Community Comes Together for Kiwi Aversion Training
Over the past few weeks, more than 80 local dogs have taken part in Kiwi Aversion Training sessions supported by the Rodney Local Board. With two busy days in Matakana (30 and 31 August) and another well-attended day in Glorit (13 September), the training continues to play a vital role in protecting our treasured kiwi.
- Matakana, 30 August – 26 dogs
- Matakana, 31 August – 25 dogs (despite heavy rain!)
- Glorit, 13 September – 31 dogs
Kiwi Aversion Training is run by experienced trainers who accompany each dog and owner through a 10-minute course. Using an e-collar, dogs are given a light correction when approaching strategically placed kiwi decoys, helping them learn to avoid the scent of kiwi and steer clear in real-life situations.
Matakana Highlights
Our Matakana sessions brought out a wonderful community spirit, with dog owners sharing stories, supporting one another, and celebrating the role their pets play in conservation. A few moments stood out:
- A small dog, who had shown interest in the baits at a previous session, remembered the lesson well this time. As soon as he got within 10 feet of the training, he turned tail, fled back to his owner, and hid behind their legs. A great reminder of just how effective this training can be.
- Two pig dogs with different owners turned up early, watched other dogs go through the course, and enjoyed the interaction. Their presence helped reassure a few nervous owners, adding to the supportive feel of the day.
- Many commented on the positive, community-focused atmosphere, with great conversations about dogs, people, and environmental change.
Glorit Highlights
The Glorit training day had a particularly strong turnout of working, hunting, and pig dogs — exactly the types most likely to encounter kiwi in the bush. Teaching these dogs to steer clear of kiwi scent is a powerful tool in keeping these vulnerable taonga safe.
Next Training Date
We’ll be back on the East Coast at Matakana (Morris & James Pottery) on Saturday 11 October. If you’d like to enrol your dog, please click to book your free 10-minute session.
A huge thank you to all the dog owners who’ve brought their pets along so far — your commitment makes a real difference for kiwi and our shared environment. And a special thanks to the Rodney Local Board for supporting these free training sessions.