Since pest eradication was carried out in 2009, the islands of Ipipiri·have begun to regenerate naturally. The absence of rats has allowed a carpet of coprosma seedlings to grow; nikau palms, and·forest trees·including totara and rimu have started to grow from seeds dropped by birds. The future restored coastal forest is starting to emerge.
In Otehei Bay, on Ururupukapuka Island there are many more tui and the torea (variable oystercatcher), and tuturiwhatu (NZ dotterel) numbers are also increasing. Katatai (banded rail)are now seen regularly on Motuarohia Island. Insects and reptiles too are returning - weta and mokomoko (skinks).
Squid Bay -WHERE YOU ARE NOW, Urupukapuka - mass planting
What glorious autumnal weather for our mass planting day on Urupukapuka on Sunday 15 May. And a great turn out; there were 90 Project Island Song volunteers, and between them they planted 2100 trees.
Thanks to Rod Brown and Theresa Vujcich from Guardians of the Bay of Islands, and all the Kerikeri Shade House volunteers, who organised this popular event, supported annually by Bay of Islands – Fullers GreatSights.
Matthew (14, Kerikeri) said, "To be honest, I didn't think it would be as much fun as it is. And I can't wait to go for a swim." (quite a few did!).
Wayne Stanley (Okiato) said, "It was great to be doing something useful and getting a work out at the same time - and I even made some new friends."
We want to acknowledge the efforts of both Department of Conservation and all the regular planting volunteers who did the prep work last Tuesday for the mass planting at the weekend on Urupukapuka. Over 2000 plants transported to the island and up the hill in a long morning's work.
PLEASE POST PHOTOS TO SHOW HOW THE TREES ARE GROWING