Subdivision a concern for Kiwi in the Far North

NZ KIWI FOUNDATION
CHARITABLE TRUST
P.O. Box 541
Kerikeri
Northland 0470

PRESS RELEASE

Subdivision a concern for Kiwi in the Far North

Subdivision is putting immense pressure on Kiwi and other natural values in the Far North,” said Greg Blunden, Convenor of the NZ Kiwi Foundation at their Annual General Meeting recently.

“We are trying to work with landowners and developers to plan for the protection and enhancement of Kiwi populations in developments,” he said. “Sometimes we can help right from the outset.”
He spoke of some model developments occurring on the Kerikeri Peninsula.

“The Far North District Council has recognised the unique character of the area and has allowed for the legal prohibition of keeping or visitation of domestic pets, such as cats and dogs, in these places,” he continued.

“It would be good if this was a more widespread policy, not just for the Kerikeri Peninsula.”
He said that he was more convinced that individuals, groups and private land initiatives hold the key to success in conservation.

“There are tensions, of course, and many of our initiatives would not have been possible without the development process. For this we may suffer some criticism, but the developments would have occurred anyway, due to the permissive nature of the governing legislation (the Resource Management Act) and the ‘development’ attitude of the local council.”
He said that positive results have been achieved where natural values have been enhanced, whereas before such issues were largly ignored.

“However,” he continued, “there are limits and it is critical that we do everything we can to protect what little is left when it really has to be fought for.”

ENDS

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