Learn to trap pests like a ninja

Everything you need to know about pests and how to trap like a ninja will be covered at a two-day predator-free hui in Richmond this weekend.

Tasman Environmental Trust and Predator Free New Zealand Trust have teamed up for the free regional hui at The Headingly Centre with a lineup of speakers, an expert panel to answer those burning questions, a tradeshow and workshops.

Predator Free activator Elaine Asquith says, the hui is aimed at bringing together the predator-free community to “cross pollinate”, to learn from each other, and work hand-in-hand for conservation.

“The whole hui is designed to connect and build the community and inspire. It will boost our know-how and skills level, so we really are trap ninjas on the ground.”

The ninja skills will come from wildlife biologist Cam Speedy, who has 30 years of experience working on a range of both native and introduced wildlife and will share his newest tips to trap like a ninja.

Other speakers cover the big picture of Predator Free 2050, how to get community groups working well, conservation through a tea o Māori lens and the latest science and technology.

Elaine says the goal is to work towards being a predator-free community and encourage more biodiversity by bringing all the various pest-management groups together.

“There are so many amazing groups here that we are very fortunate.

“They live here because they love the environment, which is so special. This hui is to increase connectivity between them. You get all those people together in a room and things happen.”

The hui is being held on 17 and 18 May between 9am and 4.30pm and Elaine says there will be new products on display and new ideas along with the speakers, workshops and field trips. You can register for either day here.

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