In mid-April 2011, 14 members took part in the members’ field trip to the “Auckland Islands”. No, not the real thing but we did make two separate day trips to Tiritiri Matangi, and to Motuihe with Auckland as our base.
 
Frank Katavich led the Tiri trip accompanied by Harry Keys, William Keys, Karen Williams, Shirley Potter, Karen Arden, Maureen Smith, Chris Potter, Mary Monzingo, Elaine Cooper, Doug and Doris Downs and Geoff and Lis Brunton.
 
Wet weather did not spoil the enthusiasm of this group who were in raptures over the sound of bird song on this lovely forested island, especially in the areas of old bush. We saw dozens of bellbirds, stitchbird (hihi), saddleback (tieke), kereru, kakariki, Australa(sian) brown quail, and it was a thrill to see Greg the takahe near the visitor centre. The activity and noise around some of the feeder stations was something to behold! There was plenty of time to cover a lot of ground while still having time to bird watch. A hot cup of tea was very welcome from the beautiful new visitor centre close to the lighthouse. Calm seas made it a very pleasant outing on board the Tiri Kat.
 
Margi Keys led the trip to Motuihe, joined by Harry, Karen, Shirley, Ardy, Maureen, Chris, Mary, Elaine, Doug, Doris, and Hazel Shepherd.
 
Sunday was fine and warm with no hint of rain. It was a scenic cruise aboard the ferry via Devonport and Rangitoto with outstanding harbour views. Like many of the islands, Motuihe has a fascinating history and the signs are everywhere: from Maori occupation, to farming, quarantine station, prisoner-of-war camp and naval training base. Want to know more then checkout: http://www.doc.govt.nz/conservation/historic/by-region/auckland/hauraki-gulf-islands/motuihe-island/
 
We saw saddleback, tui, wetas, fabulous pohutukawa, taraire in fruit, and the prolific kohekohe with its pretty flower and sticky seeds.  Oh yes, Elaine spotted a skink!
 
It was interesting to meet some of the volunteers from the Motuihe Restoration Trust who’ve been working since 2003 in active partnership with DOC to restore the island’s natural environment. Well over 50,000 plants have been grown; all from seeds collected on the island, and planted out by volunteers. It will be good to come back in 10 years to see what a difference they have made.