Thank you Richard Davison at the Clutha Leader for writing an update on our New Zealand sea lion/pakake campaign! The Clutha District Council met on the 2nd of September to discuss their Regulatory and Policy Agenda, in which they classified vehicles on beaches as a “high priority.” Catlins Ward Councillor Dane Catherwood stated he has been “contacted by approximately ten concerned locals objecting to any vehicle restrictions, as one of the reasons many love living in the Clutha District is the freedom.” We acknowledge the individuals objecting to restricting vehicles on Cannibal Bay and Surat Bay in The Catlins, and we regret we are not able to accommodate everyone’s needs and wants. Restricting people’s rights to do anything, regardless of the reason, will always result in people pushing back. Public consultations should take place and we are interested in hearing the Clutha District local’s opinions.
We are trying to give a voice to those that don’t have the same privilege – New Zealand sea lions/pakake. New Zealand sea lions/pakake are philopatric and are returning to mainland New Zealand; therefore, unfortunately, it has come down to either prioritising protecting an indigenous species that are declining or prioritising human recreational activities.
Thank you to the New Zealand Sea Lion Trust, Forest & Bird and the public for your support!