WHALE ISLAND

Grey River Argus, 11 January 1944, Page 2

WHALE ISLAND

Bush Set on Fire

AUCKLAND, Jan. 10. Residents of the Bav of Plenty view with anger the wanton destruction by fire of the scrub and dried grass covering- the 1000 ft cone of Whale Island. The island at this time of the year is a place of cal) for yachtsmen anti occasional campers. It is not inhabited and is a recognised breeding ground for mutton birds, which the Maoris hunt in the breeding season. There are also large flocks of goats there. . The island’s towering outline has become a well-known landmark and much resentment is felt at the firing of -the slopes, which must result' in great loss of sea-bird life, as well as the destruction. of manv beautiful pohutukawa trees. Yachtsmen who were cruising in the vicinity at the time -state that terrified birds endeavouring to reach their burrows dived straight into the flames. Thu

island is nrivatelv owned, and as a direct result of the fire there is st movement in Whakatane to have _ it taken over bv the State as a bird sanctuary. Excellent fishing is to be had at the land side of the island 'where the water is remarkably clear.