Hmm. Some interesting comments from Geoffery Robinson a couple of weeks ago. Issue 1101). I don’t usually respond to that stuff, but sometimes it is important to do so.
I have been fortunate enough to represent the TCDC as a Councillor for two terms (6 years) and the WRC as a Councillor for one term (3years). I achieved a lot in both roles, though I accept not everyone will agree. Such is politics.
After my spell at TCDC, I successfully stood as the Coromandel candidate for Waikato Regional Council (WRC) because I saw an appalling lack of good governance there due to the egregious behaviour of then representative Clyde Graf, who had been put there by the local anti-1080-brigade, assisted by various Coromandel Land Care groups.
Robinson and Veysey claim to be ‘real’ Coromandel conservationists, but they mostly represent the interests of hunters who want to ban the use of 1080, allow for the widespread proliferation of pigs, while turning a blind eye to the ‘introduction’ of deer and wallaby to the Conservation estate.
The other thing that Robinson and Veysey achieved was to mark the Coromandel, as ‘too difficult’ for more advanced conservation projects where selected pest free areas would be established allowing for the re-introduction of Saddleback and Kokako. This initiative was subsequently re-prioritised to Maungatautari and Pirongia Mountains.
It would appear that Robinson, an American import to NZ, has never grasped a real understanding of the perilous status of many of our native birds which have no innate abilities to protect themselves at scale from rats, stoats and weasels unless under an umbrella of trapping and the targeted use of 1080. Nor does he choose to understand NZ scientists who have found that in our unique environment the correct use of 1080 has no significant environmental impacts.
Robinson, Veysey and others also played a significant role in sinking the proposal put forward by Glen Leach for the Coromandel to obtain World Heritage status.
In short, Robinson and Veysey have helped put back Coromandel conservation until the next generation of conservationists step forward and they have both been placed underground.
As a WRC Councillor. I just wanted to restore the balance of good governance at that organisation by defeating Graf. I achieved what needed to be done at the time – happy to have helped restore the Coromandel conservation effort.
Having said that, it is important to continue holding Robinson and Veysey to account. They both represent a clear and present danger to genuine conservation efforts on the Coromandel.
