Predator free Patumahoe wins funding

The Whakaupoko Landcare Group (WLC) has received a boost in its quest to make Patumahoe predator free.

WLC was successful with its video campaign in support of a predator-free Patumahoe village.

Predator Free New Zealand via sponsor Kiwibank has made available up to $5000 to help develop Patumahoe and its surrounds into a predator free area.

There will be a public meeting to put the plan in action at the Patumahoe Junior Rugby Club on Monday night at 7pm.

WLC co-ordinator Andrew Sinclair said the funding was great news for local native wildlife and a great opportunity for the people of Patumahoe village to lead the way towards the predator free 2050 goal.

The initial goal, Sinclair said was to start trapping in mid to late March to keep ahead of the move indoors by rats and mice.

He said the ultimate goal was to eventually free the community from rats, mustelids and possums and build up a healthy sustainable population of native birds.

‘‘If you are a local and want to make a difference then please come along as success is dependent on local participation.’’