Two representatives from Ōraka Aparima Rūnaka, Stewart Bull and Lynley McKay along with one representative from Makaawhio, Willy Wilson, went on a hīkoi on Saturday 10 September to Martins Bay. Stewart and I (Lynley) drove to Riversdale where we met up with two of the Hollyford Conservation Trust members, got on a fixed wing plane and took the scenic ride into Martins Bay. Oh my goodness, what a fantastic scenic flight this was.
When we arrived at our destination, we were greeted by the sound of birds chirping, the swish of kererū flying around and the general tranquility the area offers. While waiting on Willy to arrive we were given a warm cuppa, watched eels playing around and received an update on how the Conservation Trust are getting on with pest-eradication as well as other mahi they are coping with. It has to be said that these guys are doing an amazing job.
New traps are being trialed and are working pretty good so far, with five or six dead rats found around most traps. Over 250kms of tracks have been cut, with bait stations put out. Vincent Leith and his contractors were working in there at the time and we managed to catch up with Vincent for an update on the great work they are doing. A discussion occurred regarding 1080 and the benefits this group feel it provides. They feel they have good evidence of the good work this poison does.
While there we had the opportunity to walk some of the tracks, to be whisked up the river by jet boat, put the net out (whitebaiting), and to generally get a great feel for the place. Nā Lynley McKay.
Stewart Bull and Vincent Leith on their hīkoi to Martins Bay.