Stewart Island Environment Trust

Halfmoon Bay Habitat Restoration Project

The Halfmoon Bay Habitat Restoration Project is SIRCET's main project.

The project is about creating an open sanctuary in our extended backyard so that native wildlife can thrive. This pest management project extends from the township of Oban, Halfmoon Bay, out to Ackers Point. Volunteers are the backbone of this project, they are involved in trapping for animal pests, monitoring birds and re-vegetation work. This restoration project will ensure that our grandchildren will not need to visit a museum to see our treasured native birds, insects and lizards, but can live amongst wildlife as their ancestors did.

Objectives of the Halfmoon Bay Habitat Restoration Project

1. To increase the native bird population around Halfmoon Bay by reducing predation and improving habitat quality.
2. To provide a safe habitat for re-introduction and survival for Stewart Island species (both plants and animals) threatened with extinction.
3. To increase the health of the forest around Halfmoon Bay.
4. To educate and involve the community in conservation activities.
5. To increase eco-tourism opportunities on the island.
6. To help our community feel proud of its local environment.
7. To help our children and adults learn about the environment and its protection.

Pest control

The control of introduced pests in New Zealand is of vital importance to the survival of our native wildlife. SIRCET runs a pest control operation on a 210 hectare area in the Halfmoon Bay township.

Monitoring native species

SIRCET monitors several special species inside the project area, these include little blue penguins, titi or sooty shearwater, weka and mistletoe. This work is important as we can find out whether the work we are doing is achieving our objectives.

Re-vegetation and re-introduction of native species

SIRCET is undertaking re-vegetation work in the project area, for example, several community planting days have occurred at Harold's Bay. Other re-vegetation projects are planned for the project area.

SIRCET also plans to re-introduce species to the project area when the level of predators is at a low enough density to allow released species a chance at survival. These are species that once lived in the project area but have become extinct, primarily because of mammalian predation.