Predator Free Wellington is getting ready to step out into the next phase of its eradication project to make our city free of rats, possums, stoats and weasels in this exciting world-first.
This second phase will involve Hataitai along with 18 other suburbs - from Kilbirnie around to Owhiro Bay and up through to the CBD.
James Willcocks, Project Director, Predator Free Wellington is especially excited about the phase reaching Hataitai.
“As a Hataitai local, I know we have an awesome community spirit in Hataitai,” James said.
“We already have amazing bird life here, and being close to Mt Victoria, we often have kākā flying over and regularly hear ruru at night.
“I’m looking forward to even more native species returning,” James said.
“Miramar Peninsula eradication was the testing ground for us and whilst we’re not 100% complete, it’s already working.
“We’re seeing kākā and kākāriki returning to the peninsula for the first time, kārearea are nesting for the third year in a row, and we’re also seeing a huge increase in geckos and weta.” James said.
The method for phase two will be similar to that used by Predator Free Wellington on the Miramar Peninsula.
Bait stations and traps will be placed on private properties, in bush reserves, parks, coastal and commercial areas. These will all be serviced free of charge by the Predator Free Wellington team.
“Before we start installing the devices on the ground, we’re seeking permission from approximately 7,500 households to have a trap or bait station in their backyard.
“If you live in the area, you could give us a huge headstart by signing up and giving us your permission now - www.pfw.org.nz/island-bay-to-cbd.
“You can also expect to see the Predator Free Wellington team in hi-vis vests door knocking for permissions over the next few months.
“Hataitai is fortunate to already have a strong community of backyard trappers. Predator Free Wellington won’t be taking over the community trapping, this project is about us all working together to achieve a shared vision” James said.
