Hinewai was 30 years old in 2017. Actually she is millions of years old, but it was 30 years since the first 109 hectares was set aside as a reserve. More than 400 enthusiastic Hinewai supporters celebrated this on Sunday 5th November down at Ōtānerito. We particularly honoured Maurice White, the founder of our trust, who was 94, Mayor of Christchurch Lianne Dalziel spoke, also the then just appointed Minister of Conservation Eugenie Sage. Formalities were brief, however. Participants enjoyed displays spanning 30 years of Hinewai's work and regeneration, and art exhibition, a local singer, and guided (or self-guided) walks along nearby bush tracks. the sun shone and birds sang. it was a particularly lovely day. The celebration site was largely car free!
People were shuttled down Long Bay Road in community vans from a designated parking area further back. Many walked down from here, or down Valley Track from Brocheries Flat/Ōtepiki at the head of the Valley. Some Biked.