Conservation Discovery Expedition may become annual event
Date: 14 September 2015
The Conservation Discovery Expedition to Dusky Sound has been such a success that Real Journeys and the Department of Conservation (DOC) are working at turning it into an annual event.
Understanding the finer details of stoat traps
“Conservation is an intrinsic part of Real Journeys heritage and we’re pleased to have been able to work with DOC to find a new way we can help preserve and protect Dusky Sound. From the feedback we’ve had it was a great Discovery Expedition experience as well,” says Richard Lauder, Real Journeys Chief Executive.
DOC’s Te Anau-based Conservation Partnerships Manager, Jesse Haanen says the first conservation-focussed joint cruise was a resounding success and DOC would continue to work with Real Journeys towards making it a regular feature.
“It’s exciting to be working in partnership with Real Journeys for the benefit of the Dusky Sound restoration project.”
Learning about early Maori cooking pits - Indian Island
The expedition was a sell-out and included 29 people, mostly from Southland, who quickly snapped up the chance to help DOC with its conservation work in Dusky Sound. Feedback was positive from those taking part:
“A trip of a lifetime” - David Mollison,
“Bucket list ticked off” - Keith Cullen, and “a great concept of increased partnership between tourism and conservation” - Wendy Day.
Work included trap checking, bird monitoring and track maintenance on Indian Island in Dusky Sound but passengers also enjoyed all the usual comforts and elements of a Discovery Expedition, including a nature guide, heli-flight and nature walks to historic sites.
The trip also raised over $7,500 for DOC’s Dusky Sound Conservation and Restoration project. Next year’s Conservation Discovery Expedition is likely to take place in September but dates have yet to be set.
The Dusky Sound Conservation Expedition featured on TV One's Seven Sharp last week.
Background Information:
Dusky Sound Conservation & Restoration Programme
Dusky Sound is one of the least modified parts of mainland New Zealand. The Dusky Sound Conservation and Restoration Programme is a comprehensive and integrated ecological plan for the Dusky Sound area, including all of the terrestrial ecosystems within Dusky Sound, Breaksea Sound, Wet Jacket Arm and Acheron Passage, plus important mainland buffer zones. DOC is the central government organisation charged with conserving the natural and historic heritage of New Zealand. DOC’s vision is for Dusky Sound to be recognised internationally as one of the most intact ecosystems on Earth, and an inspiration for biodiversity conservation across the world.
About Discovery Expeditions
Real Journeys operates a season of Discovery Expeditions through Fiordland and Stewart Island. These multi-day Discovery Expeditions explore our natural and historical heritage and operate April to October - more info.
For further information contact:
Tsehai Tiffin - Real Journeys Corporate Communications Manager
Mobile: +64 21 523 899
Email: [email protected]