789 days ago

'Absolutely stoked': Rangers declare Shakespear Regional Park stoat free

Caroline Williams Reporter from Rodney Times

Shakespear Regional Park has reclaimed its pest-free status, after a stoat incursion spanning almost two years.

The sanctuary provides wildlife such as kiwi pukupuku (little spotted kiwi), hihi (stitchbird) and tīeke (saddleback) with a safe and pest-free habitat.

However, that safety was compromised after a stoat was spotted in March 2020.

By summer, it was evident the stoat had given birth, as the DNA analysis of scat (poo) samples had identified the presence of nine individual stoats, Auckland Council senior ranger at the sanctuary Matt Maitland said.

In early August 2021, the eighth stoat was captured. No more have been caught since. It's possible the ninth male stoat, last seen on camera on August 22, may have left the sanctuary or had “had some other misadventure” befall it.

Cautious of declaring the stoat incursion over, due to the high stakes for wildlife, the team allowed the stoats a breeding cycle before celebrating the sanctuary as stoat free in late January.

Maitland said he was “absolutely stoked” to see the end of the stoat saga.

Click 'read more' for the full story on Stuff.

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More messages from your neighbours
3 hours ago

Turn downsizing stress into strength

Evelyn Page Retirement Village

Downsizing can open the door to a new stage of your life that is rich in opportunity. However, it can be a daunting prospect. If you are embarking on a new chapter of life, the thought of shedding familiar possessions can feel even more stressful. This can be true even if the life changes are a good thing, such as a move to somewhere you will love to live.

Once you understand why you have this feeling, you can reframe it as creating a new environment that will support your present life while reminding you of your best experiences.

Click read more for the full article.

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13 hours ago

Minimalist Design in Apartment Living

The Team from Ryman Healthcare

Ryman’s Charles Upham Retirement Village resident Di is a former fashion designer, artist and self-confessed shoe hoarder who travels, still paints and has stamped her eclectic minimalist style on her apartment.

She gives us her top 3 design tips on how she’s turned her space into a beautiful home.
Find out more

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13 hours ago

Hi, what's your name?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

We want to get to know our neighbours and we think you do too!

Simply share a little about yourself on the Know Thy Neighbour page and others will follow suit (you could also win one of our 10 x $50 Prezzy® cards!).

Are you the go-to person for baking advice (and a cup of sugar!) or have some computer skills that you're happy to share? We'd love to know.

Whether you're looking for others to join you on your walks, or just wanting to know more about your neighbours, go ahead and introduce yourself.
Get Involved

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