Spring Reboot Brings Trappers Together in Kaipara Flats

What a fantastic morning we had at this year’s Trappers’ Spring Reboot, held at Ranfurly Hall in Kaipara Flats. The sun was shining, the tui were calling, and the energy in the room was all about sharing knowledge, strengthening connections, and celebrating our collective trapping efforts across the region.

It was the perfect spring day to gather our trapping community, from seasoned pros to those just getting started, to learn, chat, and be inspired. It was wonderful to see familiar faces and to meet new ones, with attendees coming not only from the local area but also travelling from as far as Albany and Wellsford.

Sharing knowledge and strengthening networks

Our Conservation Manager, Matu Booth, opened the morning with a compelling presentation showing how well the three local kiwi populations are doing. He shared five years of kiwi monitoring data, revealing how community-led predator control continues to make a real difference. The results were a great reminder of what’s possible when we all play our part in protecting our native species.

Next, Alex Wardenaar from our Pest Control team gave an engaging and practical session on trap maintenance, baiting techniques, and how to “think like a pest animal”. His advice on using different lures and staying consistent with trap checks was a hit, especially for those looking to fine-tune their backyard or farm trapping setups.

Planting for clean waterways

We were also joined by Katie Forno from our fencing and planting team, who shared updates on Kaipara Moana Remediation (KMR) funding opportunities. Katie explained how landowners can access support for riparian planting projects to help reduce sediment entering our waterways and improve habitat for native fish and wildlife. It was a timely reminder that every bit of restoration, from trapping to planting, works together to strengthen the health of our ecosystems.

A community that gives back

It was great to see seasoned trappers mentoring newcomers, sharing tips and stories from the field. The enthusiasm was contagious, especially when it came to our Flipping Timmy trap giveaway. We were thrilled to hand out 25 traps, and many people told us they couldn’t wait to get them up and running to help keep possum numbers down.

Behind the scenes, Michelle, our Operations Manager, kept the energy high with a delicious sausage sizzle, the perfect fuel for a morning of learning and connecting.

A big thank you to our Event Facilitator, Claire, and to Tracy for all their mahi in planning and hosting another successful Reboot. Events like this wouldn’t be possible without the support of Auckland Council and the Rodney Local Board, whose contributions help us provide free, informative sessions that empower our communities to protect native wildlife.

Looking ahead

As we look to the next season, it’s encouraging to see how much knowledge and passion exists within our trapping community. Each trap set, each mustelid, rat or possum removed, and each conversation shared brings us closer to a thriving corridor where kiwi and other native species can flourish.

Thank you again to everyone who joined us — your commitment makes all the difference.