Matakana Island is right on our doorstep yet few Western Bay residents have visited its beautiful sandy beaches or experienced island life.
This Sunday the public can sail across the harbour to see what the island has to offer during the fifth annual island walk. The event is organised by residents
and supported by Sport Bay of Plenty's City on its Feet initiative.
An 8km track across the island and a 12km run/walk option extending through the forest and part of the estuary will be on offer.
About 300 people took part in last year's walk, culminating in a picnic lunch outside Matakana Island's Rugby Clubrooms.
Walk co-ordinator Min Gaastra-Kuka says about 250 people live on the island and the annual fundraiser is the community's biggest single event.
"The whole island gets involved. We make sure visitors get to experience the history and the culture of our island. People say it is so beautiful and so quiet.
"There's a lot of farmland and a lot of forestry that people just don't know about."
Marshals on horseback and motorbikes will guide people around the tracks and answer questions.
Sport Bay of Plenty's Nicki Miller sayspeople must pre-register and book a seat on the ferry which will travel between Omokoroa and the island regularly. The track is off-road, so people should bring suitable footwear and expect to get muddy.
Fruit, water, tea and coffee will be served at the finish, with people welcome to take picnic lunches.
WHEN AND WHERE
What: Matakana Island walk
Where: Ferries depart from Omokoroa boat ramp throughout the day. Participants must pre-register on 578 0016 to secure a seat.
When: Sunday
Cost: $35 adult and $10 child, cost includes return ferry ride.
