2 Dawn Chorus 130 August 2022 Chairchat As one era ends, a new beginsone
Cover photo: Geoff Beals (see photo competition winners, p. 14-15).
Hopefully now that spring is almost here visitor numbers to the Island will increase, after several scheduled ferry runs were cancelled over winter. The Visitor Engagement team is helping Explore to improve the company's website to encourage more people to enjoy the guided walks. It was sad to learn of the passing of Ian Haynes, the Society’s honorary solicitor, who helped set up the original constitution when the Society was formed in 1988. Ian has helped with legal issues ever since, including the complications with the AGM Webinar just last year, and he will be greatly missed. Simon Fordham has written Ian’s obituary in this issue. However, we have been lucky to obtain the services of Ben Lenihan, a barrister of the Auckland High Court and one of our members, who will act as our honorary solicitor in future. On the Island, the takahē chicks were moved south in late July and, while it is sad to see the family broken up, they are contributing to increasing the gene pool of the entire New Zealand population. Painting of the interior of the lighthouse has been completed and we look forward to the exterior being finished in September. Funding for the mast has been raised as well, for installation later this year. In an exciting development, we have received approval to proceed with promoting Tiritiri as part of the United Nations Decade on Ecosystem Restoration. We will be entitled to use a customised UN logo on all future correspondence and be part of this international programme. The AGM is coming up quickly and it’s pleasing to note that all members of the current Committee are standing again. This year another member wishes to join the Committee and, as the constitution only allows nine members, a ballot will need to be held. We intend to hold the meeting in person but also offer the option of attending online (see details p. 19). Look forward to seeing you then. – Carl Hayson
I attended Brigham Young University in Hawaii as a college athlete where I was awarded a full scholarship from 1987-1991, graduating with a Bachelors of Science. From there, I moved to California where I resided for 24 years, raising a family and working in the above sectors.
Meet Tiritiri’s new Guiding and Shop Manager, Kim Briggs Multi-talented DOC rangers Emma Dunning (above), and Talia Hochwimmer, whipped up this "lighthouse cake" to celebrate the end of the three-month stint for the Nelson team who prepped and painted the interior (see opposite page).
Tiritiri Titbits Icing on the cake marks end of stage one
Stu Brown, above right, led the team of three from NZ Coating Services. My breadth of skills covers a wide spectrum of life experiences in tourism, education and transportrelated industries. I am passionate about eco-tourism, given my educational background and current role. I have an innate love for nature and travel.
I moved back to New Zealand in November 2011 and immersed myself back into the tourism industry before being employed by DOC at the Auckland Visitor Centre as Team Leader for their busy office on Princes Wharf. I was made redundant from this role in December 2020. Above: Kim Briggs, who is originally from Dunedin, spent 12 months ticking off all the Great Walks she hadn't completed before she began her new role on Tiritiri.
Over the past few months, volunteers and visitors to the Island would have seen unusual activity inside the lighthouse and wondered what was going on. After years of watching the lighthouse rapidly deteriorate, the Infrastructure team decided something had to be done before the damage got too Internally,great. the situation was even worse, with flaking paint and rusted bolts breaking off. The Tower, a Category 1 Heritage Building owned by Maritime NZ, was years away from getting any attention, due to Maritime NZ not having any funding available. So, after commissioning an historic architect’s report and obtaining quotes from contractors, Juliet Hawkeswood, the grants co-ordinator, was tasked with finding funding for the project. She succeeded in raising $300,000 from the Lotteries Board and $40,000 from Auckland Council. We contracted NZ Coating Services to restore the interior as this was the most urgent. There were several barriers to overcome, such as ensuring the water for the blasting was salt-free and finding a scaffold supplier who could provide short lengths to fit inside the tower. Barges were needed to take the contractor’s truck, scaffolding equipment and more than 520 litres of thinners and paint to the Island. The team began work by removing over 150 years of flaking lead paint by water blasting, then abrading before painting began. (The flakes were trapped and packed up to be taken off Island.) Over three months, Stu Brown and his team worked solidly, restoring the interior to pristine condition while working in the confined space of the tower. Ian Higgins, Ray Walter and myself have been involved in the management of this project and have also liaised with Maritime NZ as we went along. DOC rangers, Emma and Talia, also pitched in. This is the first time a lighthouse tower has been internally restored in New Zealand and, thanks to the Lotteries Board grant and the Auckland City Council funding, the Supporters have been able to organise this work. The external painting will be undertaken by Abseil Access in September when the weather is better. Another project ticked off! – Carl Hayson
Lighthouse interior glows after makeover
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Top: Six to seven coats of the special epoxy marine paint were required in some areas of the lighthouse. Above: The decorative fretwork, typical of the Victorian era in which the lighthouse was constructed, has been given a new lease of life.
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The photo, featured on the Tiritiri Matangi Facebook page – accompanied by fascinating facts about her dextrous dinosaur feet and claws by Jonathan Mower – reached almost 95,000* people within three weeks of being posted. It had attracted 3400 responses or "Likes" and more than 475 comments. It had also been "shared" over 300 times... and that's not including the responses on Instagram. "Shares are important as they bring new viewers," explains Bethny Uptegrove, the social media editor. Bethny says she is amazed at the response. "Generally, if we get more than 20 shares that’s pretty good. "The best posting so far this year had reached 7600 people." Long story short: Bethny and Darren were both on the Island when she asked him if he had any suitable photos for the Facebook page from his two-night stay. "He showed me the photo while we were walking down the wharf, and I asked him then if he would send it to me for our use... I was overwhelmed by its power." He explains: "My usual starting route is along the Wattle Track to check the nīkau palms and the current state of the red berries – a great place to spot the resident kōkako pair. I hear them calling, but some way off. I move on. More soft kōkako calls are heard further up the Wattle Track, at the bottom of the firebreak. I spot two kōkako up in the trees. "Suddenly, one of them comes bounding along the branches towards me. She stops very close and begins eating the unripened kohekohe fruit. So close, it’s as if she wants to share the fruit with me! I’m too near to get any photos and move back slowly. Luckily she keeps eating and I managed quite a few shots." Erenora hatched in November 2018. During the last two seasons Erenora has had several unsuccessful nests with her female partner Yindi. Recently however, Erenora has been spending more time with a young male, Tātākī, so there may be a new pair for 2022-3. (*People reached means the number of people who saw the post at least once. Reach is different from impressions, which may include multiple views of the post by the same people. The metric is estimated.) – Lyn Barnes
It is with much sadness that we note the passing of our Honorary Solicitor, Ian Haynes ONZM. Ian's involvement with SoTM dates back to the beginning, when he drafted the original Rules of the Society. Periodically we would call on Ian to offer legal advice on various matters, including the trademarking of the magazine name, Dawn Chorus, and the periodic revisions to the Rules. Ian was a guest of the Supporters at the 30th Anniversary celebration in 2018. Our condolences go to his wife Wendy and all of those close to him. – Simon Fordham Photographer Darren Markin has had a winning streak lately. He took out one of the top spots in this year's Tiritiri Photo Competition (see pages 14-15) with his image of a spotless crake – and this close encounter with Erenora, the three-year-old kōkako, is captivating hearts around the world.
Erenora is an internet star!
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Obituary: Ian Haynes
Thompson and Derek Tearne. They work closely with Kim Briggs (Guiding Manager), Debbie Marshall (Operations Manager) and the DOC rangers.
At the moment, VE is a dedicated team of five: Stacey Balich (chair), Toni Ashton, Carol Wildermoth, Jane Keen to help boost visitor numbers?
I haven’t done track maintenance before, is that a problem? Not at all. You will be working under the guidance of our DOC rangers, Emma and Talia. They will show you which tools to use for what, how to use the tools, the methodology and good techniques. How fit/strong do I need to be? If you can comfortably walk the guiding tracks (Wattle, Kawerau, Moana Rua/Coast to Coast) then you are fit enough. It does involve bending, crouching, reaching and some light lifting. You don’t need to be able to bend yourself into pretzel, but it’s important to have good mobility. How often do I need to come? Ideally every one to two months, but there is flexibility. If you are interested, email tiritirimatangi@doc.govt.nz or ph: 027 536
Volunteers1067.
The role and responsibility of the VE is to inspire people to become advocates for natural, cultural and historic heritage, and to seek ways to make a difference in their own communities and environments.
What exactly do you mean by track maintenance? Most of the regular mahi is trimming back vegetation and keeping the drains clear so the rain flows where it's wanted, rather than washing away tracks.
needed to maintain tracks
6 Dawn Chorus 130 August 2022 Are you interested in volunteering some time on the Island, but guiding is not your thing? Are you a guide and you wish your significant other would also come and volunteer on the Island? The DOC rangers are putting together a small team to help maintain the guiding tracks for SoTM (and occasionally help the rangers to look after other tracks on the Island).
The Visitor Engagement (VE) Subcommittee is looking for new members with ideas, enthusiasm and creativity to improve the experience of our visitors.
“Our SoTM mission statement provides our direction. It would be great to have ideas for how to strengthen what we are already doing so that our mission statement is present in all that we do,” says Stacey. “We would like our social media pages to appeal to everyone so they are inspired to visit the Island or sanctuaries nearer to them or get involved in conservation in their area.”
Above: Volunteers help to keep paths clear on the Island – but more support is needed. Here, Supporters Lorraine Grayson and Michael Deresch clear the track during a Working Weekend.
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All the VE activities are co-ordinated and organised in collaboration with others, so volunteers would not be thrown in at the deep end. The VE Subcommittee meets on a Wednesday evening via Zoom every six weeks, along with Kim and Debbie and the Island’s DOC rangers. If this sounds like the kind of challenge and opportunity you would like to take up in 2022, please email Stacey Balich on staceybalich@gmail.com for more information.
There are several channels and tools we use to do this, such as marketing, social media, interpretation on the Island (e.g., information signs on the tracks and in the Visitor Centre), events (such as concerts) and Tiritiri Talks. Skills in communication or marketing would be helpful. Te Ao Māori and tikanga Māori are also becoming an increasingly important focus for the Visitor Engagement Subcommittee and we would welcome skills and experience in these areas
Ecological restoration on Tiritiri was well ahead of its time. It has taken initiatives such as the sanctuary to encourage a global declaration that is now being internationally recognised, explains Mel Galbraith.
Twelve hours after we collectively chorused Auld Lang Syne to welcome in the 1st January 2021, the United Nations launched a “Decade on Ecosystem Restoration” 2021-2030. Not that you would have noticed; there were no fanfares and I doubt if any of the local firework displays were in recognition of this cause. No doubt the global pandemic was occupying the headlines at the time. And, even as we edge back towards a new more stable “norm”, it is still unlikely that the UN initiative will demand much media recognition. Such is the nature of (positive) environmental news. The UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration 2021-2030 explicitly calls for ... Preventing, halting and reversing the degradation of ecosystems worldwide: “The over-arching vision for the UN Decade is a world where – for the health and wellbeing of all life on Earth and that of future generations – the relationship between humans and nature has been restored, where the area of healthy ecosystems is increasing, and where ecosystem loss, fragmentation and degradation has been ended.” –Tiritiri Matangi fits into the United Nations Decade vision Weperfectly.often refer to the restoration project on Tiritiri Matangi as “cutting edge”. While it is true that ecological restoration is now relatively commonplace in New Zealand, with a multitude
of projects nationwide, at the inception of the Tiritiri Matangi project such action was novel and, to some degree, controversial. It was an invitation for public to contribute to conservation on Crown land, and definitely tested the boundaries of the day of what was acceptable for public to do on Crown land.
You will note that we have ‘personalised’ the UN logo – this is encouraged by the UN to demonstrate a unique connection with the UN vision. We will be using it for the remainder of the decade to demonstrate this connection, and to remind everyone of the significance of the Tiritiri Matangi restoration project.
Above: Tiritiri Matangi is a worthy exemplar when it comes to restoring the Island to forest and protecting the wildlife.
https://www.decadeonrestoration.org/
8 Dawn Chorus 130 August 2022
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It also started to raise volunteers’ expectations of how their contributions could address environmental degradation. The formal discipline of restoration ecology (the science) had its birth in the USA in the 1950s. Even so, the Tiritiri Matangi project was getting underway around the same time as the establishment of the first scientific journal for the science (Ecological Restoration – 1981) but, perhaps more importantly, well before the appearance of the Society for Ecological Restoration International (SER, 1988). The Island’s restoration story over almost four decades is known throughout New Zealand, and generates international interest for the extent of community participation in the restoration.
The Tiritiri Matangi project is a celebration of the collective foresight of many players that promoted and supported the restoration and public participation, and is thus worthy of being an exemplar for the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration.
Tiritiri Matangi: a perfect fit for United Nations environment programme
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– https://www.decadeonrestoration.org/
Above: The UN logo for Tiritiri Matangi has been ‘personalised’ for the Island. This is encouraged by the UN organisation to demonstrate a unique connection with the UN vision. It's thanks to Mel Galbraith, a founding member of SoTM and the original secretary, who spotted the opportunity to register with the UN Ecosystem Restoration programme. He was scrolling through academic journals online to keep up to date with restoration ecology as part of his job, when he recognised the opportunity for Tiritiri to be acknowledged on an international scale. Mel is a senior lecturer at Unitec in applied ecology. “People have been advocating the urgency of addressing environment degradation for a long time – and with the UN making a global declaration like this and endorsing ecological restoration, it legitimises its importance,” he said. He added that it is wonderful to see large societies are now being set up worldwide, but that Tiritiri’s small enterprise started well before many countries initiated efforts. “New Zealand has a high profile in conservation internationally and we need to be promoting that.”
Chairperson of SoTM Carl Hayson said he was delighted with the international recognition. “It is a pinnacle of our achievements, recognising that we are a mature sanctuary and an example of what can be done.”
Above: David Nicoll (left) inspects the lighthouse with Ray Walter.
Global efforts range from saving rainforest to seashores
Use of UN logo seen as solid stamp of approval
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NZ Heritage heads acknowledge restoration efforts
There has never been a more urgent need to revive damagedthanecosystemsnow.
The range of initiatives that have been recognised by the United Nations include programmes such as planting 100 million trees in Borneo's rainforest covering an area of 620ha, to planting sea grass in a 10ha area along the coastline of North Wales. Then there are urban nature parks, replenishing coral reefs, restoring peatlands, plus growing coffee agroforests to boost diversity.
– Carl Hayson
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The United Nations Decade on Ecosystem Restoration runs from 2021 to 2030. Similar to other nature-related international decades, its purpose is to promote the United Nations' environmental goals. Specifically, to facilitate global cooperation for the restoration of degraded and destroyed ecosystems, along with fostering efforts to combat climate change, safeguard biodiversity, food security, and water supply.
Andrew Coleman, the CEO of NZ Heritage, and David Nicoll, chair of the NZ Heritage Trust, visited Tiritiri Matangi in late July. They were invited to inspect the heritage work being undertaken on the Island, including the refurbishment of the lighthouse and construction of the lighthouse museum. Both were impressed with their day: “David and I had a fantastic day, and we think the thanks all goes to you and the members of the trust. You made us very welcome, and we were extremely impressed by your collective passion and drive. As a result, Tiritiri Matangi is in very good hands,” said Andrew. David was also impressed and, as a result, he made a donation to the Supporters through the website, which was gratefully received. This visit has put Tiritiri on the map as a national icon for lighthouse heritage and we hope that leads to future support from the Government. Thanks to Ray and Linda Walter, Ian Higgins and Luca Kornélia Kósa for their help in hosting Andrew and David on the day.
All kinds of ecosystems can be restored, including forests, farmlands, cities, wetlands and oceans. Restoration initiatives can be launched by almost anyone, from governments and development agencies to businesses, communities and individuals. That is because the causes of degradation are many and varied, and can have an impact at different scales.
proves a winner over winter
The two juveniles from last season have been banded and named. They are Ruarua (meaning “to be few”), whose bands are black over orange on the left leg and orange over metal on the right, and Māhanga (meaning “twin”), who wears orange over metal on the left and black over orange on the right. We don’t yet know the sex of these youngsters, but are expecting the test results in early August. Ruarua and Māhanga, along with their older siblings Pukunati and Kanorau Tīrama, and Moke from the Northern family, were removed from the Island at the end of July and will spend several weeks learning to eat tussock grass at Burwood Takahē Centre. Moke will eventually join the breeding programme at Cape Sanctuary and the other four will be released at one or other of the wild sites.
Kōkako To begin on a sad note, Mānuka, Honey and Rimu’s daughter from 2019-20, was found dead on Wharf Road in April. There was no sign of injury and, although her body seemed rather light, starvation seems an unlikely cause of death, given that there was plenty of food available. After being ousted from his territory, our oldest kōkako, Te Hari (25 next November), has been hanging around Spaghetti Junction and can often be found feeding on the ground near the gravel piles. This area is on the edge of three territories, including that occupied by Te Hari’s former mate Phantom and her new partner Wakei. At present Te Hari appears to be making no attempt to sing and claim The feeding stations have been popular for korimako (bellbirds) over the cooler months.
Te Hari: a bachelor on his lonesome at 24. That may well change with spring.
The close monitoring of kōkako, tīeke, hihi and titipounamu (rifleman), which occupies many of our volunteers during the breeding season, is suspended for the winter. But it is still a good time to see birds on the Island. With fewer trees flowering, the korimako (bellbirds) flock to the feeding stations, where their song becomes almost deafening, and their competitive posturing is a delight to watch. The hihi, for whom the stations were intended, manage to glean a small share, as do a few house sparrows.
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As of mid-July, the family of six was still providing excellent views for visitors as they grazed on the lawn near the buildings.
10 Dawn Chorus 130 August 2022 Fauna ExtraNotessustenance
Takahē As for most birds, winter is a time when the takahē put on condition in preparation for the coming breeding season. This can be difficult if the ground is hard and dry but this season’s soft, wet conditions have made it easier for them to pull out the grass and access the parts close to the roots. The rain also brings invertebrates closer to the surface and within easy reach.
Survey: downward trend in bird species
Tiritiri's forest birds are in decline – that's the picture revealed by years of survey work. This was our eighth year of transect counts. Each year members of the team walk fixed routes through the bush counting all the birds they detect within 10 metres on each side. We use the average of the counts to calculate the number of birds per hectare and multiply that figure by the area of bush on the Island to make an estimate of the total population. This report concentrates on the 10 species found in the bush in sufficient numbers for the survey to be reasonably accurate. Even then, for toutouwai (robin), kōkako and hihi, we know that the estimates are too high. Toutouwai and hihi sometimes fly towards an observer to check them out, bringing them within counting distance. Figure 1 shows a slowly declining trend in the total number of birds counted each year. These figures have been adjusted to take account of two surveys which could not be completed. This year we counted 7051, which is 500 fewer than our previous lowest count. Table 1 shows the population estimates for the past eight years. For the first time, we have calculated the average populations for the previous seven years and compared them to this year’s figures. The results are shown in Table 2. The annual estimates shown in Table 1 show the trends are far from uniform. Toutouwai/ robin, tūī, kākāriki, kererū, blackbird and korimako/bellbird have all been lower in some previous years than they are this year. The general downward trend is concerning but the reasons for it are unclear. We’ve had some recent dry years, but also some years when there has seemed to be more food than the birds could eat. We might expect the gradually maturing bush to be capable of supporting higher populations, but this may not be the case. It would be both fascinating and useful to discover the connections between population sizes and the overall life-supporting capacity of our bush and, to that end, we are assessing the possibility of new projects to record annual variations in what birds eat and in what food is available.
The tūturiwhatu (New Zealand dotterel) banded as a chick on Hobbs Beach in January 2016 has been seen with the wintering flock in Shakepear Park.
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space for himself, but that may change as the breeding season approaches. The unbanded juvenile (currently known as ‘Ub6’) has continued to entertain visitors around the buildings, often in the company of other young birds. Hihi In May, Emma Gray and Mhairi McCready replaced bands on birds who had lost them. They also checked that PIT tags, now carried by many of the hihi, and the devices used to read them, are working correctly. The tags enable birds to be identified individually when they enter the feeder cages. As usual, the catching took place at the feeders, so they were also able to observe that sparrows are still entering the cages to ‘steal’ the sugar water intended for the hihi. Since winter 2021, 17 individual sparrows have been caught in the feeders and banded. It was hoped this experience would discourage them from returning, but they continue undeterred. The hihi translocation off the Island to Shakespear Regional Park, which was originally planned for this winter, has been deferred until 2023.
– John Stewart Other wildlife
Compiled by Kay Milton with contributions from John Stewart, Morag Fordham, Emma Gray and Emma Dunning.
The five-yearly survey of kiwi pukupuku (little spotted kiwi) took place over two weeks in April and May. Thirty-four birds were caught (compared with 31 in 2017). For more details, see p. 7.
Karo (Pittosporum crassifolium) In early September, karo flowering begins with clusters of deep-red, bell-shaped, small flowers that have petal edges that curve backwards. Karo is gyno-dioecious, with fixed female (sterile stamens) and inconstant male (some with functional ovaries) flowers on separate plants. A rich flow of nectar from the flowers attracts tūī and korimako.
Now is the time to book for this Working Weekend. To register your interest, email Kim: guiding@tiritirimatangi.org.nz
Note: If Working Weekends are over-subscribed, participants will be selected and notified around four weeks beforehand. new leaf growth and new flowers are harvested by kererū. New Zealand has eight endemic species of Sophora, all called kōwhai. Species are defined by variations in leaf and pod structure, growth pattern and habitat. Kōwhai leaves are pinnately compound, with tiny leaflets attached to a central midrib. The leaves on coastal kōwhai can measure up to 15cm long and have crowded and overlapping leaflets. Sophora belongs in the legume family, Fabacae. Faba is Latin for a bean. Sophora comes from the Arabic word sufayra, the name for a leguminous tree.
Kūmarahou means “kūmara planting time", declaring that the cold weather has passed. It grows as a shrub to small tree in the North Island, from North Cape to northern Bay of Plenty. It is happy on poor clay soils, giving it the name “poverty weed” . It was also called “gum diggers’ soap”, as saponins in its leaves and flowers, when moistened and rubbed together, made a good lather.
SoTM Working Weekend: time to book now Saturday 22 to Monday 24 October (Labour Weekend)
Working Weekends are not only a great opportunity to contribute to the many work programmes on the Island, but you will get to mix and socialise with others of like mind, particularly during the pot-luck dinner each evening. The comradeship is legendary! There is always time available to enjoy the Island, including a search for kiwi and tuatara after dinner.
Tasks begin at 1pm on the day of arrival and continue through Sunday afternoon. On Mondays, tasks are optional (after the bunkhouse clean-up). The ferry fare is complimentary, as is the accommodation, courtesy of Explore and DOC.
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Pomaderris is a large genus with about 70 species, the majority native to Australia. New Zealand has eight endemic species. They belong in the buckthorn family, Rhamnaceae, based on the genus Rhamnus Italian buckthorn Rhamnus alaternus, as a garden shrub, has become a troublesome weed in parts of New Zealand. Pomaderris means membranous lid, a covering for the seed capsule. Rhamnus means thorny shrub.
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Pittosporum has about 150 species that are widely dispersed. New Zealand with 21 endemic species, New Caledonia with 50 and Hawaii 11 species, have the greatest concentration. The plants belong in the small family Pittosporaceae with about 250 species in nine genera. A feature of the family is resin canals in various tissues. The crushed leaves often have a strong, resinous scent. New Zealand species of Pittosporum have the widest colour range in their flowers with yellow, pink, red to purple and almost black. Pittosporum means tar seed: this is because the seeds in the fruit capsules are covered with a resinous pulp.
Kūmarahou has handsome pompoms of small, yellow flowers in early spring.
Above: When the kūmarahou flowers, it’s a sure sign the cold weather has passed.
Kūmarahou (Pomaderris kumeraho)
More than 30 entries for the Fauna section of this year’s Tiritiri Photo Competition were deemed worthy of publication.
3rd – Tony Petricevich, macrocarpa sunrise. Highly commended – Sure Log, sunset wharf.
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In the Flora section, the composition of an unfurling ponga frond (above) took out first place for Geoff Beals – and his image of fungi came second (above, top right).
The winner of the Under-16 section was Lucy Dean with her well-captured bellbird (left page, bottom right)
2nd – Carol Bates, wharf in December.
3rd – Martin Sanders, lighthouse keeper. Highly commended – Sure Log, takahē feeding
3rd – Sarah Kate Wechsler, mānuka (above, centre right). Highly commended – Martin Sanders, fleshy fungi.
That’s according to the judge, Timaru-based photographer Geoff Cloake, who ultimately awarded first prize to Darren Markin for his photograph of a spotless crake (left page, top).
Second place was awarded to Carol Bates for her variable oystercatcher family which proved “young and fluffy always appeals” (left page, centre left). Highly commended – Neil Davies, wētāpunga; Simon Fordham, bellbird; Pam Stephen, fernbird; Jonathan Mower, kākāriki.
Kay Milton won the People section with her “kiwi team at work”, which was “well lit under difficulty in the darkness” (left page, bottom left).
Strong contenders for 2022competitionphotography
2nd – Liam Taylor, brown quail.
3rd – Liam Taylor, NZ fantail. Highly commended – George Wilians, takahē mum and chick.
The Landscape/Seashore section was won by Derek Tearne’s foghorn lighthouse (above). “The unexpected juxtaposition of warning systems makes this an interesting record of marine operations,” commented the judge.
The judge commended Darren for capturing what he termed “excellent posture engagement in the hunt”. He was also impressed by the subdued toning which “created an unexpected mood”. Darren also took third place with his photograph of a kōkako on the move (left page, centre right). The judge said it reminded him of a “spirited dance at a masquerade party”.
2nd – Luca Kornélia Kósa, observer.
ants? Reproductive queens have a great need for protein in their diets to maintain their egg production. They have the somewhat macabre and unusual habit of feeding on the “blood” (insect haemolymph) of their own larvae in the colony. This occurs mostly during periods of food shortage and usually ceases when the food supply improves. However, one or two species from other countries use this method of nutrition as a matter of course, and their larvae have special glands that secrete haemolymph for this purpose.
Assuming them to be exotic invaders, I reported them to Dr Chris Green, our now retired DOC entomologist, who was on the Island at the time, checking insect traps. “Don’t panic – they’re common and harmless,” was his reassuring reply. Since that first encounter, I have found them in several places on Tiritiri, including Hobbs Beach strandline (I was observing endemic giant earwigs at the time), beside the Wattle Track shortcut, and in small numbers swarming on nuptial flights over the Ridge Track. Dracula ants belong to the ant genus Amblyopone, along with nine other species in the Eastern Pacific region. Apart from their impressive size, there are several other fascinating facts associated with these ants. The name Amblyopone refers to their large blunt heads. Ambly = blunt/rounded; pone = wicked/wretched, referring to their habit of dismembering prey in order to feed chunks directly to their larvae. There is also their vampirish behaviour towards their own larvae, as explained below. All ants in the
Ancient ‘Dracula’ ants on endemicTiritiri:orexotic?
• Amblyoponin queens are frequently found out of the nest foraging for food with the workers. The queens of other more recentlyevolved ant species remain mostly confined to the brood chambers of their nests where egg laying is their primary task.
• They form unusually small colonies of perhaps 100-200 or so workers. In contrast, Argentine ant colonies and their multi-colony complexes often contain many millions of workers.
• Many “modern” ant species feed their larvae (and sometimes each other) on pre-digested regurgitated food (a habit called trophallaxis). Others produce sterile eggs (called trophic eggs) with which they feed their larvae. In contrast, the Amblyoponin ants feed their young directly on the torn-up bodies of their prey.
Above right: A nest with Amblyopone australis pupae scattered about by birds on the Wattle Track shortcut. The $1 is for scale.
Whyinvertebrates.whenarereasoncloudyoftobuttheypredators.specialisedAmblyoponinaesubfamilyaresubterraneanThismeansavoiddirectlightoccasionallyemergefeedonthesurfacethegroundondull,days.ForthistheirnumbersoftenunderestimatedsamplingforestaretheycalledDracula
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These enormous ants with their huge heads and impressive jaws feed on “blood” and dismember their prey but, as John Sibley discovers, they’re harmless. It’s the smaller imports that are more of a concern.
My first encounter with “Dracula” ants (or Amblyopone australis –the southern michelin ant) was on the Wattle Track a few years back when a child, eager to see inside the wētā hotel near the middle bird bath, dislodged an old, rotting log at the side of the steps. Out of the log crawled the most enormous and menacing-looking ants any of us had ever seen. They were around 10mm long, slow moving, possessing enormous heads and menacing jaws. Touching one resulted in one adventurous child yelling, “Ow! That hurts!” Yes, they had a sting, too!
• Ants of the Amblyopone genus are said to be “gamergate”, a term meaning female workers can reproduce within a colony lacking a queen. In other words, the caste system in these ants is
The following primitive features are characteristic of the genus Amblyopone and reveal their ancient Gondwanan heritage:
“Dracula ant” or Amblyopone australis, on the Wattle Track.
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New Zealand has only 11 known native species of ant; by comparison, Australia has about 1200. The most common endemic species here is the southern ant ( antarcticusChelaner ), which gathers and stores plant seeds. These small Howeverlitterlikelyonesbrown3-5mm),(measuringdarkantsaretheyouaremosttoseeinleafonTiritiri.,themost
Endemic ants tend to be more common in bush compared to open, disturbed sites. Chris adds that most of our endemic ants are brown or red-brown in colour and slow-moving. They are somewhat reclusive and do not have native common names. We tend to use overseas generic common names for them.
bothersome ants are not endemic. Most are accidental introductions from Australia. One of our commonest exotic ant species is the white-footed house ant (Technomyrmex jacosus), which frequently invades our houses in search of food.
Our most common exotic ant species: the white-footed house ant.
Judging by their present distribution around New Zealand, many invasive ant species appear to have entered the country in the recent past via the ports of Auckland, Tauranga and Lyttelton. Auckland, in particular, seems to be a hot spot for exotic introductions. Ants living on Tiritiri
ThorpeStephenPhoto:@ somewhat “fluid”, where normally non-breeding female workers can sometimes become reproductive when the need arises. Taken together, these primitive characteristics indicate Dracula ants are a very ancient group. There is a possibility that Amblyopone australis could be endemic to New Zealand rather than exotic. They are widely distributed across the North Island and are our largest ant species. Amblyopone australis were initially described in 1842 and found in the Auckland region in 1876. Referring to their possible origins, learned texts suggest they “most closely resemble” other Amblyopone species from Queensland. It is said they may have arrived in Auckland in soil or wood imports at about this time. However, one authority maintains the taxonomic situation is not so clear-cut and provides evidence for a large group of similar species. We live in exciting scientific times, where future DNA analysis will be the clincher –watch this space! There is one undisputed representative from this ant subfamily that is endemic to New Zealand – Fulakora saundersi. This is a smaller ant (up to 5mm long) than Amblyopone australis. It has a similar habitat and lifestyle and until recently was in the genus Amblyopone. Chris Green has found these on Tiritiri in various localities. Fulakora saundersi seems to be a southern representative of this now discontinuous archaic group. It appears to be distinct from its relatives in Australia, suggesting a long period of isolation from an ancestral Australian (Gondwanan) form. Ants are often perceived with mixed emotions when seen busily scurrying about on Tiritiri. Guides may well give them a second glance to see if they could be harmful Argentine ants.
I have noticed, in our kitchen, they will often form little foraging “away teams”, asleep during the day under objects on work surfaces, ready to forage for food when night falls.
ThorpeStephenPhoto:@
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Endemic species: Five species of native ants have been identified on the Island. They are usually found in pitfall traps. (Pitfall traps are plastic cups – a disposable type – with 2cm of water. These are buried level with the ground surface; unwary insects fall into them and drown, to be later counted and identified.) The endemic ants on Tiritiri are Austroponera castanea, Chelaner antarcticus, Discothyrea antarctica, Heteroponera brouni and Monomorium antipodium.
These ants are found on the Island in the vicinity of the bunkhouse and Visitor Centre. They can be hard to eradicate as they do not carry solid food (and therefore Fipronil poison) back to the nest to feed their Thankfully,larvae.the invasive Argentine ant (Linepithema humile), formerly Iridomyrmex humilis, is no longer found on the Island. They mercilessly displace all other ant species, plus any other competing indigenous edible invertebrates they happen to meet. Tiritiri remains one of the few places on earth where they have been successfully eradicated, thanks to Chris Green’s herculean efforts over 16 years. His advice is to pay attention to the colour of the ants. If they are dark brown or black, relax. Argentine ants have a pale brown-coloured appearance (see over page). If in doubt, make a note of the location and tell a ranger.
SibleyJohnPhoto: Fulakora saundersi (in mm). Chelaner antarcticus
Exotic species: Ten species of exotic ants have been found on the Island, at least seven of which Chris found frequently during his Argentine ant work. They were visiting bait tubes containing the non-toxic lure used to monitor and detect Argentines. He reports that, in general, exotic ants favour more open, disturbed sites on Tiritiri rather than deep in our bush areas. The six exotic species often found on the Island are Iridomyrmex anceps, Mayriella abstinens, Nylanderia species, Ochetellus glaber, Pheidole rugosula, Technomyrmex jacosus and Tetramorium grassi
Note: A Member may exercise a proxy vote through another Member, or through the Chairperson, and, in either case, such proxies in writing must be in the hands of the Secretary not less than 24 hours before the time of commencement of the meeting.
A That the part of Rule 4 from its commencement to the end of sub-paragraph (a) is revoked and replaced by the following provision: Membership shall be open to all persons, families, groups, bodies corporate, and others who wish to support the objects of the Society. There will be two classes of members (a)(‘Members’):Ordinary
membership Any person or entity referred to above may apply to the Society for membership and, on such application being approved by the Committee, the applicant will become a Member of the Society, with membership benefits commencing immediately, apart from voting rights at a General Meeting which will not commence until two months after the date on which membership is approved. Membership will extend for 12 months from the date of approval.
SoTM Annual General Meeting
C That Rule 7(d) is revoked and replaced by the following: (d) A General Meeting may be held by a quorum of Members; (i) Being assembled together at the time and place appointed for the meeting; or (ii) Participating in the meeting by means of audio, audio and visual, or electronic communication; or (iii) By a combination of both of the methods set out above. 30 Members constitute a quorum at a General Meeting.
D That Rule 7(f) is revoked and replaced by the following (f)provision:Voting shall be on a show of hands unless a ballot is called for by at least three Members. Where a vote is for the contested election of Officers, this shall be by ballot. On any vote in the case of family membership, where there are two or more adults on the membership, two adults of that family shall be entitled to one vote each. Where a family membership comprises only one adult, the members of that family shall be entitled to one vote only. A Member may exercise a proxy vote through another Member, or through the chairperson and in either case the proxy in writing must be received by the Secretary not less than 24 hours before the date of commencement of the meeting.
12. Notices 13. General Business (Refreshments will be served at the end of the meeting.)
Monday 19 September 2022 7.30pm at Fickling Convention Centre, 546 Mt Albert Road, Three Kings
A quorum of 30 voting members is required so we encourage members to attend the meeting. However, for those unable to attend but who wish to observe the meeting, a Zoom link will be available on the website: www.tiritirimatangi.org.nz* from 10 September 2022.
* For the Zoom link details from 10 Sept, go to www.tiritirimatangi.org.nz About/Reports and scroll down to Admin/AGM
(c) The accidental omission to give notice of a meeting to, or non-receipt of notice of a meeting by, any Member shall not invalidate the proceedings of the meeting concerned.
11. Announcement of election results
E That Rule 9(a) is revoked and replaced by the following (a)provision:The Rules of the Society may be altered, added to, or rescinded at any general meeting, provided always that such changes do not affect the exclusively charitable nature of the Society, nor give power to extend its operations beyond New Zealand. Notice setting out such alteration, addition, or rescission shall be given to Members in accordance with the provisions of Rule 9A of these Rules.
(In accordance with Government’s current regulations for indoor settings, it is recommended that masks be worn.)
www.tiritirimatangi.org.nz 19 Agenda 1. Apologies 2. Minutes of 2021 AGM (posted on the website) 3. Matters arising from the 2021 AGM minutes 4. Chairperson’s annual report (Carl Hayson) 5. Treasurer’s report and financial statements (Peter Lee) 6. Setting of annual subscription for 2022/2023 7. Election of officers 8. Election of committee 9. Election of Life Member 10. Motions for proposed changes to the Society’s Rules:
(b) Any notice required to be given by the Society under these Rules may be given to a Member by post or by email to the postal or email address that the Member has provided to the Society, or, if desired in the case of General Meetings, in the manner set out in Rule 7(c) of these Rules.
F That the following new Rule is added: (a)9A Every member must inform the Society of the Member’s postal address and also, when a Member has one, of the Member’s email address. The Member must also inform the Society of any change in the Member’s addresses.
B That Rule 7(c) is revoked and replaced by the following: (c) Notice of a General Meeting may, if desired, be published in the Member Newsletter and the Member Newsletter must then be posted or emailed to Members at least 21 days prior to the date of such meeting. The notice must specify the date, time and place of the meeting, the type of meeting, and the business to be discussed. Notice of the meeting must also be posted on the Society’s website.
CarlChairpersonHayson
An election will be needed at the AGM as 10 nominations have been received for the Committee and a maximum of nine is required. Nominations are:
PeterTreasurerLee As Treasurer I have been able to bring my financial management skills to the fore, something that’s been particularly important as we navigated the impacts of Covid-19. A regular guide and working weekender, I’ve been involved with the Supporters for nearly 30 years, including two terms as Chairperson, and my passion for this remarkable project remains undimmed. As well as the financial side, I’m committed to sustainability and want to work towards us becoming more sustainable. Committee (up to nine required) Stacey Balich Tiritiri Matangi Island is my happy place and I have been lucky enough to have been on the Main Commit tee for the past two years supporting Peter Lee with the Sustainability and Environmental Policy and sup porting Carl with updating the Strategic Plan. I am a Thursday guide, mainly with school groups that I really enjoy. I am chair of the Visitor Engagement Subcommittee, which oversees Island interpretation and marketing. I am also part of the social media team that promotes the Island. Outside of Tiritiri, I work for Sustainable Schools as an educator. I am in my last year of study for a Bachelor in Applied Science (Environment). I have enjoyed my time on the Committee and I would love to do another term.
GloriaSecretaryNash I am the current Secretary, having been in the role for seven years. Visiting the Island on planting programmes and day trips in earlier years were highlights and encouraged me to become a member of SoTM. My former work as a legal executive provided me with the appropriate secretarial experience and this, coupled with a lifelong inter est in the outdoors, travel and conservation, combine well for this task.
Although I have already been the Chairperson for the past three years, I still have the energy left to continue for a further year. Despite the impact of the virus, a lot has been achieved during this time and it would be wonderful to oversee the completion of the projects that are currently under way. I look forward to serving the Society into 2023 and to helping it grow.
Election of the SoTM Committee will be held at 7.30pm on 19 September in the Fickling Convention Centre
Hester Cooper Sometimes those who have never visited Tiritiri Matangi don’t understand when we say “the Island is the reward” for all who volunteer and visit. Assisting the Society to meet the challenges which the pandemic has brought is a pleasure and a privilege, even with the inevitable changes in access and availability of volunteers. I continue to enjoy working in the area of biodiversity. Over this winter we have continued remediation work in one area of bush to improve water retention. The aim is twofold: to improve the freshwater habitat and to increase the water available to birds and other species. Challenges remain for the Main Committee as we navigate changes to our Island access and the associated income for the Society. There are always new opportunities for all of us. I look forward to continuing to assist the Society.
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Barry Fraser I have been honoured to have been a Committee member for the past five years, and I am excited by the challenges we face as we look ahead with so many variables to consider. The course of Covid-19 and its many complications particularly affecting our Growing Minds programme, as well as our rapidly changing relationship with DOC and iwi, will make for interesting times, and in both of these situations I feel I have much to offer. I look forward to working with Committee members as we navigate the future. We are kaitiaki of one of the most internationally significant and famous conservation examples on the planet, and we all need to work together to make sure it stays that way.
I have been on the Committee since the inception of SoTM and I hope to continue in that role. I am still passionate about this wonderful Island and I wish to carry on my work on its behalf. In particular, I have been a member of the Infrastructure Subcommittee for a number of years and would like to continue with that. I am deeply involved in the on-going effort to maintain and improve the track network and in the campaign to develop facilities which will allow us to tell the historical and nautical history of Tiritiri Matangi and, in particular, to put the wonderful Cuvier light on show to the public – and I do not want to stop now. Michael Watson Our Island paradise has brought me much joy and inspiration throughout my life. Since my grandparents first introduced me as a child, the magic we discovered there continues to drive me today! I returned as a volunteer guide almost 10 years ago and, after guiding school groups, found a love for teaching and sharing my passions with the next generation. I hated school as a child, but Tiritiri boosted my confidence and I went on to receive a Bachelors in Applied Science, majoring in Biodiversity Management, followed by a career as an ecologist for a few years. I then engaged with further study, completing my Masters in Education. I’m currently a science teacher at the amazing Manurewa Intermediate (best out South) where I lead environmental programmes. I’d be honoured to continue in my role on the Main Committee as we continue to navigate the waters of change currently upon us.
Malcolm de Raat As for many of you, Tiritiri is my escape from my day job and I feel extremely privileged to be part of it all. I’ve been involved with Tiritiri for more than 11 years, as a guide, membership secretary, on many working week ends, various biodiversity projects and, for the last two years, on the Main Committee and two subcommittees (Biodiversity and Infrastructure). I hope to once again use my skills and abilities to help the Supporters of Tiritiri Matangi turn exciting and ambitious plans into successful realities. Jane Thompson Last year has brought new challenges. Limited ferries during the week have meant the schools can only come on a Thursday, which has been a huge logistical challenge for the education team and guides. But we are still getting great feedback, thanks to everyone’s efforts. We have put demonstration tracking tunnels with cards showing examples of prints in Wattle Valley and at Spaghetti Junction so the public are able to better understand how they work. New signage and other projects to improve the visitor experience are continuing and hopefully will be com pleted in the not-too-distant future or when visitor numbers increase.
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Janet Petricevich Photography led my husband, Tony, and me to Tiritiri, but its magic drew us in. We joined SoTM and started guiding and participating in working weekends. Staying on the Island for Christmas guiding in 2017 introduced us to one of Tiritiri’s biodiversity projects. It is an aspect of Tiritiri that I love. We participate in the annual kiwi and rifleman surveys, and I am a member of the kōkako monitoring team. In my professional life, I am the com mercial finance manager for an international wine manufacturer. I hope that the skills I have learnt through work can be of benefit to SoTM, should I be elected to serve on the Committee.
Ray Walter
Rachel Goddard I have been volunteering on Tiritiri Matangi since 2016. I have been involved with different surveys and projects on the Island over the years and have enjoyed every one of them. As I work full time, I have been the Health and Safety Officer for SoTM since 2018 and I am currently on the SoTM Committee, with a particular interest in IT and in research. My passion, though, lies firmly with the wonderful wildlife on Tiritiri and every trip I take to the Island is a joy. Arohanui. Val Lee I have been involved with Tiritiri since the early 1990s. Introduced by friends, I was immediately drawn to contributing to this amazing project. Initially taking part in some of the tree planting days, I have since volun teered on many of the working weekends and done a little work in the shop. More recently, I have become a member of the kōkako monitoring team and am currently retraining as a guide. I was fortunate to have been elected as a Main Committee member last year, and would be very keen to be able to continue, and so am seeking re-election.
22 Dawn Chorus 130 August 2022
TUTINRENS GOEYNX ATRBEICA ZYSEMNE SESMCYTOE LNTPAS CSOEDPEOM Putting your litter in the bin. Do not drop it when you are out walking. You can help the FBI by: 1. 2 Not picking mushrooms They are busy working and picking them up will disrupt their mahi/ work 3 Staying on paths when you are out walking.
Tiritiri Kids, When you visit Tiritiri Matangi Island you are likely to meet our volunteers who are guides, work in the shop and support various projects. SoTM operates smoothly because everyone works together as a team. There is another team busy working away on the Island, the F B I , otherwise known as fungi, bacteria and invertebrates
Fungi, bacteria and invertebrates help organic materials such as branches, leaves, large logs, fruit and flowers to break down and decompose. They recycle the nutrients back into the soil and this helps plants and trees to grow.
Photos: Jonathan Mower Having a worm farm at home is a great way to recycle our food waste and reduce our landfill. Worms will eat food waste and turn it into valuable soil that you can put on your garden Unscramble the words to find out the letter in the circle. Once you have circled the letters enter them below to find the hidden word The circled letters
Answers.nutrients,oxygen,bacteria,enzymes,ecosystem,plants,decompose.Hiddenwordrecycle
Unscramble the words below and find the hidden word Have fun! by Stacey
Unlike other plants, fungi cannot make their own food through photosynthesis They get their food by eating what they are growing on and they do this quietly underneath the surface Fungi create webs of tiny threads around their food sources These webs are called mycelia (singular: mycelium). The mycelia ooze enzymes that break down the food so that nutrients can be absorbed Bacteria are very small but mighty Bacteria are so small they are impossible to see without a microscope The bacteria that live on organic material help break them down into nutrients which are returned to the soil Some bacteria are able to live when there is no oxygen in the ground. Invertebrates such as snails, ants, beetles, worms and wētā play a vital role in the ecosystem. They start the decomposition process by breaking down the organic material into smaller pieces, and they introduce air into the soil by moving around Roots need air to breathe Without air in the soil the roots will become stressed and fail
Overnight visits: Camping is not permitted and there is limited bunkhouse accommodation at $20 a night for members ($40 for non-members). Bookings essential. For further information: www.doc.govt.nz/tiritiribunkhouse or ph: 09 379 6476.
recreationPhoto:NeilDavies
School and tertiary institution visits: The Tiritiri education programme covers from level 1 (5-year-olds), to level 13 (17-18-yearolds), to tertiary students. The focus in primary and secondary areas is on delivering the required Nature of Science and Living World objectives from the NZ Science Curriculum. At the senior biology level there are a number of NCEA Achievement Standards where support material and presentations are available. For senior students the Sustainability (EFS) Achievement Standards are available on the NZQA website. There is huge potential in that these standards relate directly to Tiritiri in various subject areas: science, economics, tourism, geography, religious education, marketing, health and physical education. The Island also provides a superb environment for creative writing, photography and art workshops. Tertiary
students have the opportunity to learn about the history of Tiritiri and tools of conservation as well as to familiarise themselves with population genetics, evolution and speciation. Groups wishing to visit should go to www.tiritirimatangi.org.nz/schoolvisits.htm or contact schoolbooking@tiritirimatangi.org.nz. Bookings are essential.
Supporters’ discount: Volunteers doing official SoTM work get free accommodation but this must be booked through the Guiding and Shop Manager at guiding@tiritirimatangi.org.nz or 09 476 0010. SoTM members visiting privately can get a 50% discount but must first book and pay on line. Then email aucklandvc@ doc.govt.nz giving the booking number and SoTM membership number (which is found on the address label of Dawn Chorus or on the email for your digital copy). DOC will then refund the discount to your credit card.
Visiting Tiritiri Matangi Island for education or
www.tiritirimatangi.org.nz 23 Supporters of Tiritiri Matangi The Supporters of Tiritiri Matangi (SoTM) is a volunteer Incorporated Society that works closely with the Department of Conservation to make the most of the wonderful conservation restoration project that is Tiritiri Matangi. Every year volunteers put thousands of hours into the project and raise funds through donations, guiding and our Island-based gift shop. If you’d like to share in this exciting project, membership is just $25 for a single adult, family or corporate; $30 if you are overseas; and $13 for children or students. Dawn Chorus, our magazine, is sent out to members every quarter. See www.tiritirimatangi. org.nz or contact PO Box 90-814 Victoria St West, Auckland. SoTM Committee Chairperson: Carl chairperson@tiritirimatangi.org.nz,Hayson 027 3397105 Secretary: Gloria Committee:treasurer@tiritirimatangi.org.nzTreasurer:secretary@tiritirimatangi.org.nzNashPeterLeeStaceyBalich,Hester Cooper, Malcolm de Raat, Barry Fraser, Rachel Goddard, Val Lee, Jane Thompson, Ray Walter and Michael Watson Operations manager: Debbie tiritirimatangi@doc.govt.nz,Islandeditor@tiritirimatangi.org.nz,Dawnsocialmedia@tiritirimatangi.org.nzSocialfundraiser@tiritirimatangi.org.nzFundraiser:educator@tiritirimatangi.org.nzAssistantEducator:membership@tiritirimatangi.org.nzMembership:guiding@tiritirimatangi.org.nz,Guidingopsmanager@tiritirimatangi.org.nzChapmanandshopmanager:KimBriggs094760010RoseCovenyBarbaraHughes-Clelandeducator:LizMaireJulietHawkeswoodMedia:StaceyBalichChoruseditor:LynBarnes021407820rangers:EmmaDunningandTaliaHochwimmer094760920 Coming Events3-4 Sept Supporters’ Weekend Mon 19 Sept 7.30pm Annual General Meeting of the Supporters of Tiritiri Matangi, Fickling Convention Centre, 546 Mt Albert Road, Three Kings 1-2 October Supporters’ Weekend 22-24 Oct Labour Day Working Weekend Supporters' Weekends are led by guides who show off the Island's special places. Reduced price on the ferry and half price in the bunkhouse. Children welcome. Working Weekends are a chance for members to give the Island a hand. Travel is free, as is accommodation in the bunkhouse. For both, book through guiding@tiritirimatangi.org.nz For the latest information on events, please visit the SoTM www.tiritirimatangi.org.nzwebsite Day trips: Weather permitting, Explore runs a return ferry service Wednesday to Sunday from Auckland Viaduct and the Gulf Harbour Marina. Bookings essential. Phone 0800 397 567 or confirmmatangi-island-ferry/.https://www.exploregroup.co.nz/tiritiri-matangi-island/tiritiri-visitCall099162241after6.30amonthedaytothevesselisrunning.
