Today started with a lecture from Dr. Colin Meurk concerning ecosystem restoration theory, principles, and practice. Dr. Meurk discussed the proper steps to enhancing biodiversity by repairing the existing ecosystem and establishing connectivity between people, culture, and nature.
 |
| Dr. Meurk explaining restoration processes. |
Afterwards, we drove to New Brighton beach with Dr. Meurk who took us on a tour of the sand dunes, pointing out native plants like sedge grass, daisy shrub, and cabbage trees, the oldest established vegetation being from 1990. It was showering and cold, but the landscape was totally worth braving a little rain.
 |
| New Brighton Beach |
Next we took a trip over to Travis Wetland, originally intending to be a housing development. Instead, it has become a restored wetland, protected by the Christchurch City Council in 1997. It is vital to conserve lowland freshwater wetlands in New Zealand, which are scarce throughout the country. The wetland features a diversity of native birds, insects, fish, and plants. It also provides excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing and research on ecology and habitat restoration.
 |
| Rainbow over the wetland! |
 |
Taking a stroll with Dr. Meurk
|
Afterwards, we went back to New Brighton and frolicked - yes, frolicked - on the beach for a bit, and played on the playground across the street like children. We braved the zipline, and then stopped for a tea break at the Naked Baker.
 |
| Christina letting out her inner wild woman. |
 |
| Warm drinks at the risqué Naked Baker. |
Despite rain showers on and off all day, it was another beautiful New Zealand day, providing an excellent background for the most ridiculous jumping beach picture you will ever see.
 |
| We tried. |
~Bridget
No comments:
Post a Comment