Invitation to view Vivian Bay regeneration

Written by Vivian Bay Resident David Kingston: davidkingston@xtra.co.nz

inivtation to visit kawau island regeneration from a community-led pest eradication initiative

Over the last 20 years or so a team of Vivian Bay residents have been working on pest removal work across Vivian Bay, Kawati Point, the upper reaches of North Cove and right across the Bilger land out to Slater Point. The end goal being to reestablish the native flora and fauna on the island. A huge effort has been put in and the results are very satisfying. Common species now showing through and growing well are a variety of ferns and native grasses, mingimingi, mapou, whau, puriri, olearia, five finger, taraire, karaka, kawakawa, pigeon wood, and more.

It has been pointed out to me by the Island Conservation team, who have met or spoken with most islanders about the concept of a pest-free Kawau Island, there are some people who are not convinced that regeneration will occur if all pests are removed from the Island. There are concerns that the seed bank does not exist. I have been asked whether I would be available to show anybody the regeneration that has occurred as a result of the work which has been undertaken. I would be delighted to do so.

If you are interested in seeing the potential for regeneration

The plan would be to meet anybody so interested on the New Wharf at Vivian Bay and go for a short walk of no more than one and half hours up our property and to one or two valleys where the regrowth is spectacular. I could also show a couple of video clips of Kiwi out the back of the property.

A convenient way to achieve a visit if coming from the mainland is the 8.00am water taxi from the Sandspit arrives Vivian Bay at 8.30am. A pick-up can then be made out of Vivian Bay on the 10.30 ferry (leaving Vivian Bay around 11.00am) and you can then carry on to other places on the Island. Gear can be stored safely while you wander. For Kawau Island residents I am happy to work out some other transport arrangements.

Feel free to contact me at davidkingston@xtra.co.nz if you would like to arrange a visit. I look forward to hearing from you.