Help create a scientific snapshot of nature at Waipātiki BioBlitz

Locals will have a chance to get hands-on, in a scientific race against the clock at Waipātiki’s BioBlitz at the start of February.

The BioBlitz, a quick and intensive environmental survey of the Waipātiki coastal area, situated just north of Napier, in Hawke’s Bay, will be taking place over 24 hours on Saturday 1 and Sunday 2 February. The aim is to provide a comprehensive snapshot of all species in the ecosystem, from fish, bugs and birds to lizards, plants and fungi – and everything in between.

A range of public talks with experts will also be held across the weekend, covering a huge range of native species. Talks include an informative expose of the important role bugs have in our world by world-famous ‘Bug Man’ Ruud Kleinpaste.

Department of Conservation (DOC) Senior Ranger Denise Fastier says, “This is a great opportunity for people to get to know their native neighbours better and contribute to the conservation and protection of biodiversity at Waipātiki, with some citizen science.”

The Waipātiki community has a long-term vision to enhance local natural and biodiversity values, which will contribute to large scale Hawke’s Bay conservation initiatives including Cape to City, Poutiri ao o Tāne and Whakatipu Mahia.

As a first step, measuring exactly what exists in the local environment will form a useful baseline for future management of the area.

“We know that nationally there has been a massive decline in biodiversity since the settlement of Aotearoa/New Zealand by humans. While we’re fortunate to have a large conservation estate where habitats and species have some protection, much of this area exists in mountains and upland areas,” Denise Fastier says.

“Coastal sites such as Waipātiki are less well represented in terms of protection for native habitat and species. This BioBlitz is a great opportunity to build our knowledge about what exists in an area like Waipātiki.”

Kay Griffiths, Biodiversity Hawke’s Bay Guardians Chair, says, “Anyone can take part. If you have a passion for the environment and biodiversity, are a BioBlitz veteran or budding citizen scientist, Waipātiki is the place to be, come early February.”

Intrested in joining the Waipātiki BioBlitz?
Visit the  Biodiversity HB Facebook page for more information
Register at the Biodiversity HB site: www.biodiversityhb.org

This BioBlitz and Waipātiki community initiative is supported by DOC, Hawke’s Bay Regional Council, and Hastings District Council.

17 January 2020

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