Blackfern Eco Reserve - 'Whio' - Blue Duck Recovery Project

We are hoping to raise funds to protect and preserve the wildlife, flora and fauna at this property deep in the heart of the King Country. Blackfern Lodge, situated on Ongarue Stream Road, Waimiha is being established as an Eco reserve, focusing on the 'Whio (Blue Duck) Recovery Project'

We would greatly appreciate funding to assist with trapping of predators (mice, rats, possums, stoats, ferrets hedgehogs, feral cats) This property, and the surrounds has been trapped with bait stations by one amazing man for over 14 years, with outstanding results, not only for the 'whio' but also other native birdlife. Any monies raised will assist in the purchase of the new 'Good Nature A24' humane traps, self reloading, and digitally monitored. These cost $185 each, and we hope to raise sufficient funds to purchase 20 of these to help control the possums and rats.

We are also seeking funds to establish an educational centre for the 'Whio Recovery Project'. This is to educate people about the whio, their natural environment, and the importance of healthy rivers for their ongoing survival. This will be a purpose built info centre, constructed next to the stream where the whio are often seen swimming in the rapids.

Another project we are working towards is a museum dedicated to the conservation efforts in Pureora Forest, the Timber Milling history of the area with photographs, relics and memorabilia of days gone by. This are is rich in native forest, and one of the newest cycle trails in the country. The 'Timber Trail' is an 85km mountain bike trail through the lush green vegetation that once covered New Zealand over. The summit of Mt Pureora offering spectacular views over Taupo, Mt Ruapehu, Mt Tongariro and Mt Ngarahoe. The cycle trail also boasting a 141m high suspension bridge, and kaka flying overhead.

Thank you for taking the time to read this, if you would like any further information - please do not hesitate to contact us.