Approximately 200 members work on wetland, coastal and forest projects in the region.
Whakatane Harbour, Creative Commons
- The Eastern Bay of Plenty branch is centered in Whakatane and stretches along the coast from the east of Te Puke to Opotiki in the North; and goes as far as Kawerau and the Matahina River Forest in the South. The scenic beaches in this area attract many tourists and holidaymakers. Activity in summer is intense, as opposed to the calm atmosphere that takes place in the low season. The area is home for the endangered NZ dotterel, and the branch carries out campaigns to inform visitors and locals about the need and the ways to protect this imperilled species and their habitat. Three members are monitoring the dotterels’ breeding.
- Due to the Rena ship oil spill on October 11th, volunteers have been helping the Department of Conservation in the removal of dotterels from several beaches to protect them from contamination. The ship’s fuel tanks leaked more than 350 tonnes of oil into the surrounding sea. 1400 birds and 13 fur seals have since been found dead along the coastline.
- The Branch committee meets once a month and social outings with members take place two or three times a year. Walking groups are organised from time to time.
- Conservation activities also include:
The restoration of Waiewe Stream and Breamar Wetland;
Bird and weed surveys within the Whakatane Harbour Care Group, in association with DoC, the regional and district councils and iwi;
Yearly native plant sales to raise money for the branch
Taking care of sick and hurt birds
CONTACT US
Mark Fort (322 8245) – Branch Chair
Annette Such (307 0227) – Treasurer
Lesley Swindells (307 0846) - Secretary
