Predator-free success

I was surprised that Kevin Hackwell, Forest & Bird campaigns and advocacy manager, did not mention our local Maungatautari Ecological Island Project in his article ‘‘Predator-free NZ goal achievable’’ (Waikato Times, August 22). Maungatautari has eliminated the main predators within the sanctuary fence and the increase in birdlife is noticeable already. Many readers will have been impressed by the prolific birdlife on Tiritiri Matangi Island in the Hauraki Gulf. Tiritiri has been in operation for over 30 years, Maungatautari for only 14 years. Within a decade, it’s quite possible that birdlife at Maungatautari will compare favourably with Tiritiri.

Kevin Hackwell mentions stoats, rats and possums as predator threats but ignores feral cats (and uncontrolled domestic cats) which cause severe damage to birdlife and other native fauna but are more difficult to eliminate.

David Coy

Hamilton

councillors said this was a fantastic venue. However those same councillors would not attach their personal finances to it, just we the ratepayers are responsible for its deficit. A good question for the Waikato Times mayoral forum might be, ‘‘Given the Claudelands Events Centre is in deficit for millions for the ratepayers of Hamilton, would you use your personal bank account and savings to keep this failing centre open?’’ If we sold it and the land, the rates would pay for a really great regional theatre! So, who do we elect as mayor? Andrew King who is a safe pair of hands but does not appear to relate to fellow councillors or Paula Southgate who has considerable experience as chair of Waikato Regional Council and knows how to get councillors talking with each other for the benefit of ratepayers rather than at each other. Come on Hamilton, attend the meetings and be informed voters. Lastly, note how named people standing have nomination boards appearing and they have never bothered to introduce themselves to you? No meet, no vote!

Ian Hanley

Hamilton