Enjoy the Bush,
Protect our Birds
Join our volunteer predator control group and help restore the Kaimai Mamaku.
Protecting the bush we love
Whakamārama Forest Project (formerly Friends of the Blade) has been protecting native bush and wildlife for 10 years. Our all-volunteer predator control group works around the Pā Kererū loop and wider Kaimai Mamaku, with trap lines covering around 250 hectares of regenerating native bush northwest of Tauranga.
45
Active Volunteers
1,000+
Traps
4,000+
Predators Removed in 2025
3,000+
Volunteer Hours a Year
250
Hectares of Native Bush
10+
Years Protecting Our Forest
What we do
Targeting Introduced Predators
Protecting our native wildlife
Our volunteers maintain trap lines throughout the forest, targeting possums, rats, mice, mustelids and other introduced species.
Our traps are DOC-approved instant-kill devices that meet National Animal Welfare Advisory Committee standards, and all our lures are non-toxic. Regular monitoring helps us track activity and measure the impact of our conservation work.
Working Together
Powered by people and partnerships
Formed in 2015, Whakamārama Forest Project (formerly Friends of the Blade) brings local volunteers and conservation partners together to protect the Kaimai Mamaku.
Our work is made possible with the support of local organisations, councils, funders and conservation partners.
Pest Trap Library
Protecting wildlife at home
Our community Pest Trap Library makes it easy for local residents to borrow a trap and help control predators in their own backyard.
In June 2026, we proudly took over the running of the Whakamārama Pest Trap Library. It is open on the last Sunday of each month, 3pm–4pm.
STAY FIT.
PROTECT OUR BIRDS.
ENJOY THE BUSH.
MAKE NEW FRIENDS.
MAKE A DIFFERENCE
Get Involved
We welcome new volunteers and ensure they are supported by experienced members of the group. Training is provided to get familiar with traps, trap lines, and health and safety before going solo. You will be matched with a trap line that suits your fitness, and all materials are provided—just bring sturdy boots and a moderate level of fitness.
If trapping isn't for you, there are other ways to help, including track clearing, data entry, social media, monitoring, or even organising morning teas. Every role supports our predator control efforts!
News & Events
A look at what’s happening in the bush, our community and the wider conservation project.
HELP PROTECT OUR NATIVE WILDLIFE
Support our Work
As a not-for-profit, we rely on grants and donations to make our conservation work possible. Every donation is appreciated and makes a real difference.
Donations are processed on our behalf by our support partner, Bay Conservation Alliance, with all funds coming directly to us.
You should receive a receipt immediately. If you have any questions about your donation, email admin@bayconservation.nz
Whakamārama Forest Project is an all-volunteer predator control group helping protect native bush and wildlife in the Kaimai Mamaku.
