A much-anticipated relocation of kiwi from Motuora Island to Mount Tamahunga has been delayed by at least a year, following iwi concerns that the birds might not be safe.
In a media release, the Tamahunga Trappers said the first of three kiwi translocations was scheduled for last month, but after meeting with their translocation partners, Te Papa Atawhai/Department of Conservation and the Ngāti Manuhiri Settlement Trust, it was decided not to go ahead this year.
Settlement Trust acting chief executive Nicola MacDonald said despite all the information provided, Ngati Manuhiri still had concerns about predator numbers.
She said as well as cats, stoats and other predators, a dog had been captured on camera.
“One dog in Northland wiped out 500 kiwi and a similar thing happened in Hunua,” MacDonald said.
“While we acknowledge that the Tamahunga Trappers have done a fantastic job, there is no predator proof fence around the maunga. Predator numbers have to be at a level that we can ensure the survival of our national icon.”
Asked why iwi concerns had been raised so late in the process, MacDonald said this would not have happened if engagement had been more regular.
“Early and regular engagement builds a strong and collaborative partnership. Engagement could have been better.
“Ngati Manuhiri wants to see kiwi return to our sacred maunga, and we want see them thrive there.”
Tamahunga Trappers chair David Wilson said with only days to go before the kiwi were to be collected from Motuora Island, the cancellation was a disappointment for everyone involved, all their supporters and the community.
He said the Trappers’ team would be working on a new translocation plan and, hopefully, would have a new date in the near future.
“This will allow time to increase protection for a wider range of species, enhancing the protection of the general ecosystem on Mt Tamahunga,” Wilson said.
“This was the kaupapa (purpose) of the group from the beginning.
“There has been considerable interest in and support for the translocation in the community around the maunga. The Trappers hope that support will continue as the group carries on moving forward on its journey to restore kiwi to a significant local ecological area.”
For more information contact Nicole at tamahungatrappers@hotmail.co.nz
