MCHL StoryWalk®

Families in Feilding have a new and exciting reason to head outdoors with the launch of the district’s fourth StoryWalk®. Developed by Manawatū Community Hub Libraries, this interactive reading trail encourages children and their whānau to enjoy stories in a whole new way.

The latest installation features Pu and Ru’s Bird Beak Clues by Jez Smith and Ned Barraud, a fun and educational story that follows two bird characters as they search for the best bird beak. Along the way, readers learn facts about native birds, solve rhyming clues, and enjoy a few laughs from a mischievous pūkeko. The story includes Māori bird names and highlights native plants and animals, making it a rich learning experience that celebrates both literacy and local ecology.

The walk begins just outside Te Āhuru Mōwai, crosses the red bridge, and winds along the path toward the Makino Aquatic Centre outdoor playground. Pages of the story are placed at intervals along the route, allowing families to read each part as they go. This format encourages movement, interaction, and shared reading, offering a great way to combine outdoor activity with learning.

Located in one of Feilding’s most popular community areas, the new StoryWalk® adds even more value to a space that already includes the community hub, basketball court, skatepark, Makino Aquatic Centre playground, and Feilding Lions Mini Golf. It creates a multi-use destination perfect for all ages to learn, play, and connect.

This installation joins three other StoryWalks® in the Manawatū district at Himatangi Beach, Kōwhai Park, and Mt Lees Reserve. Brought to life through collaboration between Manawatū Community Hub Libraries, Parks and Property staff, and Scholastic New Zealand, the StoryWalk® series represents a long-term investment in literacy, outdoor play, and community engagement.

To enjoy the StoryWalk®, visitors can begin at the children’s outdoor area near Te Āhuru Mōwai, cross the red bridge, and follow the path toward the playground, taking time to stop and read each page along the way.

Follow the link to read the article released alongside the StoryWalk launch: New StoryWalk® Takes Flight in Feilding