Ruapuke Island is located off the coast of Raglan in New Zealand’s North Island. It is owned by a number of Maori tribes, including Ngati Maniapoto, Ngaati Ruanui and Ngati Tawhirikura. The island has been part of the collective ownership of the tribes since 1840, when the land was ceded to them in exchange for the recognition of European land-rights.
According to a report from the local protection board, the Ruapuke Island Trust, which was established in 1987, represents more than 5,000 Maori descent owners of the island. It is the responsibility of the trust to manage and protect the cultural and ecological biodiversity of the island and its surrounding land, as well as to ensure the rights and welfare of the owners are respected.
What does Ruapuke mean in Maori?
Ruapuke is a Maori word that is derived from the term ‘Ruapukea’ which means ‘to have or to burn’ in Maori. In Maori culture, Ruapuke is a term used to describe a flame or fire – either lit or free-burning.
The term has a deeper meaning for Maori as fire is seen as a symbol of growth and life, and is an integral part of many cultural practices and ceremonies. Fire is a source of heat as well as spiritual energy, and is seen as a means of connection between the physical and spiritual worlds.
Moreover, to create, maintain, and extinguish fires is seen as a great responsibility that requires respect and understanding. Therefore, the term Ruapuke holds great significance in Maori culture and is used to highlight how important fire is to the cultural identity of Maori people.
Are there snakes on Stewart Island?
Yes, there are snakes on Stewart Island. The island itself is home to the rare and endangered Conservation Status wētāpunga or the Dear Skull or Takehe skink, one of the world’s rarest lizard species.
As for snakes, Stewart Island is the only known natural habitat for the copperhead, a species of harmless New Zealand native reptile found nowhere else in the world. Copperheads are typically nocturnal, and can be found in forests, wetlands, and coastal habitats of the island.
Other snake species known to inhabit the island’s native habitats include the common Kohekohe (Austropseudeotyphlops diabolicus), the Copper-striped Skink (Oligosoma infrapunctatum) and the Auckland Green Gecko (Chondrodactylus bibronii).
What District of governance does Stewart Island fall under?
Stewart Island or Rakiura, as it is known in Māori, is a small island off the southern coast of the South Island of New Zealand and the third-largest island in the country. It is home to the Department of Conservation Rakiura National Park, one of New Zealand’s iconic national parks.
It is also the southernmost permanently inhabited place in New Zealand. According to the Statistics New Zealand 2018 population estimates, the island has a permanent resident population of 388.
Stewart Island falls under the governance of the Southland District Council, which was established in 1989, when the Southland Region was amalgamated and six district councils were combined. Other councils in the Southland region are Gore District Council, Invercargill City Council and the Southland Regional Council.
The Southland District Council is responsible for the administration, control and direction of the district, covering everything from the management of local roads to dog control, drystock farm activity, and the care of the environment.
Ultimately, the Southland District Council has the power to make decisions and pass bylaws within the district that affect the lives of Stewart Islanders.
Does anyone live on Campbell Island?
No, there are currently no permanent inhabitants of Campbell Island, though it has a long history of human occupation. Located in the South Pacific Ocean, Campbell Island is the main island in the eponymous Campbell Island group and is a reserve managed by the New Zealand Department of Conservation.
It is home to many unique species found nowhere else in the world, including a population of albatross, several species of shearwater, and a variety of petrels and terns. The island also hosts a large population of sea lions and New Zealand sea lions.
In early 2021, a New Zealand-led research station was established on Campbell Island as part of a conservation and research project. The station is focused on creating a better understanding of the island’s ecology and the interactions between its inhabitants.
At the same time, a team of researchers are studying the ways in which climate change is impacting the island.
While there are no permanent inhabitants, regular visitors to the island include scientists, researchers, and tourists. Tourists can stay in the research station and take part in guided tours which include hikes and bird-watching.
Due to its remote location and challenging weather conditions, Campbell Island remains fairly untouched by humans and is an ideal destination for those wishing to explore nature.
Can you drive on ruapuke Beach?
No, you are not allowed to drive on Ruapuke Beach. It is a popular spot for beachgoers, and motor vehicles are not allowed on the beach. While some people may drive their cars along the beach for short distances for the purpose of resource extraction, fishing, and beach launching and loading, this is not encouraged and is illegal and extremely dangerous.
Public access tracks are available for people who wish to access Ruapuke Beach by car; these tracks should be used instead of driving directly on the beach.
Why do tourists go to Raglan?
Tourists go to Raglan for its stunning landscapes, its rich culture and activities, and the variety of experiences it has to offer.
Raglan is a picturesque coastal town located in the Waikato region of the North Island in New Zealand. It is renowned for its expansive beaches, rugged black-sand surf breaks, and majestic maunga (hills and mountains).
Visitors can explore the stunning coastline and take in the incredible views from the top of Mount Karioi, Raglan’s highest peak. There are also plenty of stunning coastal walking tracks, including the famous Whaingaroa Harbour Walkway, which takes you along the entire length of the harbour.
Raglan is known for its unique culture and vibrant community. It’s home to the Whaingaroa Music Experience, the Whaingaroa Art Gallery, and the Karioi Maunga Marae. Visitors can also enjoy a range of activities on and off the water, such as surfing, SUPing, kayaking, fishing, and snorkelling.
Raglan is also the gateway to Mimiha Stream, one of the most beautiful and unspoilt places in New Zealand.
Finally, Raglan has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach holiday, a cultural experience, an adventure on the water, or a combination of all three, Raglan is the perfect destination.
With its stunning landscapes, unique culture, and variety of experiences, Raglan truly has something for everyone.
What is the speed limit on 90 Mile beach?
The speed limit on 90 Mile Beach in New Zealand is generally set at 50km/h. However, during the busy summer months (November – April) the speed is reduced to 40km/h in some areas, in order to ensure the safety of both drivers and beachgoers.
Additionally, there are a few areas that have stricter speed limits, such as near the foreshore, or car parks. Drivers should always pay close attention to the posted speed limit signage and respect the speed limits, as they are in place to ensure the safety of everyone enjoying the beach.
Which beaches in Oregon can you drive on?
Oregon offers a variety of beaches that you can drive on, depending on where you are situated in the state. One of the most popular Oregon beaches to drive on is Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, located near Florence.
Visitors can enjoy sand dunes, freshwater lakes, and miles of beachfront along the Oregon coast. In addition to the expansive beach access, you can also drive your car right up onto the beach! Just be sure to check the tide times before driving out, as the tide can be unpredictable and you don’t want to be stuck in the sand.
Other beach access points that offer the opportunity to drive on the beach include Central Oregon Coast Beaches in Lincoln City and Rockaway Beach. Oregon’s South Coast beaches also have driving access, including Bandon Beach, Coos Bay, and North Bend.
Again, drivers need to pay attention to the tide times and always be mindful of other beachgoers.
Finally, Fort Stevens State Park in Hammond is one of the best beach access points for driving in Oregon. Within the confines of the large fort, there are over four miles of beach available for driving.
Here, you can access the beach from paved parking lots, though access is much more restricted due to the park’s historical significance. The beaches accessible here also offer some of the best views of the surrounding area, with several hikes leading you up to picturesque vistas.
Which beach can I drive my car in?
Unfortunately, not many beaches allow driving of cars due to the potential for damaging the environment, creating safety hazards, and impeding other beachgoers. However. Many beaches enforce strict rules when it comes to driving cars, including speed limits and driving only during certain hours.
You should always check with local authorities before attempting to drive a car on a beach.
In the United States, beaches in Oregon, Washington, and other states allow driving. The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department has rules governing the use of motor vehicles on the Oregon coast and the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife outlines guidelines for the Washington Coast.
Further north in Canada, Sainte-Marguerite Beach permits day-use vehicle access on prescribed sections.
In the Caribbean, you can drive your car on Luquillo Beach in Puerto Rico or take your car for a spin on the white coral sand at Playa Magante in the Dominican Republic. However, you will need a specific permit to do so.
Finally, in Australia, access to Fraser Island, the world’s largest sand island, is only available by 4WDs as the island is mainly composed of sand. The island also has a number of designated roads, however, drivers will require an Access Permit before seeking to drive.
What is the biggest town in Stewart Island?
Halfmoon Bay is the largest town located on Stewart Island in New Zealand. As of the most recent census, it is home to a population of 307 people. Halfmoon Bay is the most populous settlement in the Rakiura District, with the other main settlement in the area being Oban.
Halfmoon Bay is centered on a large bay of the same name. The town offers opportunities for fishing, swimming, and an array of other recreational activities. It is well known for its stunning natural beauty and the rugged coastal landscape of the region.
Halfmoon Bay is home to a variety of shops and amenities, as well as cafes and restaurants. There is a public wharf in the center of town offering boat transport and services to marine industries. This is one of the most popular places to visit when in Stewart Island and it is well worth a visit when exploring the stunning island of New Zealand!.
How much does it cost to go to Stewart Island?
The cost of going to Stewart Island will vary depending on a number of factors, such as whether you travel by air or sea, the type of accommodation you choose, and the activities you partake in.
On average, a two-night stay on Stewart Island for two people can cost anywhere from NZ$400-NZ$800, depending on whether you choose a self-contained motel accommodation or a backpackers, the type of transport you take, and if you opt for activities such as beaches or bird tours.
If you are travelling by air, airline fares start from NZ$159 per person return, or NZ$88 per person one-way, between Invercargill and Stewart Island.
Those travelling by boat will have to take a ferry from either Bluff or Oban on the island, which starts at NZ$48 per adult return, or NZ$25 per child return ticket.
It is also worth noting that the actual cost of getting to Stewart Island may not be the same as getting back. Often, the cost for the return trip (especially for the ferry) can be higher than the cost for the outward journey, so it’s always worth doing a bit of research into your options.
Overall, the cost of going to Stewart Island will depend on how comprehensive your travel package is; however, budget travellers can expect to pay anywhere from NZ$400-NZ$800 for a two-night stay on the island for two people.
What is Wellington’s Māori name?
Wellington’s Māori name is Te Whanganui-a-Tara, which translates to ‘the great harbour of Tara’. This name reflects the importance of Wellington’s harbour as well as its role as a hub for Māori culture.
Tara is the name of a Māori ancestor, the ancestor of the Ngāti Toa, the main iwi (tribe) in the Wellington region. The area surrounding Te Whanganui-a-Tara is home to many marae (Māori meeting places) which still host many of the cultural and spiritual activities of the Māori people today.
How did whakatu get its name?
The name Whakatu is derived from the Māori language, and literally translates to ‘to spark’ or strike up. The name was chosen in reference to the early industries of the area, which included small scale flax milling, boiling down works and tanneries, which were all closely connected to the port.
The area was an industrial hub of activity and to the local Māori people, it was as if the industries sparked to life, just like striking a match.
Originally, the settlement was known as Nelson South, but the name Whakatu was eventually adopted in 1913 to more closely reflect the local vibrancy and history of the area. The name was officially given by the New Zealand Geographic Board and is still used to this day.