Trip to Nowell's Lake

We hadn’t been to Nowell’s Lake before, and my husband suggested we go and have a look one afternoon.

Nowell’s Lake is situated just south of Hawera in South Taranaki, and is a Fonterra Farms and Community Group Project.  There are two parts - the Nowell’s Lakes which are two ground fed freshwater lakes covering seven hectares, and the Walkway.  

We loved exploring the Walkway amongst the native bush, flax and Toetoe, and each section had signs where the children from local schools and Scouts have done plantings.

Down the track to the Walkway.

Having a rest on one of the many Children Only seats.

Asked for a serious face, and all we got was giggles.

Checking out the Bug Wall.

Looking for Crawlies (Freshwater Crayfish) in the stream.  We didn't see any this time, hopefully we can see some on our next visit.

Emme pointing out which way to go next.

Looking at her school's sign and where they did their plantings.

Some of the many birdhouses that are all through the gully.

Emme found this small bird egg lying on the ground, and picked it up for a closer look.  

Smelling herbs at the herb garden.

Looking back down the gully.

Local school children have grown and planted thousands of swan plants, so we will definitely be back between February and April to see the caterpillars and Monarch Butterflies.

We also took the 20 minute walk to Nowell’s Lake.  I didn’t get any pictures unfortunately as it started to rain just as we got there.  But we will definitely be going back, and I can’t wait to take more pictures then.

If you are local I highly recommend Nowell’s Lake as a place to visit.  For more information check out http://nowellslakeswalkway.blogspot.co.nz/