Predator Free Tamahere Becomes a Charitable Trust

Predator Free Tamahere has recently taken an important step forward with the establishment of the Predator Free Tamahere Conservation Trust.

The new Trust has been registered as a Charitable Trust under the Charitable Trusts Act 2019 and incorporated under the Incorporated Societies Act 2022, providing a formal structure to support the project as it continues to grow.

Since Predator Free Tamahere began in May 2022, volunteers and landowners across the community have removed around 12,000 pests from the Tamahere area. That work has helped protect native birds, wildlife and habitats across the local gully network.

Establishing the Trust provides a clear governance framework for coordinating predator control initiatives across Tamahere. It also allows the project to apply for funding, build partnerships and support volunteer involvement more effectively as the work expands.

The Trust’s role includes coordinating predator control programmes, supporting landowners and volunteers, raising awareness about biodiversity protection, and working alongside local authorities, iwi and conservation organisations.

Rod Berry, Chair of the new Trust, says the move formalises what has already been a strong community effort.

“Establishing the Trust allows us to operate more sustainably, attract funding, and have a greater impact in protecting our local environment.”

Predator Free Tamahere Conservation Trust Board

Rear (L–R): Rachel Frengley (Treasurer), Robyn Richardson, Dr Jane Morgan (Secretary), Alison Ewing

Front (L–R): William McGrory, Rod Berry (Chair)

The Predator Free Tamahere Conservation Trust is part of the wider Predator Free 2050 vision, which aims to remove introduced predators and restore New Zealand’s native ecosystems.

The Trust welcomes support from community members, landowners and anyone interested in helping protect and restore Tamahere’s natural environment.