Fullers captain mag 52pp dec2014 1 by Maree Peterson

HAURAKI GULF MAGAZINE

FREE

ISSUE 2 // SUMMER 2014/2015

ince the late 1970s, Fullers Group Ltd (then Gulf Ferries), have been connected to the Waiheke Island people, the community and its growth. Fullers continue to provide a vital transport link with a ferry service that began with two sailings a day and is now operating up to 19 sailings a day. From those early days, Fullers have quietly contributed millions of dollars to the community of Waiheke through health agencies, educational, welfare and sporting groups. The investment into infrastructure and development has extended into island transport and startâ&#x20AC;&#x2018;up funding for business development and event sponsorship. Fullers continues to acknowledge the many dedicated islanders working as volunteers to raise funds to make a difference to peoples lives on this jewel in the Hauraki Gulf. Photo kindly supplied by the Jassy Dean Trust and taken during their major annual fundraiser Garden Safari, which showcases 13 of the islands stunningÂ gardens. Photographer: Bob Scott

THE CAPTAIN /// SUMMER 2015

Note from the CEO: Welcome to the summer issue of Captain Magazine where we share the stories of the people and the islands of the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park. Recognised for its conservation achievements, and its outstanding natural beauty, the park is enjoyed by millions of people each year. I invite you to experience and explore these special islands, sanctuaries and seaside communities. Whether by attending some of the wonderful events taking place over the summer or by simply enjoying a quieter escape from everyday life with family or friends, you'll experience a day out to remember – in a place you'll never forget. Douglas Hudson Chief Executive, Fullers & 360 Discovery

OUR COVER

Fullers new 34-metre passenger ferry Te Kotuku was officially commissioned in a ceremony on board the vessel in late October. Auckland Central MP Nikki Kaye unveiled the commissioning plaque in the main saloon after a blessing by navy chaplain Colin Mason. The boat, built in Wanganui, is a $7m investment for Souter Holdings NZ and Fullers owner Sir Brian Souter said he hoped it would be the first of many new boats built for Fullers here in New Zealand. The following week 300 invited guests from the Tourism industry enjoyed a special harbour cruise with a stopover on Rangitoto Island. The next weekend, Te Kotuku circumnavigated Waiheke Island where many of the passengers from the island were able to see a new perspective of the island from the water. All proceeds from the cruise went to the Waiheke Island Coastguard with one of their rescue craft shadowing Te Kotuku on her journey to the delight of passengers.

Captain Magazine is published twice a year and is available online and on board Fullers and 360 Discovery ferries while stock lasts. We welcome contributions, stories and images of interest and these can be sent to newsletters@fullers.co.nz Left: Navy chaplain Colin Mason, Fullers chief executive Doug Hudson, and Sir Brian Souter

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THE CAPTAIN /// SUMMER 2015

CONTENTS C A P TA I N M A G A Z I N E | O U R HAU R A K I G U L F | I S S U E 2

HEADLANDS SCULPTURE ON THE GULF

AROUND ISLANDS

Waiheke Island showcases contemporary outdoor sculpture on a stunning coastal walkway.

8 RANGITOTO ISLAND The freshest air on a lunar landscape.

From the dedicated people caring for and protecting our islands of the Hauraki Gulf.

COROMANDEL GET OUT THERE!

Do as little or as much as you like in this holiday region!

TIRITIRI MATANGI

THE VISION OF A FERRYMAN

“Bite off more than you can chew, then chew like hell!”

See why this island is a world-class wildlife sanctuary.

GULF HARBOUR This is coastal living at its very best!

44 MANABUS.COM The new coach service delivering faster, friendlier and more affordable city-to-city travel.

WAIHEKE ISLAND OF WINE VINTAGE FESTIVAL Showcasing some of the islands top wineries in a range of interactive and laid back events. PAGE 3

HEADLAND SCULPTURE ON THE GULF 2015

THE CAPTAIN /// SUMMER 2015

23 JANUARY TO 15 FEBRUARY 2015

Only a short 35 minute Fullers ferry ride from Auckland, the Matiatia headland on Waiheke Island will again play host to the headland Sculpture on the Gulf exhibition from 23 January to 15 February 2015. isitors to this free event can walk the spectacular two kilometre coastal walkway, which will feature 31 contemporary outdoor sculptures. TheÂ artists producing the sculptures will work alongside the natural elements of this unique headland to deliver new directions in outdoor sculpture and show innovative responses to the land,Â allowing

the audience to experience and interact with the sculptures in new and exciting ways. The walk will conclude in the beautiful Matiatia Bay where visitors can experience some of the best Waiheke has to offer in the headland Pavilion featuring sculptures from invited artists, an art gallery with small works and maquettes, alongside a showcase of Waiheke food, wine and entertainment.

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THE CAPTAIN /// SUMMER 2015

While on Waiheke don’t miss out on a trip up to the Waiheke Community Art Gallery for the ‘Close to the Heart’ exhibition featuring small scale, hand held or wearable sculpture. Head to Sculpt Oneroa in Oneroa Village, or one of the pristine local beaches, vineyards or restaurants. headland Sculpture on the Gulf was established in 2003 by the Waiheke Community Art Gallery, and quickly became New Zealand’s premier outdoor sculpture exhibition. 2015 will be the 7th biennial event. The event is run by a passionate Board of Directors and Management team, realised through the support of sponsors and funders, Friends & Patrons of the event and a large team of volunteers. Without the support of these groups the self-funded event would not happen. The 2013 event attracted 45,000 visitors to Waiheke – all there to enjoy this unique event and the spectacular natural landscape of Waiheke Island. A $5 Sculpture Shuttle Bus ticket allows you to travel between the headland Pavilion at Matiatia to the start of the walkway. A $10 Sculpture Daily Bus Pass (incl. trans.) will allow you to travel to the start of the walkway and to explore the rest of Waiheke Island throughout the day. Bus tickets can be purchased at the Fullers ticket office in Auckland or Waiheke or at fullers.co.nz. For more information visit www.sculptureonthegulf.co.nz

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THE CAPTAIN /// SUMMER 2015

How to get there: Catch the Fullers Waiheke ferry from either downtown Auckland or Devonport ferry terminals. Follow the signs to the headland Pavilion, where you can get an exhibition catalogue, cold drink or something to eat before you set off. From here you board the headland shuttle bus which takes you to the start of the exhibition walk at the end of Nick Johnstone Drive.

Remember to bring: – a comfortable pair of shoes – a hat – sunscreen – something warm

and enjoy your walk!

www.sculptureonthegulf.co.nz

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ROTOROA ISLAND

with 360 Discovery Cruises Cruise to Rotoroa Island and discover a place that’s rich in social history with beautiful beaches, walking trails, heritage buildings, and art. Once off limits for 100 years, it’s now open for all to enjoy and immerse themselves in it’s beautiful surroundings.

09 307 8005 360discovery.co.nz

ESCAPE TO FULLERS WAIHEKE 1½ HOUR ISLAND SCENIC

CRUISE

DEPARTS DAILY AT 10.30am & 1.30pm with complimentary morning or afternoon tea. INCLUDES FREE RETURN TICKET TO DEVONPORT + A BRIEF STOP AT RANGITOTO ISLAND. Book now at a Fullers Ticket Office or call 09 367 9111.

THE CAPTAIN /// SUMMER 2015

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THE CAPTAIN /// SUMMER 2015

“ BITE OFF MOR E TH A N YOU CA N C H EW, TH EN C H EW LI K E H ELL ! ” George Hudson’s answer to why he bought North Shore Ferries aging fleet.

THE V ISIO N O F A F E RRY MAN rought up as the middle child of eight on a King Country farm, George Hudson and his younger brother Bruce, shared a kiwi ‘can-do’ attitude and spirit. Spare time was spent building and re-building farm machinery, cars, trucks and tractors for neighbours. At age 15, George bought a truck and by 22 owned the local school bus fleet and garage. He then moved to South Auckland and became a chicken farmer. By 1967 he was able to buy four buses using them for school charters and the next year a cross-Auckland route between Pt Chevalier and Otahuhu. In 1970 George founded Fourways Tours, a quality coach service that grew to 14 buses, operating group charters, ski tours and five-day tours all over New Zealand. Eventually the business amalgamated with an Australian company forming Fourways Australian Pacific Tours. Fourways was the first company in the country to provide designated rest rooms, toilets in coaches and hostesses on all tours. While on a sailing trip one day on the Waitemata Harbour with sons, the sight of passenger ferries cruising past set George thinking. A few months later he met with owner of ‘Droms Navy’, Leo Dromgoole, North Shore Ferries operator and harbour identity. George admired the man; felt a connection with the business he had set up, not only the vessels but also the facilities to support the operation, slips and ship building, buses and integrated services. But both the man and the fleet were aging and ailing and the business was on the verge of collapse. ‘Deferred maintenance’ had been the philosophy for too long and when George bought

the company in 1981 it sparked a flurry of media speculation that perhaps “…George Hudson had taken leave of his senses!” With the purchase came decisions around the viability of the aging fleet of Fairmiles; several of the boats were upwards of 75 years old and were soon ‘retired’. The double-ended ‘Kestrel’ and the ex-WW2 motor launch Motunui remained to operate the Devonport service. Its sister-ship, the Iris Moana, along with a few launches, serviced Waiheke Island under the old Waiheke Shipping Company. Renamed Gulf Ferries, George set about a major programme of maintenance and refurbishment. George’s principles learned in the road transport industry were applied to this new ferry business: ‘Provide the service people want, make sure it runs on time, and set fares people can afford’. He held firm on his vision for customer service by instilling in his staff the need for a service that reflected his ethos: convenience, reliability, comfort, safety and price – in that order. Following a $200,000 refit the MV Baroona re‑entered service on Anniversary Weekend 1982 with a ‘Welcome Back Baroona’ weekend of party cruises. She resumed work on the Waiheke run with a great deal of hope for her future. By 1984 though, the need to improve the service to Waiheke Island had become pressing. Two of the four daily trips were for commuters and the ferry Baroona (with back-up boat the Kestrel) meant the trip to the island took at least 75-minutes, plus connections. This was becoming less attractive to commuters in an age of modern fast ferries. PAGE 15

THE CAPTAIN /// SUMMER 2015

The answer lay in increased tourism to the island and a vessel that would suit both commuters and visitors alike. George describes the next step in the journey of Gulf Ferries as a “test of survival” with a promised urban subsidy from the then Auckland Regional Authority falling through despite the help of Auckland Central MP Richard Prebble. Eventually, funded privately at a cost of $3,000,000, the build went ahead. The Quickcat was launched in 1987, marking the beginning of progress both for Waiheke and the ferry company. With patronage on the Devonport service gradually building, planning for a ‘revolutionary’ new type of ferry began. A two-deck double-ended catamaran carrying 300 passengers was commissioned and in 1988 the sea bus MV Kea was commissioned. The following years saw more boats built and bought to service a growing commuter and visitor market. Tourism was always going to be a big part of the mix; it was clear to George early on that transporting people to and from work on concession fares was never going to make the operation viable. Tourists travelling on normal fares were the key to ensuring the frequency of services commuters needed. Newcomers to the gulf, Fullers Corporation, concentrated on a tourism-only ferry business and this was to be their downfall. In receivership two years later, Gulf Ferries bought the assets and also gained the name. Determined not to make the same mistakes, George worked with sons Douglas, then General Manager and Marketing Manager Peter, to apply their philosophy of developing the commuter / transport business interlocked with tourism development. One couldn’t develop one without the other. Theirs was a hands-on management style and for the first time the company invested a great deal of time and effort into simple research and powerful marketing, building on the Fullers name already out in the marketplace from the old corporation. Other destinations opened up,

Top left: Kestrel 1905 Beneath top left: Fairmile ferries still in use in the 60s and 70s Top right: Kea Seabus in 1980s Bottom left: The Quickcat on its journey across the Tasman to Auckland Bottom right: The Oneroa Bus company on Waiheke Island in 1970

THE CAPTAIN /// SUMMER 2015

including the volcanic island of Rangitoto. To set up a tractor-train operation to take visitors to the top, George could think of no one better than his clever and tenacious brother Bruce – whose talents in such an inhospitable environment saw it become world-class. By 1995, George stepped away from daily management to become Chairman. He and wife Judy moved to Waiheke Island, onto a property with a two-acre vineyard and 360 degree views of the Hauraki Gulf. In 2000, George was recognised as an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit in recognition of his contribution to the tourism and public transport industries. Support letters spoke of “…his courage to take on such a business…and… a lesser man would’ve walked away.” Others mentioned the generosity George has shown, as well as Fullers, and their on-going contributions, particularly to the Waiheke Island community. Although now retired to the Bay of Plenty, George and wife Judy make regular trips back to Auckland and Waiheke Island to visit family and friends. George has always been a man with a deep belief system and often he’ll quietly share his personal philosophies and then the spell is broken by his trade-mark cheeky smile!

From Pacific Way magazine 1990 On New Year’s Eve, a piston failed in one of Quickcat’s diesel engines. Hudson arranged for a man in Sydney to fly immediately to Auckland with a new piston in his personal baggage to avoid customs delays. While revellers caroused in nearby Queen Street, Hudson welcomed in the first hours of 1990 in greasy overalls, helping engineers install the new piston and maintain schedule for the new decade.

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THE HAURAKI GULF STAR

Visit the wonderful islands of Auckland’s Hauraki Gulf with Fu

WAIHEKE ISLAND with Fullers

40 minutes by ferry. Regular ferry departures.

With beautiful beaches, picturesque vineyards and spectacular coastline, Waiheke Island is a world away from Auckland. Experience Waiheke Island with Fullers on a Waiheke Explorer, Taste of Waiheke or Wine on Waiheke tour. Or simply purchase an All Day Bus Pass to see the island at your own leisure.

RANGITOTO ISLAND with Fullers 25 minutes by ferry. Half day or full day.

A ‘must do’ trip while in Auckland, this 600 year old volcano has spectacular 360° views of Auckland and the Hauraki Gulf. Book a tour of the island on our Volcanic Explorer Tour, a unique 4WD tractor train with commentary from our knowledgeable guides.

HARBOUR CRUISE with Fullers

1.5 hour cruise. Includes free return ticket to Devonport plus morning or afternoon tea.

Cruise the sparkling waters of Auckland’s Waitemata Harbour and learn about some of the city’s best-loved landmarks with commentary from our crew. You’ll also have the chance to have a brief stop at Rangitoto Island to give you a small taste of its volcanic terrain.

Book your experience today!

RTS WITH US

ullers and 360 Discovery Cruises.

TIRITIRI MATANGI ISLAND with 360 Discovery 75 minutes by ferry. Wildlife sanctuary. Full day trip.

Enjoy a day trip to a magical island that’s home to some of New Zealand’s rarest wildlife. From the moment you step onto the island to the moment you leave, you’ll be entranced by the serenade of gentle birdsong and the lush native bush. There are numerous walking tracks throughout the island which vary in length and fitness levels. Bookings essential.

DEVONPORT with Fullers

12 minutes by ferry. Regular ferry departures.

Just across the harbour from downtown Auckland, the seaside village of Devonport has sandy beaches, stylish shops and great cafes making it the perfect destination for a morning or afternoon trip. Visit North Head or Mt Victoria to learn about their history and see spectacular views of the Hauraki Gulf.

ROTOROA ISLAND with 360 Discovery 75 minutes by ferry. Full day trip.

Cruise to Rotoroa Island and discover a place that’s rich in social history with beautiful beaches, walking trails, heritage buildings, and art. Once off limits for 100 years, it’s now open for all to enjoy and immerse themselves in it’s beautiful surroundings.

09 367 9111 fullers.co.nz

09 307 8005 360discovery.co.nz

THE CAPTAIN /// SUMMER 2015

Don’t just get there.

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THE CAPTAIN /// SUMMER 2015

TAKE A MOMENT TO STAND AND STARE. All around is vibrancy, subtlety, wilderness and beauty. The diverse Coromandel reaches out in so many ways with something for everyone, from action adventure to sereneÂ escapism.

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THE CAPTAIN /// SUMMER 2015

Visitors are drawn to the Coromandel Peninsula – its lush green scenery recalls rugged remote areas of Scotland, or rural parts of Norway. Its beaches, long and white, will surprise with the sparkling pure water of Cathedral Cove and delight with the unexpected quirkiness of Hot Water Beach. It’s easy to get ‘out there’ once you have ventured to the Coromandel. It’s not all extreme action and expensive attractions. Choose to travel the routes of our pioneers, bushmen and gold prospectors. From the ferry, join Coromandel Adventures shuttle to the western coast, past the last outpost of Colville, to the northern bays, and finally Fletcher Bay. Begin the walk through farmland to hidden waterways, cool bush tracks and

For ferry sailings from Pier 4 Downtown Auckland visit www.360Discovery.co.nz or phone 09 307 8005. Coromandel Adventure tours can be booked directly through 360 Discovery and depart from Coromandel Town. For activities, tours, events and accommodation in the Coromandel region visit www.thecoromandel.com PAGE 22

out onto cliff top open spaces where the view of sparkling water stretches for miles. Or simply take the ride to Coromandel Town and indulge yourself in a lunch of the freshest seafood and local produce and explore the history of this colonial settlement. There’s no shortage of good accommodation with many lodges, homestays, designer cottages and family‑friendly holiday parks and campgrounds to pitch your tent or park the caravan or motorhome. So pack your snorkel, hiking shoes, camera…the family, a mate…and just get out there!

THE CAPTAIN /// SUMMER 2015

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Waiheke

sta BOO rts K 26t N h D OW ece ! mb er

VINEYARD HOPPER

A hop-on, hop-off bus service around some of Waihekeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best vineyards.

All Day Hopper Pass All Day Hopper PasS + RETURN FERRY

$22 $54

AVAILABLE FROM ANY FULLERS TICKET OFFICE (09) 367 9111 | waihekevineyardhopper.co.nz

TIRITIRI MATANGI

Tiritiri Matangi is a stunning place and home to a very special breed that migrates to the island sanctuary all year round. We’re not talking about the myriad of rare and native birdlife inhabiting this jewel in the Hauraki Gulf. No. We’re acknowledging the dedicated band of supporters who flock to the island many times each year. The Supporters of Tiritiri Matangi (SoTM) formed in 1988 by 25 volunteers to raise much needed money. Two years earlier, a project to regenerate the island with native trees and introduce rare and endangered bird species had begun and by 1988 was in danger of failing, due to a lack of budget. And this band of volunteers not only raised ‘seed money’ but rolled up their sleeves, planted trees, weeded, sowed thousands of seedlings and created this world renowned island wildlife sanctuary. Membership numbers are now well over 2,000 and growing. For many supporters this is more than being part of creating a legacy, it’s also one very special thing they get to tick off their bucket (and spade) list!

Above: New Zealand Kereru (wood pigeon). Below: The native ‘Stitchbird’ or ‘Hihi’ has lived on Tiritiri Matangi since 1995 and competes with tūi and bellbirds for nectar, insects and small fruits.

Left: Kakariki (New Zealand parakeet) feeding on flax flowers. Right: The tiny flowers of the native broom/makaka, one of over 1500 plant species on the Island.

The beautiful images seen here in this feature have been photographed by renowned wildlife photographer, Martin Sanders. Martinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s passion for wildlife (and life) can be seen on his website: http://martinsanders. smugmug.com/Tiritiri-Matangi

Above: A weta punga, one of over 300 introduced to the Island, with Chris Green from the Department of Conservation. Right: 360 Discovery ferry arriving at Tiritiri Matangi Wharf. For summer timetable visit www.360discovery.co.nz

Above: The enigmatic kokako with his beautiful blue wattles and haunting eyes. Right: The Tiritiri Matangi Lighthouse which will celebrate its 150th birthday on January 1st 2015. Below: Saddleback/tieke now flourishing in their hundreds on Tiritiri after being introduced in 1984.

Visit www.tiritirimatangi.org.nz for a list of current events on the island

CATCH THE FERRY TO THE COROMANDEL Avoid the holiday traffic and relax on the 360 Discovery ferry. Just a 2 hour cruise from downtown Auckland to Hannaford’s Wharf (near Coromandel Town) with scenic views along the way – there’s no better way to start your holiday! Sailings depart all year round.

For bookings and timetable information visit 360discovery.co.nz or phone 09 307 8005.

The Waiheke Vintage Festival is back – and even better than before! The five day gourmet celebration of Auckland’s Island of Wine kicks off with a bang at 6pm on Wednesday March 11th with a grand opening ceremony at Stonyridge vineyard. Where better than the famous Stonyridge to enjoy local Waiheke Island dancers, performers, and musicians throughout the evening, with free entry and a range of delicious food and wines to try from the island’s best vineyards? The Waiheke Vintage Festival is your once-a-year, all access pass to the world of Waiheke wine Taking place amidst the harvest buzz, Waiheke’s winemakers invite everyone to come and get hands-on to learn about the beauty of crafting artisan wine – and the beauty of drinking it! The five day ‘feast-ival’ marks the only time of year when 19 Waiheke Island vineyards come together and offer such a wide range of wine, food, and music events for your pleasure.

12 - 16 March 2015 waihekevintagefestival.co.nz

There are plenty of ways to get involved, with a range of events – from tours, to tastings, to masterclasses, to music.

Photo: Denis La Touche

Fancy yourself a winemaker with a tour and tasting?

When you make it to Waiheke, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d be crazy not to take advantage of a rare opportunity to tour inside a working winery, taste grapes fermenting in tanks, and learn first hand how Waiheke Islandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s artisan wines are made. Check out the different tours on offer at many of the vineyards online so you can plan to hit your favourites.

Feast all your senses with live music!

Get hands-on with wine!

Why not get involved – literally – by picking your own grapes and then foot stomping them to make wine! You can also attend exclusive vertical wine tastings guided by acclaimed Waiheke Island winemakers, or taste wines from vineyards that are not open at other times of year.

Taste your way around Waiheke’s award-winning restaurants…

Waiheke is becoming globally renowned as a gourmet food and wine destination – come and see why with a huge range of unique food and wine matching events. There are formal dinners showcasing the finest local Waiheke Island ingredients, Spanish tapas matching lunches, or high tea with bubbles. Why not take advantage of the pastamaking masterclass or learn about the art of wine and cheese matching with a world cheese expert?

What matches better with fine food, wine and views than a bit of live music? The festival has plenty on offer, with concerts and performances in beautiful vineyard settings throughout the island. Whether you fancy listening to opera while enjoying a degustation dinner or chilling to a Waiheke Island band with a glass of wine in the sun – the festival has got you covered.

Unmissable events you won’t find elsewhere…

Be part of a “live” TV audience while you enjoy a vineyard lunch, or enjoy “De-Vine” tales with internationally renowned storyteller Tanya Batt or come along to enjoy beautiful coastal and vineyard walks.

Getting around…

Fullers are providing a handy four loop bus system that connects you to all the different vineyards during the Festival, so it’s never been easier to explore the island.

Fullers Vintage Festival Ferry and Daily Bus pass $43 Fullers Vintage Festival Daily Bus Pass $15 Special $10 Early Bird Daily Bus Pass available for purchase before March 1st 2015.

Jerry Clayton

Come celebrate the annual grape harvest with us! Plan your Waiheke Island visit www.waihekevintagefestival.co.nz

THE CAPTAIN /// SUMMER 2015

Around the Islands WAHAROA WELCOMES VISITORS This summer, visitors to pest-free Rangitoto will be welcomed through a customary Māori gateway, the Waharoa o Peretu – the gateway of Peretu. Peretu, the spiritual ancestor of Rangitoto, is reflected in the beautiful carving. The waharoa itself reflects the rich Māori heritage of pest-free Rangitoto and Motutapu Islands. Ngāi Tai ki Tāmaki carver Reuben Kirkwood shows Tangaroa – the god of the sea, and Tane Mahuta – the god of forest on each of the pau (poles) that support the maihi (the boards). At its apex sits a beautiful native bird, the kaka. Rangitoto Island, and neighbouring Motutapu Island welcomes many thousands of people every year. The short 35 minute ferry ride over the sparkling waters of the Hauraki Gulf delivers visitors to Rangitoto. There, you may enjoy walking to the summit through the largest pohutukawa forest in the world. The easy, progressive incline takes most visitors about 60 minutes to reach the summit, depending on whether you stop to take in the fascinating lava caves.

Once at the summit, you are rewarded with spectacular 360 degree views of the majestic Hauraki Gulf. Rangitoto, the youngest landform in New Zealand at just 600 years old, sits majestically next to one of the country’s oldest landforms, Motutapu. Early Maori were living on Motutapu when Rangitoto erupted. Generally, it is thought it took about 200 years to take its current, distinctive form. Since the islands became pest-free in 2011, many of our precious native birds, tui, hihi, kereru, can be heard and sighted. Pest-free visitor vigilance As the islands are pest-free, visitors are reminded to take refreshments with them in sealed containers and to remove their rubbish from the island (there are no rubbish bins). As the summer sun continues to shine, our visitors are also reminded to wear plenty of sunblock and carry plenty of water (there is no water on the island). Simple checks are required such as brushing the soles of your shoes before embarking on the ferry. This all helps keep the islands pest-free.

ENJOY EXPLORING BEAUTIFUL, MAJESTIC RANGITOTO AND MOTUTAPU ISLANDS THIS SUMMER.

A HAPPY ENDING FOR KIWI A seriously injured Little Spotted Kiwi, was found curled up near a track on Tiritiri Matangi recently by visitors. She was transported from the island on the 360 Discovery ferry and taken to Auckland Zoo for diagnosis and treatment. The young kiwi had suffered a prolapse and infection had already attracted maggots. It was feared she wouldn’t make it during her month of treatment but Department of Conservation rangers, Dave and Jase were pleased to report the little kiwi made a full recovery and has since been relocated back to the island. This was the first time either Ranger had ever known of a sick or injured bird to return to Tiritiri.

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THE CAPTAIN /// SUMMER 2015

Around the Islands KIWI ARE NOW ROAMING ROTOROA ISLAND after six kiwi chicks, hatched at Auckland Zoo from eggs collected from Te Mata in the Coromandel, were released in October and November. The introduction of kiwi marks the start of a new programme between, Rotoroa Island Trust, Auckland Zoo and Thames Coast Kiwi Care that will help boost the population of Coromandel North Island brown kiwi – the rarest of the four distinct types of brown kiwi. Up to 20 chicks could be released onto Rotoroa each year. On reaching 1.2kg – large enough to have a chance against introduced predators on the mainland, the birds will be returned to the 2,500ha protected area on the Thames Coast.

Trust volunteer guides, Mary Flaws, Maggie Kjestrup and John Eccleton looked the part in their military costumes! Photo: Marcia Nalepa

WW1 HERITAGE REMEMBERED ON MOTUTAPU More than fifty people enjoyed the rich military history of Motutapu as part of Auckland Council's Heritage festival in October. This year’s tour highlighted the activities on the island during WWI, in particular the hospitality extended by Eliza Reid to not only the servicemen who were posted there but also to their families, during and after the war. The New Zealand Third Infantry Regiment camp was stationed at Home Bay in 1916 where men were trained here prior to sailing to the Western Front. Seventeen years later, construction was authorised PAGE 36

for the building of a counter bombardment gun battery to defend Auckland. This fort was state-of-the-art and was a significant part of New Zealand's coastal defence right through to 1957. A guided tour began in Home Bay and continued through the volunteer forest to a high point on the island where the visitors were able to examine the gun battery structures, the tunnels and map rooms from WWII.

THE CAPTAIN /// SUMMER 2015

www.treasureislands.co.nz GERMANY'S ANGELA MERKEL VISITS KIWI WITH JOHN KEY Motutapu hit the headlines in November as a grumpy kiwi upstaged both Prime Minister John Key and German Chancellor Dr Angela Merkel. Sponsor and corporate volunteer, Bayer, nominated Motutapu as the place to be on the Chancellor’s fleeting visit to New Zealand. It was great to see Motutapu and the critically endangered Coromandel Brown Kiwi receiving both a national and international audience. The fact that the German Chancellor was invited to release a kiwi on Motutapu also gives us reason to reflect on the significance of the restoration work taking place on Motutapu – restoration work primarily undertaken by volunteers.

John Key, Hazel Speed, and Dr Angela Merkel with Whauwhau the kiwi. Photo: Pricilla Northe

Without the work of our volunteers there would be no forest to provide habitat for kiwi; seed collection, nursery work done, tree planting and weed control. The case for the pest eradication programme, so successfully implemented by the Department of Conservation, would have been a much harder sell. Motutapu’s profile continues to grow through the efforts of volunteers who are creating the sanctuary which will be a legacy for generations to come.

ROTARY CENTENNIAL TRACK ON MOTUTAPU ISLAND

Photo: Bridget Winstone

A bridge across the lower Central Gully stream was installed in September completing a wonderful walking track which loops around the back of Home Bay. Completion of this final stage means the Rotary Centennial Loop Track can now be promoted as an attraction for visitors to Motutapu. During a visit by Rotary International President Gay Huang to Motutapu the call went out for support and funding came from the Rotary Club of Newmarket with support from the Rotary Club of St Johns. The loop track is a wonderful asset for walkers to enjoy everything Motutapu has to offer.

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THE CAPTAIN /// SUMMER 2015

CONSERVATION DOGS – PAI AND PIRI Specially trained pest dogs, Pai and Piri, keep an ever-vigilant eye on what goes out to our pest-free islands in the Hauraki Gulf. Always check your camping gear before you go to the islands, unwanted pests such as rats, mice, rainbow skinks and argentine ants can easily hitch a ride in it. Seal your food and make sure you brush your shoes (for seeds) before embarking on to any islands. Keeping an eye out - Pest dog Pai lands on Browns Island (Motukorea) in the beautiful Hauraki Gulf to check the traps for pests such as rats, stoats, and mice. Rats and stoats can swim great distances. If they ‘hitch a ride’ on a boat, they can leap off and invade.

VOLUNTEERS

NEEDED

If you’d like to spend some time in the company of conservation minded people who like to have fun while they work then contact the Motutapu Trust by visiting www.motutapu.org.nz and join up today!

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THE CAPTAIN /// SUMMER 2015

FAIRWAY BAY, GULF HARBOUR IS COASTAL LIVING AT IT’S VERY BEST! A PLACE WHERE RESIDENTS WILL ENJOY A TRUE SENSE OF COMMUNITY.

Fairway Bay is a residential subdivision bordering the Gulf Harbour Country Club (home course to champion golfer Lydia Ko) and the Gulf Harbour Marina. The development also contains its own private Fairway Bay Marina, with 44 berths big enough to invite international cruising boats. A growing number of residents are benefitting from the new ferry timetable between Gulf Harbour and Downtown Auckland, now offering

12 sailings each weekday and a travel time of just 50 minutes to the CBD. The true heart of the development is the Hobbs Wharf café and Sunday Market. The Hobbs Wharf café is open 7 days serving fantastic coffee and kiwi classics such as toasties and bacon butties. Every Sunday the Hobbs Wharf market bustles with the hum of a community keen to engage with friends new and old. Fresh produce, tasty treats, arts and crafts and music draw people in to the relaxed

atmosphere. Kids sunbathe and leap off the wharf, again and again. Yogi’s dockside bar is now open providing a popular watering hole to both boaties and residents alike. The events calendar at Fairway Bay is packed with Petting Zoos, Halloween, Dragon Boating, Fishing Comps and more. The Inlet provides a sheltered and safe location for many water activities including opti sailing and paddle boarding. It has also become a new home for Sailability, a charity that provides people

‘The Kitchen Door’ bakery at Hobbs Wharf markets owner and chef Sean Kellingray is one happy ex-Brit after moving his family to Gulf Harbour in 2007. “Our home overlooks the ocean, the golf course, Shakespear Park; can’t get that in the UK...unless of course you’re Richard Branson,” says Sean.

with disabilities the opportunity to sail in safety and to experience adventure and freedom. Fairway Bay will eventually see over 1000 dwellings built with a range of house types and apartments. Over 100 LOTS have been completed and three stages of the development are well underway. Development consultant Michael Webb-Speight says “The project is going from strength to strength, as residents move in the project is gaining some real momentum.”

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THE CAPTAIN /// SUMMER 2015

Kids Fishing Competition 8 February 2015 Starts 10:00am - 2:00pm

Give the kids a good ol’ Kiwi day out fishing!

SHOW HOMES

Open 10am–4pm 7 days 0800 888 318 www.fairwaybay.co.nz