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Whenever this 4th generation ‘Coromandelite’ has
a bit of spare time, our Honourable Scott Simpson
MP enjoys revisiting some of his childhood haunts
on the Coromandel. This time he takes Greg and
me on one of his favourite walks near his bach in
Kuaotunu – the Rings Beach Wetlands Track. Scott
enthusiastically shared the history of the project
inspired by his relative Bruce Smith, who passed
away before he could complete his vision.
Though it was considered a Winter day, we were
reminded that Spring was approaching as we
encountered a blooming clematis seemingly being
guarded by a raucous tui, both evidence that this
wetlands restoration project is working. -Tovi Daly
Photos by Ian Patrick and Greg Daly
Scott takes a break to enjoy the vistas that now include
the ocean below from a commemorative bench built by
Ian Patrick to honour Bruce Smith who spearheaded the
Wetlands Project in 2008.
with Scott Simpson
EXPLORING THE
RINGS BEACH WETLANDS
“A bush
walk of
extraordinary
beauty”
10
COROMANDEL LIFE spring / holiday 2017