Save the world: Return land to nature

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Tiri Tiri Matangi Island, A Conservation Success Story

Once upon a time, the jungle was a land where animals and birds roamed free. Then man needed agricultural land to satisfy his physical needs. Further down the line, men needed more and more land. Animals and birds were pushed further and further until some became extinct or endangered. The native giant Moa bird is one such example.

Here at Tiri Tiri Matangi island, the farmland's lease wasn't renewed and the island was returned to nature.

Around 15 years ago Tiri Tiri Matangi Island, a 220 hectare island was largely barren farmland. In a unique partnership between the Government and conservationists from Auckland, it was designated an open sanctuary, cleared of predators and planted in over three million native trees.

Tiri provides an opportunity to visit a genuine open wildlife sanctuary featuring many species of endangered New Zealand bird life, including the kiwi and takahe. Guided tours are available to enjoy this very special island, administered by the Department of Conservation.

Even the boat to the island is nicely decorated as a green boat.