Local Tauranga iwi took a case to the Waitangi Tribunal about the future of the remains of the wreck of the Rena. The Western Bay of Plenty Regional Council has a resource consent application before it to permit the wreck to remain. Debbie McCauley, a Tauranga City Librarian and children’s book author has written “Motiti Blue and the Oil Spill” In a recent Bay of Plenty Times article Debbie states that 1,364 dead oiled birds were collected following the Rena incident. Debbie brings the reality of the pollution to children through the life of a little blue penguin from Motiti Island.
Many in the community will be aware of the voluntary contribution made by Debbie to the organisation of the recent commemorations of the Battle of Pukehinahina-Gate Pa and the conflict at Te Ranga – Pyes Pa. Some will also be aware of Debbie’s book about one of the significant participants Taratoa. With similar commitment Debbie intends that her book will be translated into Maori for a book launch on 5th October 2014, the third anniversary of the Rena grounding.
Rosemary Balu
