The Takatu LandCare group is a volunteer organisation with a vision of the Takatu Peninsula being a pest and weed free buffer zone for the stunning Tāwharanui Open Sanctuary.

They hope that some of the endangered species flourishing in the sanctuary will be able to spread safely into the broader region and connect with other important ecological zones through the implementation of the control of pest mammals and invasive exotic weeds on private land.

The Takatu LandCare group is embedded in the Buckletons Bay, Baddeleys/Campbells Bays, Christian Bay, Christian Bay West, Takatu Road, Waikauri Bay and Omaha South communities. They work in conjunction with the Omaha, Point Wells, Leigh and other local pest control volunteers and also with the Matakana Community Group and the Forest Bridge Trust.

You may have noticed the wonderful Takatu LandCare sign on the Takana Native Trees site at the corner of Leigh and Takatu Roads.

The sign clearly states their goal of “Creating a pest-free peninsula”. If it encourages passersby to make contact and perhaps join one of the many local groups active in pest control in our peninsular neighbourhood, their goal will be one step closer.

Currently the animal pest control work of TLC encompasses community volunteer groups who focus on the target pests of mustelids, possum and rats. 

In terms of invasive weeds, climbing asparagus, woolly nightshade, Japanese honeysuckle, moth plant, kahili ginger and pampas are relatively common on some parts of the peninsula. Community working bees are organised to help manage weeds within the local communities.

Through Auckland Council funding, they have a dedicated pest control co-ordinator who assists by encouraging and helping people with trapping in their areas. Records show that the group successfully trapped 1,257 pests in the first 6 months of 2020, almost triple the previous catch for a similar period. Birds are already returning to areas where active trapping is taking place.

If you would like to know more or are interested in being involved with trapping or weed control, please contact [email protected]. www.takatulandcare.com