A sanctuary whispers in the Hauraki Gulf. It’s called Maria Island, also known as Ruapuke. This small island, just a speck in the vastness of the gulf, holds a significant place in New Zealand’s conservation history. Maria Island, a mere 150 meters long and 100 meters wide, might seem insignificant at first glance. But this unassuming islet, once used as a WWII bombing practice target, birthed a dream. A dream of a predator-free New Zealand. Before 1960, rats infested Maria Island. They decimated the population of white-faced storm petrels, also known as takahikare, that nested there. But in 1960, something extraordinary happened. Conservationists successfully eradicated the rats from Maria Island. This victory marked a turning point. In 1964, Maria Island, along with the nearby David Rocks, earned a global distinction. They became the first islands in the world to be declared rodent-free. This pioneering effort on Maria Island provided a blueprint. It became a model for predator eradication programs worldwide, paving the way for the ambitious goal of a pest-free New Zealand. Maria Island, once a target of destruction, transformed into a symbol of hope. It stands as a testament to the power of conservation and a reminder that even the smallest islands can play a significant role in protecting our planet’s biodiversity.
Центральный дом работников искусств
Step through the grand wooden doors of the Central House of the Workers of Art, and you’ll be transported to