Author's Pass National Park, South Island

Arthur's Pass National Park

(On the way to Christchurch, 18 November 2009) This park straddles the central Southern Alps, capturing a spectacular alpine environment that is much loved by mountaineers. The village of Arthur's Pass provides a convenient base for alpine walkers and climbers. The mountains and valleys of the park were heavily glaciated during the ice ages. Around ten small glaciers remain in the headwaters of the Waimakariri River.
Other ice age features include tarns, cirques and hanging valleys.

Things to do:

• Walk one of the tracks that begin near Arthur's Pass village. You will walk through forests to waterfalls, alpine gardens and mountain tops.
• Several short walks begin at the summit of the pass, including the acclaimed Dobson Walk.
• Follow the historic trail around Arthur's Pass village.
• Try an overnight hike, using Department of Conservation hut accommodation.
• Climb a mountain, if you are an experienced climber.

From AA Travel NZ

About Abel Tasman National Park

(Tuesday, 17 November, 2009, wholeday)
Predominately a coastal park, the Abel Tasman is admired for its golden sandy beaches, fascinating rocky outcrops and beautiful, unmodified estuaries. At all times of the year people come to walk the Coastal Track, which wanders through the forest and along the edge of the sea. The park includes the Tonga Island Marine Reserve, where fur seals like to doze on the rocks.

Things to do:

• Walk the Coastal Track, which takes three days, staying at Department of Conservation campsites.
• Catch a water taxi into the park for a one-day walk.
• Explore the park's coast by sea kayak - independently or with a guided group.
• Hike the Inland Track through the hilly centre of the park.
• Snorkel around the rocky edges of the beaches.

(From: AA Travel NZ @National Parks)

Proposed Visits at Christchurch: 18-20 November 2009 (Formal & Educational)

1) Mental Health Education and Resource Centre (MHERC): 2nd Floor (Securities House), 221 Gloucester Street, Christchurch. "We provide a FREE mental health Library for everyone in Christchurch & the South Island of New Zealand.
We can put you in touch with Support Groups."

2) Harakeke Child and Family Centre: Psychology and Therapy Services: 118 Bealey Avenue, Christchurch, Canterbury Tel: 03 3668575 (http://www.harakekecentre.co.nz).
The Harakeke Child and Family Centre provides psychology, therapy, and counselling services to children and families, who may be experiencing a range of difficulties. The centre is run by a Registered Psychologist and an Interim Registered Psychotherapist, who have many years of experience working with children and families. The Centre is based in a welcoming central Christchurch location with ample parking and disabled access.

3) Petersgate Counselling Centre: 29 Yaldhurst Road, Upper Riccarton, Christchurch.

Petersgate Trust provides affordable professional counselling to the community. We respect and look after the needs of everyone, regardless of creed, culture or socio-economic background.

Victory Village Community Centre, Nelson (South Island)

This will be one of our itinerary for the South Island exploration. We are planning to "drop by" the centre on the 16th November, on our way to Mapua. That morning, we will cross the Cook Strait by ferry from Wellington to Picton. It's a 3 hour sail, 8.30 to 11.30 am. From Picton it's about 1 hr 40 minutes drive (115 km) to Nelson City (click for map). Nelson's

Victory Village Community Centre seem to be a one stop centre for all the social services the community needs. It is run by 4 people, Kindra, Gareth, Penny and Robina. They provide a wide range of services (social, recreational and cultural) including counseling for low income community members. It will be a good learning experience.

South Island Excursion - Day 1 (16 November)

On 16 November, 2009. First day of the South Island Trip.

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