Part of the Family Fun Introduction to Geocaching Series around Waneka Lake
Take the Advice of the Kick Back, Stretch Out Cache
This is another cache in our family friendly introduction to Geocaching series around the beautiful Waneka lake. Lots of cachers employ some kind of camouflage, so this will help you get used to the type of container and how it is placed and concealed. In this case it is a micro cache, a container that is roughly the size of a pencil erasor, but is hidden within another container that makes it hard to spot. Some might even call such good camouflage an "evil cache." You will need to brirng a pen and have pretty good small motor skills to put the log back.
It blends in pretty well with its surroundings so you will need to look very close to find it.
Please, please put the cache back exactly on the spot indicated by a touch of color (you will know what I mean when you find the cache). This will help be sure it stays put in really bad weather. Also don't let any nearby Muggles see where the cache is placed (or what it is).
MUGGLE WARNING!
Muggles are people who are unaware of Geocaching (feel free to turn them into Geo Witches/Warlocks). Sadly, Muggles have been known to pillage/take/destroy caches either out of their lack of knowledge or out of other less than savory motivations. This cache is on an exceptionally busy muggle route, so be sure no one notices you removing the cache or replacing it. Be a bit stealthy ... like you're sneaking a cookie from the pantry while your parents are in the kitchen.
GEOCACHING ETIQUETTE
1. Put Back as Found: Pay careful attention to exacly how you remove a cache from its hiding spot, as you you should put it back exactly the same way. Note: Not everyone does this. Look for any instructions the Cache Owner (CO) provides on how the cache should be removed or put back. This includes any requests to place any native camo back over the cache.
2. Sign the Log: The paper log is there to track those cool people who have found the cache and provide a rich history to both the owners and the finders. In addition to logging online, be sure sign and date the paper log. And of course, fill out the digital log on your App or computer, as well. When you can, take the time to write something nice or fun about your hunt and find ... the CO will really appreciate it.
3. Be Discrete: Muggles aboud, and not all become Dumbledors ... some go the way of Voldemort. Don't be too obvious in your hunt or finds.
4. Field Reports: If you find anything wrong with the cache, or see a problem, let the CO know via your log or a message.
5. Favorites: If you really enjoyed the hunt or find, be sure to Favorite the cache in the App or on your computer. That will give the CO a smile and let other Cachers know that this is a good cache to find.
6. Repairs: If you find a cache that has been damaged, consider rendering any first-aid you can until the CO can come and perform any requirerd surgery. For example, if the log is missing, leave a bit of paper in the cache to use as a temorary log. If the cache has been left open in the rain, dry it out as much as you can before closing it up. Small repairs mean a lot to a long-term cache.
Look for our other nearby caches in the Family Fun Intro to Geocaching Series:
- Watch the Birdie Cache
- Naruto Team 7 Stash Cache
- Oh No! Not a Tree Hanger Cache
- The Cube Root of Twenty-seven Cache
- Squirrel's Stash Cache
- Boathouse View Cache
- Mule Side Cache
- The Likey Lichen Cache (requires membership)
Good luck, team!
Don't forget to leave a Favorite if you like the hunt and find!
Additional Waypoints
P09VXN8 - Waneka Lake South/West Parking
N 39° 59.545 W 105° 06.819