For the last three years The Rotary Club of Devonport has enthusiastically supported the Motuihe Island Restoration Project, whose aims are to restore the native forest and re-introduce native birds.  The island is now a pest free zone and kiwi and other native fauna have been successfully introduced on to the island.

This year we had our largest contingent of 46, including members, their families and friends of Rotary.  It was great to be joined by increasing numbers of younger members of the community, including the grand children of one of our Rotary members who have already asked to go back again.

Many hands make light work and over the last three years our Rotary club has planted around 3000 trees.  This is all done in just a morning’s work and the workers are all rewarded with a sausage sizzle before they make the 30 minute ferry trip back to Torpedo bay Wharf.

Volunteer Jim Barnett says “It’s a great feeling spending a morning helping restore the island’s habitat, and knowing the trees will be around for future generations to enjoy”.  Volunteers all agree that it is very rewarding to return each year and see the progress of the trees which have been planted in previous years.

Because of the popularity of this event it is anticipated The Rotary Club of Devonport will make two trips to the island each year in the autumn and again in spring.   If you are interested in taking part please contact us:  info@devonportrotary.co.nz.  Your name will be added to our data base so that we can advise you of our next trip.

For more information about the Motuihe Island Restoration Project visit http://www.motuihe.org.nz