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Tiritiri WataQgi :Island

Worki® . Plan

Prepared by

Department of Lands and Survey

for the

HAURAKI GULF MARITIME PARK BOARD

Auckland '

October 19Si

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Foreword

Tiritiri Matangi is an island of some 220 hectares situated in the Hauraki Gulf

3.5 kilometres east of the Whangaparaoa Peninsula and 28 kilometres north of

Auckland, New Zealand. The Island, commonly referred to as "Tiritiri" or "Tiri",

forms a part o-f the Hauraki Gulf Maritime Park. The Park itself consists of an

attractive assemblage of-both_ inshore and offshore islands situated in the Gulf

and beyond. The offshore islands often contain rare or interesting examples of

vegetation and animal life; however, because these areas are remote and extremely

sensitive, only scientists are encouraged to visit. The observance of natural

phenomena is of interest not only to scientists but also, in many instances, to

the public at large. This type of experience can help to engender a greater

awareness among the general public of the importance of their natural heritage.

The proposal for Tiritiri Island is to create an 'open sanctuarY' where people,

particularly Aucklanders, can ultimately view some of the region's rare or

endangered animal and plant species within their natural environment. In this

way the island can provide a tangible image of the Park and its values while

also serving as a practical demonstration of the value of wildlife conservation.

Tiritiri Island, by virtue of its accessibility and generally predator-free

environment, is admirably suited to the role of an open sanctuary in the Park.

However, because of the Island's long history of human-induced landscape

modification, particularly through pastoral farming practices, there is a

primary requirement to restore its forest (pristine or climax) vegetation.

When the Hauraki Gulf Maritime Park Board assumed control of Part of Tiritiri

in 1970, it decided after careful study to end grazing of the island. The

ensuing period of natural regeneration has presented a rare opportunity for

conducting biological and botanical research within a relatively closed island

environment. As a result of this research it has now become evident that the

natural processes of regeneration have been rather slow during the past decade,

due primarily to competition from the vigorous growth of grasses and bracken.

The introduction of rare flora and fauna to Tiritiri Island is largely depend­

ent upon the development of suitable habitats where these plants and animals

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T'l>,mol MATANGI ISLAND

HAURAKI GULF

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can thrive. In view of the fact that regeneration has been slow on the island

it is now propOsed that appropriate options be examined to determine whether

the natural processes of re-vegetation can be actively hastened or selectively

altered to provide habitats within a shorter period of time.

This working plan is therefore intended as a means whereby options available for

the future development of Tiritiri 'are first identified and evaluated. Follow­

ing this analysis, management proposals are then formulated to serve as guide­

lines for any desired courses of action. The plan is thus divided into three

parts;

• first an analysis is made of the existing physical environment of

Tiritiri.

• secondly, management proposals for selective reafforestation and

habitat enhancement are, put forward, where appropriate, as a means

of achieving the ultimate goal of successfully introducing rare or

endangered flora and fauna to the island for the public to view.

• and lastly, a proposed work programme has been devised for imple­

menting these proposals.

It is likely that these management proposals will evolve as the present frame­

work of knowledge is expanded by initial trials, and hence it is envisaged

that a process of staged development will occur over a number of years. The

actual implementation of this plan will depend upon the co-operation and

participation of a number of interested public and private bodies, assoc­

iations and individuals.

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Contents

Foreword

List of Maps

List of Tables

Introduction

Introduction

Natural Resources and Uses

Human History of the Island

l.

2.

3.

Maori History

Archaeology

European History

Present Pattern of Human Use

History of the Flora and Fauna

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2.

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Changes

Forest Establishment and Regeneration

General Description of the Reserve

Present Day Status of the Flora and Fauna·

l.

2.

3.

Major Plant Communities

Miscellaneous Habitats

Fauna

Management·Considerations

Management Goal

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Justification

_ Management Proposals

Discuss'ion

1. Proposals for Habitat Enhancement and Reafforestation

2. Areas to be Planted for Habitat Enhancement and Reafforestation

3. Introduction of Selected Fauna

4 . Human Management

Summary of Management Considerations

Management Goals-

Management Policies and Proposals

Acknowledgments and References

Acknowledgments

References

Appendix

Proposed Work Programme

l. Introduction

2. Areas to be Planted

3. Silviculture

4. Planting Strategy

5. Numbers of Plants Required

6. Suggested Timetable

7. Monitoring

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List of Maps

Locality Plan

Natural Resources

Diagram Supporting Deed of Sale

Historical Sites

Sequence of Acquisitions

Access and Relationship with Shakespear Regional Park

Present Pattern of Human Use

catchment Areas (Overlay)

Existing Vegetation

Catchment Areas

Revegetation Proposals

List of Tables

Table

1.

2.

3.

The Percentage of the reserve covered by different vegetation types.

Species to be used, their seed collection period and 'use'.

Numbers of Plants Required.

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Introduction

The natural res~urces of the Hauraki.Gulf Maritime Park (H.G.M.P.) are diverse

and offer a unique opportunity to meet a wide range of· environmental requirements

and public needs under unified management within one region. A management plan

has now been prepared for the whole of the Park in the form of a broad statement

of objectives and policies which provide an overall framework for decision

making.

The scattered-nature of the Park has lent itself to the preparation of a Manage­

ment Plan in stages. This was convenient in that certain decisions relating to

specific reserves were required to be made urgently. To delay these because of a

need to complete certain aspects of the plan relating to other areas in the Park

would only have compounded problems and difficulties of management. Thus, Working

Plans have already been produced for certain islands and reserves and it is

intended that similar.plans will be produced·for all other reserves or groups of

reserves in the Park. These Working Plans will comprise part of the overall

Management Plan and each will be prepared.or reviewed in terms·of the total park

and overall concept prescribed in this document.

The overall concept for the Park is prescribed in the ·following primary objectives:

"OBJECTIVE 3.7.2.2

To plan and manage the Park as an integral part of a national system of

reserves and open spaces in New Zealand - maintaining a number of repre­

sentative landscapes and ecological systems that extend and complement

those already preserved in other parks.

OBJECTIVE 3.7.2.2

To take advantage of the diverse nature of the Park to sustain a wide

group of specified objectives ranging ·from preservation for scientific

purposes to ourdoor education and the encouragement of public use for a

variety of outdoor recreation.

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Northwest Point

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Fences _"_"_ \l Forest and scrub

Bracken

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Overgrown tracks -----

Beaches ~'.ii~/~" Contours -100-

Cliffs/steep slopes ~

Note: all contolJrs are in feet.

Tiritiri Wata®i 5sland rlatural Resources

Scale

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OBJECTIVE 3.7.2.3

Having regard to the policies of the Auckland Regional Authority, to

provide for the unified 111anagement· and control of the following groups

of res'erves;

• the chain of the best preserved and least modified islands lying

qffshore from the Whangarei, Auckland and Corornandel coastline

that are required to be protected from human interference as

conservation areas or preserved for scientific purposes in the

national or international interest ./

• all island reserves administered by the Crown under the Reserves

Act 1977 in the Hauraki Gulf

• any other islands or coastal areas on or adjacent to the east

.coast of Whangarei, Auckland or Coromandel districts that are

mainly within the sphere of influence of the Auckland region or

relate in ecological, scientific, cultural; historical or rec­

reational terms to other reserves in the Park, and where the

Board is seen to be the most appropriate authority in the

circumstances.

OBJECTIVE 3.7.2.4

To widen the concept of the Hauraki Gulf Maritime Park to include marine

areas·that are contiguous to Park lands."

These objectives recognise the need for a flexible approach. which tailors

management to the individual requirements of each reserve. For instance, the

Park includes numerous remote outer islands which collectively make up

New Zealand's largest remaining area of temperate coastal and lowland vegetation,

and which. often· contain rare or endangered wildlife. Many of these islands

therefore serve as important refuges for flora and fauna that have disappeared

elsewhere. These areas are sensitive to human interference and hence the Board

has established a permit system which. severely restricts the rights of public

entry.

In contrast, several of the inner islands, by virtue of their extensively

modified landscape and relative proximity to Auckland, play an important role

as an accessible, yet quite different recreational resource. The experience of

being on an island, particularly one that is being farmed, offers the possib­

ility for a unique range of outdoor recreation not easily obtainable on the

mainland.

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The principal Act controlling the administration of reserves is the Reserves Act

,19.77. This Act generally provides' for the preservation and management of

specified areas' for the Denefit and enjoyIllent of the public. The Act contains a

provision for the classification of reserves according to their primary purpose.

Tiritiri Matangi IS'land has Deen classified as a scientific reserve. scientific

reserves have as their purpose" •• '.protecting and preserving in perpetuity for

scientific study, research, 'education, and the benefit of the country, ecological

,associations, plant or animal communities, types of'soil, geomorphological

phenomena, and like matters of special interest."

Tiritiri Matangi Island occupies an interesting geographical and ecological

position insofar as it is situated 'at the transition point between the inner and

outer gulf, and while its natural systems have been extensively modified, it

nonetheless still retains' an ability to sustain and invigorate itself. In this

respect, Tiritiri appears' ideally suited for complementing,the multiple use

functions' of l?oth, conservation and recreation by serving as an outdoor educational

resource for us'e and enjoyIllent by members of the general public. In a wider sense

this management of Tiritiri as an educational resource will'benefit other areas of

the Park because it will prOlUOte an understanding of a conservation ethic among a

wide range of user groups. ,Therefore in terms of its, classification as a'

scientific reserve the management of Tiritiri Island should be broadened to the

extent that certain educational and recreational needs will be'provided for as

well.

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rlatural Resources and Uses

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I Human History of the Island

1. Maori History

The earliest known inhabitants. of the area between Te Arai and Takapuna were

the Kawerau tribe. They were a peaceful people and, perhaps because of this,

there is not much known of their ancient history. (Graham 1925 : 20). It

appears that over the centuries the Kawerau were menaced on all sides, by the .

Ngapuhi and Ngatiwhatua on the north and west; by Maki of the Ngati-Awa of

Kawhia (who left many descendants who claimed· in the Native Land Court on the

basis of his ownership of the ·land); and by Ngatipaoa of the Hauraki Gulf who

competed for the fishing rights of the area, and who at one time lived, in a

paa named Papakura on Tiritiri Matangi. The Ngatipaoa were defeated by Maki,

who had an alliance with the Kawerau people and their paa was destroyed.

(Graham 1918 : 221).

Remnants of the Kawerau tribe.fled when the Ngapuhi under Hongi Hika connnenced

their southward rampage in 1821 - Parihoro's group to the Parawhau of Kawakawa

and Te Hemara's group to Pomare of the Ngapuhi (both because of their relation­

ship with these Ngapuhi sub-tribes); and Te Reweti's group southwards with the

Ngatiwhatua to the. Waikato (Turton 1877 a : 139). The "Church Missionary

Record" of 1833 indicated that the whole coast was desolate and without

inhabitants (Smith 1910 : 457). It appears that the absence of the Kawerau

from their lands allowed the Ngatipaoa to consider that they had a right to

sell the land, for in 1841 the whole of the Mahurangi Block from Te Arai to

Takapuna was sold by them to the Crown. (See diagram overleaf).

About the time of the founding of Auckland the refugees from the Kaipara and

Mahurangi areas started returning to their lands, and in the years up to 1873

the various groups laid claim to certain parts and were compensated by the

Crown who thus was obliged to pay twice for much of the area (Turton l877 a

2.51-267, 1883 94,95, 138, 139).

During the claim for a Certificate of Title for Tiritiri Matangi, heard before

Judge F.D. Fenton in the Native Land Court in 1867, Matini Murupaenga,

Te Hemara, Te Keene, Hetaraki Takapuna, Paraone Ngaweke, Paora Tuhaere and

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AUCKLAND OI:)IKILI

MAHURANC.I BLOCK

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Areas claimed by Chiefs of the

Kawerau tribe, in the Block sold to Crown by Ngatipaoa

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others claimed the island on the basis of ancient occupancy up until· the time

of the war with the Ngapuhi tribe. When the Kawerau returned in Governor

Hobson's time, Taipau, the grandfather of Matini Murupaenga; Taipau's brother

Whakapiki and others, lived on the island permanently until Taipau died in

1856. All of those mentioned as claimants in ·.the Native Land Court said that

they used to visit the island often for fishing, although their CUltivations

were on the mainland at Whangaparaoa and Mahurangi. While on the island they

lived in whare built of sticks and rushes, and ate seafood and the fern-root

which grew plentifully on the island. The p~ north of the landing, from which

the island is named, was built by the ancestors of the Kawerau, and its sub­

tribes Ngatipoataniwha and Ngatikahu, and during that·time there was. permanent

occupation. It was usual for war-parties of all tribes travelling along· the

coast to land at the island - any who died would be buried near the landing

place.

It was said by the claimants that their lands between Te Arai and Takapuna had

been sold clandestinely by. the Ngatipaoa but that Tiritiri Matangi had not been

included in the sale, and indeed the island does not appear on the two sketch

maps of the whole block in Turton (1877 b). Judge Fenton considered that even

though the Crown was not able to produce· the Deed of Purchase from Ngatipaoa

that the Maori case was not substantial enough to disturb the Crown's possession

(the lighthouse had been built by then) and awarded the case to the Crown.

(Auckland Minute Book No.1, Folios 42,49,53-101; Fenton 1879 : 21-26).

2 .. Archaeology EVIDENCE

During May 1981 a thorough survey was made of the island and twenty-six sites

were recorded. One site, a stone-working floor, was recorded in 1964 but

because of thick vegetation is now not able to be seen •

• . TERRACE AND PIT SITES (14).

The two main limiting factors in the distribution of terrace (i.e.

living) sites were easy access to the sea, and secondly a position high

enough on·the ridges so that there was sufficient depth of Waitemata

sediment (above the hard greywacke base) to be able to level terraces

and excavate pits.

The principal focus of settlement. was on the western side of the island,

and every ridge between Paa Point and Wattle Stream except one

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Northwest Point

House

Woolshed

Sheepyards .3

Archaeological site N38/271

Maori activity '%Voll~lfiWl Lighthouse track - - -

Beaches "":r'.'/"

Contours -100-

Cliffs/steep slopes ~

Note: all contours are in feet.

p ~Vwooded I.

. aen Hobbs Be

Track d~~:~.lifc~l (Now 0

Tiritiri mata®i 5sland tfistorical Sites

Scale

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ha's indications of terraces, and in two cases, pits. On the eastern

side of the island there are three single terrace sites on the ridges

behind "The Arches" just north of Fisherman Bay. The largest

settlement site is on the ridge east of North East Bay.

• MIDDENS (7)

Seven middens were recorded, four of which were very extensive. It is

probable that others exist under the grass and scrub cover. It is

usual to find middens below terrace sites but there were none apparent.

In several ,middens there was abundant fish bone, mainly snapper

(Chrysophrys auratus), and in one midden there were bird and mammal

bones including kiore (Rattus exulans), a very large dog mandible

(Canis familiaris) and the rib and femur shaft of a small Homo sapiens.

• PM (2)

The P~ (N38/256) at the northern ,end of Hobbs Beach was small and

insignificant with a ditch and inner bank and steep cliffs to the

beach. It was mentioned in the Maori Land Court hearing of 1867, as

being' that after which the island was named. '(Auckland Minute Book 1,

Folio 61). The other paa (N38/278, is on a small low headland just

below the highest point at the northern end of the island, facing nort~

west. There was a single transverse ditch and steep cliffs to a rocky

shore platform. ,It is possible that thi,s is Papakura, the Ngatipaoa

paa destroyed by Maki (Graham 1918 221). There appear to be no

other suitable defensible sites of this type on the island.

• MISCELLANEOUS SITES (3)

When a deviation was excavated for the track leading from the wharf to

the lighthouse, during Clark's period as keeper, a number of burials

were uncovered. (N38/271). It 'is possible these were the ones

mentioned in the Maori Land Court hearing, being not far from the

landing (Clark 1963 : 15, Auckland Minute Book 1 Folios 61, 63).

MANAGEMENT OF SITES

The Historic Places Act 1980 affords protection to all archaeological sites.

The level of protection which must be given to individual sites identified in

this report varies according to the significance and state of preservation of

each site. 'At this stage it is uncertain as to what effect the proposals

contained in this report will have on these sites. It is therefore imperative

that an archaeologist be consulted before any proposals are actually imple­

mented on the ground, particularly where these may involve some short or

longer term modification to the existing landform.

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3. European History

European settlers are said ,to have first run sl:ieep,and pigs on,the island shortly,

before the time of Governor Gore-Browne (about 1854). These were Henry Taylor,

McMillan and Duncan Campbell. They were succeeded by Captain Thomas'Duder who

in 1861 received a licence from the Crown to run sheep there. Both Campbell and

Duder or his sons lived on the island and cared for their sheep. Duder's lease

was terminated about 1865.

'A lighthouse, one of New Zealand's first, was erected on the island in 1865.

The newspapers Southern Cross of 18/6/1863 : 3 described the selection of a

suitable site, while the New Zealander followed the progress of its construction

from the calling of tenders for the foundation 8/8/1864 :,,3; its near completion

22/11/1865 : 3; to the first exhibition of the light 3/1/1865 :,4; and a

description 4/2/1865 : 4. The Weekly News 14/1/1865 : 13 mentioned that the

light was first lit on 1/1/1865 by Engineer 'Aylmer, and on 23/10/1935 described

the installation of a radio beacon.

The Department of Lands and Survey has 'kept a file on Tiritiri Matangi since

1896 which shows that the lessee then was JosephSchollum of Puhoi. An E.J. Hobbs,

and after him J.N. Hobbs held the lease from 1906 until 1971 when the Board made

a decision to allow the island to .revert to bush. A valuation report of 19/12/

1908 described a house, several outbuildings and sheepyards. These buildings

appear to have been on a narrow shelf behind Hobbs Beach (until' recently when they

were bulldozed away,the remains of buil'ding outiines' and chimney foundations

could be seen), while the sheepyards' were on the south. side of the stream which

runs into the southern end of the bay. The method of farming employed was' to

burn off, sow grass seed, destroy rabbits', and run sheep. According to J.N. Hobbs

there was plenty of freSh, water on the is'land" several gullies carrying running

streams all the year round, the one coming out past the yards being the best.

In 1965 the original light installed in the lighthouse was replaced by one of

the most powerful marine lights in the world, whiCh, radiates about eleven million

candlepower. This Xenon lamp was' gifted to the people of Auckland by Sir Ernest

Davis, a well known local businessman aI\d yachtsman, and the opening ceremony

received widespread attention.

In 1970 part of the Island (142 hectares) was included in the newly formed

Hauraki Gulf Maritime Park by gazette notice, and the class'ification of this

land changed from a res'erve for lighthouse purposes to a reserve for recreation

purposes. A further 64 hectares of land ,on Tiritiri was added to the Park in

,1975, and in 1980 the classification of these lands was changed to reserve for

scientific purposes, thereafter to be referred to as the "Tiritiri Matangi

Island Scientific Reserve".

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Acquired 1970

Acquired 1975

Lighthouse Reserve

Beaches

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Tiritiri Watartgi 5sland Sequence of. -acquisitions

Scale

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At present. the lighthouse is situated on a separate title of land (14 hectares)

which is controlled by the Ministry of Transport and staffed by a keeper who

resides full time on the Island.

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Present Pattern of Human Use Tiritiri Matangi's unique position in terms of its relative accessibility

from populated areas and its strategic location at the entrance to the

waitemata Harbour has been a major determinant of the Island's pattern of

usage, both past and present.

The Island occupies a position which virtually delineates the transition

between the more sheltered inner islands and the exposed outer reaches of

the Gulf. The Hauraki Gulf itself is widely recognised as containing one

of the finest areas of sheltered water suitable for a wide range of

recreational activity, particularly for pleasure boating. The Island also

shares a close relationship with nearby Whangaparaoa Peninsula in respect of

the linkage which exists between the recreational development at Shakespear

Park and the natural values evident at Tiritiri. The boat launching ramp at

Army Bay, some seven kilometres from the Island, is a major embarkation

point for small pleasure craft visiting this area of the Gulf.

The coastal margins of the Island vary considerably from rocky cliffs to

sandy beaches and offer an attractive contrast for the casual recreationalist.

The north-eastern shoreline is rocky and appeals mainly to line fishermen

while the southwestern .coast consists of a mixture of rock, shingle and sand,

parts of which are accessible.by dinghy. Several of the forested gullies

behind these beaches offer attractive locations for picnicking and

relaxation.

The major attraction appears to be Hobbs Beach, which has a wide, sandy

foreshore fringed by pohutukawa and flax. To the south of Hobbs Beach is a

wharf and associated storage shed which services the lighthouse. This wharf

is now closed. to the public due to its poor state of repair, but previously

it s·erved as the focal point for visitation by public transport, with tour

boats making regularly scheduled stops at Tiritiri to allow upwards of 100

people to walk over the Island and visit the lighthouse.

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1>Wooded I.

~. Tiritiri Matangi -r Island "9~ 11 Lighthouse

"9-<) HobbS Beac ~ ____ )7"':P _____ "';-j

~- "'0 ~ .,.,. '" .,.,. Huaroa ,., , Point ~ I /.' <G,

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Defense Area Head I I From

Auckland I

Army 8a~ y ~(. .'

K€JJ Sightseeing I-Boat ramp

, Marine routes --

Tiritiri Wata®i 5sland flccess and Relationship

with Shakespear R@ional' -Park

Scale 1000m , 0 ~

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Power boats

Yachts

Beaches

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At present, day-usage is concentrated at Hobbs Beach and some of the smaller

beaches to the north. On sunny days between December and March with a northeast

wind prevailing as many as 40 people can be found on Hobbs Beach swimming, sun­

bathing or picnicking. The bay in front of this beach often contains about 6-8

runabouts, and to a lesser extent launches orkeelers stopping off in transit to

Kawau Island and other points to the north. It should be noted, however, that

this area is a prohibited anchorage on.marine charts due to the presence of an

undersea power cable which links Tiritiri with the Whangaparaoa Peninsula.

Sports-fishermen will often drop their families off at Hobbs Beach and then

continue around to fish off the northern side of the island before returning in

the afternoon.

Several bays to the north of the Island sheltered by Wooded Island {Little

Tiritiril are also used by local diving clubs as a training ground for scuba

divers·. The seaward side of Tiritiri is reputed to be a popular area for

recreational diving and crayfish gathering.

Tiritiri's strategic location is reflected in· its early {1864l development as a

lighthouse and communication centre. The presence of the lighthouse and a full­

time lighthouse keeper on the Island provides opportunities for additional forms

of recreation at present. The public are welcome to tour the lighthouse and

during the summer months an average of .so people per month. avail themselves of

this opportunity.

As mentioned previously, the Island is a fertile ground for biological and

botanical research., and in this regard the University of Auckland is undertaking

a number of ongoing research. projects. These research workers visit Tiritiri on

a regular basis and stay, when required, in a small hut constructed for such

purposes.

·The reclassification of Tiritiri as a scientific .reserve is clearly a recog­

nition of the importance of protecting and preserving the plant and animal

communities existing or likely to be established on the island. Notwithstanding

this.fact, however, it.is considered that the essential rationale behind the

classification and management of this reserve should be to present a unique and

natural opportunity for the general public to experience and enjoy. While it is

recognised that some potential conflict exists between conservation and

recreational values, there appears to be no overwhelming reason why the reserve

cannot be managed in such a way that public use is compatible with the longer

term aims of preserving the natural flora and fauna of the island.

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Northwest Point

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Sunbathing

Sightseeing

Diving

Yachts

Picnicking

Tracks

~ Beaches

.... -lI ~ .~

Pr ---

.,; .~!.~Ir·

Swimming ~

Walking i~ Power boats , ... Boat fishing r;;( . Line - fishing r Overgrown tracks ---

Cliffs ~

-lOa .......... (shown in feet)

Paa Point~

~.. ch· Hobbs Bea

M ~hinarna" Bay

Tiritiri Wata®i 5sland Present Pattern of 'Ifuman Use

Scale

2~r-__ --=2'i~0=---__ ~50;.:0 ___ 7:..;:5~0 __ ~10?0 metres

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History of the Flora and Fauna

It is likely that the Maori people used Tiritiri as a refuge at times of war

and as a site for 'hidden gardens' within the forest •. They probably cleared

some of the land for cultivation as is suggested by the presence of wild

onion (Allium vineale), which was apparently very common in abandoned Maori

cUltivations. It was probably also the Maori who introduced the kiore

(Rattus exulans - Polynesian rat). The last Maori habitation was thought to

have been-about 1856.

The early explorers made little mention of Tiritiri and there is little

indication as to the state of its vegetation during the last century. However,

Esler (1971) deduced that the island was probably covered in scrub and grass­

land, although it -is likely that its original vegetation cover was of coastal

broadleaf. Kauri (Agath{s australis) does not appear to have been present on

the island.

The first observations of the flora and fauna of_.the island date from the time

of the building of the lighthouse in the 1860's. At this time it appears that

a significant proportion of the -island was grassed and that sheep, poultry and

'wild pigs' were present.

The first botanical records are due to Cockayne (1905), who recorded that the

island was mostly grass with scrub at the western end and some remnant forest

containing l<ohekohe (Dysoxylum spectabile) and mapou (Myrsine australis) .

From 1907 to 1909 a much fuller picture of the flora and fauna of Tiritiri

emerges. The lighthouse keeper at the time ( Mr A Hansen) compiled a fairly

complete species list of the vegetation which is very interesting when

compared to the recent species list of Esler (1978). Also dating from tpis

time there is a series of letters relating to the -renewal of the grazing

lease of Mr E J Hobbs. Mr Hobbs leased and grazed all of the island except

the lighthouse reserve.- Of this 202 hectares i'ibout 162 hectares were in grass

whilst the balance was in 'tree scrub bush, few cabbage trees and few birch'

(mapou?). The Crown Lands ranger sent to review.the grazing lease-suggested

that the bushon the -island 'be -reserved for fuel purposes for lighthouse

21

()

keepers and lessee of; Island a,ndmust not be cut or burnt for grass seed u sowing purposes. This suggestion does not apply to the Pohutukawa trees which

should be rigidly conserved.' Thus the oldest patches of forest ,on Tiritiri (all U of which surround large, old pohutukawa'(Metrosiderosexcelsa) trees) probably

owe their existence to this man.

At this time a good proportion of the grass on the island consisted of

Danthonia grasses (Rytidosperma speciesl although about 40 hectares of

cocks foot (Dactylis glomerata) and ryegrass (Lolium perenne) had been sown

on land that had been cleared of tea-tree scrub.

Mention is also made of the fact that rabbits which were at one time plentiful

had disappeared by 1908.

Wright (a wildlife officer) writing in 1961 described the ,island as being

predominantly covered with a thick growth of grasses, bracken (pteridium

aquilinum) and rushes, with pohutukawa all round the cliffs and some areas

of coastal bush in the gullies. He also noted tunnels of kiore in the grass.

There were wild cats and goats on the island both of which were being killed

by the lighthouse keepers; at the time the island was only stocked with

sheep and cattle.

The grazing lease terminated in 1971 and all stock were removed by the end of

1972. At this time the Hauraki Gulf Maritime Park Board decided to allow the

island to regenerate to native forest.

1. Changes

There is good evidence of the changes that have occurred on'the island from

two sources; notes, correspondence and published work by naturalists and

other scientists, and from a series of aerial photographs covering the period

from 1940-1978.

It is obvious that the vegetation of Tiritiri is much modified, the modific-

, ation probably dating from Maori times. Certainly during the period of

European use of the island it has essentially been covered in grass and

bracken with pockets of coastal forest in the gullies. At various times it

has had most of the introduced European animals, i.e. sheep, cattle, pigs,

rabbits, goats and cats. However, it has never had possums, mice, ship rats

22

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or Norway rats. This complete absence ot: the last t:our animals makes the

island unusual among the iriner islands of the Gult:. Thus the native vegetation

of the ·island has never suffered the damage that the mainland vegetation has

due to possums or rats. Similarly the fauna of the island has not been exposed

to extended cat or rat predation other than by the kiore.

However, that is not to say that the vegetation has not been severely modified

by the grazing stock, or that with pasture improvement other changes have not

occurred. Thus since the species lists of Hansen and Cheeseman of 1909, 28·

native species of plants are no longer to be found on the island. Many of

these losses are probably due to the effects of stock gra.zing. There have

been a large number of introductions of exotic weedy species, thus at present

45% of the species recorded from the island are exotics, whereas at the turn

of the century·exotics comprised only 22% of the flora. At the time of the

cessation ·of grazing in 1972, a number of species were reduced to only a few

individuals and/or restricted to sites inaccessible to stock. The various

pockets of forest had virtually no understorey,.any seedlings of the canopy

trees being eaten. In the long term, if grazing had continued the remaining

pockets of forest would have gradually degenerated until they were destroyed,

through direct damage to the trees and seedling removal.

In the eight years since the removal.of stock, a number of dramatic changes have

occurred. Tree seedlings carpet the ground in all the areas of forest and

scrub, and the release from grazing pressure has meant that many of the canopy

forming trees have developed new shoots low down on their trunks.

During the past 40 years other. changes have become apparent, probably due to

a gradual decline in farming activity in more recent years. These changes

can be seen on the series of aerial photographs dating from 1940.

The most noticeable change is the considerable increase in proportion of

land under bracken mirroring the decline in proportion of grassland. One

interesting feature is the essentially constant proportion of forest, perh.aps

indicating the difficulty with which forest re-establishes itself.

2. Forest Establishment and Regeneration

AS is suggested from Table 1, there appears to be very little expansion of

forest. A recent study of this problem by West (1980) has shown that although

there is good regeneration of the forests occurring within the existing forest

23

and scrub, there is little colonisation of the grasslands by forest or scrub

species. It appears that there is good dispersal of wind borne tree seeds into

the grasslands, but few bird dispersed seeds. Despite the good dispersal of

some species, the grass growth is so vigorous (probably due to the relatively

high natural soil fertility) that seedlings of tree species are, in general,

unable to become established in the face of this competition. The only species

that can invade the grasslands successfully is bracken, but this results in a

relatively slow progression to forest.

Table 1: The percentage of the reserve covered by different vegetation types.

Vegetation T.ype Year of Photo

1940 1952 1973 1975 1978

Grassland· 92% 80% 58% 61% 57%

Bracken 1% ·10% 29% 25% 29%

Scrub 1% 4% 7% 8% 8%

Forest 6% 6% 6% 6% 6%

3. General Description of the Reserve

It was felt that in terms of the management of the island it was simplest to

split the island up into an approximate series of catchments (see map and

overlay page) and their associated coastlines.

. Catchment 1

This catchment is showing good natural regeneration extending up the valley

sides. Already native shrubs and trees are growing through the bracken.

There is a·good wetland community in the valley floor, which is important

with respect to maintaining habitat diversity.

The cliff face has good regeneration of coastal and other species.

Catchment 2

Catchment 2 and the associated ridges extending into catchments 1 and 3,are

still largely covered by grass. There is the beginning of. regeneration in

most stream heads. One interesting· feature is a 'natural amphitheatre' over­

looking the bay. The cliff faces are in most places very steep with

relatively little· vegetation. However in the bay, the eastern end is 24

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regenerating well. Most notable thouglL, is the now widespread area of

Ipomoea palmata (native morning glory) spreading across the hillside above

the bay. This area should be conserved untouched, not only because it is

the southern natural limit of this tropical species', but also for the beauty

of the flowers., Other than this area of Ipomoea much of this catchment and

the neighbouring ridges would be amenable to some sort of management.

Catchments 3 and 4

Both these catchments' support remnant:stands of coastal forest. At the

margins of the forest, where there is tea-tree scrub or bracken, there is

active forest regeneration. However where grassland adjoins the forest,

there is little or no recolonisation'by the forest. The area of forest in

Catchment 3 is notable, because it is the only place where puriri(Vitex

lucens) is regenerating. The bay at the end of these two catchments has good

stands of mature pohutukawa.

The area of grassland between these areas of forest is one of the major areas

under scientific study. There are botanical stUdies on the rate and course

of regeneration, together with a 'trapping grid' for studying the kiore. In

relation to monitoring any changes that management practices may promote, it

is probably important that this area is left undisturbed.

Catchment 5

This is a large, somewhat 'remote' portion of the island. There is little

forest regeneration except at the hea.d of one stream; however there is a good

wetland community, which is important for maintenance of habitat diversity.

Much of this catchment is still grassland. It is a very exposed part of the

island which may account for the slow rtigeneratibn. The cliffs are showing

good vegetation cover, karo (Pittosporum crassifolium) being particularly

prominent on the northern coast.

Catchment 6

This is a steep and relatively inaccessible area of coast on the west of the

island. There is good pohutukawa and forest regeneration.

Catchment 7

There are a number of gullies in this catchment, all of which have good early

regeneration. Other than the coastal fringe of pohutukawa, this catchment is

largely a mixture of grass and bracken.

25

Catchment 8

Much of this catchment is occupied by the largest area of remnant forest on the

island. This stand of trees is in good condition with very active regeneration

around the margins. Many of the bird studies are based "in this area of forest.

There have also been studies of kiore and there is a botanical study in progress.

Outside the forest there is dense bracken.

Catchment"g \

This also contains a good stand of remnant forest. Most of this catchment out­

side the forest, is" covered in dense bracken.

The coastline along catchments 8 and 9 has a good cover of pohutukawa with very

good areas of regeneration.

Catchments 10, 11, 12

All these catchments- are very'similar, with_pockets of active regeneration at

the heads of the streams.-but most of the remainder is covered in grass with

areas" of dense bracken. There is a group of large trees (pohutukawa, karaka,

CCorynocarpus laevigatus) and tawapou tPlanchonella novo-zelandiae) at the coast

of Catchment 11, and large pohutukawas on the cliff above Hobbs Beach.

All these catchments would be amenable-to management.

Catchment 13

This catchment shows some of the best natural regeneration on the island. The

valley is dominated by a mixture of wattle, manuka and bracken. However, the

bracken is starting to degenerate and many native trees and shrubs are now

emerging. The wattle is "at present a very important winter food source for

bellbirds, which congregate here during the flowering period.

This catchment shotiid be left strictly alone as it is of such great interest.

Catchment 14

This catchment has been much" disturbed in the past by lighthouse activities. It

is probably best if this catchment is not considered for management in the

initial stages of development.

Catchment 15

This area has been greatly modified by farming activities but could be Eanaged

for takahe. Such management would include provision of shelter belts, some planting in gullies, planting of tussqck and suitable additions of fertiliser.

26

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Northwest Point

Catchments 2

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Tiritiri 'lliatall9i 5sland Catchment tlreas

Scale

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....---------.<:J 1\@

Forest and scrub •

Bracken (j;) Beaches

Contours -100-

Cliffs/steep slopes ~

Note: all contours are in feet.

Tiritiri WataTl91 5sland

fxisti@ V@€tation Scale

2~r--__ .:::25l.::' 0 __ --.:.5.:;.:00=---------,7:.;:50~_~10?0 metres

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Present Day Status of the Flora and Fauna

Much of the following description of plant communities is based on work by

Esler (1978) and west (~'l80.}.

1. Major Plant Communiti.es

1.1 FOREST

Four stands of forest occur in the gullies towards the northern end of

Tiritiri. These areas are furthest from the inhabited end of the island and

have been able to develop and persist where fires may have been less severe.

All four areas have a similar pattern of species distribution. Cabbage trees

(Cordyline australis) line the lower reaches of the stream. boundaries, with

kohekohe occupying considerable areas within the valleys. Very large (and

presumably quite ancient) specimens of pohutukawa tend to occupy the valley

heads and some of the central portions of the forested areas. Mahoe (Melicytus

ramiflorus), mapou and taraire (Beilschmiedia tarairi) are locally prominent.

The fringe of each area consists of either mature to senescent stands of

kanuka (Leptospermum ericoides)· or young to mature stands of manuka

(L. scoparium).

The largest.and most diverse stand of trees on the island (in Puriri Stream,

Catchment 8) has kohekohe as the dominant canopy species, with two large

pohutukaWa prominent in the centre. Mahoe and taraire are minor canopy

components. In some places Coprosma rhamnoides, 1-2m in height forms an

impenetrable understorey. Ponga (Cyathea dealbata), supple-jack (Ripogonum

scandens), kaihua (Parsonsia heterophylla) and puawhananga· (Clematis

paniculata) are common throughout the forest. A single large puriri south

of the .central valley, provides a focal point for bird populations. Several

species are represented by only a few individuals: a single mangeao (Litsea

calicaris); three emergent rewarewa (Knightia excelsa) and a few individuals

of hinau (Elaeocarpus dentatus) and turepo (Paratrophis microphylla) are

31

present. None of these rarer trees appear to be regenerating. The exception

to this is totara (Podocarpus totaral. which although there is only one mature

tree present, many seedlings are to be found. However, the common tree

species - kohekohe, taraire, mahoe and pigeonwood (Hedycarya' arboreal all

produce large quantities of viable seed and seedlings are very common.

The three other areas of forest are all similar in their species composition

and regeneration patterns.,. although in general they lack the rarer species

mentioned above. The most noticeable features of these other areas are as

follows: the stand in Pohutukawa Stream (Catchment 9) contains a single

pohutukawa with a branch spread of 52 m, which. makes it one of the largest

pohutukawa in New Zealand. The area of forest in Trig Stream (Catchment 3)

contains the only other puriri tree on the island. The final area of forest

(in Mapou Stream, Catchment 41 shows by far the best regeneration of any of

the areas. Dense thickets of Coprosma rhamnoides prevented stock access for

many years and many saplings of mahoe, mapou and kohekohe are to be found.

At the outlets of many of the streams small patches of forest have remained

and are regenerating. Characteristically they' contain mapou, kohekohe,

pohutukawa, hangehange (Geniostoma ligustrifolium), whau (Entelea arborescens)"

and flax (Phormium tenaxl.

Along the coast in sheltered bays and less exposed areas, forest is regenerat­

ing beneath. pohutukawa. Common components of this vegetation are hangehange

and mahoe together with karo, . kawakawa (Macropiper .excelsum var. majus)

houpara (Pseudopanax lessoniil and Astelia banksii on the north-western coasts.

A number of forest trees occur as isolated groups or indivuals in the grass­

lands. These include karaka and tawapou.

1.2 SCRUB

It is likely that the use of fire to maintain pasture on Tiritiri has

resulted in the present day areas of scrub. Kanuka and manuka fringe

most areas of forest and most valleys contain scrub around the streams •.

In some areas small 'vegetation islands' of kanuka and manuka can be found in

the grasslands.

Manuka is the commonest scrub species on Tiritiri covering extensive areas

(see Table 1). It forms a good 'nurse crop' for seedlings of many forest

species e.g. seedlings and saplings of mahoe, mapou, pohutukawa, kohekohe

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and cabbage trees may·be found in this type of scrub,

Mapou forms another important scrub association, being of a later develop­

mental stage (toward forest) than manuka, but in general it is kept low in

stature by strong winds,

1. 3 FERNLAND

In very small, localised areas Doodia media is prominent in the grasslands.

However the dominant fern is·bracken which forms pure swards in many areas.

Relatively young· patches of this species may contain persistent grass species,

such as cocks foot and Yorkshire fog (Holcus lanatus). In mature stands of

bracken, meadow rice-grass (Microlaena stipoides) is the only species capable

of survival.. In some instances this species ca·n form very dense, deep swards

and appears to suppress bracken.

Bracken is a rhizomatous fern and can thus. invade dense grassland where other

plants cannot. A considerable proportion of the bracken on Tiritiri is young

and actively invading the grassland but some swards are over 30 years old

(deduced from aerial photographs). Bracken stands can be long-lived (80 years)

but, in contrast to scrub, this species does not provide as good a nurse crop

for later successional species. The litter accumulations 'sour' the soil and

very little light reaches the ground resulting in adverse conditions for

seedling establishment. This process has the effect of lengthening the

successional turnover time.

In some areas bracken is being invaded by broad-leaved shrubs such as mahoe

and karamu (Coprosma robusta). Occasional young pohutukawa can be found and

cabbage trees are common in bracken swards. This succession is particularly

clear in Wattle Stream valley (Catchment 13) where one. of the oldest bracken

swards occurs.

1. 4 GAASSLAND

The grassland on Tiritiri is very diverse due to habitat diversity and past

management of· the island. 'Improvement' of pastures has led to the

introduction of many dicotyledonous species as impurities in grass seed.

33

On drought-prone slopes species such as Danthonia (Rytidosperma racemosum) and

red-leg grass (Bothrioch1oa macra) are dominant. Sweet vernal (Anthoxanthum

odoratum) is another drought-tolerant species and cocks foot occurs in small

quantities. The annual ripgut brome (Bromus diandrus) forms almost pure swards

on some of the driest headlands while meadow rice grass produces deep mats

covering large areas on dry slopes. Annual 1egtunes such as Lotus angustissimus,

L. subbiflorus and Vica angustifo1ia are common. The native orchid, Thelymitra

longifo1ia is frequently found amongst sparse grass in very dry situations.

The rest of the grassland is composed predominantly of cocks foot, Yorkshire

fog, paspalum (Paspa1um dilatatum), praire grass (Bromus unio1oides) and lop

grass (B. mollis). The latter two species are annuals and have dec1ined'in

importance since grazing stock were removed in 1972. Perennial ryegrass has

also decreased significantly. The successful grassland species are tall

growing perennials and cocks foot can be regarded as the dominant species.

Yorkshire fog and Paspa1um lack the ubiquity of cocksfoot, both favouring

moister conditions, but in some places Paspa1um has become the dominant

species.

Within this grassland, previously disturbed areas are indicated by prevalence

of thistles (Cirsium spp) , sheep's sorrel (Rumex acetosel1a), clustered dock

(R. conglomeratus) and hemlock (Conium macu1atum). Scarlet pimpernel

(Anaga11is arvensis} , blue pimpernel (A. foemina) and ,Indian strawberry

(Duchesnea indica) are common along pathways and other disturbed areas where

the grasses are short and less dense.

Species capable of survival in the present grasslands include plantain

(Plantago 1anceo1ata), both native and exotic Geranium spp. (the native

species should persist for longer being tap-rooted perennials as opposed

to the annual exotic species), creeping mallow (Modio1a caro1iniana) in

localised areas, piripiri (Acaena novae ze1andiae), which has a widespread

but patchy distribution and cleavers Ga1ium aparine. Vicia spp. are also

common. Towards the lighthouse reserve Japanese honeysuckle (Lonicera

japonica) and Cape Ivy (Senecio angu1atus) form conspicuous patches within

the grassland.

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2. Miscellaneous Habitats.

2. I . COASTAL COMMUNITIES

The most exposed coastal areas support pure colonies of iceplant (Disphyma

australe) which builds up its own peaty soil in rock crevices. Pohutukawa and

taupata (Coprosma repens) appear wherever there are sufficient clefts and

ledges for anchorage. Shore groundsel (Senecio lautus) and the fern pyrrosia

serpens are also common. At higher levels Peperomia urvilleana, glasswort

(Salicornia australis), New Zealand celery (Apium australe) and Scirpus cernuus

occur in rock crevices while N.Z: flax, Lobelia anceps and New Zealand spinach

(Tetragonia trigyna) are generally found in more sheltered areas with a greater

depth of soil. Batchelor's button Cotula coronopifolia is abundant in brackish

pools.

Above high tide level on many. beaches Muehlenbeckia complexa forms a buffer

zone between the beach and the predominantly grassed slopes. On sandy beaches . \

(Hobbs Beach· and part of Fishermans Bay being the largest areas), sand

convolvulus (Calystegia soldanella) shares this role. vegetation colonizing

the sand above the high-water level is primarily composed of exotic species,

the most prominent of which are sea rocket tCakile maritima), orache (Attiplex

hastata) twin cress (Coronopus didymus) and saltwort (Salsola kali). Nga~o

(Myoporum laetum) is an uncommon species on high beach frontages but is

increasing in numbers since the removal of stock.

2,2 WETLANDS

Many streams have low swampy areas characteristically occupied by raupo (Typha

orientalis) with pohue (Calystegia sepium) scrambling throughout and kiokio

(Blechnum capense)· around the edge. watercress (Nasturtium officinale) ,

waoriki (Ranunculus rivularis) and starwort (Callitriche stagnalisr are common

where the water runs more freely. Hydrophytic species of rushes, sedges and

carices occur throughout and several ferns of moist habitats are found along

damp stream margins.

2.3 EXOTIC WOODY PLANTS

Brush wattle (Albizia lophantha) covers extensive areas in the valley east of

35

the wharf •. Many native species including mahoe and pohutukawa are establishing

in this area and will curb the spread of ·this species. Gorse (Ulex europaeus)

is not a serious problem, being confined to a fe« small areas at the northern· end

of the island and largely suppressed by native scrub species. Privet (Ligustrum

lucidum) is represented by a few· bushes in scrubby areas. These have resulted

from seed deposited by birds feeding on a hedge of this species at the lighthouse

station and should not persist. Occasional bushes of apple of Sodom (Solanum

sodomeum) and sweet briar (Rosa rubiginosa), persist in the grassland. The

'worst' woody exotic species· on the island is boxthorn (Lycium ferocissimum),

which is abundant along the coastline. Wooded Island is covered in this species

which poses a threat to bird life. Birds distribute the seed of this species but.

sea birds have become impaled on its· spines.

2.4 THE MARINE ENVIRONMENT

There is a considerable degree of ecological interdependence betwe·en terrestrial

and marine habitats, pa~ticularly in island situations. The coastal zone is

also the focal point for a great variety of recreational activities. For.these

reasons it is important that consideration be given to the integrated management

of land and sea at Tiritiri Is·land.

The first and essential step in this management process concerns an assessment

of the present state of the marine environment surrounding the Island. In view

of the Board's limited resources it will be necessary to rely on research

projects to provide the necessary information: The Board will therefore

encourage research where it is directed towards·identifying the quality and

quantity of marine life occurring along the shoreline and in subtidal areas at

Tiritiri, with particular regard to its ability.to sus·tain present and possible

future levels· of recreational use.

The policies contained in this plan will result in Tiritiri re·turning to a more

natural-looking state. Its proximity to Auckland also makes it popular with.

many recreationists. Because the surrounding waters share a close. biological ,

visual and recreational relationship with the Island itself, the marine element

should also be safeguarded against inappropriate development. On this basis the

Board will resist any attempts to establish marine farming in the area.

The Board has adopted a general policy· of seeking con·trol over the seabed and

waters· adjacent to islands· that comprise a part of the Park. Provision for

control of human-related activity in these areas is contained in the Harbours

Act 1950 (s. SA and 165). In accordance with Board policy,a grant of control

36

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under this Act should be actively pursued for the waters immediately surrounding

Tiritiri Island.

3. Fauna

For over 100 years, Tiritiri has been colonised bya succession of feral mammals,

both herbivorous and carnivorous (see history section). Fortunately the island

is free from possum which. does so much damage to native forests. Kiore are the

only remaining ground dwelling mammals, which although present in quite large

numbers on the island, go through violent seasonal population fluctuations

CBunn 1979) •

Kiore are omnivorous, although in the winter months the diet is almost completely

composed of insects. At other times of year grass seed is eaten but the seed of

some tr~es such as tawapou is favoured. Kiore are though.t ·to considerably affect

the regeneration of some species, e.g. tawapou, hinau (Moller 1977), and karo

(Atkinson 1972). (This aspect of the effect of kiore on regeneration is

currently under study.)

When the grasses have finished seeding,. .kiore populations which inhabit the·

grasslands· experience a population crash. During early winter of each year

(mainly May) these rodents do a great deal of damage to seedlings and small

shrubs. The· rats sever plant stems just below the apex probably in an attempt

to curb starvation •. Shrubs of taupata up to 75 em tall have. been completely

defoliated by this process.· Bare stems remain and the ground is· li ttered with

the severed pieces. Seedlings of mapou suffer the same fate. (West 1980).,

Other than kiore and a small population of bats (species unknown), the main

vertebrates are birds. The following 30 species have been recorded as nesting

on the island.

Bellbird

Tui

Red-crowned Parakeet

Grey Warbler

North Island Fantail

Silvereye

Spotless Crake

Pukeko

Shining Cuckoo

Kingfisher

Welcome Swallow

Brown Quail

*Introduced

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

Australasian Harrier

Skylark

Greenfinch

Hedge Sparrow

Song Thrush

Blackbird

Yellow Hammer

Chaffinch

Goldfinch

House Sparrow

Starling

Indian Myna 37

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Northern Blue penguin

Grey-faced Petrel

Diving Petrel

Black-backed Gull

Red-billed Gull

White-fronted Tern

Additionally the following 11 species have been recorded as visiting the island

the pigeon, kaka, morepork and pied tit could possibly ,establish naturally.

Black Shag

Pied Shag

Little Shag

Reef Heron

Caspian Tern

Long-tailed Cuckoo

New Zealand Pigeon

North Island Kaka

Morepork

Pied Tit

Australian Magpie'

Forest Birds: The bellbird is the most common forest bird on the island. This

population is the closest to Auckland, as bellbirds are no longer present on the

mainland near or north of Auckland and they are not found on the other inshore

islands. Tuis are common during the breeding season but most disperse to the

neighbouring mainland or to other islands during autumn and winter. The recent

provision of a sugar water trough with sugar donated by the N.Z. Sugar Co Ltd

will allow ready 'public viewing of both species and may encourage more tuis to

remain during the winter.

Grey warblers, silvereyes and fantails are very common. Red-crowned parakeets

were in low numbers in the first five years following the initial release, during

which two further releases -were made (Dawe, 1979). 'The,;ebirds are now common

and will be encountered by any visitor spending more than a few minutes on the

island. Nest boxes were provided at the time of releases but were not used

suggesting an abundance of natural nest holes. This is encouraging the proposed

releases of stitchbird and saddleback. Cuckoos visit during spring and summer.

Ground birds: These are species living in the fertile grass and swamp areas of

the island. Pukeko are numerous and, brown quail are also seen regularly. The

spotless crake is present in good numbers, and is often heard but rarely seen.

These 'high densities of ground birds suggest that the area will be well suited

for other ground dwelling species such as kiwi and takahe.

Native birds of open country: During spring one pair of harriers is normally

present but during peak kiore densities up to 24 birds work the island. Recovery 38

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of harrier pellets suggests that kiore are the only food at this time. Welcome

swallows are common.

Marine birds: Black-backed gulls and white-fronted terns together with a few

red-billed gulls nest on Tiritiri and adjacent rock stacks. Blue penguins nest

. in good numbers around the coast and under bracken. Large numbers are also

found ashore at other times. The successful adopt~on of next boxes by blue

penguins (Jones, 1978) suggests a way in which controlled daytime viewing for

the public could be arranged.

Introduced Species: All species listed are common, and except possibly for

blackbird, song thrush and chaffinch are expected to decline with the increase

of forest. Starlings roost in large numbers on WOdded· Island and near Hobbs

Beach. Magpies have always been shot as soon as possible after arrival by light­

house keepers but are now increasing.

Lizards: At least one species of skink (L. mokp) is commonly encountered on

the island. No surveys have been done, however.

Fish; Freshwater galaxids occur in many pools in a number of catchments, as do

eels (Arguilla sp.)

Invertebrates: No study of the invertebrate fauna has been attempted. Locusts

(Locusta migratorial are a particular feature of the grassed areas.

Surveys of these latter groups are urgently required and therefore such invest­

igations will be encouraged by the Board.

39

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Management Goal

THE GOAL IS TO MANAGE TIRITIRI MATANGI AS A SUITABLE HABITAT FOR SOME OF OUR

RARER AND ENDANGERED FAUNA AND FLORA, WHERE PEOPLE, E!iPECIALLY AUCKLANDERS., CAN

VIEW THEM.

This goal involves three major parts:

• The revegetation of the island so that it becomes a viable habitat for

selected native fauna and flora.

• The introduction of selected fauna· and flora.

• The provision for a controlled level of natural outdoor recreational

activity that is consistent with the attainment of the primary goal.'

Justification

T·iritiri is an ideal island on which to undertake management of this kind. '-

The island.is free of introduced mammalian pests, although it does have the

kiore. As long as care is taken with all supplies taken to the island, this

predator-free environment can be maintained.

The island 'is near the mainland and within ready access of Auckland, and

would give the public ample opportunity to visit. The island has one sandy

beach and a wharf which. could allow access to most craft. Access at other

areas is difficult due to the presence of. rocky foreshores and cliffs.

The establishment of endangered ,fauna and flora on the island will provide yet

another sanctuary for these selected species.· More importantly, it will allow

the public to view such species' in the wild and so relieve some of the pressure

for public access to our more important fauna and flora refuges, for example

Hen and Chickens, Little Barrier, Cuvier.

43

44

The value of Tiritiri. as a place where plant and animal communities can be

.protected and preserved has already been formally recognised by classifying

the reserve area as "The Tiritiri Matangi Island Scientific Res·erve". The

management goals stated above appear consistent with the intent and purpose

of this classification. u

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Management Proposals

There are basically two possible approaches· for achieving the desired management

goal for Tiritiri. These approaches are:

• To continue the present programme of natural regeneration without any form

of interference.

·The advantages of the "do nothing" approach are:

or,

• Management costs are low.

• Natural ecosystems are not interfered with.

The disadvantages are:

• Indications are that regeneration will continue to be. slow.

• The resultant habitats created may not be appropriate for certain

desired fauna.

• The fire danger is likely to remain high for many years to (come.

• The Island is unlikely to be more attractive to a wider range of

recreationalists in the near future.

• Tiritiri may not offer an alternative to other more fragile refuges.

• To include active human involvement in habitat enhancement and reafforest­

ation as a prelude to introducing selected fauna.

The advantages of the approach whereby habitat enhancement and reafforest­

ation are actively encouraged are:

• Regeneration is likely to be considerably faster.

45

46

•

•

•

• •

•

•

Habitats can be specifically desi.gned for certain fauna.

The fire danger can be progressively reduced.

The liberation of selected fauna can occur earlier.

Tiritiri is likely to be more of an attraction to the general public •

The development of this reserve may result in an easing of public pressure.

on more fragile refuges.

Public involvement in the development of the reserve may engender a greater

awareness of park values.

The disadvantages are:

D Development and management costs are likely to increase.

• Human-induced modifications to the ecology will continu.e to occur,

albeit in controlled situations.

• The effectiveness of artificial revegetation in these circumstances is

largely unknown.

Discussion

The major arguments for and against either course of action appear to centre

around the questions of time scale, the nature of the habitat created,

management costs, level of public usage and fire control.

The disadvantages of "doing nothing" are inherent to the nature of such an

approach and hence any unfavourable effects resulting cannot be easily

ameliorated without changing the basic course of action. In contrast, the

disadvantages arising from hastening and altering revegetation of the island

can be largely overcome. For instance, development and management costs can

be reduced by actively involving volunteer organisations in planting

programmes and subsequent releasing work. The University of Auckland has

maintained a long and continuing involvement in conducting research on the

island, a significant portion of which has been direct.ed towards identifying

the rates of natural regeneration, and the likely effects these slow changes

in vegetation will have upon the habitats of selected fauna. The management

objectives for Tiritiri are based largely upon this work and hence any

proposals that are implemented will rely upon. a store of scientific knowledge

and careful field. supervision.

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,The majar advantage .of this latter caurse .of actian is .obvious; the desired

management gaals can be attained within a much mare, realistic time

scale. In additian, if a flexible appraach is adapted whereby develapment

is phased araund initial experimentatian, then there wil'l be an added degree

.of certainty as ta what the final autcame will'be.

Far the reasans .outlined above, the fallawingmanagement propasals are there­

fore based upon an "active" approach to reafforestation and habitat enh~ncement,

while the implementation .of these prapasals will be based upan a phased

pragramme .of develapment.

1. Proposals for Habitat Enhancement and Reafforestation

Althaugh habitat'enhancement and general ",ffarestatian .of the island are

linked, the aims .of the twa techniques are samewhat different. Habitat

enhancement is cancerned with the impravement .of the existing habitat sa that

a wider range .of fauna cauld be supparted and/ar the existing fauna be better

supported. Reaffarestatian .of the island is a much larger scale exercise and

wauld be cancerned with the mare general, but speedy expansian .of the existing

scrub and farest tagether with the creatian .of n€w areas .of farest in the

grasslands. Obviously habitat enhancement shauld be built inta reaffarestatian,

but the species used are likely ta be different.

• HABITAT ENHANCEMENT PROPOSALS

In this instance it is specifically cancerned with the pravisian .of

additianal faad saurces far existing birds tagether with the suggested

intraductians. Oneprablem at the mament is the shartage .of nectar

saurces during l,ate winter and spring, thus plantings .of addi tianal

puriri, kara and N.Z. flax tagether with intraducing km'hai (Saphara spp) ,

Pittasparum umbellatum and Alseuasmia spp, wauld bath augment and increase

the diversity .of nectar saurces during this winter/spring periad. Same

birds wauld alsa benefit fram the pravisian af'additianal fruit and seed

saurces, thus kara, flax, tawapau and Pittasparum umbellatum will pravide

seed and berries, additianal karaka praviding fruit.

47

• RE-AFFORESTATION PROPOSALS

The aim here .is to rapidly increase the forest cover on the island with the

long-term aim of considerable habitat extension. In any exercise of this

sort it is important that where possible the natural course of reafforest­

ation should at least be mimicked. On the Island at the moment there are at

least three separate, naturally occurring, reafforestation pathways.

el) fire-induced tea tree scrub, (2) invasion of the grasslands by

bracken, (3) pohutukawa establishment at the head of streams. In all three

cases, after the initial colonisation by tea-tree, braclcen or pohutukawa, within

varying lengths of time the future forest will become established. The final

composition of the forest communities is likely to be fairly simil~, regard­

less of the initial pathway. The problem with leaving the island to regenerate

naturally is, as has already been pointed out, that invasion· of the grasslands

is very slow due to the very'vigorous grass growth. To overcome the vigorous

grass growth" rapid growing, shade producing species are required. Of the

three colonisation pathways mentioned above, only pohutukawa would adequately

fulfil the requirements of rapid growth. and shade production. Pohutukawa is

also an important nectar source during the spring.

Thus it is suggested that the reafforestation of the island be based on an

'enrichment' planting' with. pohutukawa as' the Thain species. From general

observations on the island, it is apparent that pohutukawa can grow under most

conditions and that once established 'can grow very rapidly. In addition to

pohutukawa, it is' suggested that other species' already found in association

with pohutukawa be planted on a trial bas'is, for example taraire, karo and

kohekohe, together with species to be used for habitat enhancement, such as

puriri, kowhai, karaka.

• INTRODUCTION OF RARE OR ENDANGERED FLORA

In addition to proposals for the introduction of rare and endangered fauna, . , '

the opportunity presents' itself for the introduction of rare and endangered

plants. Active consideration will be given to this possibility, although the

primary purpose of the project is' to restore a native forest on the island.

If any' species of plant is to be introduced specifically because it is rare

or threatened els'ewhere, rather than as a suitable food plant, then great care

needs to be taken in terms of its suitability for Tiritiri. Thus only species

from other islands in the Hauraki Gulf will be considered, and in the first

instance should be confined to thos'e species that might have been found there

in the past. For example, species in this category could include:

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Pisonia brunonianum, paratrophis banksii, Euphorbia glauca, Sicyos

angulata. It has also been suggested, that other rare island species, which

probably have never grown on Tiritiri in the past, might also be considered,

e.g. Meryta sinclairii, Carmichaelia williamsii, Nestegis apetala, Xeronema

callistemon. However, introductions of plants in either category will only

occur once the main project is well underway.

2. Areas to be Planted for Habitat Enhancement and Reafforestation

It is suggested that habitat enhancement primarily takes place at the heads of

the streams where a certain amount of r,egeneration is already occurring. The

reafforestation would be developed out from these areas, together with areas of

coastline and grassland, where habitat enhancement is not at the moment practic­

able. Eventually, the areas of habitat extension would be further enriched with

other species.

At present, it is not known whether the suggested species will survive best in

the open grasslands', within low tea tree scrub or in bracken. It is likely that

some of the species to 'be used for habitat enhancement will require shelter, but

how much will only oe discovered oy field trials.

The most suitable areas' for habitat enhancement are probably catchments 7, 10,

11 and l2 on the south. coast. Additionally areas in catchment ~ and 2 may also

be suitable. In the first instance plantings should be made at the heads of

the streams, 'out below the level of the ridges. Reafforestation could also be

carried out in these catchments', but extending up the catchments to include areas

on the ridges.

For the purpose of monitoring the changes it is probably better if catchments

4, 5, 6, '8, 9 and west 3 are not managed; since some of these areas have been

under study for several years and will continue to provide valuable information

about natural processes.

To monitor the changes brought about by these management proposals, annual

visits would be required to measure growth. rates and survival, together with

'standardised' photographs of each, area. Monitoring of the bird and other

animal populations would also be neces'sary, again probably on an annual basis.

Vertical colour aerial photographs taken'at 3 or 5 yearly intervals would also

allow the changes to be followed on a oroader scale.

Suggested silvicultural details and a time scale for the proppsed work are

outlined in the Appendix. However it should be noted that tree stock, whether

49

Northwest Point

Catchments 2 Beaches

Contours -100-··--

Cliffs/steep slopes ~

Note: all contours are in feet.

\o:~ fiSherman Bay ''1,>"

Tiritiri· Wata®i 5sland Catchment flreas

Scale

50 2~r-__ ~2:::~O~ __ ::..50-;:::O~ __ 7:.:;5:::0 __ ~'0?O metres

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seed or cuttings should be derived from plant material on the Island, since the

locally derived material is likely to be better adapted to the specific conditions

found there as well as maintaining the genetic stock. Plant species to be intro­

duced should come from elsewhere in the Hauraki Gulf, island derived material

being preferabl.e; failing this· then material from as close as possible to

Tiritiri should be used.

3 Introduction of Selected Fauna and Flora

Tiritiri Island has many features which. make it valuable as a refuge for

endangered species. The absence of mammals other than bats and kiore is partic­

ularly important. The natural fertility of the island and the presence of year­

round water are also of biological significance. Ease of· access fox: people and

the corresponding risk of fire pose a danger but this can be countered by

providing a ranger and by hastening rea{forestation. Thus the island is a

valuable res-ource.which. should be retained for the more important ·of our rare

fauna.

The island is not large enough nor is it suitable for all of our endangered

fauna and careful thought.must be given to the selection of the fauna to be

introduced. Advice and final permission will be sought from the N.Z. Wildlife

Service and the Fauna Protection Advisory Council. The following is a list of

suggested species and reasons for their choice:

• Saddleback (J?hilesturnus· carunculatusl

This species has been introduced to a number of outer islands within the Park

which. are not readily accessible to th.e general public. Suitable habitat already

occurs on Tiritiri so· that liberations could be made immediately. However

regeneration of native forest will greatly increase suitable habitat.

• Kiwis (Apteryx)

North Island brown kiwi (ApterYx australis) are present on the Northland main­

land. Furthermore, kiwis rescued from areas marked for clearing are being

released within the Auckland area. There is no need, therefore, to use the

valuable refuge provided by Tiritiri for this species. Fossilised remains of

the little spotted kiwi (Apteryx· oweni) are common in the Auckland area

(P. Millener, 1982) but at present it probably s.urvives on only two southern

island refuges. Therefore any kiwi release will be reserved for this species.

51

Factors such as the present fire risk and the small area of regenerating forest

mitigate against an early release of this extremely rare species. After a

minimum of five years of successful replanting, advice will be sought from the

,Wildlife Service regarding the feasibility of releasing little spotted kiwis on

Tiritiri.

Since the kiwi is strictly nocturnal any opportunities for viewing these birds

will depend upon special arrangements' for night visiting and nocturnal viewing

techniques. On no account will disturbance of kiwis resting during the day be

permitted.

• stitchbird (Notiomystus cinctal

The Island could not support a third honeyeater until reafforestation is well

advanced. The planned enhancement planting of other nectar species is also

necessary to reduce future competition between stitchbirds and bellbirds.

Both of the existing honeyeaters'will benefit ,from the planting of more nectar

producing plants. Winter and spring nectar supplies are especially limiting and

need augmenting. ,For example, tuis and bellbirds already commute to the kowhai

and puriri trees in the defence area at the end'of the Whangaparaoa Peninsula

(Stewart 1980). puriri is' a major winter flowering species, but is rare on the

island. I,t is suggested that by planting additional nectar producing species,

as well as augmenting the'species already present on ,the island, the nectar

supplies' can be greatly increased. In the long term this will both sustain the

bellbird and tui populations as well as provide for the future release of

sti tchbirds'.

• Takahe (Notornis mantellil

This species is known from subfossil remains in the North Island lowlands.

First discovered in both lowland and high altitude areas of Fiordland, this

species survives in a few high altitude refuges only. It has been successfully'

'maintained in lowland North Island areas of Mt Bruce and on Kapiti Island.

A few birds are also on Maud Island in the Marlborough Sounds. This suggests

that the bird should not be adversely affected by the climate at Tiritiri

Island.

Takahe' require a mixture of open areas and forest, which is the existing state

of Tiritiri. The proposals include the retention of some areas without forest

so long-term habitat for takahe will be provided.

52

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The island is extremely fertile, has swamps in all valleys, and lacks stoats

and other predators making it highly suitable for takahe. Pukeko, a close

relative of the takahe, is the most cornmon bird on the island, suggesting that

such grazers are well provided for on the island. This high density of pukeko

is a problem likely to affect takahe and therefore control of pukeko may be

necessary in order to reduce or eliminate competition. The pukeko is a cornmon

bird and is readily seen on the mainland, so their removal or reduction on

Tiritiri will not detract from its wildlife value.

The Wildlife Service has recently express"edconcern over poaching of rare fauna

including takahe. The appointment of a resident ranger who can regularly patrol

the island is a necessary pre-requisite for requesting a liberation of takahe.

Furthermore, restriction of landing by the public to regularly controlled areas

(e.g. wharf and Hobbs Beachl along with. restricted access to some catchments may

be considered desirable.

The area at present within the lighthouse reserve (catchment"l5) has difficult sea

access, is readily monitored and the public can be easily excluded if necessary.

For these reasons this area could be used for early releases of the takahe. Some

planting of tussocks and fertilisation of the area may be desirable. Catchments

l, 2, 4, 5 and 6 are also suitable as special management areas.

The fragile balance that takahe at present live under suggests that the estab­

lishment of another population is imperative. Only is"lands can provide the

necessary relief from marama:lian predators and grazers and only islands with

resident rangers such" as Tiritiri can provide the necessary protection for this

valuable species". The highly fertile nature of Tiritiri plus the presence of

water throughout the year makes it ideal.

The threat of scrub and grass fires is a major problem. Once replanting has begun

to reduce this, and when a ranger takes "up residence on the island conSUltation

can begin with. the Wildlife Service over the possible release of two or three

pairs of takahe. Earlier consultation may be warranted to allow for implement­

ation of other conditions necessary for a safe introduction •

• Robin (Petroica australisl

Though. not endangered, this'species is declining and is not readily seen by

Aucklanders·. Robins could now be supported in small numbers but :may compete

with. bellbird and saddleoack. ~G. Lovegrove (pers·. cornm.) suggests that competition

between these species is unlikely but until more areas revert to scrub or forest,

a release is not advisable. No release should be considered if it were to preclude

permission for the release of a rarer species. 53

• Whitehead (Mohoua albicillal

This is' 'another species which has had its range reduced markedly. As a small

insectivore, it could survive in pres'ent habitat but may compete with other

birds presently inhabiting the island •. Until larger forest areas are made

available, the whitehead will not be introduced.

• Fernbird (J3owdleria punctatal

This small insectivore lives in specific swampy habitat, which has diminished

significantly in recent years. Although fernbird survive in small areas even

within Auckland, they should do well on Tiritiri and should not compete with other

species.. There is no urgency for their release but present proposals do not

provide for an expanS'ion of habitat.

• Bats (Species unknown)"

These were once common on the island 'and have been seen. on a number of occasions

during the past five years. They used to roost in large numbers in the old radar

tower and their low numbers: at present may reflect a lack of suitable roosting

areas. Some thought will be given to augmenting existing roosting areas.

• Tuatara (Sphenodon punctatusl

TUatara are considered by some to have. difficulty co-existing with. rodents such

as kiore. However data for this are scant and open to other interpretations.

The current research. on the'Chickens Islands should allow a greater understanding

of the ways in which. tuatara and kiore co-exist. If early liberation was decided

upon, then thi's could be on Wooded Island where kiore are not present.

• Flax Snails (.Placostylus)

Dr Powell in the ~930s demonstrated that flax snails could be successfully

introduced into areas where they were previously absent. Without adequate cover

they appear to do. poorly where rodents abound, although no data on interaction

with kiore are availaI>le. Well monitored trial releases on Tititiri would be

worthwhile, or if tuatara are not released on Wooded Island flax snails could be

put there. Reafforestation will greatly increase suitable habitat.

54

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• Other rare land vertebrates and invertebrates

The presence of kiore make liberation of these animals somewhat doubtful. However,

appropriate organisations will be asked to comment on suiteble candidates.

General comments

Species addit'ional to those listed could be released. Because of the relatively

small size of the island, it is preferable that liberation be limited to rarer

'species or those that will not compete with, these rare species'. The important

limi tation is that species' selected for release should not have similar habitat

requirements to those species already' on the island or those other species

selected for release.

The suggested' species are believed to overlap in terms of habitat requirements

to a minor extent only. However, as the red-crowned parakeet is already present

on the island, the yellow-crowned parakeet will not be considered for introduction.

Similarly, if robin are released, pied tit will not be. The'overlap in food and

habi tat requirements of pukeko, and takahe suggest that the former must be greatly

reduced or even eliminated to allow takahe the greatest possibility of successful

establishment. On no account will weka be released on the island.

Concern has been expressed that kiore might have detrimental effects upon some of

the introductions. However there 'is' no evidence that kiore prey on birds on the

Island. Bunn (1979) investigated many stomach, contents and found no trace of bird

remains. Moller (19771 occas'ionally found traces of dO\m but no other evidence.

The important point is that the kiore population peaks in late summer-early

autumn. ' This is outside the breeding season of most birds and thus there is

likely to be little interaction between birds and kiore.

Implementation

Reafforestation is not an immediate' process and it is important to maintain public

interest for some time. To do this, an ordered plan of releases which, is at least

partially tied to replanting is' necessary. Ilnmediate permiss'ion for a release of

saddlebacks will be sought for early in 1983. In addition, there will be a stated

aim of planning to release little spotted kiwi as soon as initial growth,' allows -

for example, 1988-1990 - followed by stitchbird when reafforestation is well

advanced. A release of takahe within five to ten years should also be planned.

Releases' of less' endangered species such, as robin and whitehead can be fitted in

whenever it is considered desirable. 55

The Board has an established system for dealing with these proposals. Scientific "

advisors will address all proposals for releases to the Board's Scientific'and

Conservation Committee, which in turn will make a suitable recommendation to the

full Board. The Board will then make the appropriate application to the Wildlife

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All releas'es will ultimately depend on permission from the Wildlife Service and

the Fauna Protection Advisory Council. For this reason, suggested release plans

will be sent to these bodies for early connnent and advice, including possible

additional management requirements necessary. This consultation will be maintained

on a regular basis.

4. Human Management

In order to achieve the desired management goals it is considered essential that

certain conditions occur. These conditions are:

1. The Island remains' accessible.

2. Some form of supervision is provided.

3, Visitors develop an awareness' ,of their impact 'upon sensit,ive fauna and

their habitats.

4. Appropriate facilities are provided.

5. Fires and the entry of unwanted predators are prevented.

6. Various bodies and organisations co-operate and participate in the

implementation of this plan.

7. The flora and fauna of the Island are regularly monitored, and the

resultant feedback used to re-evaluate existing policies, where

appropriate.

4.1 ACCESSIBILITY

One of the attractions of Tiritiri as a place to view rare fauna is that it is

near a large urban concentration, namely Auckland. Notwithstanding this fact,

however, the iS'land can De inaccessible to that segment of the public who do not

have access to private water-borne transportation. As referred to earlier, the

wharf at the Island has' been surveyed by the Ministry of Works and Development,

and as a result this facility has been closed to public us'age pending ongoing

56

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repair work.. At present, tour boats are actively discouraged from stopping at

the island because of this situation and hence the current pattern of usage is

biased towards those recreationalists having access to small pleasure craft.

The overall management philosophy for Tiritiri reflects an implicit concern that

the general public, and particularly those people who may not have had previous

access to some form of wilderness' experience, have the opportunity to view and

appreciate some of our rarer fauna in their natural habitat; To achieve this

goal it will be necessary, under controlled circumstances, to cater for some form

of public transportation, whereby tour, charter or private boats are allowed to

use the wharf to load and off-load passengers. The up-grading and continued

maintenance of the Ministry of Transport wharf is therefore an important element

in the management of the Island. In view' of the fact that this wharf will serve

a dual function, namely catering for recreationalists as well as servicing the

maintenance needs of the Island, the Board has agreed to assume eventual

responsibility for this facility.

4.2 SUPERVISION

The proposed concept wherebY1nemners' of the. general public are encouraged to

view rare fauna on the Island relies, to a large extent, upon the assumption

that visitors' will adopt a behaviour which is appropriate· to the circumstances.

This appropriate behaviour can be encouraged in several ways: the visitor's

environmental sensitivity can be heightened by education, facilities can be

specifically designed to promote suitable conduct, and proper supervision and

guidance can be provided. It is also recognised that some of the bird species

to be' introduced. are considered valuable to. the extent. ,that poaching could

become a real problem unless there is a direct presence of someone in a position

of authority. These ongoing management responsibilities will eventually

necessitate the appointment of a full-time ranger for the island.

The Island is presently being manned by a fUll-time lighthouse keeper. The

Ministry of Transport, who administers the lighthouse service, has indicated

their intention of automating the existing light on Tiritiri by 1983/1984,

thereby reducing its manpower and maintenance commitments on the Island. The

Board has negotiated an arrangement with the Ministry whereby initially the

costs of staffing the Island will be shared according. to each party's respective

needs, with the Board eventually assuming the major responsibility for manning,

including responsibility for housing and' other servi:cing requirements.

57

4.3 VISIToR IMPACT

It is anticipated that the flora and fauna of the Island will become incre'asingly

sensitive to vis'itor pressure as'management proposals' are implemented and goals

are achieved. There appears to be eS$entially two ways of coping with such

pressure; either visitor numbers can be reduced or the impact of the visitors

can be mi,nimised. The philosophical basis for the proposed lllanagement of the

reserve would appear to preclude any'active restriction of public acceS$ to the

Island, except as' a last resort. It lllay' therefore be appropriate to examine the

ways in which, visitor impact can be minimised.

In order to encourage the public to act in an appropriate manner there must first

be a general understanding and awareness of what the actual consequences of

inappropriate behaviour are upon sensitive fauna and their habitats. While such

an awareness is the key to engendering appropriate conduct, at the same time it

also heightens the level of a visitor's experience by furthering their knowledge

and appreciation of 'native birds and animals in their natural state.

There are a number of important tools whiCh, can be employed in this process of

public education. One possible tool would be the use of a pamphlet to identify

and describe the life cycle and habitat of fauna on the island using simple,

non-technical language. This' pamphlet 'could be made available at landing areas

such as th,e wharf and HObbs Beach", or perhaps at the Ranger's' office. These

pamphlets can be used in conjunction with, carefully designed interpretive sign

boards which display maps, drawings, diagrams' and written material explaining

certain aspects, of natural features on the island. At certain vantage points on

the ,island a small signboard identifying a particular habitat 0;(' native'bird may

be appropriate. However, a proliferation of s'ign boards which warn the visitor

of rules and regulations would be inappropriate to the Island's natural setting

and hence it is envisaged that most of this iriformation will be provided at

initial access points.

It is likely that during peak periods of visitation such as the summer and

holidays that the public, and particularly parties of people, school groups,

will request some form of assistance in discovering and learning about rare

fauna. This' demand is likely to warrant the inclusion of guided walks as part

of an interpretation programme on the Island; especially during the Christmas

holidays when temporary- staff can be employed for such, purposes. On the other

hand, during winter months it is anticipated that interpretation work would be

of secondary importance to neces$ary development and maintenance work.

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4.4 FACILITIES

The design of recreational facilities' can also oe an important determinant. in the

pattern of oehaviour exhioited on the Island by nerobers' of the general public.

At the present time the lighthouse keeper maintains a series of nown tracks which

are intended as' firebreaks', out. which. additionally serve as "alking tracks. These

tracks' tend to direct and channel the punlic along particular alignments· through

areas of rank grass or thicker vegetation. In the longer term this' tracking

should become more formalised 01' designing a: comprehens'ive system which carefully

directs the. public towards' selected places· of ·interest without intruding into more

sensitive areas. It is envisaged that while these tracks' will remain low-key in

construction, careful attention in the future will be given to their alignments.

The major area suitable for recreati.onal development is Hobbs Beach .•. The

existing pattern·of.recreation in this' area. can be enhanced oy providing such

facilities as'picnic tables, carefully positioned fireplaces and watertaps.

There are several s·emi-permanent streams in the area but because of possible

faecal contamination it may he appropriate to provide a.protected water collect­

ion point. In order to reduce the fire danger and increase the area available

for pass·ive· recreation the area Of gras·s·oehind the beach should be kept closely

mown.

In an island situation such as Tiritiri it is not practica:bleor desira:ble to

provide rubbish. bins and hence the public, and particularly boat owners, should

be encouraged to take their litter oack to the mainland.

The existing lighthouse, because of its interesting history·and dominant position,

is also a major attraction for visitors to the island. In the longer term.'

attention should be given to formally. protecting this site, as well as developing

an interpretive programme which. explains th.e unique role of this lighthouse in

Auckland's past. If and when this facility becomes surplus' to Ministry of

Transport requirements', the Board should consider incorporating it in the Park.

In gener.al terms, all future recreational development will either be structured

to complement the existing pattern of passive recreation in selected areas, or it

will be specifically designed to enhance the low-key interpretation of natural

history on the Island. As an example, it may be that in the longer term a simple

interpretive centre is warranted, possioly in the Vicinity of the wharf. This

facility could. serve to orientate visitors' when they first arrive and would

familiarise them with. certain aspects' of·the natural history on the Island which

they are about to witness. Toilet facilities would also be located in this area.

59

4.5 FIRES AND UNWANTED J:>REDATORS

Fires-

The consBquences- of a f,ire on the is-land are potentially disastrous, particularly'

if i,t occurs' at a later stage when revegetation is well advanced, In an island

situation the lack of readily available "Illanpower ana equipment "Illakes' fire

sUl?ression difficult. A "fire plan" has been prepared for Tiritiri and in this

respect the Board closely co-operates-wit~ the New' Zealand Yorest Service. This

plan should be updated as' circumstances- change or fire prevention technology

improves.

The Board's policy (7.4 .l31. is to restrict picnic fires' to special areas where

prepared fireplaces are located. The only place on the is'land which. appears

suitable for such. fireplaces is at Hobbs' Beach, providing that these are located

within a buffer zone which. is' well clear of any vegetation.

Unwanted Predators

The infestation of Tiritiri by Norway rats or ship rats would comp~omise the

introduction of certain fauna such as saddleba~<s, tuatara, flax snails, etc.

Infestation by mice would also be of major concern. 'The existence of a wharf

makes' the island much more vulnerable to such. infestations. While it is diffi_

cult or impossible to police small pleasure craft in this regard" it is more

likely that larger vessels would contain such predators and hence precautions

should be directed primarily at fishing' boats and other commercial boats and

barges.

The following controls are suggested:

• All stores sent to the island must be regularly checked before dispatch

and upon arrival for rodents.

• A special and thorough check for rodents must be made whenever bulky store",

are shipped to the island, particularly if a barge is used. If the presence

of any rodents is suspected, appropriate measures should be taken before the

shipment leaves- the mainland.

• Any boat calling regularly at the island should carry several poison bait

boxes aboard and thes'e should lie s'erviced regularly. Similar poison bait

boxes should be "Illaintained in the shed at the enaof the wharf.

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• In the event of a shipw.reck or s.txanding a poison bait should he laid in

the immediate vicinity' of the'ves'sel.

4.6 PARTICIPATION

The successful implementation' of lllanagement proposals ,will r,ely, to a large

extent, upon the co-operation and participation of interested parties.

In the initial stages of fonnulating a concept for Tiritiri the participation of

the University of Auckland has been essential, particularly in providing a

scientific basis for many of the management proposals which have now evolved.

The University is likely to maintain an active presence on the Island in

conducting research relating to various fields of natural history. The Iloard

will continue to encourage such'activities, especially where this research, is

being directed towards' monitoring or investigating particular aspects of the

Board's' proposals for Tiritiri.

In effecting the first phases of reafforestation and habitat enhancement the

Board will seek the advice and assistance of such organisations as the

New Zealand Forest Service, t:he Botany Division and Ecology Division of the

Department of Scientific and Industrial Research, the Auckland Institute and

Museum, the Royal Forest and Bird Protection Society and the Wildlife Service.

It is anticipated that the initial stages of development will be concerned with

noxious weed control, experimental native species plantings,and pla"t releasing

work perhaps several times a year. This work is likely to be undertaken by large

volunteer work parties in a concerted effort during the appropriate season, and

in this respect two local branches of the Royal Forest and Bird Protection Society

have pledqed their full support.

In the later stages where selected fauna are liberated it is imperative that

the Boards work closely with the wildlife Division of the Department of Internal

Affairs and the Fauna Protection AdvisorY Council. Other interested parties

will no doubt include the Royal Forest and Bird Protection SOCiety and the

Auckland Acclimatisation Society. These liberations should be carefully planned

and co-ordinated well in advance to ensure the most efficacious results are

achieved. Once fauna have been introduced to their new'habitats it will also

be important to continue monitoring their progress.

In the longer tenn, the assistance required from these bodies' will only be

forthcoming if the Board is able ,to provide the necessary logistic and financial

support where required. For instance, during certain periods it will be essent­

ial that some fonn of accommodation be provided on the island specifically for

61

those people· who are eng:ag:ed directly in either Board avproved sci.enti£ic

researcli- .or iii. implementing: manag:ement prepesals. In order to aveid the

unnecessary· and inappropriate duplicatien .of facilities' the Board has neg:etiated

with. the Ministry of Transport for the shared use .of some of the heusing: at the

lighthouse complex. It is'rec.og:nised that the intermittent use of such. temporary

accemmodatien oy individuals or partieS' werking en the island will be strictly

controlled in order to aveid any abuse of facilities.

While it is the intentien te provide worker accommodation, the limited area .of

land at Tiritiri and the fragile nature of habitats likely to be created will rule

out the provision .of such .overnight facilities fer the public as camping areas or

educational centres catering for group users. These facilities are mere appro-

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priately provided for en nearby mainland areas .or en larger islands such as Motutapu. [ I One mainland area which Tiritiri shares a close visual and biological relationship

with is the nearby Whangaparaea Peninsula, and particularly the Defence area and

Shakespear Park. For instance, during certain times .of the year it has been estab­

lished that tuis commute daily from the Island to the Peninsula in search of

additienal feod sources. (Stewart, 1980). These areas thus serve as an extended

habitat fer some .of the Island's fauna and therefere the Board will seek to influence

land uses and the management of vegetation on the tip of the Peninsula.

A draft management plan has now been prepared by the Auckland Regienal Authority

for Shakespear Park. The objectives' .of this plan are te develop the Park as a

ceastal farm park which. caters for public recreatienal enjoyment and outdoor

education in associatien with. an ongoing farming operation. This cencept is very

complementary te the Beard's· intentions fer Tiritiri and hence the Beard should

werk clesely with. the Auckland Regional Autherity te integrate the. functions .of

these two areas, where practicable. For instance, as an adjunct to outdoor

education· at Shakespear Park the Authority could provide information boards in

strategic locatiens which. serve to illustrate the .opportunities available on

nearby Tiritiri Island for interpretation of natural features, especially rare

birds. A pamphlet concerning Tiri tiri' s attractions· can also be made available

at places such as the Army Bay launching ramp. In similar fashion, vis'itors to

Tiritiri who wish to engage in a wider range of recreational activity can be

encouraged to use the.ample facilities of Shakespear park.

The Ministry of Transport has expressed concern regarding: t.he safety of small

boats attempting to cross the Tiritiri channel during roug:her weather. This

situation justifies' placing notices on infermatienooards· at Army Bay and at the

wharf en Tiritiri warning users .of small beats .of pes sible dangers.

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4.7 MONITORING, FEEDBACK AND EVALUATION

This plan is based upon a flexible approach whereby the initial phases of develop­

ment will be monitored and assessed before subsequent stages are implemented.

These initial phases of experimentation are necessary to demonstrate the practic­

ability of revegetating selected areas, with particular regard to the methods used.

It is recognised that this plan will only be effective if it is able to respond to

changing circumstances in a positive way. To ensure this effectiveness the plan

mus·t make provision for the regular monitoring, reporting and evaluation of any

changes which Occur in the flora and fauna of the island as the proposals for

reafforestation and habitat enhancement are implemented. In the later stages the

effects of visitor activity should also come under careful scrutiny.

It is therefore intended that a monitoring programme be initiated to run con­

currently with. the trial plantings and that this be expanded to cover other·

relevant aspects of vegetation and wildlife on Tiritiri. The island has consider­

able potential as an "outdoor laboratory" and in this respect the Board will

encourage the continuing involvement of the University and other parties likely

to conduct research. on Tiritiri, particularly where such. research is directed

towards· some aspect of the propos-als contained in this plan.

The information gained from research on the island must be regularly communicated

to decision makers in order that management proposals can be modified or changed

as the circumstances warrant it. This feedback should be provided in s·imple,

non-technical language which_ is readily understood and which. facilitates decision

making. It may be that in the longer term a scientific management committee should

be appointed to advise the Board in evaluating such_ information as it becomes

available.

This continuing process of evaluation provides the basis for the Board's flexible

approach. Flexibility can only be ensured if the Board is able to respond quickly

and appropriately to increased knowledge or other changing circumstances. It is

the intention that these responses will be incorporated, where appropriate, by

modifying the suggested work programme appended to this report. Where these

responses represent a major change in philosophy or approach, then the working

plan itself will be reviewed to reflect these changes.

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Summary of Management Considerations

Management Goals

The goal is to manage Tiritiri as a suitable habitat for some. of our rarer and

endangered fauna and flora·, where people, especially Aucklanders, can view them.

This goal involves three major parts:

• The revegetation of the island so that it becomes a viable habitat for

selected native fauna and flora.

• The introduction of selected fauna and flora.

• The provision of a controlled level of natural outdoor recreational

activity that is consistent with the attainment of the primary goal.

Management Policies and Proposals

POLICY

To actively encourage reafforestation and to enhance selected habitats by

initiating a phased programme of native species planting over certain portions

of the island.

PROPOSALS - METHODS

• Reafforestation to be based on an "enrichment planting" programme with

pohutukawa as the main species, and taraire, karo and kohekohe used to a

lesser extent.

• Habitat enhancement will utilise specific native species such as puriri,

kowhai, and karaka, to augment and . increase food sources· in selected areas.

• The introduction of rare or endangered plants can only be considered in

terms of species that are selected from other islands in the Hauraki

Gulf.

65

PROPOSALS- LOCATLON

• Habitat enhancement can take place primarily- at the heads; of streams where.

regeneration is- already' occurring.

• The most suitable areas for initial habitat enhancement are probably

catchments 7, 10, 11 and 12 on the south coast, with perhaps some

additional areas in catchments I and 2.

• Reafforestation would initially be carried out. in catchments 7, ~O,.~ and

12, but will extend up the catchments to include areas- on the ridges'.

• For the purpose of monitoring changes in vegetation, parts of catchments

4, 5, 6 and 8 can remain unchanged.

PROPOSALS - TIMING

• Ini tial trial plantings will be undertaken to determine the lllost practic­

able technique of ensuring revegetation of areas of open grasslands, low

tea tree scrub and bracken.

• On the basis of this critical experimentation a phased programme of native

tree planting will be developed along the lines of the attached work.

programme.

• Rare or endangered plants will only be introduced once the main planting

programme is well es-tablished.

POLICY To selectively introduce certain species of rare or endanger~d fauna to Tiritiri

Island in conjunction with the Wildlife Service and on the recommendation of the

Fauna Protection Advisory Council.

PROPOSALS - SPECIFIC LIBERATIONS

66

• Suitable habitats already- exist for saddlebacks so that liberations can be

made immediately.

• Little spotted kiwi can be released after successful replanting has­

increased the area of forest and reduced the risk of fire.

• Additional nectar producing plants must be. grown before the stitchbird

can be introduced, but ultimately the island can support this species of

honeyeater.

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I ' • Takahe can be consi,dered for release in catchment ~5 once the fire risk

has been reduced and a resident ranger appointed,

• The robin and whitehead may' be introduced once lUore areas- revert to scrub

or forest,

• There is sufficient swampy habitat for the fernbird to do, well on

Tiritiri.

• The number of bats on the Island can be increasedoy- augmenting existing

roosting areas',

• If tuatara are to be liberated the most suitable site initially is­

Wooded Island.

• Well monitored release of flax snails could occur on Tiritiri,' or on

Wooded Is'land if tuatara are not released there.

PROPOSALS - CRITERIA FOR FURTHER LIBERATIONS

• The form of habitat improvement necessary before other species could be

introduced is,very specific and will require careful planning.

• Due to the relatively small size of Tiritiri, care must be taken with

liberating additional species of birds, particularly if the species

have' similar habitat requirements' to existing fauna on the island,

• 'The effects of'the kiore upon initial liberations will be,c1ose1y

observed.

POLICY To provide a level of human management necessary to achieve the goal of

developing Tiri tiri Is'lanq. as a recreational resource where people can view

rare or endangered fauna.

PROPOSALS - ACCESSIBILITY

• The existing Ministry of Transport wharf should be' upgraded and maintained

to a standard suitable for use by public transport,

., Tour, charter and privatebo'ats should be encouraged to us-e the wharf as

a major access point to the' Island.

67

PROPOSALS - SUPERVISION

• As the proposals in this plan are implemented there will be a need for

full-time supervision on. the island.

• The Board will cooperate in a cost sharing arrangement with the Ministry

of Transport whereby a worker engaged in ranger and lighthouse keeping

duties is employed full time on Tiritiri.

• It is important that the individual employed in this position has the

necessary powers and status to enforce provisions of the Reserves Act;

Wildlife Act and other relevant legislation.

• The Board will ultimately assume the major responsibility for manning

the Island, including housing and other servicing requirements.

PROPOSALS - VISITOR IMPACT

Education is the key to encouraging appropriate behaviour by members of

the general public, and the use of pamphlets and interpretative sign­

boards are important tools in this regard.

• A proliferation of signboards 'containing'rules and regulations should be

avoided.

• During peak visitation periods consideration should be given to conducting

guided interpretive walks.

PROPOSALS - FACILITIES

68

• A comprehensive tracking system should be designed to carefully direct

the public towards selected places of interest without intruding into

more sens·itive areas".

• The existing pattern of recreation at Hobbs Beach. can be enhanced by

providing such facilities as picnic tables, fireplaces, water taps, etc.

• It is impracticable to provide a rubbish collection service and hence

visitors should be encouraged to take all their litter back to the

mainland.

• The lighthouse is an attraction for visitors and in the longer term

consideration should be given to developing it as a historic monument.

• Future recreational development will either complement the existing

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pattern of passive recreation or will be specifically designed to enhance

interpretation of natural history on the island.

PROPOSALS - FIRES

• The fire plan for Tiritirishould be upgraded as circumstances change or

fire prevention technology improves.

• The area of Hobbs Beach is suitable for fireplaces provided that the rank

growth of grasses is kept cleared.

PROPOSALS - UNWANTED PREDATORS.

• All stores sent to the island must be regularly checked before dispatch

and upon arrival for rodents.

• A special and thorough check for rodents must be made whenever bulky

stores are shipped to the island, particularly if a·barge is used. If

the presence of any rodents is suspected, appropriate measures should be

taken before the shipment leaves the mainland •.

• Any boat calling regularly at ~he island should carry several poison bait

boxes aboard and these should be serviced regularly.

• In the event of a shipwreck or stranding a poison bait should be laid in

the immediate vicinity of the vessel.

PROPOSALS - PARTICIPATION

• The.Board will continue to encourage·research on the island, particularly

where it is directed towards some aspect of the proposals contained in

this plan.

• Inth.e initial trial stages of planting, the Board will seek the

advice and ass.istance of those bodies and individuals who have some

specific knowledge in this regard.

• In carrying out the various stages of development the Board should

encourage the active participation of volunteer organisations such as the

Royal Forest and Bird Protection Society.

• In the later stages of fauna liberation the Board should work closely

with the wildlife Division and the Fauna Protection Advisory Council.

• Accommodation should be provided on the island for approved research or

development workers. 69

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Acl<nowledgments

Planning Team

P.J. Connell

J.L. Craig

R. Drey

.N.D. Mitchell

w. spring-Rice

Acknowledgments

Draughting Officer Department of Lands and Survey

Lecturer in Zoology Department University of Auckland

Planning Officer Department of Lands and Survey

Lecturer in Botany Department University of Auckland

Graduate Student Anthropology Department University of Auckland

The Planning Team wishes to express appreciation for the advice given by -

R. Cochrane

G. Ell

A.E. Esler

Associate Professor Geography Department University of Auckland

Chairman Royal Forest and Bird Protection Society (North Shore)

. Scientist Botany Division Department of Scientific and Industrial Research

73

YEAR 2

A more ambitious programme is planned for the second year. The planting

programmes will still concentrate on the six initial locations, with the aim

of starting to link some areas. The planting during this year will also include

some exposed locations on ridge tops. The area to be planted this year will be

approximately 7 ha.

YEAR 3

A further 7. ha would be planted in Year 3 with. the aim· of combining the four

southerly locations; similarly for the northern sites.

YEAR 4 ONWARDS

By year. four of the planting programme, considerable knowledge and experience

should have been gained. At this point, decisions will have to be made as to

whether to extend into the areas marked '4' on the map or whether to concentrate

on the already planted areas'.

It is envisaged that if the first three years of planting are successful, the

next areas t.o be planted would be on the margins of the areas of forest in

catchments 4, 8 and 9. Some of catchment l could also be planted. Future

plantings might include catchments 6 and 7 together with. other areas as

designated on the 'Revegetation Proposals' Map.

3. Silviculture

PROVISION OF NURSERY FACILITIES

The proposal is to establish, a nursery on Tiritiri Island, using the root trainer

method to produce approximately 22,500 plants per year.

SPECIES TO BE USED

Seed of the speci~s in Table 2.will be .required and should be collected from

Tiritiri. Additionally, kowhai should be collected from the end of the

Whangaparaoa Peninsula and Pittosporum umbellatum· from the· nearest location in

the Gulf.

It is suggested that seed of every species should be collected each year for

at least the initial 3-4 years. This .will ensure adequate seedling stocks

together with a good range of genetic stock.

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Table 2 Species to be used, thei:>; aeed collection peri.od "nd 'use'

II Group A Rapid, shade producers.

II Species Seedfall

Pohutukawa 1 late Autumn

II Karo 2 Autumn

Ngaio' late Autumn

II Whau 1 January/February

Coprosma spp. Autumn

Mahoe late Summer

II

If 'Group B Trees to be 'underplanted'.

Species Seedfall

If Karaka February/March

II Kohekohe April/May

Taraire June/July

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Tawaroa April

Hinau April

Tawapou May/June

II Puriri 3 anytime

Kowhai 4 Autumn

II Pittosporum Uinbellatum Autumn

II Notes:

II 1. Must be planted as soon as collected.

II 2. Seeds have to be weathered in open before germination commences.

3. Slow to germinate, seeds may need scarifying.

II 4. Seeds need scarifying.

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The planting strategy will be different, these species probably being planted

in groups around.the better established shade producers.

As for the shade producers, seed supplies may be a limiting factor.

C. Logistics

One problem that might occur, is the provision of enough nursery space for this

number of plants. Once the programme gets going, there may be 40,000 seedlings

in the nursery at anyone time. Due provision will need to be made for this,

either by providing adequate staff support or by adjusting the planting

programme.

6 Suggested Timetable

1983

1984

1985

1986-1990·

Establishment of nursery.

January-July. Collection of seeds.

Winter. Mark out first areas to be planted •.

Spring. Eradication of noxious weeds.

Collection of seeds.

Early Autumn. If seedlings ready, prepare planting holes.

Late Autumn. First plantings.

Winter. Mark out next areas to be planted.

As for 1984. 1985 might be the first year that underplanting

could be tried. Releasing as necessary, should begin this year.

As for 1985.

7. Monitoring

It is of considerable importance that careful notes are made. It is suggested

that the following information is collected: numbers of seeds collected,

success of germination/establishment, age of seedlings when planted out and

precisely where, success of establishment. Silviculture notes should also be

kept.

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REVEGETATION SEQUENCE

Stage 1 c::::J Stage 5 E~'?8 .......:::::,~'..........

Stage 2 11:::::::l11 Stage 6

Stage 3 ~///::;j //// Stage 7 1':_ " ',',I

Stage 4 ~ -:::] Trials in Bracken S1 Trials in Manuka S2

EXISTING FEATURES , .

0 Beaches . ,~.': Forest and scrub •• ::'f;';"'

Cliffs/steep slopes ~ Contours -100--

Note: all contours are in feet.

Wharf

-Tiritiri WataQgi 5sland R€v~€tation Proposals

. ,

Bay

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