Moehau Environment Group AGM

There was a good turnout at this year’s AGM which was a low key affair.
Lettecia acted as facilitator.
Vanessa James, a media studies student, brought a small crew to film the proceedings as part of a documentary she is creating.
Individual reports were given by committee members. These will be available to anyone interested. Copies can be obtained from Kathi Parr(ph:07 866 6925). It is hoped to get the reports in full up on the website in the next couple of weeks as well.
Highlights and lowlights are as follows:
- It was reiterated that the Pest Proof Fence project is shelved indefinitely.
- Lettecia Williams resigned as chairperson earlier this year.
- 142 Stoats and 163 weasels caught in the MEG Kiwi Sanctuary so far.
-  Possum control infrastructure is now fully in place from Goudie’s farm in the West to Waikawau Bay in the East.
- The Rat Attack project at Port Charles is right on track for the introduction of North Island Robins and Whiteheads in spring of next year.
- A new project to protect wetland and saltmarsh species has begun at the north   end of Waikawau Bay.
The existing committee with the exception of Alan Currie were elected. Alan has to leave us to take care of family in England.
A new committee member elected is Erica Doran,landowner from Waikawau Bay.
Lettecia Williams was re-elected to the committee.
No chairperson was elected and a resolution passed empowers the committee to elect one on behalf of members when one is found.
So it’s business as usual and watch for the Summer Holiday Programme which is in planning at the moment.
Many, many thanks to all those who have given us support; moral,financial, or otherwise over the past twelve months.

New Zealand Dotterel

Susan Bryant,the DOC NZ Dotterel Ranger visited Waikawau Bay recently to touch base on the Dotterel numbers this year. There are less than half of last years numbers and very few nesting at present. One nest was found. No reason can be given, but anecdotal evidence suggests there are birds breeding in places they have been seen in very often.

A pair have been seen at Taiharuru Bay with three chicks and another pair at Sandy Bay-Te Kouma, with chicks as well. This is good news as both areas have extensive stoat control. It is early days yet so it will be interesting to see what the season brings. The new volunteer this year is Katy. She is a university student starting on 20th November. She is new to the area so I hope many of you will make her welcome.