Secret spit or more visitors?

Ali Mackisack WaiP2K

Beyond the fence created to protect the nesting grounds, and behind the “please stay on the track” signs, the wheel marks of a vehicle form overlapping loops in the sand. They crisscross the archaeological remains of midden and fire pit site, where iwi harvested tuna in days gone by. The tyres have torn up fragile mats of the tiny raoulia plant which work to hold the sand in place in the fierce face of the southerly.

Denise and Dougal MacKenzie look over the damage with both despair and resignation. They’ve seen it all before. They’re just glad the breeding season has finished and there are no young banded dotterels or caspian terns left to disturb.The couple have spent over a decade caring for, protecting, and promoting this unique and precious little ecosystem. It only takes one ignorant joyrider to wreck it.

Dougal and Denise established Friends of Onoke Spit in 2010. With a team of volunteers and the support of local groups and organisations, they trapped, planted and educated. They secured funding, support and buy-in for protection of the depleted and very delicate ecosystem which supports a variety of struggling native species.

“Our goal was enhancement – of the area and of people’s knowledge and enjoyment of it,” said Densie.

“But there is friction here too, between the role of education and the role of isolation.

“The more people know, the higher the chance that they’ll want to protect – and deepen their understanding of – a very delicate ecosystem. They might just speak up if they get the chance to protect it,” she said.

“Yet the more people that know of it, the more people come here – and that isn’t necessarily a good thing. We have ongoing discussions about bringing this area to people’s attention.”

The couple continue to share their time and passion but they have lately wound up Friends of Onoke Spit. The Wairarapa Moana group is now invested in the area as part of their wider focus.

Along Onoke Spit, the colony of black-billed gulls is thriving. Most people visiting, stick to the main track and stay away from the fenced-off nesting areas. Farmers all actively trap animal pest species or allow others to do so on their land. The native replantings are thriving, and the pingao plant –which holds the sand together but has almost disappeared from much of our coastline – is gradually returning.

These are small, but beautiful wins. What better tribute to a couple who have invested so much into this unique spit of land.

• Midweek has partnered with conservation groups to put a spotlight on conservation efforts locally.