Mauao FAQs and Figures

FAQs

Why can't we have dogs on Mauao?

Mauao is home to some of Aotearoa's most at-risk birds. Even our locals are generally unaware. The most vulnerable is our Kororā - Little Blue Penguin. Mauao is home for them - it's where they live, breed, and they forage from our local waters to feed. Dogs are a huge risk, with casualties experienced in the Mt Maunganui area every year from dog attacks. Of course, not all dogs are going to attack, but we must enforce the same rule for all and ban dogs altogether.
To prevent the risk of incidents involving dog attacks to humans on Mauao, which would likely result in a rescue.
With our tracks being so heavily utilised, the risk is too high for dog poo to be lying about for people to stand on, or for Kororā and the likes to avoid and potentially abandon burrows.

Why can't we have bikes on Mauao?

Fun-fact - There used to be an annual mountain bike race on Mauao!

As fun as it seems, if you've been to the likes of Mt Ngongotahā where the gondolas are, the maunga has been ripped to shreds to allow for cycle races and recreation. To ensure the continued passive enjoyment of Mauao for all, it was decided to ban bikes from the maunga. Again, the same rule applies to everyone.

Additionally, due to the remoteness of the tracks, banning bikes eliminates the risk for accidents caused by cyclists on the maunga.

Why can't we have drones on Mauao?

To the iwi of Mauao, he is an ancestor, a treasure. To us, the risk of his image being exploited across the globe impacts his mana and mauri.
Our manu don't like drones. They see them as a threat and risk their own lives to protect their nests and homes.
To protect the privacy of everyone who walks the maunga.

Why can't we smoke or have fireworks on Mauao?

Have you seen Mauao on fire? It's devastating. The last two fires were caused by a discarded cigarette and fireworks. 'Nuff said.

But they are also classified as being an "open flame" - All fires and open flames are banned on Mauao.

Why can't we go up the old "goat track"?

Water takes the path of least resistance. Over the years, that track has gone from a path to a small gully caused by both human use and water. Damage is already done, but to prolong that whole side of Mauao succumbing to water damage and slipping, it was decided to ban the use of that track.
It is also a very dangerous track, and any risk for potential future rescue is avoided.

Further Queries

There's so much more to know. Please forward any further queries to info@mauao.nz.