18 Jul 2024

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Pest Free Banks Peninsula has set its target on removing possums from Akaroa – and they’re calling on residents and bach owners to help.

Over the past almost-two years, Pest Free Banks Peninsula (PFBP) has been systematically working its way across the Peninsula, removing pests such as possums, mustelids, feral cats and ungulates (e.g., goats and pigs).

Working alongside communities and landowners, PFBP has removed thousands of pests and in doing so, helped support the rejuvenation and regeneration of indigenous animals and plants.   

“The success of our elimination programme in the areas surrounding the township means we’re in a really good position to flush out any remaining possums in Akaroa,” Project Leader Sarah Wilson said.

"Having enjoyed so much support from Peninsula communities, we hope Akaroa residents will join forces with us and help us achieve our goal of a pest-free Peninsula.”    

The PFBP team is trying to contact as many property owners as possible so they can establish a network of bait stations across the township.  It’s a difficult task given so many property owners don’t live permanently in the township.   

“Akaroa is renowned for its natural environment, it's one of the key reasons people have holiday homes there. Bach owners are a vital link in our network, and we need as many of them as possible to get in touch and tell us they’re willing to be part of the possum knockdown," she said.  

“The more properties we have in our network, the harder it will become for possums to navigate their way around town. Our team has the technical expertise to knockdown possums, now we need community support to make it happen.”  

Mayor Phil Mauger is throwing his support behind the campaign and has a possum trap set on his property in Akaroa.

“Getting rid of possums from the Peninsula will bring environmental, recreational and economic benefits to the community, so I’m pleased to be helping out and would encourage all property owners to get in touch with Pest Free Banks Peninsula to set up a trap. I’m important we all play our part.”  

Whilst removing pests from urban settings has its challenges, particularly around keeping domestic animals safe, it has been successfully achieved in other communities. Predator Free Wellington has successfully eliminated possums and rats from the Miramar Peninsula, an area home to over 50,000 residents.   

“We are conscious the Akaroa community may have concerns about the methods we’re using to remove possums and any potential impacts this may have for them. We will host drop-in sessions for people to ask us anything, and we have a range of resources available to help people understand and manage any risks,” said Ms Wilson.   

If you’re interested in hosting a bait station, email info@pestfreebp.org.nz and one of the Pest Free Banks Peninsula team will be in touch.