As a consequence of the charges, which were introduced on August
3, a total of $50,000 has been presented so far to five
environmental projects in the South Island identified by the
Department of Conservation.
Bob Dickson, Buller Area Manager for DOC, said that the first
site to benefit from the donation would be in the upper Orowaiti
River near Scott's Bridge.
"The site is well suited for restoration and is an opportunity
to involve the community and local farmers. The project will
include plantings to enhance the whitebait spawning habitat and
placement of an information panel about whitebait," he said.
Future whitebait projects targeted to receive donations from the
plastic bag charges include around the spawning areas at the mouth
of the Mahinapua Creek on the south bank of the Hokitika
River. This is a closed area for whitebaiting. The work would
include planting and restoration around the creek mouth.
Kathy Frampton, owner of Westport New World, said that the drop
off in plastic bag usage had been incredible.
"The vast majority are in favour of the charge because they
understand the benefits of what we are trying to achieve. To
already see the proceeds from the charge filtering back into the
environment for the benefit of the community is fantastic," she
said.
Other projects on the West Coast have also been identified by
the Department of Conservation and these will be undertaken as
funds become available.