Park Island is one of our favourite places for walking Finn. Before the Napier earthquake in 1931, Park Island was a cemetery with access by a road formed across the Ahuriri Lagoon. After the earthquake caused much land to be lifted above sea level, the island became part of the mainland, and today Park Island consists of the old cemetery, as well as a newer cemetery, sports fields, an archery range, and lots of walking tracks. It is a lovely walk along the stream, through the trees, and over the small hills. Finn loves swimming in the stream that runs down one side, and there are always other dogs for him to socialise with.
I love walking around the old cemetery. The weathered headstones hold so much history and it is fascinating to read the names engraved on them, many of which have fallen out of fashion and sadly are no longer used today. There is a sense of peace in the graveyard, surrounded by many lovely trees. A row of evergreen Italian Cypress trees were planted down one side of the graveyard to symbolise everlasting life, and there is a fabulous old yew tree, which, according to folklore, wards off evil spirits and protects the dead.
I love the areas where wildflowers and grasses are allowed to grow untamed.
With the temperatures reaching into the 30s the past couple of weeks, Finn is grateful for a swim in the stream.
As well as pine trees and eucalyptus trees, there are lots of native trees planted all around the grounds. With their berries, fruit, and nectar, they attract native birds such as tui, bellbirds, fantails, and the occasional kereru (New Zealand wood pigeon).
We often go for a walk around Park Island after tea, when it is cooler. It is a pleasant way to walk off our dinner and wind down at the end of the day.
Foxgloves and Bumblebees 
I have missed reading about the adventures with Finn while I took my hiatus from blogging.
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Finn has just turned five! I can’t believe how fast the time has gone!
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Really! Yes, time does fly!
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Looks a beautiful place to walk and how lovely to see young Finn enjoying themselves. I can see why he loves it there. I’m definitely fascinated by your local wildlife too. The Tui looks a pretty bird. X
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It is Finn’s favourite spot and only a short drive from home. I hope to post some more photos of birds and wildlife soon.
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I love to walk with my pups among the trees as well. Cute and lucky dog.
https://noelliesplace.com/2017/10/03/let-the-trees-speak/
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Thanks, Noellie!
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I love your new blog and so enjoyed walking with you today! I can see why this is one of your favourite walks, it’s an amazing place and the scenery is beautiful 😁. I so enjoyed seeing the fun that Finn gets up to on his walks too, he looks so adorable in the photos 😁. I had to smile about the size of the stick he was carrying in the water …lol 😉. I can’t wait to see more, thanks for sharing and wishing you a happy new week! J 😊 x
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Thanks, Jo! Finn thinks he is bigger than he is and always goes for the biggest sticks he can find. Then he tries to carry them for the rest of the walk, until they start to get too cumbersome! Wishing you a happy week, too!
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I love your photography in all your posts!!
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Thank you so much!
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