A stunning image of a mallard drake in flight, captured by Northland photographer and keen duck-hunter David Towgood, has been chosen for the coveted 2024 Game Bird Habitat collectors’ stamp. Sales of the stamp help the New Zealand Game Bird Habitat Trust to fund habitat protection for game birds and other wildlife. The trust also receives $5 from every game bird hunting licence, with all licensed hunters able to receive a stamp for free on request. Towgood said he was delighted to win the award for the image, taken at Riponui, north of the Hikurangi swamp. He received a $1000 prize and $1000 Kilwell voucher.
Speak up about freshwater rules
Northland Regional Council is encouraging people to have their say on a draft plan to improve freshwater health in Northland before the March 31 deadline. The draft plan includes new rules and targets to improve the health of Northland’s rivers, streams, lakes, wetlands and groundwater. Some of the changes considered are tighter rules for managing stock access to waterways, more rules for highly erodible land and setting aside 20 per cent of unallocated water for environmental and cultural enhancement. More than 480 people have already taken part in online hui and drop-in sessions. For more information and to give feedback, visit wai-it-matters.nz or email freshwater@nrc.govt.nz. You can also contact the council on (0800) 002 004 or drop into its offices in Whangārei, Dargaville, Kaitāia or Waipapa.
Free breast screening in Kaitāia
BreastScreen Northland in Kaitāia offers free screenings to help save lives by detecting breast cancer early before it spreads. A mobile bus will be present from March 25 until April 19 to provide screening for eligible women aged 45-69. To book your appointments, call 0800 270 200 or visit timetoscreen.nz to book online.
