Pest Eradication on Indian Island, Dusky Sound – Fiordland Ecology Holidays and Ultimate Hikes

Indian Island lies within Dusky near the mouth of the sound. Apart from possessing the usual forest dwellers that we see today anywhere in New Zealand’s forest, Indian Island is no longer ‘alive’ as it once was prior to human settlement. Indian is missing the cheeky call of the saddleback, the noisy chatter of mohua, the haunting resonance of kokako and many other forgotten sounds unique to New Zealand forest. In recent times stoats were eradicated off the island however Indian is still inhabited by destructive rodents.

Indian Island is a low lying forested island 168 hectares in size and is one of Dusky Sounds special sites cloaked in maori history. Back in 1773 Captain Cook first sighted the indigenous people of Fiordland on Indian Island hence the name. Evidence of maori settlement on the island is still visible today.

Fiordland Ecology Holidays have adopted the “Pest Eradication on Indian Island” project, targeted to be undertaken in conjunction with DOC, in winter 2010. FEH, in conjunction with the Fiordland Conservation Trust, wish to raise the targeted $70,000 required to fund the eradication of rats on this island.

Ultimate Hikes are the only operators of multiday guided walks on the famous Milford & Routeburn Tracks. Based in Queenstown and operating in the stunning South West New Zealand World Heritage Area, the company provides a range of all-inclusive guided walks from 1 to 8 days, making these iconic tracks accessible to walkers of all abilities. Visitors trek through rainforests, past mighty mountain peaks and over remote alpine passes without sacrificing comfort or convenience. Accommodation on overnight walks is in comfortable lodges, with three-course meals, hot showers and snug beds. All walks include transport, fantastic cuisine, equipment and expert guides.

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