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Sunday, 31 March 2019 08:16

From the President

Greetings everyone

Hope Christmas and New Year treated you well; it has been an excellent year for waterfowl breeding, with most ponds holding water with lots of feed for young birds.

The DU year has started with some small repair work being done to the wall at Wairio and the walkway from the road to Stage 1 being given a coating of gravel.

Consent has been received to divert the water from Matthews Lagoon into the northern end of Wairio and that work should be completed this autumn.

William Abel and Adrienne Bushell have finished the arrangements for the 2019 AGM to be held in Wanganui in early August, so put a note on your calendars and I hope to see you all there.

Published in Issue 176

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Sunday, 20 January 2019 06:05

Breeding Results 2013-2014

What a great year we have had with 33 ducklings reared and released over the last two weeks in March. This is a new record. Peacocks, two pairs lead the charge with having three clutch’s each and producing 23 and then Mt Bruce’s pair produced six from two clutch’s and Orana pair had four.

Queenstown pair did have one but it died at seven-weeks-old which was a shame. The pair from Auckland had infertile eggs but the female had been flocked mated not long before at Mt Bruce after losing her mate. The pair at Hamilton did nothing as well as the pair at Staglands. The pair at Palmerston North Esplanade did lay three eggs and one being fertile but died in the shell. The pair at Otorohonga did lay a clutch but nothing came from them.

Egmont met a milestone with 100 known birds on the mountain.

77 Eggs
49 Fertile
40 Hatched
33 Ducklings reared.

All released.

Release Tongariro March 11, 2014

6 Captive breed.

Release Egmont March 13, 2014

14 Captive breed

2 Whione

Release Manganui –a-te-ao March 20, 2014

13 Captive breed birds

Released Birds to Date from 2000 to 2014

141 released Egmont National Park

25 released Manganui –a-te-ao

12 released Tongariro area

Deaths for the year 3.1

1 male Auckland Zoo 14 years

1 male Staglands 13 years

1 female Hamilton Zoo 18 years

1 male Otorohanga 3 years

Peter Russell

Published in Issue 161

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Sunday, 20 January 2019 05:59

Northland Pateke recovery

The milestone for Pateke this year is seeing the Northland flock count top the 2000 recovery plan of 750 birds.

Dangerous as it is to make any assumptions, it would appear that the natural spread of wild birds on this part of the Northland coast is benefiting from the expanding network of loosely linked conservation projects carried out by a wide range of operators, including DOC, NRC, Forestry, farmers, and individual land care groups. Birds that fly out of one trapped zone are likely to arrive in another.

Overall the graphed flock count results for the traditional Pateke strongholds - Northland, Great Barrier Island and Moehau on Coromandel, are tracking in the right direction, upwards.

In the words of our science advisor for the PRG, the Pateke Captive Breeding Programme has to be the most successful in NZ, and quite possibly the world. Breeders take a bow. To consistently make available for release upward of 200 birds annually, is no mean feat. Congratulations to you all.

As I see it there are two main drivers for Pateke recovery:

1) Groups engaged in habitat restoration and trapping.

2) The annual crop of captive bred birds.

As of now, these appear to be self balancing, although this may change as more, suitable habitat becomes available through conservation efforts. Not a serious problem to have!

Captive Breeding

Kevin Evans does an amazing job coordinating this effort. How he keeps it up I have no idea.

In 2014, 158 birds have been released into Puerua north east of the Bay of Islands, bringing release there to 288. It’s an area with few stoats, but they initially experienced problems with cats. They are now on top of this.

Another 12 birds were due for release this August.

Recovery Group Future

Following the recent DOC reshuffle, it would seem that Technical Advisory Groups will replace the recovery groups.

In English, we will see Groups designed to provide advice on large clusters of work around species and ecosystems.

It’s unlikely Pateke will be in a group of its own, but a possible special case may apply because of the captive breeding programme. We can expect it to shake its self out over the next 12 months.

Certainly it’s important that organisations like DU continue to foster close working relationships with people within the DOC structure. Build bridges, not enemies!!!

Mike Camm

Published in Issue 161

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Sunday, 20 January 2019 05:48

Letters

Pateke efforts pay off

Dear Editor,

After reading the article written by Neil Hayes on ‘A brief History of Ducks Unlimited Operation Pateke’ in the July 2014 issue of Flight, I feel there are a number of claims in his reference to pateke at Cape Kidnappers, which are inaccurate and need rectifying. I have taken the trouble to consult with the manager of The Cape Sanctuary, Tamsin Ward-Smith, to ensure I have the facts right.

In the past Mr Hayes has been in print promoting his criticism of the introduction of pateke to Cape Sanctuary, formally the Cape Kidnapper’s and Ocean Beach Wildlife Preserve. This time he goes further. He suggests that although the sites (Cape Sanctuary is one of five which he states are failures), had predator control programmes, they all failed because: (1) there are no wild populations of pateke in the area, (2) habitat was not suitable, (3) no suitable flock sites, (4) no suitable pateke habitat adjacent to these sites and (5) no suitably protected adjacent wetland for population expansion. Well, I’m afraid I don’t know what Mr Hayes regards as a success but for those of us with any knowledge of the pateke project at Cape Sanctuary it is anything but a failure.

Nearly every one of the 40 plus stock dams and ponds at the sanctuary have resident pairs. Numbers in excess of 60 birds are counted on the main flocking dams. Over 60 juveniles fledged last season (and that from only 10 pairs that were observed). Pateke are so numerous that they are no longer monitored to the ninth degree. They don’t need to be. They’re self-sustaining.

Amongst Mr Hayes reasons for proclaiming Cape Sanctuary is unsuitable for pateke is that there is no history of pateke in the area. This is incorrect. A palaeofaunal survey conducted by Trevor H Worthy specifies that pateke do indeed have a history there. Many pateke bones have been identified in the area. The fact that pateke are no longer present does not mean they should not be returned. Cape Sanctuary is about restoring the peninsula with fauna and flora representative of a healthy Hawke’s Bay forest and coastal system. Pateke were once a component of this system and so it makes sense to restore the wildlife that once inhabited the region as well. To date seven bird species have been successfully restored to Cape Sanctuary, including pateke. Programmes are also underway for four other forest bird species, as well as translocation programmes for grey-faced, Cook’s and diving petrel, tuatara and giant weta.

The habitat on Cape Kidnappers peninsula may not be what many may perceive to be ideal for pateke; pasture and pine forest dominate. However the remnant wild populations that exist in NZ today may only reflect the last strong-holds for this species and not necessarily a preferred habitat. Those members of the Recovery Group who supported an initial trial of 40 pateke to Cape Sanctuary in 2008 must be commended for breaking the mold and taking a risk. Pateke are known as a forest duck after all and extensive wetland areas are certainly not what many pairs at Cape Sanctuary are thriving in. Bathtub sized ponds suffice. Pateke are often seen in ‘mobs’ at night time 100s of metres from water busily working the pasture invertebrates.

Who are we to say what is suitable habitat and do we have options to be so choosy if we are to establish predator ‘safe’ populations and secure the long-term survival of this species?

True, pateke are moving out of Cape Sanctuary’s 2500 hectare protected area. Pateke sightings are regularly reported on the Maraetotara River, at Te Awanga and even as far as Clive River. Some may be lost, but by Mr Hayes own admission pateke are very territorial and, since the project is so successful, juveniles are forced out of the sanctuary simply because it is full. Some failure! If a few birds are lost outside Cape Sanctuary, the fact there is a thriving population within the predator controlled area, providing a “Pateke Bank,” has to be good news for the species.

Future protection for overflow birds (and not just pateke), is in the pipeline with a large scale, multi-agency, predator control and habitat restoration programme being established over 26,000 hectares immediately adjacent to Cape Sanctuary on outlying farmland. So in the longer term the odds on survival of pateke outside Cape Sanctuary will be high.

The fact that the Cape Sanctuary population is remote from the Northland and Coromandel regions has to be a plus as well.

I wish to correct Mr Hayes claims so that Banrock Station Wines can rest assured their initial sponsorship was not in vain, and that the efforts of volunteers and breeders has paid off. Pateke are thriving at Cape Sanctuary here in Hawke’s Bay.

Kevin Campbell

Great place Great weekend

Dear Editor,

We’d like to thank the organisers of DUNZ annual meeting for a fabulous weekend at Brakenridge Lodge, Martinborough.

Once again we heard the conservation message and saw first-hand the amazing progress of wetland restoration being done. I believe the expertise we have amongst our membership and the track record of DU makes this organisation the leader in wet land preservation and re-establishment in NZ.

We are light years ahead of any other group.

Our suggestion is that the Board should be striving to become the “Consultants” of the industry.

The speaker from the Regional Council gave them the credence to do so. Other organisations are getting the kudos but DU is doing the practical work.

Once again thanks to all those doing the job.

Alice and Ross Hood

Published in Issue 161

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Sunday, 20 January 2019 05:35

DU directors in the news

DU directors in the news – for good reasons

Two DU directors, John Dermer and Dan Steele made the news this year,
both appearing in mainly rural papers, and both for very good reasons.

Dan Steele - Conservation and tourism with farming

Dan Steele is the main driving force behind Blue Duck Station, central North Island, with the Retaruke River close by and Whanganui National Park on the boundary, it is the ideal place for a conservation minded man and his family.

The 1440ha station the cattle and sheep are important, but looking after the environment is always foremost in the running of the property. As a committed conservationist and a committed Ducks Unlimited member birds, particularly Whio (Blue Ducks), receive special care.

By allowing 800ha of land to regenerate, the bird life is returning along with the regeneration of the bush. There are 450 predator traps in use, water quality in streams and rivers has improved, and bird numbers continue to increase. Kereru and tui in particular, plus there are brown kiwi, native bats, and native fish.

Dan and his family, and his parents living next door, are all keen on seeing the conservation side increase. Young visitors from around the world are welcome at Blue Duck Station, where they are known as Eco Warriors, helping with the conservation programme jobs that take time and they get educated along the way.

But it is not only the backpackers who head for Blue Duck Station, Dan has built accommodation, and tourists are welcome. Hunting, horse-trekking, kayaking, hiking and even bush safaris are offered.

Dan has been a director of DUNZ for some time now, and has recently taken over the important role of auctioneer for fund raising at the annual DU AGM.

John Dermer – the ultimate Farm Forrester

John and Diny Dermer were this year named as the North Island’s top farm foresters. They both love trees, and their farm at Cheltenham near Feilding reflects the attention that has been put into enhancing the landscape with a wide variety of native and exotic trees.

Selected as top forester in the North Island, John received a Husqvarna chainsaw. The foresters are tested on their tree knowledge, along with how well their trees are planted and managed.

John, a long time director of DUNZ, is obviously also keen on the birds. Ponds and nesting places are available around the farm. He is always on the lookout for yet another spot to be turned into a haven for water fowl. The trees, radiata pine, cypress, redwood and eucalyptus are mostly planted on land that would be difficult to farm effectively. Many older trees including large oaks and several large fruit trees in the original old orchard show the love of trees was encouraged long ago.

The Dermers also grow cereal cash crops, do bull finishing, lamb finishing and run a small ewe breeding flock. Oh – and there are turkey’s that have the freedom of the farm.

Diny also maintains a large number of hens, and several Peking ducks. Diny keeps the garden in order and has several citrus trees including an orange, grapefruit and several lemon trees always covered in fruit. They do well around the house. There are also several camellias. But Diny is also the extra farm hand, and is often to be found out on the tractor or helping in the wool shed.

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Sunday, 20 January 2019 05:29

DU’s new co-patron

DU’s new co-patron - Diane Pritt

Ohakune farmer and long time DU member, Diane Pritt is the new co-patron of Ducks Unlimited New Zealand (DUNZ). She replaces Diana, Lady Isaac, who died in November 2012.

The position, shared with Jim Campbell of Wairarapa, had been vacant while the DUNZ board decided on the best person to fill the role.

Diane (known to most members as Di) has been involved with DUNZ since a year after its formation in 1975, when she and her father, Bill, became members.

“Dad was a very keen duck shooter and followed Roy Cavanaugh’s (Wildlife Service) creed that ‘without water you have nothing’. Hence, the 40odd dams and wetland areas here at Mitredale.”

Di was on the DUNZ board from 1978 to 1993,running the AGMs. The annual board meetings in May started during her time on the board andDi says: “Thank you to the guys for their effortsas directors.” Apart from her farm Mitredale, Di has many other interests, including Women in Farming, duck and pheasant shooting, simulated field (claytarget) shooting, amateur dramatics, reading, Labrador dogs, wine and cooking. Her MitredaleDuck Club Cookbook was published in 2001.

She has run the 125 hectare sheep and beef farmsince 1982 and, with her mother also manages ahomestay and boarding kennel.

Di said it is an honour to be selected as co-patron.

Published in Issue 161

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Sunday, 20 January 2019 05:27

Conservation Week

Conservation week November 1-9

New Zealand is full of great places and hidden treasures. DOC knows because they manage over 1400 great places, each with its own special appeal.

This Conservation Week DOC is making it fun and easy to get out and explore the great outdoors. They are hosting activities and events around the country. Even if you can’t make it to an event you can encourage some mates to join you in an adventure, tell your friends about somewhere you love to go, or get your kids to be creative.

There is a range of things to do and see so head out with family and friends and explore the great outdoors – it’s fun and easy! Go to www.doc.govt.nz for more information.

Published in Issue 161

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Sunday, 20 January 2019 05:23

From the President

Another excellent AGM and Conference was held at Martinborough. Great venue, organisation and attendance. A big thank you toeveryone for making it a success.

The field trip showcased Wairio wetland which enabled members to see where we have directed significant effort over recent years supported by numerous sponsors.

At the Sunday morning session we received excellent updates on the Pateke programme by Mike Camm and the Whio programme from Peter Russell.

DU are supporting bittern research by approving funding of $2500 for Emma Williams, Massey University student doing doctorate studies at Lake Whatuma, Hawke’s Bay, to purchase radio tracking transmitters. Emma will be providing regular updates to be published in Flight so I look forward to these.

John Cheyne

Published in Issue 161

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Sunday, 20 January 2019 04:01

Wetland research grants

Interested in studying wetland birds or wetland restoration? – the Wetland Care scholarship could be for you!

Background/purpose

Wetland Care research scholarships are Ducks Unlimited-sponsored scholarships applicable to any student currently enrolled or affiliated with a New Zealand university. Funds are aimed at encouraging and supporting students who wish to push the boundaries of what is known about wetland restoration and conservation. Starting in 2018, up to $20,000 a year will be available to cover one to four scholarships of $5000 each. Funds can be used to support student living costs or to cover the costs of equipment purchase, logistics and consumables.

Criteria

Applications will be accepted from students/researchers affiliated with universities interested in making a difference through wetland conservation. Funding is aimed at student projects designed to facilitate better management of New Zealand wetlands or their environment. The student project must be based in New Zealand or be of direct benefit to New Zealand based on current wetland conservation issues.

Preference will be given to applications who demonstrate:

innovative thinking that pushes the boundaries of what is known about New Zealand wetland conservation
research on native threatened wetland bird species
research with clear objectives and measurable outcomes
research with a strong wetland management and conservation applications
research covering any ‘preferred research topics’ listed on the Ducks Unlimited/Wetland Care website: www.ducks.org.nz.

Value

Wetland Care will award up to four scholarships a year, during two biannual funding rounds for the next three years (2018 to 2021). The first funding round, consisting of one to two $5000 scholarships, will be advertised in September. The second funding rounds,

consisting of a further one to two $5000 scholarships, will be advertised in February. Funds will be paid in one lump sum to successful candidates upon completion of the milestones agreed at the time the scholarship is accepted.

How and when to apply

Applications for the September 2018 funding round will open until November 1, 2018. Depending upon the quality of applications, we may award up to two $5000 scholarships.
The next applications will be called for in February 2019. This round will consists of up to two more $5000 scholarships.

Want to know more?

Please email swampbird.research@ gmail.com with your questions or to request an application pack. Terms and conditions will also be available on the Ducks Unlimited website. Applications close at 5pm on November 1.

Published in Issue 175

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Sunday, 20 January 2019 03:53

Ramsar officials visit

Ramsar officials visited the Wairio wetland in March during their visit to Wellington, the host city for the Oceania preparatory meeting in the lead-up to the 13th Conference of the Parties (COP13) to be held in October 2018 in Dubai.

The meeting in March was attended by eight contracting parties in the Oceania Region, an observer from Vanuatu, which is in the process of accession, and observers from international and national organisations that work on wetland-related issues.

Ramsar officials said the Pre-COP meeting was an opportunity to discuss and give feedback on draft resolutions to be considered at the Ramsar COP13. It was also an opportunity to share experiences, information and

knowledge on wetland issues common to the region and identify opportunities for cooperation, learning and improved implementation of the convention.

The delegation thanked Ngati Hinewaka and Kahungunu ki Wairarapa, Greater Wellington Regional Council, Ducks Unlimited and the Department of Conservation for hosting the visit.

The Convention on Wetlands of International Importance holds the unique distinction of being the first modern treaty between nations aimed at conserving natural resources.

The signing of the convention, now known as the Ramsar Convention, took place in 1971 at the small Iranian town of Ramsar.

Published in Issue 175

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