Rough Island
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Rough Island is only just an island in its own right, for it is separated from its neighbouring Rabbit Island by no more than a 50 metre tidal channel. But for many dog-owners in the Richmond, Mapua and Moutere area of the Top of the South it's a regular go-to place. Simple to get to, it offers a variety of easy walks through an area of pine forest and interleaved areas of parkland and grass. Sadly, recent forestry work - roughly done, matching the name of the island - has left much of the area in a poor state. But there are still a few blocks of standing trees, as well as some designated recreation areas, including an equestrian area (where dogs should be on-leash). You can start walks almost anywhere, because there are several gates off the main access road (Tic Toc Road), as well as parking areas and large dog-friendly areas of grass at either end of the island. For a varied walk, take in the loop around the outside of the equestrian area and the reserve at the western end, as well as some of the forest. On the north side of the island, the channel also provides a good place for dogs to paddle or swim. A 40 minute circuit is easy to make, and if you do the whole island it will take more than an hour. For an even longer walk, cross back over the causeway and take in the section of the Great Taste Trail, as far as the bridge over the Waimea (beyond that, the Trail is 'non-dog'). |