The Summit Road Society is proud to lead Predator Free Port Hills, which was launched in 2016. Our vision is simple: a thriving Port Hills ecosystem where native species flourish uninhibited by the pressures of invasive predators. We aim to create a predator-free environment, bringing back birdsong, protecting native plants, and minimizing the impact of pests in our neighbourhoods, parks, and rural areas.
Predator Free Port Hills
How We're Making a Difference
Predator Free Port Hills, Summit Road Society enables residents to actively participate in backyard trapping. We provide the tools and support needed for residents to actively contribute to a healthier Port Hills environment. Our local coordinators offer guidance, traps, and expertise, making trapping accessible and effective for everyone in their own backyards.
By joining Predator Free Port Hills, you become part of a community-driven effort to protect our unique biodiversity and contribute to the national Predator Free 2050 vision.
Our Goals
- Target Key Predators: We focus on controlling possums, ferrets, stoats, weasels, and rats, which significantly impact our native wildlife.
- Strategic Coverage: Our efforts span the urban fringe of the Port Hills, from Taylors Mistake to Halswell, and along Whakaraupō from Lyttelton to Purau, including rural areas.
- Increase Public Knowledge: We aim to raise awareness and understanding of the predator-free movement, building social license for conservation efforts within the community.
- Collaborative Approach: We work closely with local and central government, conservation groups, residents, and landowners and contribute to the wider Pest Free Banks Peninsula initiative.
- Community-Led Initiative: We provide subsidized traps, workshops, school programmes, and support to empower residents to participate in backyard trapping.
Learn more about how you can get involved: https://www.predatorfreeporthills.org.nz/ or email our coordinator, Natasha McIntosh, at natasha@predatorfreeporthills.org.nz
