Latest news with #PredatorFreeWellington
RNZ News
03-07-2025
- General
- RNZ News
Conservationists concerned at hundreds more pests caught on Transmission Gully
Pest control work on Transmission Gully prior to it being finished. Photo: NZTA / Waka Kotahi Some conservationists are concerned about the potential impact of ferrets entering Wellington amid a significant rise in the number of pests being caught on Transmission Gully. Documents released under the Official Information Act show that between January 2024 to 14 April this year, 701 pests were trapped or killed on the road. That's up from RNZ's previous reports of 226 pests trapped between November 2022 and January 2024. The animals killed in the latest data set included stoats, weasels, deer, rabbits, rats, pigs and possums. Predator Free Wellington has been working for years to get rid of all pests in the capital. Project director Julian Wilcocks told RNZ there had been quite a lot more trapping done along Transmission Gully. But Wilcocks said it had also been a "bumper season" recently for mustelids which included animals such as stoats, ferrets and weasels. "That is a real massive concern because we don't have ferrets in Wellington City and so obviously, we want to really keep those from getting into the city." He said if ferrets got into the city it would be "dire straits" for their work. "Ferrets - they have a very high metabolism, so they need to eat a lot of protein which is often our native species." They also had huge roaming distances and were particularly damaging to kiwi, Wilcocks said. "It has taken us a number of years' effective methodologies for eliminating rats, stoats and weasels and so we wouldn't want to be adding ferrets to the mix." The furthest south a ferret has been found on the motorway was at Haywards in 2023. NZTA Waka Kotahi regional manager Mark Owen told RNZ $165,000 had been allocated for pest management on Transmission Gully for this financial year. Owen said the investment aligned with Greater Wellington Regional Council's pest management plan. "The plan dictates that NZTA/Waka Kotahi is responsible for controlling pests on road reserves that it occupies. "NZTA/Waka Kotahi also manages pest plants in accordance with this plan." He said that it followed best practice and focused on feral pigs, mustelids and deer. Predator Free Waikanae member Kevin Sheppard said his organisation had been trapping along the Kāpiti Expressway which linked up to Transmission Gully. Sheppard told RNZ the pests were quite lazy and would take the easiest route north and south. He said since they started trapping on the expressway 220 animals had been caught by the group. Sheppard said that while new roads such as Transmission Gully and the Kāpiti Expressway have been "an amazing addition" to the region, work needed to be done to continue trapping along the roads. "It obviously does simply create a pathway for animals such as stoats and ferrets to move along quickly." He said that there were likely gaps in the trapping network at least along Kāpiti Expressway. "We're trapping between Waikanae heading up to Peka Peka on one side, so there's nothing happening on the other side." Sign up for Ngā Pitopito Kōrero , a daily newsletter curated by our editors and delivered straight to your inbox every weekday.
Scoop
01-07-2025
- General
- Scoop
Birds Of A Feather Flock Together On Coastal Beaches
Press Release – Wellington City Council The Wellington coastline is a vital refuge for many indigenous manu (birds),37 native bird species to be exact, with more than half (20 species) classified as threatened or at risk. Coinciding with Wellington City Council releasing its draft Coastal Reserves Management Plan (Tātou ki Uta) for feedback, the annual Coastal Bird survey has been released with a warning for the future. The Wellington coastline is a vital refuge for many indigenous manu (birds),37 native bird species to be exact, with more than half (20 species) classified as threatened or at risk. Since 2018, annual surveys along 55 kilometers of Wellington's coastline from Petone Beach to Oteranga Bay have identified four key areas essential for indigenous coastal bird populations. The great news is that despite the urban nature of much of the coast, these areas support rare breeding colonies and critical nesting habitats for species like the kawau tikitiki, pohowera (banded dotterel), and matuku moana (reef heron). Seven are considered regionally critical, including the pakahā (fluttering shearwater), māpunga (black shag), kawau tikitiki (spotted shag), matuku moana (reef heron), kārearea (NZ falcon), tarāpuka (black-billed gull), and taranui (Caspian tern). Wellington City Council's Urban Ecology Manager Daniela Biaggio says each of these coastal areas play a critical role in the survival of Wellington's indigenous birds. 'By understanding and respecting these natural spaces, we can help protect the region's unique biodiversity. Whether you're visiting for a scenic view, a fishing trip, or just to enjoy the coast, taking care to minimise disturbance to these bird habitats goes a long way in preserving Wellington's coastal bird populations for generations to come. 'Human disturbance from off-road vehicles, fishing, and other activities threatens sensitive breeding grounds, especially for ground-nesting birds. The last remaining important breeding areas for our native coastal manu are areas with limited access, ruggedness and remoteness which tells us that with a bit more care in how we share the coast with this taonga species we may be rewarded and encounter them more often.' Coastal birds can be big travellers and the total numbers of kawaupaka (little shags)and kawau tūī (little black shag) inthe harbour during winter far exceed the size of breeding colonies present in the Wellington region, which suggests many of these winter visitors must be arriving from breeding sites outside of the Wellington region. While Zealandia is celebrated for its forest bird conservation, it also plays a crucial role in supporting coastal birds through its wetland restoration, as does Predator Free Wellington's efforts in eliminating threats to nesting birds. Climate change poses an escalating threat, with 58 percent of threatened species impacted by human-induced environmental changes. Wellington's leadership recognises the urgency to integrate climate resilience and biodiversity protection into coastal management. Wellington City Council and mana whenua are developing Tātou ki Uta, a new Coastal Reserves Management Plan to guide the management, protection, and enhancement of Wellington's coastal reserves, parks, and beaches. The public is invited to share their ideas and feedback to help shape this plan. To participate and stay informed, visit the Let's Talk page. Coastal Reserves Management Plan | Let's Talk Oruaiti Reserve: Oruaiti Reserve on the Miramar Peninsula is home to Wellington's only mainland nesting colony of the kawau tikitiki (spotted shag). The reserve's steep cliffs and rocky stacks provide safe breeding grounds for this species, as well as tarāpunga (red-billed gulls) and tara (white-fronted terns). Predator Free Wellington efforts have successfully eliminated rats, stoats, and weasels here, greatly improving nesting success, off lead dogs however remain a threat. Taputeranga Island: Taputeranga Island is a key breeding area for the rare matuku moana (reef heron), hosting around 20 percent of the region's reef heron population. The island's rocky platforms provide convenient access to feeding areas, helping the herons care for their young without long foraging trips. Taputeranga also supports nesting red-billed gulls and variable oystercatchers. Its isolation keeps disturbances low, making it a vital sanctuary for these coastal birds. Wellington South Coast (Oteranga Bay to Te Rimurapa): This stretch of coastline supports important populations of pohowera (banded dotterel) and pīhoihoi (New Zealand pipit), representing 8 percent and 13 percent of the regional totals respectively. The birds nest and feed on the open beaches and nearby grasslands. However, recreational activities like off-road driving cause disturbances that threaten breeding success. Managing human impact is essential to protect these vulnerable species. Southern End of Wellington International Airport Runway: The gravelly foreshore at the southern end of the Wellington Airport runway provides the only breeding habitat for pohowera (banded dotterels) on the city's eastern coast. The open gravel and herbfields offer ideal nesting conditions, allowing these birds to breed away from many predators and urban threats. Maintaining this habitat is crucial to support their continued presence in the area.
Scoop
30-06-2025
- Scoop
Birds Of A Feather Flock Together On Coastal Beaches
Coinciding with Wellington City Council releasing its draft Coastal Reserves Management Plan (Tātou ki Uta) for feedback, the annual Coastal Bird survey has been released with a warning for the future. The Wellington coastline is a vital refuge for many indigenous manu (birds),37 native bird species to be exact, with more than half (20 species) classified as threatened or at risk. Since 2018, annual surveys along 55 kilometers of Wellington's coastline from Petone Beach to Oteranga Bay have identified four key areas essential for indigenous coastal bird populations. The great news is that despite the urban nature of much of the coast, these areas support rare breeding colonies and critical nesting habitats for species like the kawau tikitiki, pohowera (banded dotterel), and matuku moana (reef heron). Seven are considered regionally critical, including the pakahā (fluttering shearwater), māpunga (black shag), kawau tikitiki (spotted shag), matuku moana (reef heron), kārearea (NZ falcon), tarāpuka (black-billed gull), and taranui (Caspian tern). Wellington City Council's Urban Ecology Manager Daniela Biaggio says each of these coastal areas play a critical role in the survival of Wellington's indigenous birds. 'By understanding and respecting these natural spaces, we can help protect the region's unique biodiversity. Whether you're visiting for a scenic view, a fishing trip, or just to enjoy the coast, taking care to minimise disturbance to these bird habitats goes a long way in preserving Wellington's coastal bird populations for generations to come. 'Human disturbance from off-road vehicles, fishing, and other activities threatens sensitive breeding grounds, especially for ground-nesting birds. The last remaining important breeding areas for our native coastal manu are areas with limited access, ruggedness and remoteness which tells us that with a bit more care in how we share the coast with this taonga species we may be rewarded and encounter them more often.' Coastal birds can be big travellers and the total numbers of kawaupaka (little shags)and kawau tūī (little black shag) inthe harbour during winter far exceed the size of breeding colonies present in the Wellington region, which suggests many of these winter visitors must be arriving from breeding sites outside of the Wellington region. While Zealandia is celebrated for its forest bird conservation, it also plays a crucial role in supporting coastal birds through its wetland restoration, as does Predator Free Wellington's efforts in eliminating threats to nesting birds. Climate change poses an escalating threat, with 58 percent of threatened species impacted by human-induced environmental changes. Wellington's leadership recognises the urgency to integrate climate resilience and biodiversity protection into coastal management. Wellington City Council and mana whenua are developing Tātou ki Uta, a new Coastal Reserves Management Plan to guide the management, protection, and enhancement of Wellington's coastal reserves, parks, and beaches. The public is invited to share their ideas and feedback to help shape this plan. To participate and stay informed, visit the Let's Talk page. Coastal Reserves Management Plan | Let's Talk Oruaiti Reserve: Oruaiti Reserve on the Miramar Peninsula is home to Wellington's only mainland nesting colony of the kawau tikitiki (spotted shag). The reserve's steep cliffs and rocky stacks provide safe breeding grounds for this species, as well as tarāpunga (red-billed gulls) and tara (white-fronted terns). Predator Free Wellington efforts have successfully eliminated rats, stoats, and weasels here, greatly improving nesting success, off lead dogs however remain a threat. Taputeranga Island: Taputeranga Island is a key breeding area for the rare matuku moana (reef heron), hosting around 20 percent of the region's reef heron population. The island's rocky platforms provide convenient access to feeding areas, helping the herons care for their young without long foraging trips. Taputeranga also supports nesting red-billed gulls and variable oystercatchers. Its isolation keeps disturbances low, making it a vital sanctuary for these coastal birds. Wellington South Coast (Oteranga Bay to Te Rimurapa): This stretch of coastline supports important populations of pohowera (banded dotterel) and pīhoihoi (New Zealand pipit), representing 8 percent and 13 percent of the regional totals respectively. The birds nest and feed on the open beaches and nearby grasslands. However, recreational activities like off-road driving cause disturbances that threaten breeding success. Managing human impact is essential to protect these vulnerable species. Southern End of Wellington International Airport Runway: The gravelly foreshore at the southern end of the Wellington Airport runway provides the only breeding habitat for pohowera (banded dotterels) on the city's eastern coast. The open gravel and herbfields offer ideal nesting conditions, allowing these birds to breed away from many predators and urban threats. Maintaining this habitat is crucial to support their continued presence in the area.
Scoop
13-06-2025
- General
- Scoop
Wellington City Council And Predator Free Wellington Win Supreme Award At Local Government Excellence Awards
Wellington City Council and Predator Free Wellington have won the Supreme Award at the LGFA Taituarā Local Government Excellence Awards held at Tākina Wellington Convention and Exhibition Centre this evening. The LGFA Taituarā Local Government Excellence Awards celebrates programmes, projects, and approaches that demonstrate professional excellence in local government management, and are open to any council, or council-controlled organisation (CCO) in Aotearoa New Zealand. Three Wellington City Council projects were nominated in different categories, with Predator Free Wellington taking the top award for Excellence in Environmental Leadership, then going on to win the overall Supreme Award out of all the category winners. 'What a night for Wellington! This is a well-deserved national recognition that highlights the groundbreaking conservation work happening in our city, underscores Wellington's commitment to kaitiakitanga or environmental stewardship, and the role our community plays in achieving these ambitious goals,' says Mayor Tory Whanau. Predator Free Wellington - Excellence in Environmental Leadership (Winner/Supreme Winner) Wellington City Council is a proud partner of the Predator Free Wellington project (PFW), which is working hard to eliminate rats, stoats and weasels from Pōneke – and has already been successful on the Miramar Peninsula. 'This award recognises the dedication of the PFW team and also reflects the power of collaboration between local government, volunteers, and engaged communities. PFW's work is making a huge difference to our local biodiversity, and we are proud of their achievements and eager to continue supporting their bold vision for a predator-free capital,' says Mayor Whanau. Predator Free Wellington Project Director, Kaiwhakahaere Matua, James Willcocks says the award is great recognition of years of collaboration and the amazing mahi of all its volunteers. "This award reflects the strong partnership between Wellington City Council and Predator Free Wellington, built on our shared commitment and investment in creating a predator free Wellington. 'Together, we've created a blueprint for transforming urban environments worldwide, demonstrating that cities can be places where both people and biodiversity can thrive." The other two nominations for Wellington City Council were: Mākara Peak Mountain Bike Park - Excellence in Community Engagement (Nomination) Mākara Peak exemplifies excellence in community engagement through conservation efforts, volunteer contributions, and a successful partnership. This transformation highlights the power of collaboration and dedication to environmental stewardship. Nestled in Wellington's western hills, Mākara Peak Mountain Bike Park (MP) has transformed from gorse-covered terrain to an award-winning recreation area. Mākara Peak Supporters (MPS) and Wellington City Council (WCC) have driven this change, fuelled by thousands of volunteers. Volunteers have built trails, planted over 60,000 native trees, controlled pest plants, and maintained nearly 700 traps. Their efforts have rejuvenated native bush, providing habitat for kiwi, kākāriki, tītipounamu, kārearea, and kākā. TrackDem - Excellence in Digital Local Government (Nomination) Wellington City Council is taking a world-leading approach to transparency by making it easier for everyone to access and understand Council decisions by using technology to locate and track voting records and meeting data. The Mātai Manapori TrackDem system, delivered via enhanced website functionality, shows clearly how the Council and its committees have come to their final decisions, laying out initial recommendations, any changes or amendments to those recommendations, and how each individual Elected Member voted.
Scoop
13-06-2025
- Business
- Scoop
Predator Free Wellington Wins The Supreme Award At The 2025 LGFA Taituara Local Government Excellence Awards
Wellington City Council's groundbreaking initiative, Predator Free Wellington, has claimed the highly coveted Taituarā Supreme Award for Local Government Excellence at last night's Taituarā Excellence Awards event. Predator Free Wellington was selected from a field of 60 entries submitted by councils from across the sector, underscoring its exceptional impact and innovation. The judging panel praised the initiative, stating 'Predator Free Wellington is an exemplar of building social licence and deputising the community to assist with delivery. The clear and meticulous plan for rolling this programme out is both readily scalable and highly transferable to projects of any type. We were also highly appreciative of the clear and unambiguous evidence of the success of this project.' The Supreme honour follows Predator Free Wellington's success in also securing the GHD Award for Excellence in Environmental Leadership. This marks the second year in succession that the winner of the Environmental Leadership category. Last night's ceremony marked the 11th year of the Excellence Awards in their current format. Over this period, a remarkable 11 different councils have proudly taken home the Supreme Award, showcasing the diverse and widespread excellence within New Zealand's local government. Other entries recognised with Excellence Awards last night were: The Beca Award for Placemaking: Ashburton District Council for Te Whare Whakatere – Recreating the Heart of Ashburton The Award for Excellence in Collaborating for Results: Hastings District Council, Napier City Council and Hawke's Bay Regional Council, Stronger Together: Council's buyout puts people at heart The Datascape Award for Excellence in Digital Local Government: Auckland Council, Buzzly The FrankGroup Award for Excellence in Community Engagement: Wairoa District Council for Wairoa Whakapiri - Uniting Through Recovery Te Tohu Waka Hourua (the Buddle Findlay Award for Māori/Council Partnerships): Taupō District Council for He Whare Hono o Tūewharetoa The Award for Excellence in Cost Effective Impact: Hurunui District Council for Hurunui District Water Safety Programme. In addition to winning the Placemaking category, Ashburton District Council's entry won the Members' Choice Award – voted for by the members of Taituara. Other winners announced on the night: The Sheffield Emerging Leader of the Year Award – Ashley Hurua, Horowhenua District Council. The AskYourTeam Overseas Manager Exchange to Queensland – Brent Harvey, Horowhenua District Council The AskYourTeam Overseas Manager Exchange to Victoria – Steven May, West Coast Regional Council The Civic Financial Services Overseas Manager Exchange to the United States – Steve Gibling, Selwyn District Council The Marsh Overseas Manager Exchange to British Columbia – Jenni Cochrane, Matamata-Piako District Council The Auckland Council team, Rarunga, won the NZ leg of the Australasian Management Challenge from a field of 14 teams. Rarunga will represent New Zealand at the Australasian final in the finals in Perth.
