Bringing tuatara back to hotspot
Residents are rallying to protect the future of Whangamata¯ ’s Whenuakura Wildlife Sanctuary, commonly known as Donut Island.
Not far from Whangamata¯ Beach, Whenuakura has become a popular destination for intrepid travellers looking to discover secret spots.
However, few visitors know the island and adjacent islands are privately owned by local Ma¯ ori and Whenuakura has wildlife sanctuary status administered by the Department of Conservation.
As recently as the 1980s, Whenuakura Wildlife Sanctuary was home to tuatara – a rare and endangered reptile species found only in New Zealand that thrived in the age of the dinosaurs.
It is understood the last remaining tuatara were removed for their own safety. The land owners’ ambitious vision as kaitiaki (guardians) is that future generations will see relocation of tuatara back to the island.
Recognising that Whenuakura has been a local treasure for generations of Whangamata¯ residents, and the potential for tourism to help preserve the island, Destination Coromandel worked with the community to increase awareness of the expected etiquette for visiting the island.
Having a Qualmark-endorsed tour company was identified as an important step to enhance the historical, cultural and ecological profile of the place.
Qualmark-accredited kayak and paddleboard tour operator Surfsup is now leading the way in protecting the island’s future.
Owner and guide Mauro Bender believes respect for this special place will grow as more people understand that it is privately owned and a wildlife sanctuary.
‘‘Our guests love the fact that they are contributing to the preservation of Whenuakura and the future of this beautiful yet fragile environment,’’ he said.
Bender hopes that those visiting without a guide will also respect the sanctity of the place and not land on the island to take photos. This is the key message for all visitors – ‘‘You can look, but you can’t touch.’’
Surfsup has now raised more than $7000 towards an ecosystem preservation project. A contribution from every visitor goes towards this project, and a large donation was also generated from a United States media opportunity secured by Destination Coromandel and Tourism New Zealand.
Surfsup guides also take local community groups and school trips to Whenuakura.
‘‘The locals we’ve been taking out are keen to be part of the solution, become guardians and contribute towards improving the island and marine environment.’’
The safety of visitors to the islands is often compromised, another reason the islands’ owners are supporting guided tours which operate only in safe conditions.
Nine lives were saved as Whangamata¯ lifeguards braved swell and rockface to bring those stranded home safely in challenging weather conditions during an Easter rescue at the island.