BIRDS INCREASING ON KAPITI.

Shannon News, 16 October 1923, Page 2

BIRDS INCREASING ON KAPITI.

“There are thousands of birds there,” remarked-Mr. Johannes C. Andersen, of the Turnbull Library, to a prdss representative, speaking with reference to his visit to Kapiti Island last week. He added that the birds were veiy well, and appeared to b'c increasing, and in every way flourishing under natural conditions on the island sanctuary. *

He commented upon the absence of goats, declaring that he had only seen four after traversing a -large part of Kiijuti. It did not appear that they were as much of a mcnanee as stated also that there were considerable numbers of oppossums 5 on the island, and that two trappers had been engaged this year in an effort to decrease their numbers.

Of the occupation of Kapiti by the famous old Native General, To Rauparalia there is now absolutely no sign. Two boiling pots at one end of the island are the onlv indication of the important Avhaling station of bygone days. Two sketches in the Turnbull’ Librarydone by Mr. Swainson when visiting Kapiti in 1835, show the remains of an unfortified pa near the shore. It was apparently deserted even then. There is now nothing to be seen of this old time Maori settlement, dhe only evidence of Maori occupation is a burial cave in tlio southern end.

It will be recalled that Sir George Grey at one time thought of settling at Kapiti, and entered into negotiations in that connection with the Native owners. He eventually decided on beautiful Kawau, however, an island in the Hauraki Gulf, on which he uuilt the stately Mansion House, now frequented by visitors to the statesman’s old home.