Volunteer stories: meeting the Prime Minister

We couldn’t do our work without the help of a team of dedicated volunteers who generously give their time to the project. Marie was one of our first trap line volunteers and last year had the opportunity to meet former Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern along with other long-serving volunteers.

Disclaimer: we can’t guarantee volunteers will have the opportunity to meet a prime minister!

What trap line do you check?

Ross Creek 1

How long have you been volunteering with City Sanctuary?

October 2020

What motivated you want to start volunteering?

The goal of predator free from Orokonui to the Octagon. I have seen the changes in the Orokonui sanctuary since the fence went in and the changes at Lake Rotoiti in Nelson.

What do you enjoy about volunteering?

Seeing the changes in the bush following the trapping, more birds and more seedlings growing.

Have you had any special wildlife encounters on your trap line?

Several times tomtits have came to ‘inspect’ what I am doing.

Any funny stories to share?

One afternoon a mouse leapt out of the Trapinator as I was opening it. Another time I took the cap off an A24 and there was a huge leopard slug curled up inside.

What species would you like to see flourishing again on your trap line?

Riflemen and South Island Robins. I have seen them occasionally but would love it to be more regularly.