Aongetete Forest Project

We are a volunteer group that manages 500 hectares of native forest in the Kaimai Mamaku Conservation Park, between Tauranga and Katikati.

In 2006 the Aongatete Forest Restoration Trust was established after a few visionary members of the Tauranga branch of Forest & Bird approached Katikati Rotary and Ngai Tamawhariua for help to set up a pest control and advocacy project.

Ground-based baiting and trapping primarily for rats, possums and mustelids has been ongoing ever since. It is a joy to see that many native species are showing encouraging signs of recovery.

OUR EXPANDED KOHANGA!

In late 2022 we officially opened our expanded kohanga. Triple the size of our former building, this fantastic space can comfortably host up to 60 visitors — and all under cover! This is ideal for school groups that have been part of the BCA Nature Education Programme this year.

CHALLENGES - THE WEATHER!

What a wet year we had in the Bay of Plenty last year! We had to postpone so many volunteer sessions and baiting operations. This was incredibly frustrating and impacted our volunteer turnout.

GET INVOLVED!

We warmly welcome new volunteers, casual visitors and corporate groups to Aongatete Forest. We run volunteer mornings on the first and third Wednesday of every month. There are a variety of pest control and line maintenance tasks on our ‘To Do’ list.

Throughout the year, specific Saturday mornings are earmarked for major baiting campaigns. Many hands are essential to help put bait out, or bring it back in.

Once you’re done there’s always a hot cuppa and usually some delicious home baking on offer at the kohanga. Please scan the code to find out more. Otherwise check out our website for events held throughout the year.