Sanctuary Mountain Maungatautari - the project: the past, current status and future plans. Did you know there’s an ancient forest on our doorstep, just one hour from Rotorua? An ecological delight, this 3,400 hectare mountain is protected by a 46km pest proof fence to enable native wildlife to be released. Sanctuary manager Geoff Churchill will update us at Rotorua U3A’s February forum on developments in the Sanctuary Mountain Maungatautari project. He’ll explain in depth what Sanctuary Mountain Maungatautari actually is and how the Maungatautari Ecological Island Trust works towards achieving its mission. He’ll be touching on the natural history of the maunga (mountain) and also looking at the successes and the challenges to date and at the future of this enduringly ambitious project over the next five, ten and 50 years. Who: U3A's guest speaker, Geoff Churchill, sanctuary manager, Sanctuary Mountain Maungatautari What: The Sanctuary Mountain Maungatautari project: past history, current developments and future plans. Visitors warmly welcome with gold coin entry. Presented by: Rotorua U3A

Keen to get outdoors as a family, but not sure if you’ve got the know how to venture out safely? In celebration of Get Outdoors Week, Macpac Rotorua invites you and the kids to come learn tips and tricks that’ll make your next outdoor adventure a hit. Presented by local volunteers from LandSAR New Zealand (Land Search & Rescue), this session will cover a variety of topics, including: - Dressing properly for the outdoors - Checking weather conditions - How to deal with tricky outdoor environments - What to do if things go wrong mid-adventure While this session is ideal for families with kids aged 5 to 15, all curious attendees are welcome. And remember: there are no silly questions, so come and arm yourself with the knowledge you need to have a great time in the outdoors. Spaces are limited, so please make sure you reserve your spot with an Eventbrite ticket via for each attendee. More info and tickets via https://www.facebook.com/events/323628324941598/ #GOWeekNZ