Kia ora koutou
This last pānui is at a time of both celebration and sadness. The end of Project Janszoon marks a considerable achievement in the 14-years since it was set up, at the instigation of Devon McLean and with the remarkable philanthropic support of the Plowman family.
It is a time to celebrate the transformation – the return and spread of bird species that had been lost or were heading that way, removal of conifers and other invasive weeds, restoration of beach fronts and Hadfield Clearing, and inspiring the next generation in stewardship and kaitiaki of the Park.
It is also a sad moment, with the passionate and dedicated Project Janszoon team splitting up and moving on to new projects. Working with the DOC team, Abel Tasman Birdsong Trust, mana whenua iwi and others you have left a wonderful legacy for future generations.
Project Janszoon has focussed at a landscape scale on the ecosystems of the Park. This is different but complementary to the DOC National Predator Control Programme focus on “at risk” species. My plea to the Department and the Te Here ā Nuku Trust, who now own much of the coastal fringe of the Park, is to honour the legacy of Project Janszoon’s work and maintain this broader ecosystem focus.
I look forward to Abel Tasman National Park being recognised not only for its golden sand beaches that attract visitors to the region, but also for its thriving biodiversity. Wouldn’t it be wonderful to see Mohua back in the Park!
It has been a privilege to Chair the Project Janszoon Board, contributing to healing the mauri of this extraordinary place. Thank you to all who have supported the Project Janszoon vision.
Gillian Wratt
Chair
