Saturday 12th November 2011 This trip will go ahead whatever the weather - rain or shine!

Please note that this date is a week earlier than our usual meeting date as the

Eco-town we are visiting is only open on their Open Day,12th November.

Meeting Time : 8.30am for bus departure at 8.40am sharp

Meeting place to board bus : Meadowbank Community Centre

29 St Johns Rd, Meadowbank

Places we will visit:

(1) Taking the Rainforest Express train through the Waitakere Ranges leading up to the Nihotupu Dam with a guide and full commentary.

See glow-worms, cave weta and native birds on the way. Travel through 10 tunnels. Views are equally dramatic in the rain!

(2) Arataki Visitors Centre for information about the scenic areas of West Auckland . Outdoors, you will see panoramic views across the area.

(3) To 'Earthsong', on Swanson Rd in the Ranui area. A guided tour of this Eco-town where residents live self-sufficiently off the land.

Costs : For NZCA members : $ 40 per person (includes return bus transport, train fare and entry fee to 'Earthsong')

For non-members : $ 45 per person

The correct amount of money would be much appreciated.

Bring your lunch, snacks and a cool drink. Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring sun protection or rain gear.

Your spouse and friends are welcome to join us on this trip which is for both men and women. Please reply early as our bus trips are very popular with a limited number of seats. Seats will be reserved on a first come, first served basis.

We will arrive back at Meadowbank Community Centre at approximately 5pm.

Brain Young Photograph