Trapping Programme Delivering Results at Tongataha
The biodiversity work underway at Tongataha continues to produce encouraging results, with a dedicated trapping programme helping reduce predator numbers while supporting wider restoration efforts across the farm.
Over the past two years, Tongataha Farm Manager Andrew Burns, and Shepherd Scott Dunsire have invested significant time establishing and maintaining a network of predator traps at selective sites throughout the property. The programme combines modern automatic trapping technology with traditional DOC trap boxes and feral cat control, creating a comprehensive approach to protecting native wildlife and improving biodiversity outcomes.
The newest addition to the network, a series of AT220 automatic traps, has proven highly effective since being installed in late 2025.
One trap recorded three possums on its first night alone. Since installation, the AT220 traps have removed 55 possums and 30 rats from the environment, helping reduce predator pressure across key areas of the farm.
Alongside the AT220s, DOC trap boxes have also delivered strong results, accounting for three stoats, 18 rats and eight mice.
The AT220 traps have made monitoring significantly easier, allowing activity to be tracked remotely through a mobile application while maintaining continuous operation in the field.
Particularly encouraging has been the capture of stoats, a predator species known for its significant impact on native birds and other indigenous wildlife. Their removal represents an important step in reducing pressure on vulnerable native species across the property.
The trapping programme has also included targeted feral cat control. Since July 2024, a further 47 feral cats have been removed from the property, helping reduce predation pressure across the wider landscape.
One of the most noticeable outcomes has been an increase in birdlife around homes, farm infrastructure and across the wider property.
An example of this is the presence of the New Zealand Falcon. It is endangered because it is a ground nester and easily accessed by predators,
The New Zealand falcon (Māori: kārearea, kārewarewa, or kāiaia; Falco novaeseelandiae) is New Zealand's only falcon, and one of only four living native and two endemic birds of prey. It is frequently mistaken for the larger and more common swamp harrier. It is the country's most threatened bird of prey, with only around 5000–15000 individuals remaining. Under the New Zealand Threat Classification System the falcon is stable at Threatened, with conservation research needed.The kārearea was voted Bird of the Year winner in the annual Forest & Bird competition in 2012 and again in 2025.
The work being undertaken at Tongataha extends beyond predator control.
The team has also begun collecting native seed from across the property to support future restoration planting. Eco-sourced seed collection helps ensure future plantings are well suited to local conditions while maintaining the genetic characteristics of native species already growing in the area.
Native seed collection requires careful timing and handling to ensure seed remains viable for future propagation. By collecting seed directly from local native species, the Tongataha team is helping establish a valuable resource for future restoration work while preserving the unique ecological characteristics of the area.
The initiative reflects a practical approach to biodiversity management, combining protection of existing ecosystems with investment in future restoration opportunities. 3 Wetland sites are being restored with more planned, along with establishing a small nursery.
Whāngārā Farms Business Manager Ray Leach says the work at Tongataha demonstrates what can be achieved when biodiversity becomes part of everyday farm life.
"What impresses me most about the work happening at Tongataha is that it goes beyond predator control. The trapping results are excellent, but equally impressive is the initiative Scott and Andrew are showing through their native seed collection work.
"Collecting eco-sourced seed is not as simple as picking seed off a tree. There is knowledge gathering, timing and care involved to ensure that seed can be used successfully for future restoration projects. To see the team taking that on voluntarily speaks volumes about their commitment to the whenua.
"The combination of reducing predator numbers while also building a local seed source for future planting demonstrates a genuine long-term approach to biodiversity management. They're not only protecting what is here today, they're helping create the conditions for future generations to benefit as well."
For Ray, the predator control programme, seed collection efforts and native restoration work are complementary parts of the same story - protecting existing biodiversity while investing in its future restoration and resilience.
The programme aligns closely with the aspirations of He Rau Ake Ake, Whāngārā Farms' 100-year plan, which recognises that productive farming and environmental stewardship go hand in hand.
As trapping efforts continue and restoration projects develop, Tongataha is providing a strong example of how practical on-farm action can contribute to healthier ecosystems and improved biodiversity outcomes. The results demonstrate that sustained effort, local knowledge and a long-term commitment to the whenua can deliver meaningful environmental gains, both now and for future generations.
