In 2007, two highly qualified scientists submitted an appraisal to the ERMA review on the use of 1080 poison in New Zealand. Taking over 6 months of their time to complete, WITHOUT remuneration, this work was a gift of great value to New Zealand, and should be acknowledged as such.
If you are interested, or concerned, about the use of 1080 in New Zealand, and would like to engage in the debate with a better understanding of the science supporting its use - then PLEASE click on the link below, and read through these scientists appraisal. But be warned, it is disturbing.......
It was about 2006, when the Department of Conservation informed these two retired scientists, (now naturalised Kiwi's, retired and living on the Coromandel Peninsula),
that aerial 1080 was used in New Zealand forests to control possums.
Up until then, these scientists had little interest in 1080, or how it was used. It was when the DoC agent informed them that 1080 was a species specific poison (killing only possums and rats) that their interest was ignited - as this was an extraordinary claim.
Dr. Quinn Whiting-Okeefe was an Associate Professor at the University of California, and specialised in scientific study design and evaluation.
Dr. Pat Whiting-Okeefe was an Associate Professor at San Francisco State University.
Both Whiting-Okeefe scientists appear in the Poisoning Paradise - Ecocide New Zealand documentary.
PLEASE CLICK ON THE LINK, AND READ THE APPRAISAL......
http://www.kaka1080.co.nz/aerial_monofluoroacetate.pdf
Monday, December 21, 2009
Monday, December 14, 2009
Saturday, December 12, 2009
1080 ACTIVISTS SHOULD APOLOGISE
Please follow this link to read the story by Department of Conservation requesting the Grafs apologise.
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
A statement from Clyde Graf
In 2008, with my brother Steve, I became involved with the production of the controversial documentary - Poisoning Paradise.
While filming and interviewing for the documentary, it was revealed by scientists that there is not one credible scientific study that shows a net population benefit to any native species through the use of 1080 poison.
There is no regard for animal welfare. Tens of thousands of animals die a horrible death, every year, through the use of this poison. Many others are half poisoned, left suffering, and in some cases, recover with permanent disability.
Enough poison is spread across farms and forests every year, to kill the population of New Zealand, five times over.
This poison is entering the food chain of our wildlife - our food chain - and there is little regard for where it terminates.
The documentary project was undertaken, so that the public could be offered this information.
Due to growing concern, and increased profile, from involvement with the Poisoning Paradise documentary, I wish to disclose the following.
In Australia, in 1986, I was sentenced to 10 years imprisonment for bank robbery.
I entered the banks alone, and no one was physically injured. A replica pistol was used, and although this does not mitigate the seriousness of my actions, no one could have been shot, but me. (Police in Australia carry sidearms, which I support)
It is important to note that my brother Steve, in no way, had anything to do with this crime period.
I was young and foolish, and regret my actions.
I thank family and friends for their support, and I apologise to all the people involved with the Poisoning Paradise project, if I have caused embarrassment, or offence.
Because of my past, it would have been easier to have ignored the project, and ignore the information that was revealed.
However, I stand by my decision to produce, with my brother Steve, the Poisoning Paradise documentary. This in no way changes my determination to fight the use of 1080 in our country.
Clyde Graf
While filming and interviewing for the documentary, it was revealed by scientists that there is not one credible scientific study that shows a net population benefit to any native species through the use of 1080 poison.
There is no regard for animal welfare. Tens of thousands of animals die a horrible death, every year, through the use of this poison. Many others are half poisoned, left suffering, and in some cases, recover with permanent disability.
Enough poison is spread across farms and forests every year, to kill the population of New Zealand, five times over.
This poison is entering the food chain of our wildlife - our food chain - and there is little regard for where it terminates.
The documentary project was undertaken, so that the public could be offered this information.
Due to growing concern, and increased profile, from involvement with the Poisoning Paradise documentary, I wish to disclose the following.
In Australia, in 1986, I was sentenced to 10 years imprisonment for bank robbery.
I entered the banks alone, and no one was physically injured. A replica pistol was used, and although this does not mitigate the seriousness of my actions, no one could have been shot, but me. (Police in Australia carry sidearms, which I support)
It is important to note that my brother Steve, in no way, had anything to do with this crime period.
I was young and foolish, and regret my actions.
I thank family and friends for their support, and I apologise to all the people involved with the Poisoning Paradise project, if I have caused embarrassment, or offence.
Because of my past, it would have been easier to have ignored the project, and ignore the information that was revealed.
However, I stand by my decision to produce, with my brother Steve, the Poisoning Paradise documentary. This in no way changes my determination to fight the use of 1080 in our country.
Clyde Graf
Friday, November 13, 2009
60 MINUTES - The Chris Short Story
Chris Short, of Taupo, ventured up Mt Tongariro vowing not to return unless the
documentary Poisoning Paradise - Ecocide New Zealand was shown on mainstream TV.
This is yet to happen, however, 60 Minutes is telling his story this Monday - the 16th of November, 7.30pm, TV3.
documentary Poisoning Paradise - Ecocide New Zealand was shown on mainstream TV.
This is yet to happen, however, 60 Minutes is telling his story this Monday - the 16th of November, 7.30pm, TV3.
Thursday, November 5, 2009
NEXT SCREENINGS
AUCKLAND - Tuesday, 10th November - NZDA club rooms, 7 Target rd, Point Chevalier. Film starts 8.00pm.
KAWERAU - Friday, 13th November - Kawerau Concert Chambers, 7.00pm.
KAWERAU - Friday, 13th November - Kawerau Concert Chambers, 7.00pm.
Thursday, October 29, 2009
ROTORUA - THURSDAY 29/10/09
We are at Rotorua, showing Poisonoing Paradise - 6.30pm - at the Taharangi Marae, Thursday 29/10/09.
Tarewa Rd, off Lake Rd.
Tarewa Rd, off Lake Rd.
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
OTAGO DAILY TIMES - TUESDAY 20/10/09
1080 use threatened by organised opposition
Home » News » Farming
By Neal Wallace on Mon, 19 Oct 2009
http://www.odt.co.nz/news/farming
Future aerial application of 1080 could become more difficult as opponents of the poison become more organised, according to Animal Health Board chairman John Dalziell.
This was despite the board and the Department of Conservation seeking and receiving official approval from the Environmental Risk Management Authority (Erma) for the continued use of the poison, albeit with stricter controls.
"The process of registration was a democratic and open forum that produced recommendations around further use of 1080. We would have thought that the process would have alleviated some of the concerns of those opposing the use of 1080 but it seems to have had a reverse effect and stimulated their activity," he said.
Mr Dalziell was responding to the decision of Dunedin city councillor Fliss Butcher to seek a public debate about the aerial use of 1080 nationally and within the city. She also rejected Erma's ruling, claiming it was rigged, favouring instead comments from a friend who has been a hunter for 40 years and the content of two films by opponents of the poison, Clyde and Steve Graf.
Westland and Taupo district councils have taken political stances against aerial use of 1080, and sought an end to its use.
Mr Dalziell said district councils had no role as a consenting authority for aerial 1080 operations, but if the anti-1080 momentum was to grow among councillors, their agitation and lobbying could make its use more difficult.
He questioned whether councillors who were driving the debate were representative of the wider community or were pushing their own agenda.
"If they were to take it to an election platform, what will be the ratepayers' view and will they vote more anti-1080 people on to council? If they do, then we've got some issues."
He took heart that last week three North Island district councils publicly supported the continued use of aerial 1080 operations. Mr Dalziell acknowledged there was an initial cost to wildlife and biodiversity with 1080, but said there were greater long-term gains for flora and fauna, in addition to reducing infection rates of bovine tuberculosis.
Fifteen years ago his area of the lower North Island was endemic with bovine Tb and there were very few native birds.
"Today, after initial aerial and ground 1080 in the bush areas and ongoing vector control with a range of different methods, there is not one Tb-infected herd in our district and we have an abundance of native birds."
The number of infected herds in the Wellington region had fallen from 330 in 1994 to four in 2009, while the reduction in Otago was equally spectacular, from 290 in mid 1990s to 14 at June 30th. Nationally, infection levels have fallen over that time from around 1200 to 130.
Mr Dalziell said Animal Health Board staff regularly talked with councils if they were aware of concerns, and would be happy to meet with the DCC.
"Cr Butcher is entitled to her views, but I am sure the council will be seeking to be well informed on the issues of 1080 before making a decision, rather than move on the personal views of one councillor," he said.
Home » News » Farming
By Neal Wallace on Mon, 19 Oct 2009
http://www.odt.co.nz/news/farming
Future aerial application of 1080 could become more difficult as opponents of the poison become more organised, according to Animal Health Board chairman John Dalziell.
This was despite the board and the Department of Conservation seeking and receiving official approval from the Environmental Risk Management Authority (Erma) for the continued use of the poison, albeit with stricter controls.
"The process of registration was a democratic and open forum that produced recommendations around further use of 1080. We would have thought that the process would have alleviated some of the concerns of those opposing the use of 1080 but it seems to have had a reverse effect and stimulated their activity," he said.
Mr Dalziell was responding to the decision of Dunedin city councillor Fliss Butcher to seek a public debate about the aerial use of 1080 nationally and within the city. She also rejected Erma's ruling, claiming it was rigged, favouring instead comments from a friend who has been a hunter for 40 years and the content of two films by opponents of the poison, Clyde and Steve Graf.
Westland and Taupo district councils have taken political stances against aerial use of 1080, and sought an end to its use.
Mr Dalziell said district councils had no role as a consenting authority for aerial 1080 operations, but if the anti-1080 momentum was to grow among councillors, their agitation and lobbying could make its use more difficult.
He questioned whether councillors who were driving the debate were representative of the wider community or were pushing their own agenda.
"If they were to take it to an election platform, what will be the ratepayers' view and will they vote more anti-1080 people on to council? If they do, then we've got some issues."
He took heart that last week three North Island district councils publicly supported the continued use of aerial 1080 operations. Mr Dalziell acknowledged there was an initial cost to wildlife and biodiversity with 1080, but said there were greater long-term gains for flora and fauna, in addition to reducing infection rates of bovine tuberculosis.
Fifteen years ago his area of the lower North Island was endemic with bovine Tb and there were very few native birds.
"Today, after initial aerial and ground 1080 in the bush areas and ongoing vector control with a range of different methods, there is not one Tb-infected herd in our district and we have an abundance of native birds."
The number of infected herds in the Wellington region had fallen from 330 in 1994 to four in 2009, while the reduction in Otago was equally spectacular, from 290 in mid 1990s to 14 at June 30th. Nationally, infection levels have fallen over that time from around 1200 to 130.
Mr Dalziell said Animal Health Board staff regularly talked with councils if they were aware of concerns, and would be happy to meet with the DCC.
"Cr Butcher is entitled to her views, but I am sure the council will be seeking to be well informed on the issues of 1080 before making a decision, rather than move on the personal views of one councillor," he said.
THE MARLBOROUGH EXPRESS - TUESDAY 20/10/09
Kaikoura mayor wants 1080 ban
By EMMA DANGERFIELD - The Marlborough Express
Last updated 12:00 20/10/2009
The Mayor of Kaikoura is to push for a ban on 1080 in the region. The call by Kevin Heays for the ban on the possum control poison comes on the eve of a major application of 1080 in the Kaikoura district.
The Animal Health Board is due to begin ground control of possums in the Hapuku Buffer and Kowhai/Swyncombe area. The board's community relations adviser, Simon Andrew, was not prepared to go public on whether or not the controversial toxin would be used as part of the operation, saying both control methods and toxins would be negotiated with individual landowners.
Mr Heays said the use of 1080 was something he felt "very strongly about" and he would present a recommendation to the council next month that it ban the use of 1080 within its borders.
"During the ensuing month, I intend to research the processes other councils have followed to accomplish this and to gather as much relevant information in support of such a recommendation," he said.
Mr Heays attended the screening of the Graf brothers' movie, Poisoning Paradise – Ecocide in New Zealand, shown at the Mayfair Theatre in Kaikoura in July. While Mr Heays acknowledged that the movie strongly supported one side of the 1080 debate, he encouraged Kaikoura councillors to watch the movie as part of their research into the subject.
If the Kaikoura District Council votes for a ban, it will be the third council to take action against use of 1080 this year.
Westland District Council voted earlier this year to oppose aerial 1080 operations around drinking water catchments after submissions from opponents of the toxin, which is approved for use for pest and possum control. At the same time the council reaffirmed its support for ground application of 1080 baits.
Earlier this month Taupo District Council passed a motion to develop a sustainable alternative possum eradication and trapping programme, and to immediately abolish all aerial dropping of 1080 poison.
Mr Heays said he was keen to research alternative methods for possum control and his personal opinion was that he would like to see the end to the use of 1080 entirely. He would be looking closely at the alternative options and would welcome any input.
Marlborough Mayor Alistair Sowman called Mr Heays' recommendation that 1080 be banned in the Kaikoura district as, "a brave move, particularly when the controlling authority there is not the Kaikoura District Council but Environment Canterbury".
The 1080 issue had not yet been addressed by the Marlborough District Council but Mr Sowman was aware of a range of viewpoints among councillors with environmental policy committee chairwoman Jill Bunting openly opposed.
The stance of Westland, Taupo and now Kaikoura councils had brought the issue into the open, said Mr Sowman. "We certainly acknowledge that aerial dropping of 1080 [for possum control] does pose some major issues and like other councils we would support investigation of alternative methods [of possum control]."
In September, Marlborough District Council approved resource consent for the aerial application of 1080 poison in the Waihopai Valley. Contractor to the Animal Health Board, Valley Pest Control, sought a discharge to water permit for the planned drop over 7000 hectares of Department of Conservation reserve and 4200ha of private land in the lower Waihopai Valley and Waihopai-Spray.
Ground drops were planned over a further 18,000ha.
The Animal Health Board programme manager for Canterbury and Marlborough, Ron Walker, said this drop would go ahead as soon as the weather had settled. The amount of 1080 applied annually varied significantly depending on the need for vector control, he said. The 1080 was used to kill possums and rats, but stoats were also killed through secondary poisoning.
In Kaikoura in 2007/2008, 40 tonnes of 1080 were applied to 16,000 hectares at a cost of about $420,000. In 2008/2009 no 1080 was applied in the region, said Mr Walker.
In Marlborough in 2008/2009 28.5 tonnes of 1080 were applied to 14,200 ha at a cost of about $350,000.
By EMMA DANGERFIELD - The Marlborough Express
Last updated 12:00 20/10/2009
The Mayor of Kaikoura is to push for a ban on 1080 in the region. The call by Kevin Heays for the ban on the possum control poison comes on the eve of a major application of 1080 in the Kaikoura district.
The Animal Health Board is due to begin ground control of possums in the Hapuku Buffer and Kowhai/Swyncombe area. The board's community relations adviser, Simon Andrew, was not prepared to go public on whether or not the controversial toxin would be used as part of the operation, saying both control methods and toxins would be negotiated with individual landowners.
Mr Heays said the use of 1080 was something he felt "very strongly about" and he would present a recommendation to the council next month that it ban the use of 1080 within its borders.
"During the ensuing month, I intend to research the processes other councils have followed to accomplish this and to gather as much relevant information in support of such a recommendation," he said.
Mr Heays attended the screening of the Graf brothers' movie, Poisoning Paradise – Ecocide in New Zealand, shown at the Mayfair Theatre in Kaikoura in July. While Mr Heays acknowledged that the movie strongly supported one side of the 1080 debate, he encouraged Kaikoura councillors to watch the movie as part of their research into the subject.
If the Kaikoura District Council votes for a ban, it will be the third council to take action against use of 1080 this year.
Westland District Council voted earlier this year to oppose aerial 1080 operations around drinking water catchments after submissions from opponents of the toxin, which is approved for use for pest and possum control. At the same time the council reaffirmed its support for ground application of 1080 baits.
Earlier this month Taupo District Council passed a motion to develop a sustainable alternative possum eradication and trapping programme, and to immediately abolish all aerial dropping of 1080 poison.
Mr Heays said he was keen to research alternative methods for possum control and his personal opinion was that he would like to see the end to the use of 1080 entirely. He would be looking closely at the alternative options and would welcome any input.
Marlborough Mayor Alistair Sowman called Mr Heays' recommendation that 1080 be banned in the Kaikoura district as, "a brave move, particularly when the controlling authority there is not the Kaikoura District Council but Environment Canterbury".
The 1080 issue had not yet been addressed by the Marlborough District Council but Mr Sowman was aware of a range of viewpoints among councillors with environmental policy committee chairwoman Jill Bunting openly opposed.
The stance of Westland, Taupo and now Kaikoura councils had brought the issue into the open, said Mr Sowman. "We certainly acknowledge that aerial dropping of 1080 [for possum control] does pose some major issues and like other councils we would support investigation of alternative methods [of possum control]."
In September, Marlborough District Council approved resource consent for the aerial application of 1080 poison in the Waihopai Valley. Contractor to the Animal Health Board, Valley Pest Control, sought a discharge to water permit for the planned drop over 7000 hectares of Department of Conservation reserve and 4200ha of private land in the lower Waihopai Valley and Waihopai-Spray.
Ground drops were planned over a further 18,000ha.
The Animal Health Board programme manager for Canterbury and Marlborough, Ron Walker, said this drop would go ahead as soon as the weather had settled. The amount of 1080 applied annually varied significantly depending on the need for vector control, he said. The 1080 was used to kill possums and rats, but stoats were also killed through secondary poisoning.
In Kaikoura in 2007/2008, 40 tonnes of 1080 were applied to 16,000 hectares at a cost of about $420,000. In 2008/2009 no 1080 was applied in the region, said Mr Walker.
In Marlborough in 2008/2009 28.5 tonnes of 1080 were applied to 14,200 ha at a cost of about $350,000.
Thursday, October 15, 2009
TAUPO DISTRICT COUNCIL - MEDIA RELEASE - 13 OCTOBER 2009
Following Taupo District Council’s resolution to advocate against the aerial application of 1080, an advocacy group has been formed to carry out Council’s decision.
Media Release
13 October 2009
Taupo District Council 1080 advocacy group gearing up
Following Taupo District Council’s resolution to advocate against the aerial application of 1080, an advocacy group has been formed to carry out Council’s decision.
The Taupo District Council 1080 advocacy committee is aware of and concerned by the aerial dropping of 1080 poison, and is developing an action plan to achieve the resolution set out by Council in September.
The advocacy group will be investigating responsible solutions to pest management; however the groups main aim is to declare war on the indiscriminate aerial dropping of 1080. “We are in the initial stages of writing letters to regional and district councils and other concerned parties, both for and against 1080, with a series of questions around its potential threat to the environment,” said the groups chairman Cr Don Ormsby.
The group, whose members are Taupo District Mayor Rick Cooper, Councillor and Turangi-Tongariro Community Board Chairman Don Ormsby, the Graf Boys Clyde and Steve Graf producers of the documentary ‘Poisoning Paradise’, and Graham Sperry of the NZ Wildlands Bio Diversity Management Society Inc. met today for the first time in the Mayors office at Taupo District Council.
Councillor Don Ormsby said he is excited to be working with such a passionate group of people. “We don’t expect everyone will like what we are doing, but we feel strongly that we are taking the right steps toward a clean green future for our children and their children.”
END
For further information contact:
Councillor Don Ormsby
dormsby@taupo.govt.nz
Taupo District Council
Media Release
13 October 2009
Taupo District Council 1080 advocacy group gearing up
Following Taupo District Council’s resolution to advocate against the aerial application of 1080, an advocacy group has been formed to carry out Council’s decision.
The Taupo District Council 1080 advocacy committee is aware of and concerned by the aerial dropping of 1080 poison, and is developing an action plan to achieve the resolution set out by Council in September.
The advocacy group will be investigating responsible solutions to pest management; however the groups main aim is to declare war on the indiscriminate aerial dropping of 1080. “We are in the initial stages of writing letters to regional and district councils and other concerned parties, both for and against 1080, with a series of questions around its potential threat to the environment,” said the groups chairman Cr Don Ormsby.
The group, whose members are Taupo District Mayor Rick Cooper, Councillor and Turangi-Tongariro Community Board Chairman Don Ormsby, the Graf Boys Clyde and Steve Graf producers of the documentary ‘Poisoning Paradise’, and Graham Sperry of the NZ Wildlands Bio Diversity Management Society Inc. met today for the first time in the Mayors office at Taupo District Council.
Councillor Don Ormsby said he is excited to be working with such a passionate group of people. “We don’t expect everyone will like what we are doing, but we feel strongly that we are taking the right steps toward a clean green future for our children and their children.”
END
For further information contact:
Councillor Don Ormsby
dormsby@taupo.govt.nz
Taupo District Council
HEADING TO CHRISTCHURCH
We're heading to Christchurh for 3 screanings.
The venues are.
Wed. 21st October, Richmond workingmen's club 7pm
Thursday 22nd, Riccarton workingmen's club 7pm
Friday 23rd, Woolston workingmens club 7pm
Entry $5 on the door. See you there!
The venues are.
Wed. 21st October, Richmond workingmen's club 7pm
Thursday 22nd, Riccarton workingmen's club 7pm
Friday 23rd, Woolston workingmens club 7pm
Entry $5 on the door. See you there!
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
They're watching us in Iowa City, USA
View Larger Map
Wednesday, 7th October, 8:00-10:00pm at the Cinematheque E105 Adler Journalism Building, University of Iowa, 140 W. Washington Street, Iowa City. Everyone is welcome to the screening of Poisoning Paradise - a documentary by The Graf Boys about the effects of 1080 poison on wildlife and people and the battle to get its use banned in New Zealand. Released in 2009.
Monday, October 5, 2009
What is The Alternative to aerial 1080 poison operations in New Zealand?
When people ask this question, they are really asking, innocently perhaps ... what's the alternative to mass scale animal cruelty, contaminating pristine water supplies, blanket poisoning of plants, lethally and sub-lethally poisoning un-targeted wildlife and endangering native wildlife?
How do we stop producing poor quality advocacy science to support the poison industry, mis-leading the world with regard to NZ's Clean Green image, risking damage to international export markets, risking the health of people, ignoring international health warnings, and breaching civil rights?
Is it really that bad? Well that's what's happening at the moment.
To suggest an alternative is needed, would suggest there is a problem. This is debated by the people in power.
It would be better to stop - and do nothing - than to use aerial 1080 poison in New Zealand!
However, few are suggesting that we do nothing.
Perhaps we don't have a possum problem in New Zealand at all. Perhaps we have a bureaucracy problem - a bureaucracy that feeds fear of the "possum", into the minds of the public.
Or perhaps we have a possum opportunity.
The most community-friendly "alternative" for this small country, New Zealand, is ground control of pests. That is - people on the ground, using responsible, targeted humane poisons, and good trapping techniques.
It can be achieved, with a well orchestrated, national management plan that starts by targeting key areas of importance - such as bird sanctuaries, and areas in need of tuberculosis (TB) management - and then extends to other areas, in order of importance. There is scientific evidence to suggest that rugged terrain doesn't even need to be controlled. Targeting the more manageable country is enough. The Animal Health Board has also proved that ground control is successful in managing TB.
The Alternative
Why is ground control the best way? Because it is specific with its target. Poisons are NOT cast all over the countryside, and across waterways, for non-targeted animals to consume. Poisonous carcasses, and baits, are NOT left to decompose and to poison other non-target animals. Ground control is the responsible management method.
The problem we currently have to deal with is people in positions of power trumpeting that ground control isn't an option. This is nonsense. They are defeating the true clean, green NZ method of control before it is given a chance to work. We need to re-program this thinking pattern, to re-educate these advocates of toxins, or have them replaced with people that encourage a different type of talk - the type that says "we must stop poisoning this country, and use people on the ground, with non-secondary, humane poisons, good trapping techniques, and that encourages employment and industry."
History is full of people that said Man couldn't fly, Man couldn't build a harbour bridge, Man couldn't drill a 10-kilometre tunnel from Manapouri to Deep Cove, that Man couldn't put a train tunnel through a mountain, that Man couldn't conquer Everest, that Man can't control a few possums in our forests ... and so it goes on.
Enough of what can't be done. It's time to concentrate on what must be done!
Investment
New Zealand needs to spend 200 million dollars per year if necessary (not just the 100 million + that it is currently spent on poisoning operations) on encouraging, supporting and developing sound ground control methods. We need to pay to get this country back to its clean, green status. If some screeech 'We can't afford it', I am sure the tourism industry, the export industries, and even the rest of the world will help out. There is always a way, when a positive direction is set.
Besides, after income from export products are taken into account, that 200 million is reduced to 100 million - so the investment is the same as the poisonous option anyway. It's a no-brainer!
Authorities suggest that if ground operators are making money from the possums, they should not receive payment for doing the work. They are happy to spend over 100 million dollars contaminating this country, for no return, but they are not willing to cough up to support the man trying to make a living from responsible management. This is also nonsense. We must pay our workers well, encourage them, increase the number of warm huts in the back country, increase the track networks, utilise helicopters, and build the New Zealand bushman into an icon - a brave, tough, committed mountain man or woman - that young people, and people with interests in the outdoors, will want to emulate.
Employment in Rural Areas
New Zealand has plenty of rural areas where Maori live, for example. Many of them are unemployed. Here is a perfect opportunity to encourage rural Maori into forest management, long-term employment, and a positive future.
We can then build a strong industry from our wild animal management, and create a win-win situation, where we are earning export dollars, using responsible management methods, and keeping our country healthy, happy and employed.
Bounty System
We suggest using a bounty system, to keep track of possum numbers and encourage interest in the community. To simply spout that a bounty doesn't work, stems viable solutions, before they get traction. A bounty has worked in the past, and it can work again. Ironically, it was a bounty that helped extinct one of our endemic birds, the Huia.
Trapping is also effective in rat and mustelid (Stoat, Weasel, Ferret) capture. There should be monetary incentives for the capture of these species. We know that aerial 1080 poison operations increase rat numbers x 3, compared to areas with no control (Ruscoe study 2008), and that this causes stoats to switch their diet to birds. The Murphy study (1998) shows the bird component of their diet at 6% pre 1080-drop, compared with 56% post-1080 drop.
The possum has one offspring per year, so they cannot out-breed good management. It's unlikely that there are 70 million possums in this country. This is another propaganda line tossed around by the proponents of poisons. The possum population is below 30 million, based on national observation by experts with whom we converse.
We don't have a possum problem in this country, we have a bureaucracy problem.
We don't have a possum problem, we have a possum opportunity.
Until we have people with positive goals for New Zealand's environment, its image, its wellbeing and its future at the helm, the common-sense alternative will never be realised.
Sunday, October 4, 2009
NORTHLAND VENUES
We're heading to Northland this week.....
Tues 6th Oct: Kaitaia, 7pm. Community Centre, Little Theatre, opposite the info centre on corner South Rd and Matthews Ave.
Weds 7th Oct: Panguru, 1.30pm. Ngatimanawa Marae.
Thurs 8th Oct: Pawarenga, 1.30pm. Community Trust & Resource Centre (by Pawarenga Health Centre).
Thurs 8th Oct: Rawene, 7pm. RAD room, opposite Masonic Hotel.
Tues 6th Oct: Kaitaia, 7pm. Community Centre, Little Theatre, opposite the info centre on corner South Rd and Matthews Ave.
Weds 7th Oct: Panguru, 1.30pm. Ngatimanawa Marae.
Thurs 8th Oct: Pawarenga, 1.30pm. Community Trust & Resource Centre (by Pawarenga Health Centre).
Thurs 8th Oct: Rawene, 7pm. RAD room, opposite Masonic Hotel.
Friday, October 2, 2009
UNITED FUTURE - PRESS RELEASE
Media Statement – For immediate release
Friday 2 October 2008
Dunne applauds Taupo District Council
UnitedFuture Leader Peter Dunne has applauded Taupo District Council’s decision to abolish all aerial 1080 operations within its area of jurisdiction.
A motion was passed:
1. To develop a sustainable alternative possum eradication and trapping program.
2. Abolish all aerial dropping of 1080 poison forthwith.
“Taupo District Council has made a far-sighted and courageous decision,” said Mr Dunne.
“It is particularly pleasing to see a local authority respond to the concerns of its community and take a stand against the cruel and indiscriminate practice of aerially applying 1080 poison.”
“I congratulate not only the councillors for reaching this decision but also the opponents of aerial 1080, particularly Clyde and Steve Graf, and the NZ Wildlands Biodiversity Management Society, who were instrumental in getting this result.”
Taupo joins Westland District Council in opposing aerial 1080 use.
“Taupo and Westland are great success stories, yet the fight against aerial 1080 goes on around the rest of New Zealand.”
“I hope the result in Taupo will prompt other communities to consider their stance on aerial poisoning programs.”
“For too long DoC, the Animal Health Board and regional councils have leaned on aerial 1080 as their primary means of pest control. Finally the tide is turning and those organisations will be forced to consider alternative methods of pest control, a scenario that is long-overdue,” said Mr Dunne.
Ends
Hayden Cox
Ministerial Advisor to Hon Peter Dunne
Minister of Revenue Associate Minister of Health MP for Ohariu UnitedFuture Leader
Friday 2 October 2008
Dunne applauds Taupo District Council
UnitedFuture Leader Peter Dunne has applauded Taupo District Council’s decision to abolish all aerial 1080 operations within its area of jurisdiction.
A motion was passed:
1. To develop a sustainable alternative possum eradication and trapping program.
2. Abolish all aerial dropping of 1080 poison forthwith.
“Taupo District Council has made a far-sighted and courageous decision,” said Mr Dunne.
“It is particularly pleasing to see a local authority respond to the concerns of its community and take a stand against the cruel and indiscriminate practice of aerially applying 1080 poison.”
“I congratulate not only the councillors for reaching this decision but also the opponents of aerial 1080, particularly Clyde and Steve Graf, and the NZ Wildlands Biodiversity Management Society, who were instrumental in getting this result.”
Taupo joins Westland District Council in opposing aerial 1080 use.
“Taupo and Westland are great success stories, yet the fight against aerial 1080 goes on around the rest of New Zealand.”
“I hope the result in Taupo will prompt other communities to consider their stance on aerial poisoning programs.”
“For too long DoC, the Animal Health Board and regional councils have leaned on aerial 1080 as their primary means of pest control. Finally the tide is turning and those organisations will be forced to consider alternative methods of pest control, a scenario that is long-overdue,” said Mr Dunne.
Ends
Hayden Cox
Ministerial Advisor to Hon Peter Dunne
Minister of Revenue Associate Minister of Health MP for Ohariu UnitedFuture Leader
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
TAUPO DECISION - A SIGNIFICANT VICTORY
The Taupo District Council today held a “resumed special purpose ordinary meeting”
Subject: use of 1080 in the Taupo District.
A motion was passed: “That in accordance with section 10B of the Local Government Act of 2002, Taupo District Council advocate with Central Government and appropriate Agencies;
VIZ: A. To develop a sustainable alternative possum eradication and trapping program.
B. Abolition of all aerial dropping of 1080 poison forthwith.
The motion was carried 6-4.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The motion was developed over lengthy discussion and debate by councillors during the meeting with particular attention directed at getting the legalities of the motion identified before it was finally put to a democratic vote.
Councillors who voted against the motion were: Councillors: Welch, Gathergood, McElwee and Uvhagen.
The NZ District Councils stand against aerial 1080 has just doubled, to two. Westland and Taupo. Let us hope that other Councils will follow the example set by these two.
The public gallery included myself and Kirstine Bettridge from NZ WBM, Steve and Clyde Graf and supporters; Chris Short and supporters, Lance Aldridge, Dave Livingstone and supporters from Turangi plus members of the public.
The opposing councillors made some swiping ploys, one of which succeeded in principle, to restricting any significant financial expenditure by the TDC in support of its appointed advocate Councillor Don Ormsby. This ploy was initiated by councillor McElwee and we must hope that when the next council budget is done, that it includes a substantial allocation of funds specifically for the advocacy role. Councillor Uvhagen stated she could not support the motion as there were no viable alternatives to 1080. I can only conclude that she did not study our submissions very thoroughly.
Anyway, it is a significant win for us, and a brave stand by Mayor Rick Cooper and his supporting Councillors.
Thank you to all who contributed to our submissions, both directly and indirectly; in particular NZ WBM members Mary and Lindsay, Clare, Murray, Steve, Margie, Robert and myself, plus the Graf brothers and their DVD, Pat and Quinn, Lance, Dave, Alec and NZDA, and many other people who had previously contributed to assembling the ESPC submission to ERMA and parts of the submissions presented by NZ WBM. (Too many of you to list.)
One of the concerns expressed by councillors early on in the meeting was the potential of the 1080 issue to divide the community. This lever will likely not be overlooked by the pro 1080 factions, so please be aware of its potential to damage and alert to ploys from the pro 1080 factions and agencies.
This result is because of teamwork and our society’s ability to pull a team together in an effective way and the willingness of allies to contribute. Thank you all for your cooperation and input.
Sincerely, Graham Sperry.
Chairman. NZ WBM.
Subject: use of 1080 in the Taupo District.
A motion was passed: “That in accordance with section 10B of the Local Government Act of 2002, Taupo District Council advocate with Central Government and appropriate Agencies;
VIZ: A. To develop a sustainable alternative possum eradication and trapping program.
B. Abolition of all aerial dropping of 1080 poison forthwith.
The motion was carried 6-4.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The motion was developed over lengthy discussion and debate by councillors during the meeting with particular attention directed at getting the legalities of the motion identified before it was finally put to a democratic vote.
Councillors who voted against the motion were: Councillors: Welch, Gathergood, McElwee and Uvhagen.
The NZ District Councils stand against aerial 1080 has just doubled, to two. Westland and Taupo. Let us hope that other Councils will follow the example set by these two.
The public gallery included myself and Kirstine Bettridge from NZ WBM, Steve and Clyde Graf and supporters; Chris Short and supporters, Lance Aldridge, Dave Livingstone and supporters from Turangi plus members of the public.
The opposing councillors made some swiping ploys, one of which succeeded in principle, to restricting any significant financial expenditure by the TDC in support of its appointed advocate Councillor Don Ormsby. This ploy was initiated by councillor McElwee and we must hope that when the next council budget is done, that it includes a substantial allocation of funds specifically for the advocacy role. Councillor Uvhagen stated she could not support the motion as there were no viable alternatives to 1080. I can only conclude that she did not study our submissions very thoroughly.
Anyway, it is a significant win for us, and a brave stand by Mayor Rick Cooper and his supporting Councillors.
Thank you to all who contributed to our submissions, both directly and indirectly; in particular NZ WBM members Mary and Lindsay, Clare, Murray, Steve, Margie, Robert and myself, plus the Graf brothers and their DVD, Pat and Quinn, Lance, Dave, Alec and NZDA, and many other people who had previously contributed to assembling the ESPC submission to ERMA and parts of the submissions presented by NZ WBM. (Too many of you to list.)
One of the concerns expressed by councillors early on in the meeting was the potential of the 1080 issue to divide the community. This lever will likely not be overlooked by the pro 1080 factions, so please be aware of its potential to damage and alert to ploys from the pro 1080 factions and agencies.
This result is because of teamwork and our society’s ability to pull a team together in an effective way and the willingness of allies to contribute. Thank you all for your cooperation and input.
Sincerely, Graham Sperry.
Chairman. NZ WBM.
Saturday, September 26, 2009
BENT SPOON AWARD - Poisoning Paradise scoops award - Tauranga night, a beaut!
Well, this is very exciting news! Poisoning Paradise gets its first award - not a biggy, but a humorous one, non the less.
Given that the inDOCtrination of the poison culture has been so successfully implanted in the minds of many, especially in positions of influence, and that they have been spouting their propaganda - unchecked, for decades, it's hardly a wonder that they can't accept the truth when it is put in front of them.
So this award is merely an anticipated trend, that is predicted will increase, until the truth about this abhorrent ecocidal practice of blanket poisoning this country is finally exposed.
Please click on link for TV3 news story.......the battle continues!
http://www.3news.co.nz/1080-documentary-wins-Bent-Spoon-Award/tabid/309/articleID/122773/cat/100/Default.aspx
The Tauranga screening was a great success. The guys did a great job of getting bottoms on seats, with a final count of 185 being present.
Given that the inDOCtrination of the poison culture has been so successfully implanted in the minds of many, especially in positions of influence, and that they have been spouting their propaganda - unchecked, for decades, it's hardly a wonder that they can't accept the truth when it is put in front of them.
So this award is merely an anticipated trend, that is predicted will increase, until the truth about this abhorrent ecocidal practice of blanket poisoning this country is finally exposed.
Please click on link for TV3 news story.......the battle continues!
http://www.3news.co.nz/1080-documentary-wins-Bent-Spoon-Award/tabid/309/articleID/122773/cat/100/Default.aspx
The Tauranga screening was a great success. The guys did a great job of getting bottoms on seats, with a final count of 185 being present.
Thursday, September 24, 2009
Tauranga tonight - Ohaupo, last night, a corka!
We're at Tauranga tonight - Thursday 24/09/09.
WHERE: Baycourt, Durham Street, Tauranga. (Exhibition room).WHEN: Thursday 24th September, doors open at 7:00pm.FILM STARTS: @ 7:30pm (after introductions, etc. @ 7:15pm.)MEETING ENDS: 10:00pm approx.COST OF ADMISSION: $10.00 donation per person
Ohaupo was a corka! 125 people turned up, and packed the rugby club rooms.
WHERE: Baycourt, Durham Street, Tauranga. (Exhibition room).WHEN: Thursday 24th September, doors open at 7:00pm.FILM STARTS: @ 7:30pm (after introductions, etc. @ 7:15pm.)MEETING ENDS: 10:00pm approx.COST OF ADMISSION: $10.00 donation per person
Ohaupo was a corka! 125 people turned up, and packed the rugby club rooms.
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
HAWAII ISLANDS POISONED - INTERESTING COINCIDENCE?
OUR situation
We are all, by now, aware of the 122 tons of Brodifacoum poison that the Department of Conservation dropped across New Zealand's precious Rangitoto and Motutapu islands, claiming to protect wildlife (using a substance that persists in the environment, that kills animals, birds and fish life, by causing them to bleed to death, through internal haemorrhaging, over a period of up to 2 weeks.) Inhumane? You bet!
TV3 interviewed DoC over the poisoning, which can be viewed by clicking on this link
http://www.3news.co.nz/Questions-surround-DOC-poison-dumps/tabid/367/articleID/119097/cat/41/Default.aspx
Our new documentary Poisoning Paradise, includes pages of native birds (released under the Official Information Act) that have been killed by this poison, in DoC aerial operations on offshore islands - these birds include Kiwi, Takahe, Robins, Ruru, Kaka, Kakariki, and many more.
A disgrace? You bet!
THE LINK
But the most interesting part of this story is the information that is now coming through from Hawaii.
Their Department of Land and Natural Resource (a very similar name to our own bureaucracy - DoC) dropped Rat poison, similar to the one used on our islands, across their Ni'ihau, Lehua, Lihue, & Kauai island's. Coincidentally, their islands suffered massive fish poisonings following the drops. Check out these links...
http://www.starbulletin.com/news/20090315_Catastrophic_fish_kill_still_scars_Niihau_diet.html
http://www.kauaiworld.com/articles/2009/02/19/news/kauai_news/doc499d2a235dff8405003046.txt
http://www.kauaiworld.com/articles/2009/06/04/news/kauai_news/doc4a2740c5c17f8004726514.txt
A couple of sentences from the reports..."Ni'ihau residents still are not eating fish months after thousands of dead fish washed ashore. The dead fish appeared in mid-January shortly after the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service dumped rat poison on nearby Lehua island on behalf of the state Department of Land and Natural Resources."
Ring any bells???
Resident Keith Robinson stated that there are reportedly about a dozen Monk Seals who used to regularly visit the island and have recently "gone missing" while others appear "extremely sick."
Ring any bells???
Bruce Robinson says..."It's kind of strange that this is the first time this has happened in a century."
Ring any bells???
Robinson goes on to say..."There appears to be some information that others have sampled that they did find residue at very low level, which makes you wonder. It doesn't necessarily mean the smoking gun."
As "authorities" test samples, community members continue to speculate on the cause of a massive fish kill reported earlier this month on Ni'ihau and the death days later of a young humpback whale on Kaua'i.
Some residents suspect a recent federally administered rodenticide application on the uninhabited island of Lehua may be linked to the dead fish that have washed ashore there and on the nearby Forbidden Island.
Dr Thierry Work, with the National Wildlife Health Centre, found that there were "no visible lesions" and "no evidence of external or internal bleeding."
Sound familiar???
Checkout the TV3 interview again, above.
And so we are left with the suspicion that 'algal blooms' appear anywhere government departments aerially apply lethal poisons across offshore land masses - apparently killing all sorts of wildlife...including "sea slugs". Wow folks, they really do take us for a bunch of idiots!
As Einstein once said ......"Unthinking respect for authority is the greatest enemy of truth!"
and one more from an infamous character...
"How fortunate it is for the Government, that the people don't think!"
That was Hitler, by the way.
We are all, by now, aware of the 122 tons of Brodifacoum poison that the Department of Conservation dropped across New Zealand's precious Rangitoto and Motutapu islands, claiming to protect wildlife (using a substance that persists in the environment, that kills animals, birds and fish life, by causing them to bleed to death, through internal haemorrhaging, over a period of up to 2 weeks.) Inhumane? You bet!
TV3 interviewed DoC over the poisoning, which can be viewed by clicking on this link
http://www.3news.co.nz/Questions-surround-DOC-poison-dumps/tabid/367/articleID/119097/cat/41/Default.aspx
Our new documentary Poisoning Paradise, includes pages of native birds (released under the Official Information Act) that have been killed by this poison, in DoC aerial operations on offshore islands - these birds include Kiwi, Takahe, Robins, Ruru, Kaka, Kakariki, and many more.
A disgrace? You bet!
THE LINK
But the most interesting part of this story is the information that is now coming through from Hawaii.
Their Department of Land and Natural Resource (a very similar name to our own bureaucracy - DoC) dropped Rat poison, similar to the one used on our islands, across their Ni'ihau, Lehua, Lihue, & Kauai island's. Coincidentally, their islands suffered massive fish poisonings following the drops. Check out these links...
http://www.starbulletin.com/news/20090315_Catastrophic_fish_kill_still_scars_Niihau_diet.html
http://www.kauaiworld.com/articles/2009/02/19/news/kauai_news/doc499d2a235dff8405003046.txt
http://www.kauaiworld.com/articles/2009/06/04/news/kauai_news/doc4a2740c5c17f8004726514.txt
A couple of sentences from the reports..."Ni'ihau residents still are not eating fish months after thousands of dead fish washed ashore. The dead fish appeared in mid-January shortly after the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service dumped rat poison on nearby Lehua island on behalf of the state Department of Land and Natural Resources."
Ring any bells???
Resident Keith Robinson stated that there are reportedly about a dozen Monk Seals who used to regularly visit the island and have recently "gone missing" while others appear "extremely sick."
Ring any bells???
Bruce Robinson says..."It's kind of strange that this is the first time this has happened in a century."
Ring any bells???
Robinson goes on to say..."There appears to be some information that others have sampled that they did find residue at very low level, which makes you wonder. It doesn't necessarily mean the smoking gun."
As "authorities" test samples, community members continue to speculate on the cause of a massive fish kill reported earlier this month on Ni'ihau and the death days later of a young humpback whale on Kaua'i.
Some residents suspect a recent federally administered rodenticide application on the uninhabited island of Lehua may be linked to the dead fish that have washed ashore there and on the nearby Forbidden Island.
Dr Thierry Work, with the National Wildlife Health Centre, found that there were "no visible lesions" and "no evidence of external or internal bleeding."
Sound familiar???
Checkout the TV3 interview again, above.
And so we are left with the suspicion that 'algal blooms' appear anywhere government departments aerially apply lethal poisons across offshore land masses - apparently killing all sorts of wildlife...including "sea slugs". Wow folks, they really do take us for a bunch of idiots!
As Einstein once said ......"Unthinking respect for authority is the greatest enemy of truth!"
and one more from an infamous character...
"How fortunate it is for the Government, that the people don't think!"
That was Hitler, by the way.
Sunday, September 6, 2009
LATEST SCREENINGS
NAPIER - SUNDAY 13TH SEPTEMBER, 7.00PM, NAPIER WAR MEMORIAL CONFERENCE CENTRE, MARINE PARADE.
WAIHEKE ISLAND - TUESDAY 15TH SEPTEMBER, 7.00PM. VENUE: Artworks Theatre, Ostend.
WHANGANUI - THURSDAY 17TH SEPTEMBER, 7.00PM START.
VENUE: Rangahaua (the old Polytech), Bell St (near the Liverpool St end on the left hand side going toward St Johns Hill). It has a Tupoho Whanau Trust sign in the carpark.
WAIHEKE ISLAND - TUESDAY 15TH SEPTEMBER, 7.00PM. VENUE: Artworks Theatre, Ostend.
WHANGANUI - THURSDAY 17TH SEPTEMBER, 7.00PM START.
VENUE: Rangahaua (the old Polytech), Bell St (near the Liverpool St end on the left hand side going toward St Johns Hill). It has a Tupoho Whanau Trust sign in the carpark.
Thursday, August 20, 2009
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
What can you do?
We're back home from the South Island and we know that after seeing the documentary, you're desperate to make a difference somehow. We're going to put lots of ideas on the blog - bit by bit - but to start with, send an email expressing your concerns to the government ministers ...
Minister of Tourism
Hon John Key - Leader
Email - john.key@national.org.nz
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Minister of Finance
Hon Bill English - Deputy Leader National Party
Email - bill.english@national.org.nz
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Minister of Agriculture
Hon David Carter
Email - david.carter@national.org.nz
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Minister of Trade & Minister of Conservation
Hon Tim Groser
Email - tim.groser@national.org.nz
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Minster for the Environment
Hon Dr Nick Smith
Email - nick.smith@national.org.nz
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Minister for Food Safety
Hon Kate Wilkinson
Email - kate.wilkinson@national.org.nz
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Minister of Health
Hon Tony Ryall
Email - tony.ryall@national.org.nz
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Minister for Treaty of Waitangi Negotiations
Hon Christopher Finlayson
Email - c.finlayson@parliament.govt.nz
Thanks for your support during our trip in the South Island. Let's continue the pressure now. Every letter you send makes a difference. These ministers have to know how many people want aerial 1080 stopped.
Wednesday, August 5, 2009
TE ANAU, WHAT A BEAUTY!
Te Anau - what a fantastic spot - and terrific, caring people.
At least 120 folk packed into the Te Anau Club. We even had to extend the room. The crowd were quiet, absorbing the disturbing evidence that had been presented to them - the evidence that has been un-forthcoming for so long.
We had 55 at kaikoura, 200 at Oamaru, 35 at Gore. Haast is next. We're hoping for 20, (probably the population) at Haast.
It's always unpredictable, just how many battlers show up to these film nights.
The pushers of 1080, over the last 17 years, have done a great job of mis-informing the public, and only showing one side of the story - the side that is constantly stretched.
So it's an old subject, and after all, as the pushers constantly quote..ERMA gave us the go ahead!!
Albert Einstein once said - "Unthinking respect for authority is the greatest enemy of truth."
We've all been led to believe that spreading toxins from the sky is the best thing since the establishment of DoC, however, as one scientist on our new doco told us when discussing this practice... "unfortunately we're all going to pay"!
At least 120 folk packed into the Te Anau Club. We even had to extend the room. The crowd were quiet, absorbing the disturbing evidence that had been presented to them - the evidence that has been un-forthcoming for so long.
We had 55 at kaikoura, 200 at Oamaru, 35 at Gore. Haast is next. We're hoping for 20, (probably the population) at Haast.
It's always unpredictable, just how many battlers show up to these film nights.
The pushers of 1080, over the last 17 years, have done a great job of mis-informing the public, and only showing one side of the story - the side that is constantly stretched.
So it's an old subject, and after all, as the pushers constantly quote..ERMA gave us the go ahead!!
Albert Einstein once said - "Unthinking respect for authority is the greatest enemy of truth."
We've all been led to believe that spreading toxins from the sky is the best thing since the establishment of DoC, however, as one scientist on our new doco told us when discussing this practice... "unfortunately we're all going to pay"!
Sunday, August 2, 2009
ROAD SHOW A GREAT SUCCESS
We have now visited 3 venues, of the 11 we have planned for the South Island. The response from attendees is consistent - shock, dismay, anger...
Our largest attendance so far was Oamaru, with 200 great people.
We now head to Te Anau, which is really heating up - great for mid-winter!
In fact, if you're cold in your district this winter, and need heating up, give us a yell, and we'll do a film night down your way....that'll get your blood going.
Ciao for now battlers, The Graf Boys.
Our largest attendance so far was Oamaru, with 200 great people.
We now head to Te Anau, which is really heating up - great for mid-winter!
In fact, if you're cold in your district this winter, and need heating up, give us a yell, and we'll do a film night down your way....that'll get your blood going.
Ciao for now battlers, The Graf Boys.
Tuesday, July 7, 2009
FILM NIGHTS - POISONING PARADISE - Ecocide New Zealand
Thursday the 6th of August, Hard Antler Bar, Haast, 6.00pm.
Saturday the 8th of August, Hari Hari Motor inn, Hari Hari, 7.00pm.
Sunday the 9th of August, Franks Cafe, Greymouth, 7.00pm
Monday the 10th of August, Westport Working Mans club, Westport, 7.00pm.
Tuesday the 11th of August, Wilson's Hotel, Reefton, 7.30pm
Wednesday the 12th of August, Motueka, Gecko Theatre, 6.00pm.
Thursday the 13th of August, Wholemeal Cafe, Takaka, Golden Bay. 7.00pm.
Friday the 14th of August, Wisheart Room, Marlborough Civic Theatre, central Blenheim, Blenheim, 7.00pm.
Saturday the 8th of August, Hari Hari Motor inn, Hari Hari, 7.00pm.
Sunday the 9th of August, Franks Cafe, Greymouth, 7.00pm
Monday the 10th of August, Westport Working Mans club, Westport, 7.00pm.
Tuesday the 11th of August, Wilson's Hotel, Reefton, 7.30pm
Wednesday the 12th of August, Motueka, Gecko Theatre, 6.00pm.
Thursday the 13th of August, Wholemeal Cafe, Takaka, Golden Bay. 7.00pm.
Friday the 14th of August, Wisheart Room, Marlborough Civic Theatre, central Blenheim, Blenheim, 7.00pm.
Saturday, July 4, 2009
FINALLY, IT'S HERE! THE NEW DOCO - POISONING PARADISE - RELEASED THIS WEEK.
It's been a mission, no question!
We've had loads of hiccups, including a last minute, mini disaster. That's the nature of the beast.
The master was sent to Auckland for duplication last week, but the name titles were being cut off on wide screen TVs. Pisser!
Back to the computer for a risky.... "lift job"!!!!
The editing computer is like dealing with politicians - promises everything at the face of it....delivers little after the hard drives over.
Anyway, she's finally out this week. 1 hour and 55 minutes of distress, cruelty, horror, ecocide, cover-ups and contamination.
It's a sad story, sure, but if you're a New Zealander, digest this stuff - it's real, it's truth, we're all responsible.
Our traditional resources, foods and people are at increasing risk.
If we continue to ignore it, we run the risk, not only of ecocide, but genocide.
UNTHINKING RESPECT FOR AUTHORITY IS THE GREATEST ENEMY OF TRUTH!
Albert Einstein.
We've had loads of hiccups, including a last minute, mini disaster. That's the nature of the beast.
The master was sent to Auckland for duplication last week, but the name titles were being cut off on wide screen TVs. Pisser!
Back to the computer for a risky.... "lift job"!!!!
The editing computer is like dealing with politicians - promises everything at the face of it....delivers little after the hard drives over.
Anyway, she's finally out this week. 1 hour and 55 minutes of distress, cruelty, horror, ecocide, cover-ups and contamination.
It's a sad story, sure, but if you're a New Zealander, digest this stuff - it's real, it's truth, we're all responsible.
Our traditional resources, foods and people are at increasing risk.
If we continue to ignore it, we run the risk, not only of ecocide, but genocide.
UNTHINKING RESPECT FOR AUTHORITY IS THE GREATEST ENEMY OF TRUTH!
Albert Einstein.
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
TAUPO SCREENING IN ASSOCIATION WITH SPCA
The Graf Boys present in association with Taupo SPCA, the hard-hitting documentary Poisoning Paradise - Ecocide New Zealand
As guardians of the forests, we are entrusted with ensuring that:
- our wild animals are managed, and treated, in a way that is humane, and decent.
- we do not harm un-targeted and protected species.
But as a nation, for over 30 years, we have inflicted cruel suffering upon tens of thousands of wild and domestic animals, every year, while "managing" their populations.
As a nation we, with little interest for anything that goes on beyond the forest margin, permit our government agencies to inflict this suffering, on our behalf.
Ignorance is no longer our defence ....
Poisoning Paradise - Ecocide New Zealand presents the truth about the secretive and abhorrent practice of using toxic baits to lethally, and sub-lethally poison animals. Some live, most die.
But the implications go further, reaching far beyond what you thought possible.
Don't miss this important event, and get informed ....
Wednesday the 15th of July, 7.00pm, The Great Lake Centre, Taupo.
TICKETS - $15.00 pp. From Harveys Real Estate, the Great Lake Centre, Fly & Gun Hunting & Fishing, the Taupo SPCA Animal Centre & door sales.
Be in Quick - seats are limited!
ALL PROCEEDS TO THE TAUPO SPCA BUILDING APPEAL
As guardians of the forests, we are entrusted with ensuring that:
- our wild animals are managed, and treated, in a way that is humane, and decent.
- we do not harm un-targeted and protected species.
But as a nation, for over 30 years, we have inflicted cruel suffering upon tens of thousands of wild and domestic animals, every year, while "managing" their populations.
As a nation we, with little interest for anything that goes on beyond the forest margin, permit our government agencies to inflict this suffering, on our behalf.
Ignorance is no longer our defence ....
Poisoning Paradise - Ecocide New Zealand presents the truth about the secretive and abhorrent practice of using toxic baits to lethally, and sub-lethally poison animals. Some live, most die.
But the implications go further, reaching far beyond what you thought possible.
Don't miss this important event, and get informed ....
Wednesday the 15th of July, 7.00pm, The Great Lake Centre, Taupo.
TICKETS - $15.00 pp. From Harveys Real Estate, the Great Lake Centre, Fly & Gun Hunting & Fishing, the Taupo SPCA Animal Centre & door sales.
Be in Quick - seats are limited!
ALL PROCEEDS TO THE TAUPO SPCA BUILDING APPEAL
Monday, June 29, 2009
Taupo District Council meeting on 1080
The Taupo District Council meeting on 1080 is to be held on Wednesday 22 July between 11:00am and 1:00pm at the Great Lake Centre.
It is a Council meeting, not a public meeting, but as with all Council meetings the public are able to attend. No recommendations or resolutions will be made at this meeting. It is intended simply to receive information so that at a later date Council can make an informed and balanced decision on the recommendations from the Turangi Community Board with respect to the application of 1080.
Only Councillors will be able to ask questions. No comments or questions will be taken from the floor.
11:00-12:00 Animal Health Board and Department of Conservation representatives make their pro-1080 presentations and answer questions from Councillors.
12:00-1:00 A team representing farmers, the hunting community, scientists, medical practitioners and the concerns of the general public, will make their anti-1080 presentations and answer questions from Councillors.
All interested parties are welcome to attend.
It is a Council meeting, not a public meeting, but as with all Council meetings the public are able to attend. No recommendations or resolutions will be made at this meeting. It is intended simply to receive information so that at a later date Council can make an informed and balanced decision on the recommendations from the Turangi Community Board with respect to the application of 1080.
Only Councillors will be able to ask questions. No comments or questions will be taken from the floor.
11:00-12:00 Animal Health Board and Department of Conservation representatives make their pro-1080 presentations and answer questions from Councillors.
12:00-1:00 A team representing farmers, the hunting community, scientists, medical practitioners and the concerns of the general public, will make their anti-1080 presentations and answer questions from Councillors.
All interested parties are welcome to attend.
(The Great Lake Centre is shown as number 4 on the map).
Sunday, June 28, 2009
"A very impressive piece of work," says consent hearing commissioner.
HOT OFF THE CHRISTCHURCH PRESS
24 June 2009
Officials wanting to drop 1080 poison on a scenic reserve in Marlborough have been shown a hard-hitting documentary detailing its impact.
The documentary, Poisoning Paradise Ecocide in New Zealand, was shown during a resource consent hearing in Blenheim.
The Department of Conservation (DoC) wants to drop the poison on Isolated Hill Scenic Reserve as part of possum-control operations. The area crosses Marlborough and Canterbury and includes Sawcut Gorge, a popular day-walk.
Seven officials from DoC, the Animal Health Board, Landcare Research, the Marlborough District Council and Environment Canterbury watched the documentary. It was submitted in evidence by Marlborough resident Lloyd Hanson, who argued against the air drop.
"I haven't got `Doctor' in front of my name, but I still think I've got relevant points to make,'' he said. "They (DoC) are not acting in the best interests of the environment. They do not give a stuff.''
The documentary shows falcons and other birds dying, freshwater crayfish fighting over submerged 1080 pellets, deer and pigs rotting in creeks, eels eating dead animals in waterways, and dying stock.
DoC has previously criticised the work of film-makers Clyde and Steve Graf, pointing out a lack of scientific background. However, hearing commissioner Murray Hunt congratulated the Grafs, describing the film as "a very impressive piece of work."
DoC's legal representative at the hearing, Rachel Ennor, called it a "powerful'' film.
She initially tried to prevent it being shown at the hearing, but later said she wasn't concerned about it being shown. "I think it's important to assess the information within it to assess that information that relates to the question in front of us today is the key.''
Earlier, Ennor reminded the hearing the Environmental Risk Management Authority had sanctioned the continued use of 1080 in 2007 after an exhaustive inquiry.
Animal Health Board national disease control manager Kevin Crews described the film as thought-provoking. "There are a lot of things there that I have to go away and think about. I've taken note of a lot of references I'd like to go back and have a look at."
He continued, "I've noted things there about some of the hormonal effects. Again, it would be interesting to see the basis for all of that. Not saying that there is anything in it, but one needs to keep an open mind to some things and go and have a look at them.''
Hunt has 15 days to make a decision on the proposed Isolated Hill drop.
24 June 2009
Officials wanting to drop 1080 poison on a scenic reserve in Marlborough have been shown a hard-hitting documentary detailing its impact.
The documentary, Poisoning Paradise Ecocide in New Zealand, was shown during a resource consent hearing in Blenheim.
The Department of Conservation (DoC) wants to drop the poison on Isolated Hill Scenic Reserve as part of possum-control operations. The area crosses Marlborough and Canterbury and includes Sawcut Gorge, a popular day-walk.
Seven officials from DoC, the Animal Health Board, Landcare Research, the Marlborough District Council and Environment Canterbury watched the documentary. It was submitted in evidence by Marlborough resident Lloyd Hanson, who argued against the air drop.
"I haven't got `Doctor' in front of my name, but I still think I've got relevant points to make,'' he said. "They (DoC) are not acting in the best interests of the environment. They do not give a stuff.''
The documentary shows falcons and other birds dying, freshwater crayfish fighting over submerged 1080 pellets, deer and pigs rotting in creeks, eels eating dead animals in waterways, and dying stock.
DoC has previously criticised the work of film-makers Clyde and Steve Graf, pointing out a lack of scientific background. However, hearing commissioner Murray Hunt congratulated the Grafs, describing the film as "a very impressive piece of work."
DoC's legal representative at the hearing, Rachel Ennor, called it a "powerful'' film.
She initially tried to prevent it being shown at the hearing, but later said she wasn't concerned about it being shown. "I think it's important to assess the information within it to assess that information that relates to the question in front of us today is the key.''
Earlier, Ennor reminded the hearing the Environmental Risk Management Authority had sanctioned the continued use of 1080 in 2007 after an exhaustive inquiry.
Animal Health Board national disease control manager Kevin Crews described the film as thought-provoking. "There are a lot of things there that I have to go away and think about. I've taken note of a lot of references I'd like to go back and have a look at."
He continued, "I've noted things there about some of the hormonal effects. Again, it would be interesting to see the basis for all of that. Not saying that there is anything in it, but one needs to keep an open mind to some things and go and have a look at them.''
Hunt has 15 days to make a decision on the proposed Isolated Hill drop.
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
Doco viewing Otorohanga Friday 19th June @ 7.30 pm
The documentary is down to its final edits and will be ready for a proper viewing this Friday in Otorohanga.
Please come and support The Graf Boys, Kate Winters and others at the Otorohanga Working Men's Club at 7.30pm. Watch the documentary, discuss the issues and ask lots of questions. Thanks to John Moreland for organising such a great opportunity.
Where: Maniapoto Road (main road), Otorohanga (across the road from Subway at number 146).
Please come and support The Graf Boys, Kate Winters and others at the Otorohanga Working Men's Club at 7.30pm. Watch the documentary, discuss the issues and ask lots of questions. Thanks to John Moreland for organising such a great opportunity.
Where: Maniapoto Road (main road), Otorohanga (across the road from Subway at number 146).
$15 entry fee includes supper. Kate's books will also be available for sale.
Monday, June 8, 2009
THE GREAT 1080 DEBATE - TAUPO
Well, what a joke!
The Great 1080 debate, organised by Taupo District Council, for tomorrow night (09/06/09) at The Great Lake Centre in Taupo, has been deferred, and softened, due to the opposition ..... not being prepared! They have had the last 20 years to be prepared, however.
Could it be that they didn't want to face the "Live" questions fired from the other side of the table, by the "credible" scientific, medical and practical experts we had waiting for them???
There is a whisper that the proponents told the Taupo District Council that the ERMA review was held in 2007, so they need not show up.
Below is the press release by the TDC, Following that is the response from Clyde Graf.
MEDIA RELEASE
4 June 2009
POSTPONED 1080 debate GOES straight to council
Tuesday’s 1080 debate has been postponed to a special council meeting sometime next month so all sides of the argument can be heard
The great 1080 debate had been scheduled to happen on Tuesday 9th June at the Great Lake Centre but Taupo District Mayor Rick Cooper says the short notice caused a few problems with availability, “we got feedback from some of the key players that they would be keen to present their views to Council, but the arrangements for 9 June didn’t suit. It is very important that they be able to attend so we decided to postpone it until we can find a time and date that works for everyone.”
“As Council are very keen to consider this issue, we have decided to reconsider the format of the meeting and convene a special Council meeting where the speakers can present their case straight to the Council, this allows questions from Councillors to be put directly to the speakers.”
Mayor Cooper says the Great Lake Centre is still very much an option as it will allow the public to attend in greater numbers if they wish “there is more room at the Great Lake Centre and Council may choose to sit there instead of the chambers.”
He says although this will delay the Council consideration of this a little, it is very important that it be dealt with in an even handed and objective manner “my fellow Councillors and I want to take this extra time to ensure we get the best advice from all sides on this serious issue.”
END
The Great 1080 Debate The Rebuttal 05/06/09
Dear Sir,
As the person responsible for assembling the team opposing the use of 1080 in New Zealand, for The Great 1080 Debate, I by no means direct my comments at the Taupo District Council, or the extensive work it has undertaken to try and arrange this unprecedented, engaging, public hearing.
This letter is in response to the no-show officials that were requested by the Mayor of Taupo to attend The Great Debate to defend their ecocidal practice of dropping enough poison to kill 20 million people per year, every year, into our forests, with little regard for where it terminates, or who or what it affects.
Scientists warn that dropping 1000's of tonnes of 1080 bait (which is also an insecticide) into our forests annually, is endangering some rare insects. In this case, it would seem our "Ecological Protectors" are not only extincting some rare species of invertebrates that they are entrusted to protect, but by refusing to front up to this debate, they share the same anatomy.
The pro 1080 candidates for this debate have suggested that they need more time to arrange their case. It must be remembered that these aerial assault artists have been at this practice for decades - one could be forgiven for thinking that after 30 years of contaminating our country, they would be able to rattle off their justification, verbatim, as is often the case through their media releases.
It is the opposition that should be able to call for extension time, not these heavily funded puppets that are running scared! These bureaucrats should face up to any organised mayoral request, to face the questions that their very existence and advocacy raises.
Taupo District Council contacted me, at short notice - I did not reply with....that can't work for us! At the drop of a hat, our underfunded, patriotic New Zealander's, made themselves available, to defend the nation, with no excuses. We assembled a team that would expose the proponents of aerial 1080 poisoning operations to a multitude of horrors and breaches, let alone ecocide.
It is reported, that in their response, they have proposed the idea that they present their "advocacy observations" (my punctuation) - to the panel - here by dodging the possibility of live retort from those armed with credible scientific expertise, credible medical expertise, credible and extensive ground experience, in a live format - this is nothing less than a reprieve.
After ERMA, the only type of format my team are in support of, is a well structured, well chaired, LIVE debate. Not a hearing where difficult questions projected by our concerned experts can be avoided, as appeared to be the case with the ERMA hearings.
Because the pro 1080 bunch are so bent on getting their facts straight, citing this as the need for more time, lets not stop at a Taupo district - live debate - let's push for national debates, in every town - or better still, an international live debate. After all, we promote our image and products to the world - let's get some uninfluenced scientists, some tourism officials and some of our biggest export partners to all get around the table and have an INTERNATIONAL, LIVE DEBATE ON THE USE OF 1080 IN NEW ZEALAND....because, apparently we have nothing to hide! Yes sir, lets do it!
The word POISON instills unease, fear, contamination, suffering and death. By simply using it we have not only contaminated our environment and wildlife, we have also contaminated our image.
In any case, we chalk this one up as a victory.
The Great 1080 debate, organised by Taupo District Council, for tomorrow night (09/06/09) at The Great Lake Centre in Taupo, has been deferred, and softened, due to the opposition ..... not being prepared! They have had the last 20 years to be prepared, however.
Could it be that they didn't want to face the "Live" questions fired from the other side of the table, by the "credible" scientific, medical and practical experts we had waiting for them???
There is a whisper that the proponents told the Taupo District Council that the ERMA review was held in 2007, so they need not show up.
Below is the press release by the TDC, Following that is the response from Clyde Graf.
MEDIA RELEASE
4 June 2009
POSTPONED 1080 debate GOES straight to council
Tuesday’s 1080 debate has been postponed to a special council meeting sometime next month so all sides of the argument can be heard
The great 1080 debate had been scheduled to happen on Tuesday 9th June at the Great Lake Centre but Taupo District Mayor Rick Cooper says the short notice caused a few problems with availability, “we got feedback from some of the key players that they would be keen to present their views to Council, but the arrangements for 9 June didn’t suit. It is very important that they be able to attend so we decided to postpone it until we can find a time and date that works for everyone.”
“As Council are very keen to consider this issue, we have decided to reconsider the format of the meeting and convene a special Council meeting where the speakers can present their case straight to the Council, this allows questions from Councillors to be put directly to the speakers.”
Mayor Cooper says the Great Lake Centre is still very much an option as it will allow the public to attend in greater numbers if they wish “there is more room at the Great Lake Centre and Council may choose to sit there instead of the chambers.”
He says although this will delay the Council consideration of this a little, it is very important that it be dealt with in an even handed and objective manner “my fellow Councillors and I want to take this extra time to ensure we get the best advice from all sides on this serious issue.”
END
The Great 1080 Debate The Rebuttal 05/06/09
Dear Sir,
As the person responsible for assembling the team opposing the use of 1080 in New Zealand, for The Great 1080 Debate, I by no means direct my comments at the Taupo District Council, or the extensive work it has undertaken to try and arrange this unprecedented, engaging, public hearing.
This letter is in response to the no-show officials that were requested by the Mayor of Taupo to attend The Great Debate to defend their ecocidal practice of dropping enough poison to kill 20 million people per year, every year, into our forests, with little regard for where it terminates, or who or what it affects.
Scientists warn that dropping 1000's of tonnes of 1080 bait (which is also an insecticide) into our forests annually, is endangering some rare insects. In this case, it would seem our "Ecological Protectors" are not only extincting some rare species of invertebrates that they are entrusted to protect, but by refusing to front up to this debate, they share the same anatomy.
The pro 1080 candidates for this debate have suggested that they need more time to arrange their case. It must be remembered that these aerial assault artists have been at this practice for decades - one could be forgiven for thinking that after 30 years of contaminating our country, they would be able to rattle off their justification, verbatim, as is often the case through their media releases.
It is the opposition that should be able to call for extension time, not these heavily funded puppets that are running scared! These bureaucrats should face up to any organised mayoral request, to face the questions that their very existence and advocacy raises.
Taupo District Council contacted me, at short notice - I did not reply with....that can't work for us! At the drop of a hat, our underfunded, patriotic New Zealander's, made themselves available, to defend the nation, with no excuses. We assembled a team that would expose the proponents of aerial 1080 poisoning operations to a multitude of horrors and breaches, let alone ecocide.
It is reported, that in their response, they have proposed the idea that they present their "advocacy observations" (my punctuation) - to the panel - here by dodging the possibility of live retort from those armed with credible scientific expertise, credible medical expertise, credible and extensive ground experience, in a live format - this is nothing less than a reprieve.
After ERMA, the only type of format my team are in support of, is a well structured, well chaired, LIVE debate. Not a hearing where difficult questions projected by our concerned experts can be avoided, as appeared to be the case with the ERMA hearings.
Because the pro 1080 bunch are so bent on getting their facts straight, citing this as the need for more time, lets not stop at a Taupo district - live debate - let's push for national debates, in every town - or better still, an international live debate. After all, we promote our image and products to the world - let's get some uninfluenced scientists, some tourism officials and some of our biggest export partners to all get around the table and have an INTERNATIONAL, LIVE DEBATE ON THE USE OF 1080 IN NEW ZEALAND....because, apparently we have nothing to hide! Yes sir, lets do it!
The word POISON instills unease, fear, contamination, suffering and death. By simply using it we have not only contaminated our environment and wildlife, we have also contaminated our image.
In any case, we chalk this one up as a victory.
Monday, April 6, 2009
DOCUMENTARY NOT FAIR MINDED! minister of conservation.
On the 26th of March, a fellow 1080 battler received a reply to some questions, directed to the Minister of Conservation.
Native birds have been devastated for years, has there ever been any public mention of such ecocide??? Not ever! (The Kea report was believed to be leaked to media, which was unfortunate for DoC)
For decades live stock has been killed regularly, and hidden with confidentiality agreements, and false invoices....intentional suppression??? Always.
Among other thoughtful responses, the Minister stated that the new documentary "Poisoning Paradise - Ecocide in New Zealand" was biased, and its apparent agenda was to prove that we should ban the use of 1080.
Spot on! This is absolutely and unashamedly correct!
The Minister went on to say that it was not a balanced assessment of benefits and risks of 1080. Also correct.
For over 30 years New Zealand has been dumping 1000's of tonnes of 1080 bait into its environment, annually. Scientific studies have indicated, and demonstrated, concerning consequences for decades. Has there ever been any public mention of these findings??? Not ever!
For over 30 years New Zealand has been dumping 1000's of tonnes of 1080 bait into its environment, annually. Scientific studies have indicated, and demonstrated, concerning consequences for decades. Has there ever been any public mention of these findings??? Not ever!
Native birds have been devastated for years, has there ever been any public mention of such ecocide??? Not ever! (The Kea report was believed to be leaked to media, which was unfortunate for DoC)
For decades live stock has been killed regularly, and hidden with confidentiality agreements, and false invoices....intentional suppression??? Always.
The Government even owns the factory that imports and manufactures the poison. Any public mention??? Not ever!
The Minister of Conservation suggests we are being biased in our presentation of the facts! However, the new documentary is simply delivering the other side of the story, the side that has been suppressed by biased users of 1080, for decades.
The Minister of Conservation suggests we are being biased in our presentation of the facts! However, the new documentary is simply delivering the other side of the story, the side that has been suppressed by biased users of 1080, for decades.
Instead of being concerned at what New Zealand's environment is being subjected to, undeniable evidence is dismissed as bias, so therefore, it seems, not worthy of appropriate, urgent action. A very biased approach indeed!
On 5 occasions the Department of Conservation has been requested, politely, desperately, for an interview - to give their side of the story - their response, among others, they are not interested in what a couple of brothers are doing. Fair enough.
There was no room for propaganda on this documentary. We, along with many other New Zealanders, scientists and experts, have found no benefits to the use of 1080 in New Zealand. And as scientists appearing on our doco say - there is not one credible scientific study that shows a benefit to any native species, not one!
On 5 occasions the Department of Conservation has been requested, politely, desperately, for an interview - to give their side of the story - their response, among others, they are not interested in what a couple of brothers are doing. Fair enough.
There was no room for propaganda on this documentary. We, along with many other New Zealanders, scientists and experts, have found no benefits to the use of 1080 in New Zealand. And as scientists appearing on our doco say - there is not one credible scientific study that shows a benefit to any native species, not one!
But get this straight - 1080 kills, and it kills with great efficiency. So, if that is the benefit...well, I guess the pushers are right, in that one area. It does kill - it kills everything, from Earthworms to Elephants!
Sunday, April 5, 2009
DELAY ON "POISONING PARADISE" DOCO RELEASE
We were about to release a full length version of the new doco, and requested a final scrutinisation from some of the scientists involved.
They recommended it be re-edited - to a shorter, more scientifically appropriate, and more compelling length - this went down like a tonne of 1080 on a Kiwi sanctuary...nearly wiped us out!
But fortunately, we have these guys looking out for us, and working with us, because of course, they are right.
So it's back to the editing desk, trawling through the huge amount of evidence, trying to compact what stays in, and identify what's tossed out.
So, there will be a delay of another couple of weeks - but, we believe, it will be worth it.
Back to the battle fields........
They recommended it be re-edited - to a shorter, more scientifically appropriate, and more compelling length - this went down like a tonne of 1080 on a Kiwi sanctuary...nearly wiped us out!
But fortunately, we have these guys looking out for us, and working with us, because of course, they are right.
So it's back to the editing desk, trawling through the huge amount of evidence, trying to compact what stays in, and identify what's tossed out.
So, there will be a delay of another couple of weeks - but, we believe, it will be worth it.
Back to the battle fields........
Sunday, March 29, 2009
Top 10 Myths about 1080 - Part One
- That it is necessary to use 1080 because there are 70 million possums - Where does anyone get this statistic from? It's the same statistic that has been talked about for decades, but when we go into the bush after a 1080 drop, we never find evidence of huge numbers of possums. The statistic is just used to shock people into desperately accepting any means of control.
- That it is cheaper to drop 1080 aerially - This depends on what you're including in your costs, doesn't it? Aerial poisoning requires fewer workers but wouldn't it be preferable to provide work for ground-based pest-controllers, rather than having to pay the dole? Wouldn't it also be good to be able to use the possum as a sustainable resource, rather than letting them all rot out in the wilderness? The accidental poisoning of secondary animals also carries a cost, and there are far greater chances of these accidents happening in aerial drops because no one is burying the carcasses or sweeping the paths clear of baits. Ground-based operations conducted in the past have proven to be economical ways of controlling possums.
Saturday, March 21, 2009
We went into battle this week and the crowd came with us
We were down Napier way this week in a place called Te Pohue.
We had a meeting to attend - which was also attended by some of the Animal Health Board leaders from Wellington.
Their objective - to inform the locals of the "benefits" of 1080, and the fight against TB.
Our objective - to inform locals of the truth about the AHB objective.
After all, they plan to drop 1080 over 55,000 hectares of the Te Urewera National Park. Can you believe that? One of our most precious wilderness areas.
We decided to really help get the locals stirred up on this issue - so that's what we did.
There were cheers from the crowd, after we encouraged them to fight this stuff, and never permit these filthy toxins to be dropped into their environment - much to the shock of the six in the opposition team, all armed with briefcases, and 150k salaries.
Anyway, the AHB, and regional council were pushing their usual lines, but were lost on some questions from the floor. This crowd was sharp on their knowledge - and besides, this crowd had the same drop dumped on them 2 ½ years ago so the devastation is still fresh in their minds.
They plan to re-kill 55,000 of Te Urewera forest, in the hope of catching a possum with TB. But how big is the TB problem really?
AHB revealed that it is quite safe to consume meat infected with TB. Even the ERMA decision paper said it’s nearly impossible to catch the disease, even if you ate raw meat infected with TB. In fact, TB-infected stock is currently sold into local supermarkets. The TB issue is a STIGMA thing – it’s not a real threat.
But 1080 is a real threat.
So, which stigma would you rather trade with - a low chance of TB in your meat, or a low chance of the deadly 1080 toxin in your meat and water?
I know which one I'd choose.
We had a meeting to attend - which was also attended by some of the Animal Health Board leaders from Wellington.
Their objective - to inform the locals of the "benefits" of 1080, and the fight against TB.
Our objective - to inform locals of the truth about the AHB objective.
After all, they plan to drop 1080 over 55,000 hectares of the Te Urewera National Park. Can you believe that? One of our most precious wilderness areas.
We decided to really help get the locals stirred up on this issue - so that's what we did.
There were cheers from the crowd, after we encouraged them to fight this stuff, and never permit these filthy toxins to be dropped into their environment - much to the shock of the six in the opposition team, all armed with briefcases, and 150k salaries.
Anyway, the AHB, and regional council were pushing their usual lines, but were lost on some questions from the floor. This crowd was sharp on their knowledge - and besides, this crowd had the same drop dumped on them 2 ½ years ago so the devastation is still fresh in their minds.
They plan to re-kill 55,000 of Te Urewera forest, in the hope of catching a possum with TB. But how big is the TB problem really?
AHB revealed that it is quite safe to consume meat infected with TB. Even the ERMA decision paper said it’s nearly impossible to catch the disease, even if you ate raw meat infected with TB. In fact, TB-infected stock is currently sold into local supermarkets. The TB issue is a STIGMA thing – it’s not a real threat.
But 1080 is a real threat.
So, which stigma would you rather trade with - a low chance of TB in your meat, or a low chance of the deadly 1080 toxin in your meat and water?
I know which one I'd choose.
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
The birds are dead in Pirongia
We were filming the last bits for the doco at Pirongia (west Hamilton), yesterday.
Incidently, the DoC has dropped 1080 there three times over the last 10 years. There has been research done on Pirongia poisoning, and it says that each time they have dropped, they have recorded lower bird numbers.
Well, it was the first time I have been in the bush there - and it was revealing. There are birds on the fringes, as is the case in all areas - the birds like the fringes, and there is less poison on the edges.
But head into the bush, and apart from seeing one pigeon, we saw no other birds. We did hear a couple of grey warblers, and one fantail, in the distance. It was a beautiful day, and we were in there for six hours. What a disaster! Their bloody toxins!
The Department of Conservation and Forest and Bird say that there are initial losses of birds after poisoning but the numbers increase rapidly once the predators have been killed off.
But doesn't ten years of poisoning in Pirongia prove them wrong?
Incidently, the DoC has dropped 1080 there three times over the last 10 years. There has been research done on Pirongia poisoning, and it says that each time they have dropped, they have recorded lower bird numbers.
Well, it was the first time I have been in the bush there - and it was revealing. There are birds on the fringes, as is the case in all areas - the birds like the fringes, and there is less poison on the edges.
But head into the bush, and apart from seeing one pigeon, we saw no other birds. We did hear a couple of grey warblers, and one fantail, in the distance. It was a beautiful day, and we were in there for six hours. What a disaster! Their bloody toxins!
The Department of Conservation and Forest and Bird say that there are initial losses of birds after poisoning but the numbers increase rapidly once the predators have been killed off.
But doesn't ten years of poisoning in Pirongia prove them wrong?
Thursday, March 12, 2009
View Campbell Live video clip on TV3
Click here on Campbell Live to view Monday's programme about 1080 and the documentary Poisoning Paradise.
Sunday, March 8, 2009
What the World Health Organization said about 1080 poison
The World Health Organization (WHO) has a lot of things to say in its Toxicity Report about sodium fluoroacetate (1080) but the bits that stand out for me are the following:
1.4.4 Unintended effects: very toxic to birds, domestic animals and wildlife. High risk of secondary poisoning to carnivorous and omnivorous species from eating poisoned carcasses.
4.1.3 .... Baits should not be used where there is a risk of contaminating food, animal feeding stuffs or drinking or washing water. Exposed baits should be laid in containers clearly marked "Poison". Baits should not be laid unless all access by children and animals other than rats and mice can be prevented. Except in locked unoccupied premises baits should not remain down for more than 24 hours. All exposed baits and their containers should be removed after treatment and burned. Rodent bodies should be searched for and destroyed by burning.
After reading this, it's surprising to read that the Animal Health Board says in a letter to Kaka "we strongly disagree with your claims that our operations will result in the decimation of native birdlife or contamination of the soil, water and air." Even Steve Chadwick said last year that 1080 breaks down in water.
1.4.4 Unintended effects: very toxic to birds, domestic animals and wildlife. High risk of secondary poisoning to carnivorous and omnivorous species from eating poisoned carcasses.
4.1.3 .... Baits should not be used where there is a risk of contaminating food, animal feeding stuffs or drinking or washing water. Exposed baits should be laid in containers clearly marked "Poison". Baits should not be laid unless all access by children and animals other than rats and mice can be prevented. Except in locked unoccupied premises baits should not remain down for more than 24 hours. All exposed baits and their containers should be removed after treatment and burned. Rodent bodies should be searched for and destroyed by burning.
After reading this, it's surprising to read that the Animal Health Board says in a letter to Kaka "we strongly disagree with your claims that our operations will result in the decimation of native birdlife or contamination of the soil, water and air." Even Steve Chadwick said last year that 1080 breaks down in water.
If this is so, why do all the labels and reports about 1080 toxicity say the opposite? Have we become deaf to the truth because 1080 is a lazy and convenient option?
Thursday, March 5, 2009
Campbell Live TV3 - Monday, 9th, March 7.00pm.
TV3 - Campbell Live Monday, 9th March
We were interviewed by TV3, Cambell Live Producer - Clayton Anderson, while filming Victor McClean, a ground-based trapper on the Coromandel, yesterday (5th, March)
The item is due for airing this Monday, the 9th of March, TV3, at 7.00pm.
"Poisoning Paradise - Ecocide in New Zealand" is going to be released in 2 versions - a full, comprehensive DVD, and a shorter, viewer friendly version.
The full version is expected to be released on the 20th of March, 2009.
We were interviewed by TV3, Cambell Live Producer - Clayton Anderson, while filming Victor McClean, a ground-based trapper on the Coromandel, yesterday (5th, March)
The item is due for airing this Monday, the 9th of March, TV3, at 7.00pm.
"Poisoning Paradise - Ecocide in New Zealand" is going to be released in 2 versions - a full, comprehensive DVD, and a shorter, viewer friendly version.
The full version is expected to be released on the 20th of March, 2009.
Sunday, March 1, 2009
Who else wants to see this newspaper headline about 1080?
In July 2008, after seven out of 29 kea were killed in one area in a 1080 poison operation, our parliamentarians debated the wisdom of using a lethal poison that threatens a wide range of wildlife. Steve Chadwick insisted that DoC constantly reviews their biosecurity and that ERMA had recently conducted a review that concluded 1080 poison is the best pest control method available.
Strange isn't it then that ERMA had made its mind up about the fate of 1080 before independent scientists, conservation, recreation and community groups had been given the opportunity to give their evidence in the review? News media reported the leaked information about their decision weeks before individuals and groups were due to be heard.
There has been a change of government since July 2008, so perhaps it's time for John Key and his team to have another look at the facts. At a time of economic downturn, when the government is focused on a jobs summit, do you reckon it would be wise to focus on pest control options that encourage tourism, provide jobs and promote clean, green exports? We have sent him a copy of our documentary. Now might be a good time for you to email his parliamentary secretary at emma.holmes@parliament.govt.nz asking him for a 1080 ban.
Can't wait to see that newspaper headline!
Can't wait to see that newspaper headline!
Saturday, February 28, 2009
So what does it feel like to watch your animals die of 1080 poisoning?
Wayne Fairhall of Kaiata never wants to be put through that experience again. The experience of arriving home to find dead deer with blood and foam around their mouths, scattered through his paddocks, and his partner holding a deer as it died, screaming in agony.KAKA has reports like this one called Rains on Farm and some fascinating correspondence with the Animal Health Board about how 1080 poison drops threaten the livelihoods of a wide range of people who depend on tourism in the Karamea region.
It's ironic that even after a debacle like the one in Kaiata, where it is obvious that 1080 kills any unfortunate animal that accidentally eats it, the AHB refuses to acknowledge that it places birdlife at risk.
Does that make sense to you?
Monday, February 23, 2009
Pure and natural New Zealand - yes, well, maybe not
Dropping poison from the sky is an indiscriminate form of pest control. How is anyone supposed to control where it ends up, and what eats it?
1080 baits regularly fall in rivers and streams and are eaten by animals such as koura (freshwater crayfish) and eels. Animals that have consumed 1080 sometimes die and decompose in the water, or are eaten by other animals.
Contaminated water washes over watercress which grows down the sides of streams. These foods are regularly harvested by Maori, who also use this water for their water supply. And trampers and tourists unwittingly wash and drink from these streams without knowing that one of the most 'banned' poisons in the world is in there.
1080 poison safety instructions state clearly that the poison is lethal and that poisoned animals should be buried or removed so that there is no risk of further contamination or secondary poisoning. Photos of dead animals in waterways prove that no one takes this requirement seriously.
Surely a department that is devoted to conservation should be focused on preserving the wellbeing of our wildlife, our waterways, and our wilderness areas. Not on poisoning it.
1080 baits regularly fall in rivers and streams and are eaten by animals such as koura (freshwater crayfish) and eels. Animals that have consumed 1080 sometimes die and decompose in the water, or are eaten by other animals.
Contaminated water washes over watercress which grows down the sides of streams. These foods are regularly harvested by Maori, who also use this water for their water supply. And trampers and tourists unwittingly wash and drink from these streams without knowing that one of the most 'banned' poisons in the world is in there.
1080 poison safety instructions state clearly that the poison is lethal and that poisoned animals should be buried or removed so that there is no risk of further contamination or secondary poisoning. Photos of dead animals in waterways prove that no one takes this requirement seriously.
Surely a department that is devoted to conservation should be focused on preserving the wellbeing of our wildlife, our waterways, and our wilderness areas. Not on poisoning it.
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
Spread the word - any way you can
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| From Created images |
- write a letter to the editor
- add your comments on online forums
- sign petitions
- stage protests
- wear an anti-1080 t-shirt
- write to John Key
- talk to friends about it
- turn up to public meetings
- join support networks
- pay for an advert where everyone will see it ...
"Nobody made a greater mistake than he who did nothing because he could only do a little." Edmund Burke
Sunday, February 15, 2009
A tribute to animals killed by 1080
If you have photos of animal victims of 1080 that you would like to include on our slideshow, please email them to thegrafboys@xtra.co.nz
Sunday, February 8, 2009
Poisoning Paradise documentary screens 6 Feb 2009
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| From Poisoning Paradise |
85% of the world's production ends up here in New Zealand.
It gets scattered over our beautiful national parks in the form of carrot and cereal baits. It's meant for the possums, but it's irresistible to everything that moves, from insects, dogs and goats, to deer, horses and sheep. Worst of all, native birds are dying for a taste too - kea, weka, kiwi, robins, fantails - and the substance that is supposed to improve their habitat, is actually killing them.
Know what we're talking about yet?
Three hundred and fifty people came to Hokitika from all over New Zealand to watch our preview screening of Poisoning Paradise - Ecocide in New Zealand, a new documentary about the use of 1080 in New Zealand. Most of the viewers already knew that animals die slow, painful deaths from eating 1080 dropped from the sky. But people were surprised to see
- how many animals are dying (It is calculated 100's of dogs, and over 10,000 deer - annually)
- that endangered animals are dying (1000's of native species, annually)
- that pets and domesticated animals are regular victims
- that the operators, and authorities, cover it up
It's gut-wrenching to hear farmers describing their animals as they die excruciating deaths. But when the same people say that the authorities will pay compensation for their animals as long as they write on the invoice that it is for track maintenance or stock feed, it's sickening.
The general public need to see this documentary. Spread the news. It's time to get rid of 1080 once and for all.
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