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When – almost two decades ago – members
of Auckland’s Outboard Boating Club (OBC)
embraced a conservation drive to help rehabilitate
some of the Hauraki Gulf’s uninhabited islands,
they had little idea how the programme would
come to resonate with the public.AN
ENGAGING
CLUB
volunteers and they descended on the island over many
years. These working bees usually took place on a Sunday.
Overall, a daunting task – but also enormous fun.”
Since then, he points out, the island’s become a micro-
reserve and something of a conservation showpiece.
Former PM Helen Clark later released a few kiwis on the
island to mark its predator-free status, and subsequently,
more kiwis and tuataras have been released.
Visitors to the revitalised island can enjoy any
number of walks among native flora and fauna or have
a picnic on the island. In the not too distant future, says
Hood, there will be an app available to guide visitors
through the walks and highlight interesting facts, bird
life and Motuihe’s colourful history.
OBC’s work with the island, he adds, is unlikely to
end any time soon. “Keeping on top of the weeds is an
ongoing task – seeds blow across the water from the
mainland and other islands in the Gulf. This programme
sees close involvement with Motuihe Trust, which meets
regularly here at the club.”RIGHT Browns Island in the
Hauraki Gulf – its rehabilitation
is now in OBC’s sights.
BELOW An army of volunteers
delivered by OBC to the island.
BOTTOM John Laurence
orchestrates the rehabilitation
programme.