Mount Richmond Forest Park facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Mount Richmond Forest Park |
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 Mount Richmond Forest Park
Location in New Zealand
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| Location | South Island, New Zealand |
| Nearest city | Nelson |
| Area | 165,946.5 hectares (410,063 acres) |
| Governing body | Department of Conservation |
Mount Richmond Forest Park is a special natural area in New Zealand. It's like a huge outdoor playground managed by the Department of Conservation. This park is a great place to explore and learn about New Zealand's amazing nature.
The park was created in 1977. It sits between the cities of Nelson and Marlborough on the South Island. It covers a massive area of about 1,659 square kilometers (or 165,946.5 hectares). That's a lot of land to explore! About 80% of the park is covered in thick native bush, which means lots of trees and plants. The highest point in the park is Mount Richmond itself, which stands tall at 1,760 meters (about 5,774 feet) above sea level.
Exploring the Park: Tracks and Huts
Mount Richmond Forest Park has many paths for you to walk and discover. There are about 250 kilometers of tracks in total! These tracks are perfect for hiking, from short walks to longer adventures.
One very famous long-distance walking trail, called Te Araroa, uses some of the tracks in this park. Along the way, you'll find special small buildings called huts. These huts offer a basic place to stay overnight for hikers who are exploring the park for several days. They are a great way to experience the wilderness.
History of Mount Richmond Forest Park
The area that is now Mount Richmond Forest Park has an interesting past. The park was officially established in 1977 to protect its unique environment.
A notable event in the park's history happened on May 7, 1942. A plane flying from Wellington to Nelson had an accident and crashed into Mount Richmond. Sadly, everyone on board, including the pilots and three passengers, passed away. An investigation later found the plane's remains on the upper slopes of the mountain. This was a very sad moment in New Zealand's early aviation history.
Nature and Wildlife
Because so much of Mount Richmond Forest Park is covered in native bush, it's home to many different kinds of plants and animals. You might spot unique New Zealand birds, insects, and native trees. The park's untouched forests are important for keeping these species safe and healthy. It's a fantastic place to see New Zealand's natural beauty up close.
