Shift the rocks that obstruct the penguins

RECENTLY, I learnt the penguin population at the Oamaru Creek penguin refuge had declined, apparently due to a ‘‘storm’’.

However, I have another theory and it relates to the recent erosion protection work carried out in front of the refuge.

The sandmattress system installation was a failure due to a ‘‘storm’’. A large amount of rocks were then quickly placed on to the beach. This work was carried out under emergency repairs because a ‘‘storm’’ could be coming.

It was considered no resource consent was required. The penguins are now paying the price for that decision.

I raised concerns that the rocks had been placed too far on to the beach and no consideration had been given to the penguins. Consent should have been a requirement in such a sensitive wildlife area, especially when there was no urgency for the work.

Conditions regarding the placement of the rocks would have been sought, such as ‘‘rocks are to be placed in such a way to give penguins unrestricted access to and from nesting sites’’.

The ‘‘experts’’ will probably say the penguins will eventually find their way through the rocks, even if it takes all night, as they are very adaptable.

It is time some agency took responsibility and acknowledged the fact that a mistake has been made. Urgent remedial work needs to be carried out.

Slight adjustments need to be made to some of the rocks to create access channels. Surely, I am not the only person who can see the penguins are struggling to find their way quickly through the wall of rocks. When I go to the refuge now I find it a very sad place.

The penguins used to have a beach area to run up to escape rough seas. Now, they are confronted by a wall of rocks.

Hopefully, the birds will be able to gain something positive from man’s ‘‘stuff up’’ and start nesting among the rocks, thus avoiding any contact with humans. Lorraine Adams

Oamaru