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Building on a predator-free buffer to protect Tāwharanui Regional Park will be a hot topic at Takatu LandCare’s Spring Celebration.
The Labour Weekend community event on Sunday October 25 will be a time to reflect on the successful impact of conservation groups’ mahi – protecting and enhancing native wildlife, waterways and the wilderness.
“We want to acknowledge the outstanding work carried out by our members and the many volunteers who trap pests, remove invasive weeds and plant natives throughout our region,” chairperson John McIntyre says.
“Since 2012, Takatu LandCare (TLC) has supported landowners, community groups and volunteers to enhance the ecology and extend safe habitats for native birds with rewarding outcomes.”
Matu Booth, from The Forest Bridge Trust, has witnessed the remarkable spread of kiwi throughout the last six years, from behind the Tāwharanui Open Sanctuary predator fence and across the peninsula.
“There are signs that kiwi are attempting to breed at Ōmaha and bittern nesting sites in the wetlands” McIntyre says. “This means we all need to be aware of how we impact on their survival. It will be great to hear Matu’s presentation on this exciting development.”
TLC is developing an intensive trapline at the narrowest sections of the peninsula, from Baddleys Beach and Tongue Farm Rd, over Takatu Rd down to the upper Whangateau estuary. Wilson Scenic Reserve will form part of this predator barrier.
“We aim to have virtual predator fence – a first line of trapping defense to minimise the risk of pests finding their way to the open sanctuary or along the peninsula, beyond the park’s fence.”
The celebration will be held at Tāwharanui Lodge, 841 Takatu Road, where there will be light food and a bar. Entry is free for TLC financial members and otherwise there is a small charge of $14 per person to help cover costs. Signing up as TLC financial members before or at the event will provide free entry.
Pre-registration and/or ticket purchases are preferred for catering, but door sales will be available using eftpos or cash.
