Fireworks, condoms removed from wildlife refuge

Sulphur Bay in Rotorua. Photo/File

Fireworks, food wrappers and condoms were among the bags of rubbish removed from the Sulphur Bay wildlife refuge by volunteers and businesses this week.

Staff from Polynesian Spa, Millennium Hotel and Shine PR each attended the event which was organised as part of Conservation Week 2015 and was supported by the Rotorua Lakes Council and the Department of Conservation (DOC).

The wildlife refuge is home to native bird species including the naturally uncommon black shag.

DOC ranger Caraline Abbott said it was all about creating a more welcoming environment for visitors and improving areas for local people and wildlife.

"Unfortunately, these birds are affected by human activity such as littering. Items like plastic bags and condoms pose a risk to the threatened birds found around the bay. There could be serious consequences for these birds if they ingested litter," she said.

Local businesses helped clean up Sulphur Bay this week. Photo/Supplied

"It's great that these local businesses are helping improve the area around their businesses."

Polynesian Spa chief executive Gert Taljaard said the team were happy to be involved.

"We hope our efforts help support the threatened bird populations found in the area and we are able to raise awareness of birds such as the dabchicks and shags that are found in the wildlife refuge," said Mr Taljaard.

We care about our community and it's natural surroundings and this is part of our commitment to the city."

A further public litter collecting event organised by River Rats has been planned for this Sunday.

The rafting company has a limited number of kayaks available to members of the public that want to help clean up part of the Ohau Channel. Volunteers are also able to bring their own kayak if they have one.

For further details email justin@riverrats.co.nz.