On the 16th, Clutha District Mayor Bryan Cadogan stated he feels “furious and responsible” regarding the “scummy” killings of New Zealand sea lion/pakake cow Jade and her 9-month-old pup in late 2024, and the recent death of a bull in the Catlins.
Thank you Bryan Cadogan for speaking out about these preventable and tragic sea lion deaths and the ineffectiveness of the Vehicles on Beaches Bylaw in its current state.
In January 2023, the Vehicles on Beaches Bylaw came into effect in the Clutha Region. This was the culmination of a 2-year campaign I spearheaded in June 2020 to protect wildlife. Several organisations, locals and I crusaded for 4 beaches to be vehicle free to protect endangered wildlife, such as sea lions and yellow-eyed penguins/hoiho. The current Bylaw prohibits vehicles from driving above the high-water mark, on sand dunes and in a manner that has adverse effects on plants or native animals or their habitats. Since 2023, it has become evident that stricter legislation is necessary, due to the volume of wildlife harassment and vehicular vandalism incidents in the Clutha Region.
Aotearoa New Zealand it is time for vehicle free beaches. Protect endangered and endemic wildlife by enjoying beaches on foot. Wildlife have the right to exist, benefit many people’s lives and attract tourists – boosting our economy and supporting communities.