Tidelines: Tiritiri time

Bellbirds are in full song at Tiritiri Matangi Island from now through until mid-September.

All the island birdlife is more visible in the non-breeding season, including the stitchbird, one of New Zealand's rarest birds.

Fullers ferries leave from Downtown Auckland at 9am Thursday, Saturday and Sunday and from Gulf Harbour at 9.45am.

Complimentary tea and coffee is available on the island, but visitors need to bring their own food.

Sales from the souvenir shop help to support the restoration project.

Major credit cards are accepted, but there is no Eftpos.

The recommended hour-long guided walk costs $5 for adults, $4 for seniors and $2.50 for children.

For ferry details call 09 367 9111.

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Albany marine systems supplier Lusty and Blundell has added well-known industry identity Jonathan Taylor to its executive staff in a new post as warehouse manager.

Taylor, who has more than 20 years experience in the marine plumbing, electrical and hardware areas, will offer technical and client support in the showroom as well as in the field.

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The Boat US Foundation has extended its child lifejacket loan programme to 40 additional sites, bringing the total to more than 300.

The nationwide programme allows child jackets to be borrowed from launching ramps, marinas and waterfront businesses.

The scheme, started six years ago, has been used more than 50,000 times and is credited with having saved many lives.

Water-Watch

Winter series racing continues on the Waitemata this weekend.

Saturday: Winter Old Fox, off Gulf Harbour, 11am start (GHYC); Race 5, winter series (RNZYS).

Sunday: Two-handed and open boat series, races 4 and 5, laid course (RAYC); winter series, race 5 (PCC and BBYC).

* Clubs or organisations planning activity on the Waitemata or Manukau harbours should register with the Auckland Regional Council Enviroline on 09 366 2070.