Motutapu Island rāhui extended until elusive stoat caught
A rāhui over Motutapu Island is set to continue indefinitely, while an elusive stoat continues to wreak havoc with the island’s wildlife.
The pest-free island was placed under rāhui (ban) for 30 days by iwi Ngāi Tai ki Tāmaki on May 18 as the Department of Conservation worked to curb a stoat outbreak – the fourth since May 2020.
Just two stoats have been caught since then, DOC incursion response advisor Claire Warren said.
No stoats have been captured since the rāhui commenced, Warren said, however genetic analysis of stoat faeces confirmed the presence of one male stoat on the island.
Ferry services to Rangitoto Island are not affected by the rāhui, however campsite bookings for the Motutapu Island campsite are unavailable.
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Christmas Craft Afternoon
All are welcome to a free craft afternoon for children at Takapuna Methodist Church, 427 Lake Road, Takapuna. 3.30 - 5.30 Friday 29 November. Afternoon tea, sausage sizzle and carols included!
Spring gardening tips
Dreaming of a garden bursting with colour and fresh produce? Shane Fairbairn, Ryman Healthcare’s Landscape Manager, shares his top tips to make it happen. You’ll be set to create a gorgeous, relaxing space in no time - grab your trowel, and let’s dig in.
Click read more for more information.
Poll: Do you think NZ should ban social media for youth?
The Australian Prime Minister has expressed plans to ban social media use for children.
This would make it illegal for under 16-year-olds to have accounts on platforms including TikTok, Instagram, Facebook and X.
Social media platforms would be tasked with ensuring children have no access (under-age children and their parents wouldn’t be penalised for breaching the age limit)
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Do you think NZ should follow suit? Vote in our poll and share your thoughts below.
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84% Yes
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14.7% No
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1.3% Other - I'll share below