Community takes stand to protect birds after 4WD ban rejected

Nicole Mathewson Reporter from The Press

By David Hill, Local Democracy Reporter

Four-wheel-drive enthusiasts and environmentalists will need to work together to protect birds nesting along the Ashley River after a vehicle ban was rejected by the Waimakariri District Council.

The Department of Conservation last month called for the council to consider a vehicle ban on the upper Ashley River in Canterbury during nesting season, between October 31 and January 31.

Council staff considered the request, but found a ban would be unworkable.

Waimakariri mayor Dan Gordon has reached out to 4WD clubs, police, the Department of Conservation (DOC), Environment Canterbury (ECan), Te Ngāi Tūāhuriri Rūnanga and the Ashley Rakahuri Rivercare Group in a show of unity.

‘‘What was clear from our meeting was that all groups want the best for the environment, and care about the Ashley Rakahuri River," Gordon said.

‘‘Bringing people together is the first step in solving this issue.’’

Ngāi Tūāhuriri upoko Dr Te Maire Tau said all river users need to respect the environment and avoid damaging waterways and the land.

‘‘The Ashley is home to endangered birds, and they need to be looked after.

Working together to ensure their protection and that of the wider river environment is important, he said

DOC operations manager Leeann Ellis said braided rivers are a globally rare ecosystem, home to species that have adapted to live in the environment.

But she acknowledged the Ashley River is an important recreation area.

ECan councillor Grant Edge said the majority of people are careful and considerate of wildlife.

‘‘We want those that use this area to value it, and education and information is a great start.’’

Canterbury police rural area commander Inspector Peter Cooper said collaboration is the best approach.

‘‘It is always preferable to enforcement. We welcome this approach and look forward to future discussions.’’

Bruce Stuart, from the Combined 4WD Clubs, said members are aware of the birds now nesting in the Upper Ashley and are happy to work together to protect them.

Ashley Rakahuri Rivercare Group operations manager Grant Davey said the upper Ashley River is narrow and there are few places for birds to nest.

‘‘It is completely inappropriate for any vehicle to be driven through them, but there are other important factors for the birds that also need addressing.’’

Rangiora-Ashley Community Board chairperson Jim Gerard said it was important to get a balance between protecting the nesting birds and keeping the river open for access to locals.

The groups will meet again in December to continue discussions.

■ LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air.