Illegal fire poses threat to protected island
Date: 31 January 2008
Two kayakers who lit a camp fire on Motuora Island over the holiday period put the island reserve at significant risk says Deane Williams, Motuora Island Manager.
The fire, lit by a local man and his female companion from Auckland, was discovered on the eastern side of the island and reported to Mr Williams. Open fires are not permitted on any of the conservation islands in the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park.
Mr Williams said a huge restoration effort, largely the work of many volunteers, had been undertaken on the island and it would be a tragedy to see all their hard work go to waste if a fire was to break out.
"I really can't emphasise enough how serious this is - we just can't tolerate putting this very special island at risk," he said.
The island is jointly managed by the Motuora Restoration Society and the Department of Conservation who are working together to ensure the island is protected, including warrants to allow enforcement when rules such as the fire ban is broken.
Mr Williams said people are encouraged to enjoy all the island has to offer, but must take care when they visit.
"Things like not lighting open fires, camping only in designated areas, leaving dogs and other pets at home and checking boats and equipment for stowaway pests are all vital to ensure this, and other conservation islands in the Hauraki Gulf, remain the special places they are," said Mr Williams.
He said because Motuora is free of pests, it plays a vital role in the recovery of threatened species such as kiwi, which are able to flourish in the absence of predators.
"Pests such as rats and mice can easily stowaway on boats and in personal equipment, and all visitors to conservation islands need to do some simple checks before landing," says Mr Williams.
"Along with the remote experience, wildlife is often what attracts people to islands, and it's up to all of us to make sure it's there for future generations to enjoy."
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Media contact: Liz Maire, DOC Community Relations Manager, ph +64 9 425 7842 or 021 234 0831.