Save the Otago Peninsula (STOP) is a community based environmental group that actively undertakes habitat enhancement, advocacy and education for the unique biodiversity of the Otago Peninsula. The organisation was formed in 1980 in response to the possible construction of an aluminium smelter at Okia Flats as an alternative site to Aramoana at the entrance to the Otago Harbour.
Aims and Objectives
STOP now exists to protect and enhance the natural environment of the Peninsula. It monitors and reacts to potential threats to the environment. It also works to raise concern for the protection of the environment and it organises practical ways in which people can make a contribution to our area.
Membership
The Society does not charge subscriptions so as to reduce administration and allow time to do the really important work necessary for the Peninsula. It has over 210 members, as well as many other people who volunteer to assist with various aspects of its activities.
Activities
The Society’s activities include:
- The protection of bush remnants on the Otago Peninsula.
- The re-vegetation and enhancement of habitat for indigenous bird, reptile, invertebrate and freshwater life.
- Plant and animal pest control.
- Producing publications and displays to encourage public education and awareness of issues on the Otago Peninsula.
- Working with three Enviro-schools on the Peninsula.
STOP regularly makes submissions on District Plans, Annual Plans, policy strategies and Resource Consents. Our advocacy has led to the group being included in a number of local body working parties on environmental concerns. We are included in the Stakeholder List for the long Term Community Plan.
STOP initiated the campaign to encourage the Dunedin City Council to purchase for a Regional Park, the block of land that includes Harbour Cone (Hereweka) with subsequent recreational opportunities and the opportunity to protect its natural values, rather than risking further residential development.
Funding
The Society obtains some income by selling copies of their field guide to the Otago Peninsula Birds. (See details below. These can be obtained directly from the Society or from various outlets on the Peninsula). We also regularly apply for a variety of grants for specific projects and welcome donations from people and organisations who wish to make a difference to a particular project.
Working Bees & Contacts
Practical Working Bees are held every Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Sunday morning. Check the times and locations through the contacts below. Other midweek and summer evening working bees are also held. A variety of activities are covered, including planting, weeding, pest plant control, and potting up seedlings. Beach clean ups are also organised. You may also have other skills that would add to the activities of our organisation.
So, if you’d like to take part in our organisation or these activities please contact us
through;
Post:
STOP Inc. Society, C/- The Secretary,
62 Oxley Cres, Broad Bay, Dunedin 9014
Email: stopincsoc@gmail.com
Phone: Moira Parker (03) 478 0214
Text: Lala Frazer (027) 8756 020
Meetings
Meetings are held at 7:30 pm on the second Tuesday of each month, in the Etheridge Meeting Rooms behind the Broad Bay Community Centre Hall in Clearwater Street in Broad Bay. During winter, meetings are held via Zoom. Everyone is welcome.
Find the Meeting Venue
Use the map to find how to get to the Etheridge Meeting Rooms and the surrounding area. You can change from a map view to an aerial view and navigate using the toolbar on the map. Good luck and we look forward to seeing you at our meetings.
Pocket Guide to Otago Peninsula Birds
Save the Otago Peninsula have produced an excellent pocket guide to the birds of the Otago Peninsula. With Craig McKenzie’s stunning photographs and insightful descriptions by Richard Schofield this guide provides a great resource for locals and visitors alike.
Portobello Community 