A series of traps will be placed along the Heathcote River as part of a project to rid the area of rats.
The project is being done in the hopes that ridding the area of the pests will enable native wildlife, such as birds, lizards and insects to thrive.
The Predator Free Ōpāwaho rat trapping project, run by the Heathcote River Network, will be supported and overseen by Christchurch City Council park rangers.
A network of traps will be placed along the riverbanks from Tunnel Road in Ferrymead to Ngā Puna Wai in Wigram
The traps are to be made out of wooden boxes and designed to prevent interference from non-target species, pets, and the public.
The first stage of the project will start on the lower river from Tunnel Road to Opawa Road and move upstream as more resources become available.
Residents in the area are being asked to help check and reset traps on the riverbank.
OHRN chairperson Chrissie Williams said in a statement community support and involvement is key to the success of the project.
“This is part of the national drive to protect our native ecosystems from the impact of rats. By working together, we can significantly enhance the effectiveness of this project and contribute to the health of our river.”
The operation also includes training of trappers, regular monitoring and maintenance to ensure traps are functioning correctly.
The project is part of the nationwide Pest Free 2050 programme and supports efforts by Pest Free Banks Peninsula and Predator Free Port Hills.
