Excerpt and Photo from ourauckland.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz
The ambitious endeavor to restore Kawau Island’s biodiversity has gained support from the New Zealand Nature Fund, marking a pivotal moment in conservation efforts within the Tīkapa Moana/Te Moananui-ā-Toi/ Hauraki Gulf.
Led by Auckland Council in partnership with Manuhiri Kaitiaki Charitable Trust, Predator Free 2050 Limited and the Department of Conservation, and in collaboration with the Kawau Island community, the project aims to initially eradicate introduced browsing pests (wallabies and possums). Discussions with the Kawau Island community are underway regarding the potential future eradication of invasive predators (stoats and rats), on the journey towards a pest-free Kawau Island.
Kawau Island, known for its diverse ecosystems and rich biodiversity, has faced ecological challenges due to the presence of browsing pests such as wallabies and possums. These invasive species have threatened native flora and fauna, hindering the island’s natural regeneration processes.