The Trust has been working towards the installation of a fence along sections of State Highway 6 where penguin mortality has been disastrous in recent years and, with great support from Holcim NZ, Maccaferri NZ, Resene and many donations from supporters, work is finally set to commence next week.
Today, Trust Chair, Kerry-Jayne Wilson and Ranger Reuben Lane met Dermot O’Connor of Opus and John McLaren, expert fencer, to agree the final line and installation method for the first 2.3km stretch of fence in this challenging location. The coast is steep here and the road narrow, so it will be tricky for our team, but the road has been fatal for dozens of penguins every year. Penguins do what they have always done and the only way to stop them crossing the coast road to their nesting habitat above is to keep them below the road.
The penguins won’t like being restricted in this area, from Perfect Strangers beach to Limestone Creek, but once they get used to it, they’ll find plenty of suitable nesting areas between the sea and the road.
Opus has offered to trim some of the vegetation along the agreed fence line before installation starts and they will also look after the traffic management. All local people approached by the Trust love the area and its wildlife and are fully supportive of the project.
Westport’s wonderful conservation volunteers will help get the fencing project underway, contributing their time and enthusiasm next week, and their input will be followed by volunteers from Westport’s St John’s youth programme and others.
The Trust is making a start but needs additional financial support to complete this first section and future sections of fence and donations are invited. The cost has been estimated at around $15 per meter but of course all donations, large or small will be welcomed by the Trust.
