City Nature Challenge 2020: Ōtepoti/Dunedin's Journal

April 24, 2020

Here we go — the City Nature Challenge starts today!

From now until the 27th of April, thousands of people from across the globe will get outside and look for nature in their cities — and this year, Dunedin is participating for the first time!

On the first day, we've had hundreds of observations added to our total! That includes lots of plants, insects, and birds. All things you can look for in your bubble. Shout out to our top observers so far — Ruth (@ruth103), John (@john_barkla) and Taylor (@taylor_dc).

Here's how you can get involved...

🐛 Find wildlife. It could be a bird, insect, plant or any other sign of life - it just has to be within your city limits.

📸 Take a picture. Snap a photo of what you find (and be sure to note where you took it) with your smart phone or digital camera.

💚 Share! Upload your observation to iNaturalist NZ — Mātaki Taiao and it will be automatically added to the project.

How to use iNaturalist NZ

You can either download the iNaturalist app or use the website (www.inaturalist.nz). All you have to do is create an account and start uploading observations within Dunedin to participate.

Check out this guide to getting started for more information.

Remember, if you're using the app, make sure to click "yes" when it asks if you'd like to be part of iNaturalist NZ — Mātaki Taiao (we're different to iNaturalist.org).

Spread the word!

Want to spread the word and get your friends involved? Download and share these social media graphics or invite them to the event on Facebook.

Posted on April 24, 2020 03:51 AM by kimberleycollins kimberleycollins | 0 comments | Leave a comment

March 29, 2020

COVID-19 and the City Nature Challenge

Kia ora koutou!

As we all settle into our new normal of staying home to reduce the spread of COVID-19, we've been thinking about what it means for the City Nature Challenge in Dunedin.

The health and wellbeing of New Zealanders is our main priority. As such, we will be following the Government’s guidelines and regulations at all times.

We're trying to see the positives.

Being at home is the perfect opportunity to explore nature in your backyard — you'll just have to check every nook and cranny for species to include in the City Nature Challenge! You may be quite surprised by how much you find when you look close.

Connecting people and communities with nature

The City Nature Challenge has always been about connecting people and communities with nature. It allows us to celebrate the healing power of nature — by coping with stress and improving the health of both ourselves and nature. It means we can come together, unite and share the nature in our backyards from across the world. In such uncertain times, this sense of connection is more important than ever!

But we must stay safe, stay home and save lives by reducing the spread of COVID-19.

Even when you're around home, the key is to be sensible and take every precaution to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Stay at least 2 metres away from people from outside your bubble at all times, avoid touching your face, wash your hands thoroughly, wash your phone with hot soapy water and a rag (being careful not to get water into any openings).

— Kimberley, John and David (your Dunedin organisers)

Read more about the City Nature Challenge and COVID-19.

Posted on March 29, 2020 07:05 AM by kimberleycollins kimberleycollins | 0 comments | Leave a comment

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