Media Release

11 March, 2008

Rescued skinks have a new home thanks to Project Twin Streams

Just over 50 skinks were released into a new habitat on the Upper Oratia stream last Friday - thanks to the combined efforts of Project Twin Streams Oratia, a considerate developer and Holy Cross School.

The skinks were relocated as part of the resource consent conditions for a residential housing development.

During a local search for a suitable spot, the Project Twin Streams area which Holy Cross Primary school planted and still maintain stood out as being ideal.

The Oratia stream-banks have been the focus of much weed-clearing and replanting and are now restored to a very high standard.

Students from Holy Cross School were very excited to be involved in the release – which required a DOC permit last week.

They excitedly learned all about the skinks and where they like to live.

Simon Chapman, Ecologist at Boffa Miskel said, “This restored stream environment is ideal as it is within the stream corridor. This gives much improved ecological linkages rather than having the skinks dotted within a sea of residential development.”

Green Jon, Project Twin Stream Oratia coordinator said, “It was great for the students to be directly involved in relocating the skinks. The area they replanted looks great now and the pupils often do casual weeding as they walk past. We did a huge ‘Freedom’ shout at the end and they loved it.”

Project Twin Streams is a council/community partnership project where local residents and groups, work with the Project Twin Streams co-coordinators to get involved in restoring their local stream. The Oratia contract managed by McLaren Park & Henderson South Community Initiative (MPHS)

Waitakere City Council has funding from the Auckland Regional Council to undertake Project Twin Streams.

ENDS

© Scoop Media