ARC to help fund Kaikoura Island purchase

The Auckland Regional Council today resolved to contribute $250,000 towards the purchase of Kaikoura Island.

ARC Chair Gwen Bull says the Council resolved to make the contribution as part of its regional leadership role in the protection of significant natural and cultural heritage features, such as the unspoilt Hauraki Gulf islands.

Kaikoura Island is a 564-hectare almost triangular island to the west of Great Barrier Island. It is the seventh largest island in the Hauraki Gulf.

“The ARC has always supported in principle protecting Kaikoura Island’s biodiversity and landscape values,” Cr Bull says.

“As the region’s lead agency for Heritage it is important for the ARC to take a lead among Auckland’s councils and make a meaningful contribution towards achieving this.

“I hope these funds will boost Minister of Conservation Chris Carter’s efforts to have the island brought into public ownership and protected in perpetuity.”

Cr Bull likened this contribution to the one it made in 1999 towards the purchase of the Otuataua Stonefields in South Auckland.

“The Department of Conservation, Manukau City Council and the ARC jointly funded the purchase of this unique area to protect it from possible development. It is now secured in public ownership and enjoyed by thousands of visitors every year.

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