Blumine Island facts for kids
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Native name:
Ōruawairua (Māori)
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New Zealand king shags on Blumine Island / Ōruawairua
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 Blumine Island / Ōruawairua
Location in Marlborough Sounds
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| Geography | |
| Location | Marlborough Sounds South Island |
| Coordinates | 41°10′29″S 174°14′22″E / 41.1748°S 174.2395°E |
| Area | 3.8 km2 (1.5 sq mi) |
| Highest elevation | 298 m (978 ft) |
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| Demographics | |
| Population | 0 |
Blumine Island, also known as Ōruawairua, is a special island located in the Marlborough Sounds in New Zealand. You can find it at the northern tip of the South Island, in a place called Queen Charlotte Sound. The name Ōruawairua means "meeting place of spirits" in the Māori language.
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About Blumine Island
Blumine Island is about 377 hectares (or 3.8 square kilometers) in size. It is mostly covered in hills. The island is located about 22 kilometers north of a town called Picton. It is a scenic reserve, which means anyone can visit and explore its natural beauty.
Protecting the Island's Nature
For a long time, the island had unwanted animals, called pests, that were brought there by people. These pests harmed the native plants and animals. The Department of Conservation worked hard to remove them. In May 2008, the island was declared free of these pests. This allowed native New Zealand animals to return and thrive.
World War II History
During World War II, soldiers and workers built two gun platforms on Blumine Island. These were meant to protect the Marlborough Sounds from a possible attack. The sites were no longer needed after the war ended in 1945. Today, you can walk on tracks built in 2012 that connect the main campsite to these old gun platforms.
Helping Hands on the Island
Organizations like Outward Bound and the Untouched World Charitable Trust help take care of Blumine Island. They work to keep the island healthy and beautiful for everyone.
Kiwi Birds on the Island
Blumine Island is now home to some very special birds. On June 29, 2010, three pairs of rowi kiwi were brought to the island. Rowi kiwi are the rarest type of kiwi bird in New Zealand. Bringing them to Blumine Island helps protect these amazing birds.
See also
- List of islands of New Zealand
- List of islands
- Desert island
