Earthsea Gallery

New Zealand’s wetlands, intertidal flats and salt marshes are an intrinsic part of the coastal landscape. Apart from adding to the beauty and diversity of the coastline, they enrich coastal waters, protect land from erosion, maintain water quality and provide habitats for many species of plants and animals, including a number of commercially important fish species. Coastal ecosystems are vulnerable to human impact. Rubbish dumping, pollution, recreational pressure, reclamation, and urban and industrial development all have severe consequences for the future health and diversity of the coastal environment. As a community, Golden Bay has recognised, restored and protected some of these coastal treasures. As individuals, we need to ensure that our own use of the coast does not impact on the scenic qualities and ecological values of the coastal environment. I was inspired to paint ‘From the Land to the Sea’ when recently, my wife and I walked the Rototai Beach, near Pohara, and witnessed the damage motorbikes and 4WD vehicles had done to the intertidal flats.