraries' Story Walks are three trails of colourful pages leading through the leafy spaces of Te Aroha Domain, the Morrinsville River Walk and Matamata's Centennial Drive, in celebration of Parks Week 2021.
All three walks feature a series of panels telling a different story in the delightful 'Kuwi the Kiwi' series by well-known Waikato writer/illustrator, Kat Merewether. Her cheerful, native-bush-based tales work well in an outdoor setting, heightening readers' awareness of the plants and wildlife around them. The stories also provide great motivation for little legs to keep moving on to the next exciting instalment, while plenty of clever visual detail and word-play should keep the adults amused.
As an extra-special wrinkle, the panels show the story in both English and te reo versions, making it a great way for the family to practise (or show off) their bilingual skills. Translator Pānia Papa is a champion of Māori language, and looks to have had a lot of fun creating the te reo version.
Story Walks originated in the United States and have now been installed in 13 countries including New Zealand, Russia, Pakistan and South Korea. During Parks Week, hundreds of organisations across New Zealand and Australia are holding events to celebrate the vital role parks play in improving everyone's quality of life.

Need to know:
Te Aroha's Story Walk starts at the Mokena Geyser (behind the spas complex) and follows the Domain Lower Walk. Good footwear is recommended as the gravel surface can be slippery.
Morrinsville's Story Walk begins at the Recreation Ground and follows the Morrinsville River Trail.  UPDATE 2nd April: This has now been removed due to ongoing vandalism.
Matamata's Story Walk starts by the Scout & Guide Hall on Broadway, and follows Centennial Drive.