Pest-free zone to eradicate predators

A West Auckland community hopes to protect the area’s native wildlife by implementing a pest-free zone.

A public meeting was held at Woodlands Park School last night to discuss how pests including possums, mice, rats and stoats can be eradicated in the Waima to Laingholm area.

Over 80 locals attended the meeting where speakers from Auckland Council, Ark in the Park, and the University of Auckland discussed strategies around establishing the pest-free zone.

Organiser Mark Harvey said removing all invasive pests was an ambitious undertaking.

“It’s an aspirational aim, but I think we’ll be able to get rid of everything,” he said.

Mr Harvey said reducing the amount of predators would help preserve and develop native flora and fauna such as Waitakere geckos, New Zealand tomtits and kaikawaka trees.

Trapping stations and baits will be used as pest control methods and the group hopes to eradicate 95 per cent of pests in the area.

The community-driven project will see traps and bait distributed throughout the properties of those involved.

Mr Harvey assured the crowd that it was at the discretion of residents to decide what methods they use on their property.

“We want to respect your land and your views,” he said.

Over 1800 houses fall within the pest-free zone, which is approximately 800 hectares and is split between private and public land.

Garrick McCarthy, biosecurity adviser at Auckland Council, encouraged the group to be realistic about their pest-free motto.

Mr McCarthy said it was important for the community to work together and ensure ongoing efforts.

“We should use the term eradication loosely, but you will greatly reduce pest levels,” he said.

The group will apply for funding grants to raise the money necessary to purchase bait and equipment.

Shayne Cunis, general manager of service delivery at Watercare, which operates a service station in Woodlands Park, briefly addressed the group.

Mr Cunis said he was initially skeptical of the initiative, but said Watercare had pledged to fund some of the traps.

“We’re a big part of this area and we’re happy to support you,” he said.

The group plans to involve the community and local schools in the initiative.

Mr Harvey said local schools will be used to track and monitor pests and native species, and residents can use the skills they have to contribute.