Parent Paced Hiking Group
These meet ups are where Trails & Tots began - an opportunity to find community with those looking to get outside with their pepi/tamariki, enjoy some movement in nature, and explore the Taranaki trail offerings. We ask that bubs ride in packs for these hikes. Stops for feeds, nappy changes, or other baby-related-admin are always understood and accommodated for. We stick together as a group and ensure everyone is supported along the way.
Distance, rough elevation gain, general terrain and overall mahi-required for each location is listed in advance. Please reach out if you have any questions or need to borrow a pack for pepi.
Registration for meet ups is required - please scroll down for calendar.
Our Meet Ups
Nature Play
Nature Play Sessions are for 0-6yr olds (with caregiver present). We set up at some wonderful, accessible, outdoor spots around Taranaki and engage in child-led, open-ended play - an opportunity for little ones to explore and connect. Some activities and loose parts will be provided to encourage creativity and exploration.
There is every chance that we'll get muddy, dirty and a little bit wet - all signs of quality outdoor play - so please come dressed in appropriate gear and bring a towel and change of clothing for after.
Registration for these sessions is required - please see calendar below. Koha appreciated.
* Caregiver must be present and supervising at all times.
Toddler Tramping
Have a little one keen to hit the trails? These meet ups are for those with toddlers/tamariki on foot. We'll start together, move at different paces that suit each whānau's needs, and regroup often. Each hikoi will be short in distance (usually no more than 1.5km), and utilize terrain that is easier for littler legs. A nature-based activity is provided to encourage tamariki along the way.
Registration is required - please scroll down for calendar.
*Caregivers are required to supervise their child(ren) at all times.
Toddler Tramping - Term 4 2025
*All meet ups start at 9:45am unless stated otherwise. Please arrive early enough to be ready to start walking at 9:45am.
-Wednesday October 8th - Araheke/Burgess Park (Meeting of the Waters carpark)
-Wednesday October 15th - Upper Huatoki (Huatoki Tennis Club)
-Wednesday October 22nd - Ratapihipihi
-Wednesday October 29th - Te Henui (from Spencer Ave entrance)
-Wednesday November 5th - Pukeiti
-Wednesday November 12th - Barrett Domain
-Wednesday November 26th - Araheke/Burgess Park
Rants in the Park
We've partnered with Flourish Taranaki to deliver "Rants in the Park". This relaxed stroll through Pukekura Park takes place every Monday at 9:30 during term time, leaving from the Bellringer Pavillion. The walk is suitable for prams, carriers, and we welcome toddlers to join on foot or wheels. After the walk, Flourish provides coffee, kai and connection back at Bellringer Pavillion.
Thanks to the TOI Foundation for supporting this offering.
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Other Events
- Play in the Park! In collaboration with Sport Taranaki and Imagine, Play, Inspire
Saturday November 29th, 9:30am - 12:30pm - Hatchery Lawn
This event is open to all with activities catered to tamariki of all ages. This year you'll have the opportunity to explore process art invitations with Franzi from Imagine, Play, Inspire, design painted rocks with Sport Taranaki, and explore the "Play Trail" around the park with nature-based activities and challenges along the way. Drop in at any time during the morning for some fun.
Location
Information
Where do we meet?
- Barrett Domain - Roto Street Entrance
- Huatoki Domain - Huatoki Tennis Club Carpark
- Mangamahoe - Main "start point" carpark close to the toilets
- Araheke/Burgess Park - Meeting of the Waters Scenic Reserve Carpark
- Te Henui / Adams Point - Access from Spencer Drive
- Ratapihipihi Scenic Reserve - carpark off of Cowling/Ratapihipihi Road
- Veronica Loop - North Egmont Visitors Centre
- Ngatoro Loop - North Egmont Visitors Centre
- Wilkies Pools - Dawson Falls Visitors Centre
- Nature Loop - North Egmont Visitors Centre
- Everett Park - Main carpark ; the first carpark on the righthand side of Everett Road as you approach from Inglewood.
- Waiwhakaiho Track - bottom of Egmont Road as it enters the mountain road up to North Egmont Visitors Centre, next to Rahiri Cottage.
- Pukeiti - Main gardens carpark/front entrance
- Ahu Ahu Walk - end of Ahu Ahu Road where toilet block is
