New Signage for the Waitaki Whitestone Geopark

Published on 20 June 2022

This week the Waitaki Whitestone Geopark installed the first of 18 new signs at new and existing sites. The 18 revamped signs at new and existing geosites across the Waitaki District will offer educational material focusing on geological, cultural, and natural stories.

The Waitaki Museum & Archive has provided Waitaki Whitestone Geopark with assistance to ensure the integrity and accuracy of the information provided. Each sign will educate visitors on geology, local biodiversity and the social and cultural stories as provided by Ngāi Tahu.

A short audio experience is a new feature to 3 of the signs which includes the sign at Lookout Point. Visitors can use their own phone to scan a QR Code which will then present a 90-second audio history. The audio experience includes immersive sound effects was undertaken by University of Otago student Nathan Hollows. The increase in signage and addition of the audio experience will raise visibility of the Waitaki Geopark and boost awareness and visitor appreciation of the site

This week’s install is the first phase with 10 of the existing Vanished World trail signs being updated. The second phase which will include 7 new locations is due to be completed by August.

The new locations for signs the signs are: Ahuriri Valley, Ohau Moraines, Hutcheson’s Quarry, Kākaunui/Kakanui River, Campbells Bay, Ōrore/All Day Bay and Puketapu.