Media release 8 July 2004

MAYOR DETERMINED OVER KAIKOURA ISLAND

Manukau mayor Sir Barry Curtis says he hopes to convince Manukau City councillors of the importance of backing the purchase of Kaikoura Island in the Hauraki Gulf, and to contribute money to help buy it.

The matter goes before the full Council meeting later this month. At last month's meeting the councillors rejected a proposal to give $65,000 towards the purchase, alongside other contributions from councils in the region.

Sir Barry was overseas at the time the decision was made. He says he was very disappointed, although he can understand the councillors' determination to keep spending within budget. But he believes the money can be found for such a worthwhile purpose. In addition, it has subsequently been revealed that a private sector donor will contribute a much larger sum if all the councils in the region come to the party.

"I believe every island in the Gulf should be retained in public hands if at all possible, including Kaikoura. It would be a superb asset and provide a wonderful wilderness experience for young people, just as Motutapu Island does. However Motutapu is being over-stretched and that's another reason to back the Kaikoura purchase."

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