Are you interested in the conservation work happening on Te Aroha maunga? Ever think about making your backyard free of invasive weeds or pesky predators? Or perhaps you’d just like to get up close and personal with a rat or a bat? If so, this talk is for you!

In collaboration with Ngāti Tumutumu and the Department of Conservation (DOC), we proudly support “Pests, Predators, and Protectors: A Local Conservation Effort” as part of the Pride of Place strategy and work plan. This educational and interactive talk will be held at the Te Aroha Domain Pavilion on Thursday 20 March, 6pm-7.30pm. Seating will be provided and guests are welcome to bring a picnic blanket if the weather is good.

Guest speakers will include DOC Ranger (and local Te Aroha legend) Warren Geraghty, who will speak about his involvement in the history of work to eradicate pest plant species on the maunga. Warren has 50 years of experience working locally in conservation.

Ruairi Kelly will speak on behalf of Ngāti Tumutumu about the current work they are undertaking to restore biodiversity on the upper maunga, and Senior DOC Community Ranger Andrew Styche will display a range of taxidermied predator animals and traps, and provide some excellent backyard trapping advice.

Pride of Place is all about harnessing the power of our community to create vibrant, thriving public spaces. While local councils can design and develop infrastructure, it’s the energy, creativity, and passion of community members that truly bring these spaces to life. To see more about Pride of Place and its community-led projects, visit mpdc.nz/prideofplace.