- What does the name Otamahua mean? Quail Island
- Where did the name Quail Island come from? It comes from when the settlers came there were a bunch of quails on it fleeing from them.
- How big is the island? Approximately 80 Hectares
- How was the island created? At first, the island was just a bump in the water and when the sea levels lowered it came out of the water and became an island.
- What wildlife is present on the island - native/introduced? Karoro, Tarapunga, Korora, Terns, Shags, Oystercatchers, Piwakawaka and Iriroro.
- Mahinga kai, food gathering was an important activity for maori. What food did they gather from Otamahua? Shellfish, birds’ eggs, the eggs were considered a great delicacy. The waters around Ötamahua were important for harvesting kai moana.
- How have introduced species (animals/birds/insects) damaged the environment. The ferrets eat the native birds eggs so the can't be born and then there aren't enough birds to carry the seeds.
- What rules has The Department Of Conservation created to help protect Otamahua? Fire is a real danger – do not take matches or cigarette lighters. Be careful with the bags you take on the island.. Check them for unwanted stowaways like rodents. Take all your rubbish home. Take care when walking. Watch out for holes and tree roots and be cautious when walking around the cliff tops.
