Did you know that Motuhoropapa Island is a predator-free sanctuary? It is a jewel in the Hauraki Gulf. This island boasts a rich history of conservation and unique ecological significance. Motuhoropapa Island is one of the islands known as The Noises. They are located northeast of Rakino Island. They are about 24 km northeast of Auckland.
Let’s step onto the shores of Motuhoropapa Island. Imagine the dense canopy averaging 6–10 meters high. Sometimes it reaches 20 meters. The forest is mature. It includes pōhutukawa, karo and houpara. You will also find māhoe and coastal karamu. Wharangi also grows here plus kohekohe in the understory.
Centuries ago Māori visited and inhabited Motuhoropapa Island. They collected seafood and seabirds. Grey-faced petrels were a common catch. In 1934, a unique conservation effort took place. Malacologist Baden Powell released one hundred flax snails. They came from Archway Island. This helped to diversify the island’s unique ecosystem.
In the 1950s Norway rats arrived. They swam from garbage or stowed away on boats. Rats quickly spread to Motuhoropapa by 1962. These invaders devastated the native wildlife. They killed chicks of white-faced storm petrels. In the 1980s a rat eradication program began. Since 2002 the island has been predator free.
The island has a hut built around 1977. It was constructed during a study of Norway rats. The University of Auckland restored it in 2014.
Since 2015 giant wētā have been translocated to Motuhoropapa. The first group included 1200 wētāpunga. They now thrive in the forest. It is a testament to the island’s successful conservation.
The soft seafloor around Motuhoropapa is special. Rhodoliths and dog cockles create a rich habitat. This nurtures young scallops and snapper. Sadly extensive fishing has damaged much of the seafloor. This has led to a decline in marine life.
In 2006, Witi Ihimaera wrote a children’s book. It was titled “The Amazing Adventures of Razza the Rat”. The story features a radio-collared rat. The rat was released on Motuhoropapa. It swam to Ōtata before being trapped.
Motuhoropapa Island stands as a symbol. It represents resilience and conservation. The island is a haven for native species. It shows the ongoing commitment to preserving its natural heritage. As you leave Motuhoropapa remember its story. It highlights the importance of protecting our unique ecosystems.