Kiwi release gets business support and national interest

People at Marunui Conservation are counting down with only days to go before Northland brown kiwi are released into their bush in the Brynderwyns.

Their planning team has been working 24/7 to a timeline to ensure that all necessary tasks are accomplished by the release date of Saturday April 13.

Catherine Hawley, Marunui’s managing director, says they are very grateful for and thrilled with the positive response being received from the Mangawhai community.

“It’s fantastic. People are putting their hands up to help us on the day and local businesses have welcomed our posters inviting the public to attend.”

Some have offered discounts for materials needed.

“Builders Sue Garnett and Andrew Archer have put their tools to work preparing temporary kiwi burrow boxes. Farmer neighbour Mark Gash has made a field available for parking, and members of the Mangawhai Tracks Charitable Trust will be directing traffic and helping with the set up. The Mangawhai Cadets will be assisting on the site along with members of the Friends of the Brynderwyns Society. Mangawhai beach primary school pupils will be participating in the event, singing waiata in support of the speakers.”

Catherine says interest in the return of kiwi to the Brynderwyns after nearly 50 years absence is widespread and has captured the attention of national media.

“Marunui Conservation has invited the public to share in this special occasion and if the responses are anything to go by, it’s going to be a wonderful and happy day”. 

All welcome at the kiwi release: Saturday April 13, 10am, Marunui Conservation, 300 King Road, Mangawhai.