Motumānawa / Pollen Island facts for kids
Motumānawa / Pollen Island is a special island located in the Waitematā Harbour in Auckland, New Zealand. It's very close to the northern part of the Rosebank Peninsula. This island is one of two islands found within the Motu Manawa (Pollen Island) Marine Reserve. The other island is Traherne Island.
The marine reserve, which is like a protected underwater park, covers about 500 hectares (or 1.9 square miles). It was created in 1995 to protect the sea life and environment around the islands. The island's official name was changed to Motumānawa / Pollen Island on November 12, 2015. This change was made official by the government, a process called "gazetting."
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About Motumānawa / Pollen Island
Motumānawa / Pollen Island is a small but important piece of land. It is known for its natural beauty and the special plants and animals that live there. The island and the waters around it are protected to keep them safe for future generations.
Where is the Island?
The island is situated in the Waitematā Harbour, which is a large natural harbour in Auckland. It's easy to spot near the Rosebank Peninsula. Being in the harbour means it's surrounded by water, making it a unique habitat.
What's in a Name?
The English name, Pollen Island, comes from a man named Daniel Pollen. He bought the island way back in 1855. Daniel Pollen was an important person in New Zealand's history. He later became the Premier of New Zealand, which is like being the main leader of the country. The Māori name, Motumānawa, also has its own meaning and history, reflecting the island's cultural significance.
Who Looks After the Island?
Since late 2005, the Department of Conservation (DOC) has owned and managed Motumānawa / Pollen Island. DOC is a government group that looks after New Zealand's natural and historical places. They got the island from Ports of Auckland, which used to own it.
In 2006, the island was officially made an "open scientific reserve." This means it's a place where scientists can study nature. Before DOC took over, the Forest and Bird group leased the island. They leased it from Ports of Auckland from June 1995 to June 2005. During their time, Forest and Bird worked to identify all the native plants and animals living on the island. They also created a plan to help manage and protect the island's unique environment.
