989 days ago

'Play gym' trap helps capture seven stoats at pest-free Shakespear Regional Park

Caroline Williams Reporter from Rodney Times

Seven stoats have been captured during an outbreak at Shakespear Regional Park, however it is estimated there could be around four more.

A stoat was first spotted in the 500-hectare pest-free sanctuary at the end of 2020. It later gave birth, meaning there may be up to 11 stoats wreaking havoc among the park's wildlife.

Two female stoats have been trapped this month, and last week the cameras spotted a stoat checking out a stoat “play gym” – a pile of debris placed on a log bridge and with traps inside – where one of its “presumed siblings” was trapped on July 2.

“We treat this positively as it is knowledge to inform next steps and a head start on where to target this next animal,” senior ranger at the sanctuary Matt Maitland said.

“There is genuine excitement that we are making progress, tempered with healthy realism of the task still ahead of us.”

Click 'read more' for the full story.

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More messages from your neighbours
17 hours ago

Let emotion drive you.

Cupra

Discover why emotion is our driving force. Experience the thrilling performance, stunning design and amazing value of CUPRA. Book a test drive now. Find out more

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17 hours ago

Staying home over the break?

Toka Tū Ake EQC

The long weekend is the perfect time to make your place safer for an earthquake with these steps:

• Find out where you can turn off your water and gas mains
• Check your chimney for any signs of wear and tear, or damage
• Check your home's foundations are secured
• Move heavy items that are up high to safer, lower down locations.
• Secure tall and heavy furniture and appliances

These simple actions can keep your whānau safer in case of a big shake, so tick them off and make the most of your break.
Find out more

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1 day ago

Bob Francis Wins Senior New Zealander Of The Year

Evelyn Page Retirement Village

Seven-term Mayor of Masterton, Bob Francis CNZM QSO MBE JP, has been named the 2024 Ryman Healthcare Senior New Zealander of the Year Te Mātāpuputu o te Tau.

Affectionately dubbed ‘Mr Wairarapa’, Bob has served his community in multiple areas, including health services, commercial development, the arts, aviation, homelessness, conservation and sports.

Bob’s award signifies the sixth time Ryman Healthcare has supported this category of the Kiwibank New Zealander of the Year Awards, which provides a fantastic opportunity to celebrate Kiwi seniors who continue to make positive contributions towards the future of Aotearoa.

Click read more for the full article.

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