The Whanganui Summer Programme has scores of options for people to explore the wider region and try new experiences.

Bookings can be made at the Whanganui i-SITE Visitors' Centre, 31 Taupo Quay, phone 349 0508 or 0800 926 426, 8.30am-5pm Monday to Friday and 9am-4pm weekends and public holidays.

The Chronicle will run daily advice on upcoming events and trips. The programme runs until January 31.

Bushy Park Night Spotting
Today, January 22
Led by Esther Williams of Forest and Bird, enjoy the variety of Bushy Park - wetlands, bird life and mature forest. On arrival explore the forest, followed by a barbecue meal. Re-enter the bush on dusk. Bring walking shoes, warm clothes, a torch and cold drink. Depart 4.30pm; return 10.30pm. Adult $20; Child $10; Family $40 (1 or 2 adults with 1 to 4 children), includes barbecue. Numbers limited; bookings essential at the i-SITE.

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Waverley to Waitotara Beach Walk
Tomorrow, January 23
During an afternoon low tide, traverse from Waverley to the Waitotara rivermouth, guided by people with extensive coastal experience. There is a clifftops section and a scramble down to the beach, finishing near the Tapuarau/Hawken's Lagoon Conservation area. Back at the bus, a sunset barbecue. Bring suitable walking gear. There are two stream crossings. Depart 3.30pm; return 9pm. Adult $15; Child $10, includes barbecue. Numbers limited; bookings essential at the i-SITE, 349 0508.

Evening Talk:Patagonia Revealed
Tuesday, January 26
Last February Diane Harries explored the South American region loosely known as Patagonia, partly in Chile and partly in Argentina. She talks about that journey, including Araucania, Chilean fiords, Torres del Paine, Penito Moreno Glacier, Magellan Strait, Tierra del Fuego and Beagle Channel. Times 7.30pm at the David Theatre, Whanganui Regional Museum, Watt St. Adult $4, child $2. No booking necessary, numbers limited to 200.

Historic Putiki
Wednesday, January 27
Huia Kirk leads this visit to places in Putiki associated with the church mission station established in 1840 - the 1937 memorial church with its decorated interior, and the urupa, resting place of many local chiefs. Meet 2pm at St Paul's Memorial Church, Anaua St. Duration about 2 hours. Adult/child $10. Includes afternoon tea.

Shadow Puppets Workshop
Wednesday, January 27
Make shadow puppets at the Whanganui Regional Museum, inspired by Whanganui's cultural and natural history. Appropriate for ages 5+. Meet 1pm at the whanganui Regional Museum, Watt St. $2 per person.