Motuora - the richest shoreline in the Hauraki Gulf?

Back in 1975, Professor John Morton from Auckland University, opened his report on the Motuora shoreline with the following paragraph:

That Government should take cognisance of the high ecological quality and unspoiled character of the intertidal shores of Motuora Island, which are today richer, in numbers and variety of species, than any of the mainland shores known to me in the Gulf, including the Goat Island Bay reefs where a marine reserve is currently being sought. It should be noted that pollution from land run-off or human interference and depredation has had virtually no effect on this Island.

Click here to download a copy of the 1975 report.

But what is the current condition of the shoreline? Sadly, we don’t know. But if there are any marine scientists out there who would be interested to find out, please get in touch.

Accommodation for volunteers

Posted on 20/04/2021 by LizN

Cabins are now located where a shade house once stood and have been used extensively by visiting monitoring teams during the past months.   These are basic but really snug with the convenience of solar-powered lights and charging points for phones.    We had a builder erect a roof over the decked area between the pods to provide a dry place to drop wet or dirty gear and footwear.  The next part of the project is to roof over each of the cabins which will protect them from harsh environment and extend the life of their construction.  Rain water collection is also planned.

The new cabins with central deck and steps