Media are invited to the release of New Zealand dotterel from the oiled wildlife facility.
Media and members of the public are welcome to attend; however, it is important to note that the welfare of the wildlife is the first priority.
Birds will be released from the Maketū Spit, approximately 100 metres from the public viewing point at the Maketu Reserve. Public are asked to stay off the spit during the release to ensure the welfare of the birds.
There will be a brief speech before an Iwi representative blesses the birds, then the birds will be released in small groups.
Please note this event is part of an ongoing programme of wildlife releases. Many will not be open to the public. While we appreciate the public interest in these release events, these must be balanced by operational requirements to ensure the birds are released without being stressed.
This may be the only opportunity for media and the public to view dotterels being released.
However, there will be further little blue penguin releases over the next week or so that public and media can attend - we will let you know once we have confirmation of dates and times.
New Zealand dotterel release
When: 2pm, Saturday 3 DecemberWhere: Maketū Reserve, access point by boat ramp on left after the junction of Beach Road and Awhe Road, MaketūWhat: About 15 New Zealand dotterel will be released back into the wild.