MATATA BIRD SANCTUARY

Bay of Plenty Beacon, Volume 76, Issue 7, 26 May 1944, Page 5

MATATA BIRD SANCTUARY

THOUSANDS FLOCK TO LAGOON Reports from residents of Matata state that once again with the opening of the shooting season, thousands of birds have flocked to the lagoon to find sanctuary. Extending from the Tarawera bridge to approximately the. railway station, the sanctuary runs the whole length of the Matata township, and is the home of many thousands of ducks, black swan and shags, to mention but a few of the species which arrive there regularly each year as soon as the noise of the guns disturb the peaceful countryside. Here, a bird, regardless of breed or type is Safe from harm, and thousands which seem to have, realised 'this spend their time on the placid waters of the lagoon safe from the sportsman's gun.

After three months absence the white beron, which is practically a native of Matata has returned to his old haunts in the sanctuary and taken up life once more where he can indulge peacefully in his favourite pastime of sleeping.

Many shooting parties from various parts of the North Island have been staying in the Matata district and reports show that the sport has been first class, there being many limit bags of duck and several of pheasants obtained despite the fact that the latter are more wary than usual. In the main the weather has been too fine for good shooting but there have been few sportsmen able to complain about lack of game.

Residents of Maitata are justifiably proud of their sanctuary and rightly so as it forms a picturesque setting which adds much local colour to a district already well charged with historical flavour.,