I strongly support the NZ Predator-free 2050 programme.
I was involved towards the end of the Tiritiri Matangi Island restoration programme. More than 300,000 native trees were planted by volunteers over 20 years. During that time rats were eradicated and endangered New Zealand birds thrived.
A number of endangered species were translocated back to Tiri, and all of those translocations have been a raging success. Those species include saddleback (extinct on the mainland), North Island brown kiwi, kakariki parakeets, North Island robins, brown teal, and my absolute favourite, the kokako. To stay overnight on Tiri and hear the dawn chorus is a real privilege.
Of course, Tiri is an island sanctuary, and developing mainland sanctuaries by eliminating rats, stoats, possums, etc, is a much bigger ask. Cats and dogs present another challenge. Still, it can, and is, being done. Predator fences are often a big help in urban environments, but are not always necessary.
I am impressed with Predator-free 2050 projects in Wellington. Some 5000 Wellingtonians set traps in their backyards, and local parks and reserves, and there are reports of the return of native birds including kaka and bellbird. These traps are providing birds with safe havens and safe corridors through which they can fly, sometimes all the way to Kapiti Island.
There are a number of 2050 projects underway in Auckland. Predator-free Ponsonby works out of Kelmarna Gardens and has traps around its perimeter and in local homes. Predator-free Morningside and Western Springs traps predators and weeds out pest plants around Fowlds Park.
I spoke last month to the Waitemata Local Board about the future of Western Springs Park. There is a way to go yet before the pines are removed and native planting begins, but I urged the board to incorporate a plan to create an urban sanctuary at Western Springs. The board was very receptive to that suggestion, and board member, Denise Roche offered to work with me establishing a team and preparing a programme of action.
There has been some concern expressed about rats at the zoo, but a team of Ark in the Park enthusiasts are working to eliminate the rats. If necessary a predator-free fence could be erected on the boundary between the park and the zoo. Just imagine the dawn chorus ringing out over a large park in central Auckland.
Backyard trapping will be a huge feature of 2050 success. Jesse Mulligan’s initiative is making an impact.
Anyone wanting to investigate getting a trap for their backyard should go on line to 2050 Predator-free NZ, and find a local contact. DOC has some money to assist programmes. Kiwibank can also help.
A number of local Western Springs people will be sad to see the Monterey pines go. Those left, about 180, of the original 500 planted in 1923, still provide a lovely profile when the sun shines through them. But about 30 of those left are dead, and there is risk to the public if any fall.
When, and if, the Waitemata Local Board gets its resource consent there will be plenty of time for people to argue about the removal, and pose questions about erosion when the pines are gone.
I can imagine my grandchildren and their children wandering through an inner city paradise listening to tui, bellbird and, of course, kokako, under a canopy of maturing native trees.
It’s exciting to see so many people joining restoration programmes. New Zealand will benefit hugely from their community action.
(JOHN ELLIOTT)