The following is adapted from the EDS News, December 2023 (Environmental Defence Society). The three-party coalition of the new government does not bode well for our environment. Many of the policy agreements in National’s deals with NZ First and ACT are regressive. In addition to rolling back the resource management...
Forest & Bird’s Bird of the Century is the pūteketeke Australasian crested grebe. (It’s not one of the five birds I voted for.) It is a little-known lake bird, numbering fewer than 1000 in New Zealand. More than 380,000 votes were cast from 195 countries – the biggest reach the...
New Zealand’s earliest built monument to the First World War is now a Category 1 historic place. It can be found at the intersection of Lower Albert and Quay Streets. The monument was constructed by the Auckland Harbour Board to commemorate its employees who fought in this war, and was first...
Much work has been done to repair tracks around Auckland, though before you head out, check Akl Paths to see whether the track you want to walk is open. The Arataki Visitor Centre opens on 2 December and you can already walk the Arataki Nature Trail. Enter this 40-minute walk through...
Freshwater rules are changing in Tāmaki Makaurau and Aucklanders can have their say on how to improve the region’s rivers, lakes and streams. The details are included in a discussion document called Setting our Direction for improving freshwater in Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland. See AkHaveYourSay.NZ. This work is driven by the...
The Free Fares Campaign says that the public transport discounts introduced this year are an important step towards transport equity and emissions reductions. Their petition, launched yesterday, calls on the incoming Minister of Transport to retain these discounts: half-price public transport for Community Services Card holders and under-25s, half-price Total...
Voting for Te Manu Rongonui o te Rautau | Bird of the Century 2023 is now open. This avian election is themed to celebrate Forest & Bird’s 100th birthday. Seventy-seven native birds are candidates for Bird of the Century. Plus, for the first time ever, five extinct species are in...
Te Tukunga pūtea ā-takiwā taonga tuku iho / the Regional Historic Heritage Grant Programme applications have been extended until 14 November. The grant aims to preserve and enhance historic heritage as a legacy to pass on to future generations. With grants of up to $50,000, it is open to groups...
Two species of exotic caulerpa seaweed have been found in the north of New Zealand, including in Tāmaki Makaurau. This invasive marine pest has the potential to seriously harm and transform our coastal environments. If you think you see exotic caulerpa, note the location, take a photo and report it...
After nearly 4 years, there is positive action on the Leys Institute Library and Gymnasium. At its October meeting, the Waitematā Local Board accepted a recommendation from Auckland Council to proceed with the final designs for the restoration of the Leys, and to start the resource and building consent process....