Friends of the Blade

Developing a pest free zone around the Pā Kererū walking track and the rest area known as The Blade.

Targeting possums,
rats and mustelids.

230 Hectares

PURPOSE

48 Volunteers

Friends of the Blade is a volunteer group that was formed to develop a pest free zone around the Pā Kererū walking track and the rest area known as The Blade, at the end of Whakamārama Road, 24km northwest of Tauranga.

Friends of the Blade currently have over 48 volunteers who visit all the trap lines every fortnight to record the dead pests, remove them, rebait and reset the traps.

Pests targeted are possums, rats, mustelids, and feral cats that have no place in our native forests. Volunteers are also working to extend the area covered by marking out and cutting new trap lines, as volunteer numbers allow.

All the traps are DOC-approved instant-kill traps, and all baits are non-toxic.

JOin US as a volunteer!

New volunteers are welcomed and supported by experienced members. You will receive training on traps, trap lines, and safety before working alone. All materials are provided, just bring boots and be moderately fit. You'll be assigned a suitable trap line based on your fitness.

MAKE A CONTRIBUTION

We also welcome donations big or small. Your support helps us carry on our vital work.

THE MAHI

  • Track lines

    Marking, cutting and maintaining 1,086 traps in 23 trap-lines, across 230 hectares.

  • Pest control

    Removed 4,108 predators in 2023.

  • Education and engagement

    4,000+ volunteer hours per year.