MURPHY'S BUSH ...Saturday 4 September
At last the weather was better and we managed venture off on another walk, this time into Murphy's Bush, a small reserve in Manukau.
Upon arrival, we all took charge of reading the map to decide which route to take. We are really enjoying learning how to read a map of new areas that we visit. This helps us to understand the terrain that lies ahead, what man-made and natural features are present in the areas we're exploring, as well as ensuring we stay on track and don't get lost. We are looking forward to the first weekend of next term, when we will be participating in a small orienteering competition.
The main attraction in Murphy's Bush is a giant Totara tree, which we came across, but the forest is also full of Kahikatea trees. These trees were used by the Maori to make weapons and waka. The soot from the heart of the wood was used for moko (tattoos).
During our walk, Grace identied the serrated edges of the New Zealand Honey Suckle, Rewarewa tree, making links to words we'd used in class. We were surprised not to see Kereu (New Zealand Wood Pigeon), but we were fortunate to see Fantails and several Tuis.
The walk in Murphy's Bush was short , so we decided to stop at the Sir Barry Curtis Park in Flat Bush, were we had heaps of fun playing on the different equipment. Take a look and see...
All in all, a fun morning out.