Haumuri/Croydon Bush, an 874-hectare reserve including Dolamore Park, is managed by the Gore District Council. It holds cultural significance for Ngāi Tahu and supports diverse native species, including kererū, tūī, bellbird, and the rare fernbird.
Predator control efforts began in 2009, led by the Hokonui Tramping Club (HTC). These initiatives, guided by the Department of Conservation (DOC), aim to restore biodiversity by targeting pests like stoats, rats, and hedgehogs.
Community donations and volunteers have been vital to the programme’s success.
In 2021, the Toitū te Whenua Jobs for Nature Programme (LINZ) provided further resources and training, strengthening restoration efforts. Collaboration with the Hokonui Rūnanga Floraculture has integrated cultural and ecological goals into the project.
Since 2021, the Hokonui Mountain Bike Club has been actively involved in our volunteer programme. This initiative continues to invite community participation to protect and restore Haumuri/Croydon Bush for future generations.
Lois Bishop – Our Pest Control Coordinator, operating a trap with purpose as she leads efforts to restore Haumuri/Croydon Bush, ensuring the protection of native species and a thriving ecosystem.
Volunteers will play a key role in the restoration of Haumuri/Croydon Bush through activities such as:
We organise community trapping events three times a year, manage pests, support biodiversity, and maintain essential tools and resources.
| Total Pest Caught | 1993 |
|---|---|
| Ferret | 102 |
| Hedgehog | 279 |
| Mouse | 256 |
| Possum | 175 |
| Rat | 1010 |
| Stoat | 114 |
| Weasel | 28 |
As part of the volunteer programme, we offer a Trap Library to support pest control efforts in the community. Volunteers and community members can borrow a variety of traps to suit their needs, including:
This project works closely with community groups conducting predator control in the reserve. Additional volunteers are always welcome! Whether you have specific skills or a willingness to learn, we invite you to join us.
If you own a business or are involved in a club that would like to donate funds or time to the cause, we would love to hear from you as well!
This work is made possible with the generous support of our community and partners:
The team at the Hokonui Rūnanga are constantly amazed at the generosity and goodwill of the people and
