C.—6

16

APPENDIX F. CAPE KIDNAPPER BIRD SANCTUARY BOARD. (J. D. Thomson, Chairman.) An official visit of inspection was made by the Board on the Ist March, 1929. It was computed by one of the members that the number of gannets now on the cape is at least five thousand. The veteran naturalist, Mr. Henry Hill, who is also a member of the Board, states that he first visited the cape fifty years ago and at that time the number of gannets did not exceed fifty. It is quite evident that it will always be a gannet resort. The sanctuary is a unique spot, and is probably the only place in the world where these interesting birds nest on the mainland. The sight of them in their habitat is never to be forgotten. Birds on all sides, sitting or flying round—the scene is one of perpetual motion, as the birds seem never at rest. The nesting season was over, and the young birds, unable to fly, were there in great numbers, flapping their immature wings up and down and occasionally dragging their bodies over a few feet of ground. At the top end of the hill were gathered the more advanced youngsters who would shortly practise flying down the hill. The old birds were flying round in circles, or off on fishing-trips, or squabbling with their neighbours, while over all was one ceaseless, reverberating, squawking clamour.

APPENDIX G. NEW PLYMOUTH SCENIC RESERVES BOARD. (W. D. Armit, Chairman.) Two meetings of the Board were held during the year, and a number of inspections of the various reserves were made by myself and members. In addition frequent reports have been obtained from the Field Inspectors on the various reserves under the Board's control. The following is a short summary of the operations of the Board during the year :— Pukerangiora Pa. —The trees on this reserve have made good growth with the exception of the area which was replanted in 1927. On a recent inspection it was found that the fern had made strong growth on this area, and it is intended to clear and maintain this area again. The gorse on the road boundary also requires to be cleared, and some of this is now fairly heavy. These matters are receiving early attention. The Legion of Frontiersmen have taken an active interest in this reserve during the past twelve months. Two field-days were arranged by them and tracks cleared from the access gate towards the cliff and also to the old sap, thus enabling visitors to move freely within the planted areas and view historic points. The action of the Legion in this respect is much appreciated by the Reserves Board. A complaint was made by some Maoris in the locality that the ancient burial-places on this reserve had been disturbed, but on investigation it was found that this statement was entirely without foundation. Meeting of the Waters Reserve. —This reserve is frequented by large numbers of the public and has become a picnic resort for many New Plymouth and surrounding district residents. Repairs to the suspension bridge comprise further replacement of some of the decking, and other replacements are still necessary to maintain the structure in a safe condition. It is regretted that the public, particularly the youth of the community, persist in swinging this structure, causing undue strain and shortening its life of usefulness. The bridge has been stayed as far as practicable, to minimize the actions of irresponsible people in this direction, but the nuisance cannot altogether be prevented. Stock trespass has been prevented by the repair of certain fences, and the flora in this reserve is of particular interest owing to its wide range and accessibility. The acquisition of a small area of 11 perches to give access to the western approach of the bridge has been completed, and the title now vests in. the Crown. The thanks of the Board are due to Mr. C. H. Weston in this connection for his honorary services in prepaxing the transfer from the Mangorei Co-operative Dairy Factory Co., Ltd., to the Crown. Pukemiro and Onaero Reserves. —The necessary funds have been obtained by way of grant for the work of fencing the boundary of the former reserve, and this will shortly be put in hand. As a deviation of the main North Road is suggested, the work of re-erecting the road boundary is not being proceeded with at present. Koru Pa. —This reserve continues to attract a large number of visitors. The reserve has been frequently inspected, and some promiscuous lighting of fires is engaging the attention of the Board. Okoke Pa and Te-Awa-te-Take Pa. —No action has been required concerning these pas for the year just ended. Ratapihipihi Reserve.—The work of repairing the boundary-fences on this reserve has been carried out during the year, in conjunction with the adjoining owners. Generally speaking, the reserves under the control of the Board are in good order and condition. The thanks of the Board are due to the honorary inspectors who have been appointed to look after the scenic reserves in their various districts. These are Mr. A. R. Gudopp, who has control of the Ratapihipihi Reserve ; Mr. S. Topless, who has control of the Pukemiro and Ona.ero Reserves ; Mr. P. H. E. Surrey, of Pukerangiora Pa ; Mr. Henry Cole, of Awa-Te-Take Pa ; Mr. Henry King, of the Meeting of the Waters Reserve ; and Mr. R. W. J. Davies, of the reserves in the Tarauaki District generally.