The Forest Bridge Trust – Protecting our native wildlife

The Forest Bridge Trust is proud that our predator control network now spans 47,543 hectares, bringing us significantly closer to our goal of creating a 54,000-hectare mustelid-controlled corridor from Kaipara on the west coast to Tāwharanui on the east coast. This ambitious target is set for June 2025, aligning with the planned wind-down of Jobs for Nature funding, which has been a critical support in this effort.

Jobs for Nature funding has enabled the trust to make a profound impact on the environment, while connecting people and the land. Since 2014, we’ve collaborated with community groups, volunteers and around 900 local landowners and property managers. Together, we’ve established a “forest bridge” that not only links people and landscapes, but also enhances the mauri (life force) of our environment and communities.

Our achievements in predator control have had a direct and measurable impact on native wildlife. The three kiwi populations in our region have gone from strength to strength. During the recent annual kiwi call count, our ecologist, Dr Virginia Moreno, reported above-average kiwi calls per hour – an encouraging sign of population health. Yet it’s not only the kiwi benefiting from these efforts. Sightings of pāteke (brown teal ducks), kākā, korimako (bellbirds), Hochstetter’s frogs, and pekapeka-tou-roa (long-tailed bats) have increased across The Forest Bridge region, indicating a broader ecological impact.

This interconnected predator control network is essential for safeguarding our native wildlife and building a thriving ecosystem. Our vision is for future kiwi populations to move freely and establish connections across key areas such as Mataia, Tāwharanui and Tamahunga. We owe immense gratitude to the volunteers, landowners, community conservation groups and partners whose dedication has been pivotal in making this vision a reality.

To continue our vital conservation work, we are now actively exploring new funding streams and opportunities. One crucial way you can support The Forest Bridge Trust is by contributing to our Spring Appeal.

The cost of maintaining protected biodiversity in these critical areas is about $36 per hectare each year.

This enables us to carry out essential activities, including species monitoring, providing trapping advice, offering data support and hosting community workshops. Your donation can help cover the costs of trap maintenance in public spaces and shared areas, and for residents who can only partially contribute. By supporting us, you help fill these crucial gaps, ensuring continuous protection for our native taonga (treasures).

Every contribution, no matter the size, makes a real difference. Your support will help us maintain and expand our predator control efforts, ensuring that the progress we’ve made is not lost. Please consider scanning the QR code to donate and help us secure a safe habitat that protects our unique biodiversity for future generations.

Together, we can create a legacy of flourishing indigenous wildlife, leaving behind an environment that is richer, healthier, and more vibrant for future generations to enjoy. Thank you for your continued support and dedication to preserving Aotearoa’s natural heritage.