Exploring the Hauraki Gulf from Bream Head to the Coromandel, by Linda Bercusson and John Walsby, is not just a guide.
Bercusson’s years with the Department of Conservation show, with the chapters following a format of history, plants and animals and recreation.
Her approach is well-teamed with Walsby, an Auckland naturalist with a strong reputation for communicating scientific information.
The authors divide the book into three sections.
The Gulf is introduced with chapters including climate, marine mammals, birds, plants, human activity and a description of events leading to establishment of the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park.
The Islands section provides a detailed look at the history, inhabitants and recreation of every island from Bream Head to those off Coromandel’s east coast.
The Mainland section looks at the network of regional parks, beaches and coastal features fronting the gulf.
Entertaining and informative anecdotes about the history and character of the area are contained in each section, accompanied by more than 200 colour and historical photographs.
An interesting and useful feature of the book is the 16 bird’s eye maps of the islands and the mainland coastlines that provide intricate detail of every bay, beach and regional park.
Each island or region is accompanied by getting there details, including wharfs and anchorages, amenities, a general description of the style of accommodation and contact numbers.
Finding the balance between conservation and recreation presents a huge dilemma, Bercusson writes.
“But marrying these two imperatives is essential if we are to protect such important wilderness areas and the species that depend on them for survival.”
The book, she explains, isn’t an exhaustive user’s manual for the Gulf.
