What do sessions cost?
All of our sessions are free thanks to our generous sponsors. We accept koha, which supports the long term sustainability of our programs. We ask that if you are in a position to give, and see value in what Trails & Tots offers, that you consider a koha/donation similar to what you might pay for a playgroup, music group, art session, etc.
Per session, per term, or annual donations are welcome - anything is appreciated. This will ensure the program is sustainable and can support whanau for years to come.
*Please note, there is a minimum $2 donation to cover transactional costs.
What does the koha go towards?
Koha goes towards ongoing program expenses such as safety and first aid equipment, group PLB subscription, Nature Play materials, Whānau Tramping activities, facility hire, operational costs, etc.
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 Carpark
- Te Henui / Adams Point - Access from Spencer Drive (about 200m walk, pram friendly)
- 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.
- Tapuae Reserve - Washer Road carpark
- Back Beach - lower carpark closest to the Herekawe stream
- Merrilands Domain (Audrey Gale Reserve) - lower carpark near the Waiwhakaiho
What should we bring?
- water
- kai
- wet weather layers
- change of clothing for bub
- towel
- something to sit on (we have several tarps and blankets)
- sun protection
Do I need to let anyone know if I can't make it?
It is appreciated if you are able to send a quick message via IG, Facebook or email (trailsandtots@gmail.com) so that we don't linger at the trailhead waiting. We understand that this isn't always possible.
What if I'm slow or don't feel fit enough?
So many of us are in a season of sleepless nights, getting postpartum fitness back, recovering from injury, or just lugging a heavy toddler around. Unless noted as "intermediate", all of our meet ups are inclusive and beginner friendly.
What if my baby isn't loving the hike and I need to turn around?
It happens! We aim to stick together as a group, so in the event you need to turn back, we will ensure someone else goes with you back to the starting point.
How long are the walks?
Parent Paced: All of our walks are around the ~3km mark and take about 45-60mins.
Toddler Tramping: 1km or less, taking 45-60mins + play and kai after.
Can I hire a hiking carrier pack?
Yes! We have several child carrier packs to lend for Trails & Tots meet ups, or hire for personal-use outside of meet ups. For more information, click here and scroll to the bottom of the page.
What to expect at Nature Play: Sessions are all about child-directed, outdoor play (and some lovely social connection time for parents). Trails & Tots provides some "invitations" in the form of equipment and/or activities to help tamariki get started with their creative play. Some tamariki take a bit to warm up and get exploring, which is totally okay - it can help to explore a bit alongside your child to help them gain comfort with the area and group.
Weather:
We'll plan to play rain or shine. The session will only be cancelled if the weather is concerning (high winds or storms). Come prepared for the conditions. In the event we need to cancel, you'll receive an email prior to 8am Wednesday morning.
Added Safety Notes:
Little ones LOVE the water and are often eager to get right in it. Our locations are chosen to include some water element, as it does add to the creative fun. However, please ensure you are actively monitoring your child, at all times, near water.
Some of our locations do not have toilets; please be respectful of waterways and tracks.
Any questions, please email us: trailsandtots@gmail.com
Looking forward to time outdoors together!
