Keep the Adventure Going with Geocaching

EcoFest might be wrapping up, but your connection to te taiao doesn’t have to. If you’ve been feeling inspired to get outside more, explore your local spaces, or try something new – Geocaching is a simple way to keep the momentum going.

Let is introduce you to Geocaching. A global game of hide-and-seek that turns everyday walks into mini adventures. The perfect way to explore your local parks, reserves, and neighbourhoods in a whole new way. All you need is a phone and a sense of curiosity.  

What is Geocaching?

Geocaching is like a modern-day treasure hunt. Using the free app, you’ll follow GPS coordinates to find hidden containers, called caches, tucked away in nature and around your community.  

They might be hidden under tree roots, beside walking tracks, or cleverly camouflaged in plain sight. Inside, you’ll find a logbook to sign and somethings small treasures to swap.  

This EcoFest, we’re releasing a bunch of unique EcoFest branded ‘trackables’ into special caches with EcoFest-themed missions that challenge you to discover new locations and get inspired to take action! 

Why should you start Geocaching?

Geocaching is perfect because it turns an ordinary day outdoors into an adventure with purpose. Instead of convincing kids to go for a walk, you’re inviting them on a treasure hunt! 

One that’s flexible, low-cost, and easy to fit around your day. You can look for a cache between plans or make a full day of exploring new parks, reserves, and neighbourhoods you might not otherwise visit.  

Every cache is different, which keeps things exciting while also building in problem-solving, movement, and shared moments along the way.  

EcoFest x Geocaching 

In honour of EcoFest, each of the supporting hubs (Beautification Trust, EcoMatters, Kaipātiki Project and Waiheke Resources Trust) have set up caches across Tāmaki Makaurau in spots that highlight local conservation efforts, repair and repurpose initiatives, and other conscious living engagement opportunities. You can search for these in addition to the array of standard geocaches you’ll see on the map. 

We’re also releasing a bunch of unique EcoFest branded ‘trackables’ into special caches with EcoFest-themed missions that challenge you to discover new locations and get inspired to take action even after the festival has ended. 

Ready to Start Your Adventure? 

There are thousands of geocaches hidden across Tāmaki Makaurau and beyond, waiting to be discovered. Here’s how you can get started: 

1. Download the free geocaching app.
2. Follow the clues, explore the area, and discover what’s inside
3. Log your find.
4. If you’re lucky enough to discover one of our trackables, type in its code to discover your next mission.
5. Then head off to complete this sustainablity challenge, and share your experiences in the trackables geocache app log book.
6. Encourage others to join by sharing photos from your adventures on social media using #EcoFest and tagging us @EcoFestNZ (Facebook) and @ecofest_auckland (Instagram).

Care for Our Environment 

As you embark on your geocaching adventure, we ask that you follow these eco-friendly principles: 

• Leave no trace: cahce-in-trash-out (CITO) – we encourage you to travel with a rubbish bag so you can remove any litter on your route.
• Respect nature and wildlife: stay on marked paths and avoid disturbing habitats.
• Follow cache guidelines: respect private property and each other, ensuring cahces remain in their designated locations for everyone to find.
• Get involved: be sure to let us know you visited by filling the logbook, and if taking a goodie from the caches, why not leave your own in its place for others to enjoy?