A poisoning operation to ensure Ulva Island remains free of
the Norway rats threatening the Stewart Island wildlife
sanctuary has been successfully completed.
Fears rats are breeding on "rat-free" Ulva Island has
Department of Conservation staff scrambling to Stewart Island
to eradicate the unwelcome visitors.
Concern an invasion of rats on Ulva Island, in Stewart
Island's Paterson Inlet, could threaten its endangered bird
population has led the Department of Conservation to ask boat
users to check their vessels before visiting the protected
sanctuary.
It is aware of the best nearest resources, is constantly
updating its information and is still unlikely to dispatch a
local helicopter to the aid of people on Stewart Island who
suffer a medical event or accident, St John says.
Potential economic benefits of mining investigations on
Stewart Island could be one positive to come from unpopular
Government ideas, chairman of the community board Barry
Rhodes says.
Uncovering the secrets of one of the most feared creatures of
the sea, the great white shark, is the aim of a research team
heading to Stewart island this week.
Wanted: an outdoor enthusiast who enjoys a slower pace of
life, wants to live in a natural paradise and does not mind
caring for 12 young children part time.
