Pest Animals - Pest Free Howick Ward

Backyard Trapping

Backyard trapping is one of the most powerful actions our community can take to protect native wildlife. Rats and possums are a major threat to birds, lizards, and insects across the Howick Ward — but when households work together, the impact is huge.

Through our Backyard Trapping Project, we support residents with the knowledge, tools, and confidence to trap safely and effectively at home. More hands make more impact, and when neighbours take action together, the results are far greater than any one person could achieve alone.

We offer free rat traps, compulsory best‑practice workshops, seasonal newsletters, and ongoing guidance to help every trap count. With hundreds of households already involved, our community is building real momentum — celebrating catches, sharing tips, and seeing positive changes in local wildlife.

Whether you’re new to trapping or ready to take the next step, your backyard can make a meaningful difference. Join the movement and help create a safer, more vibrant environment for native species across the Howick Ward.

Rodents

Aotearoa’s ecosystems are being devastated by rodents such as rats, which compete with native wildlife and plants, spread various diseases and contribute to the extinction of many bird species.

Possum

The possum is a marsupial introduced to Aotearoa from Australia in the 19th century and was originally used in the fur trade. They breed across much of Aotearoa, causing severe impacts on natural ecosystems and farming.

Mustelids

These carnivorous mammals, including weasels, stoats and ferrets, were introduced to Aotearoa to control rabbit populations. However, they are today a major threat to Aotearoa’s native fauna.

Others

There are many more other harmful invasive animals that are having serious impacts on Aotearoa’s ecology and economy. For example, a hedgehog in the garden, a wild cat on the street, a wasp in the forest, etc.

Join Our Backyard Trapping Project!

First Name

Surname

Email Address

Phone Number

Street Address

Surburb

I am interested in acquiring a T-Rex trap and have watched the tutorial video on its safe usage. This goes inside the wooden tunnel, and makes it safe for pets and children.

How would you like to send us your trapping data?

CatchIT - this is our online catch reporting service; select this option and we will sign you up and you can report your catches manually. Email - email your catches to “catches.pestfreehowick@gmail.com”. Please make sure to send a photo of your catches if you choose this option.

Trapping data (records of your trap checks and catches) is very important to us! It helps us to understand pest activity in your area and to ensure the ongoing success of the project.

Yes, I give my consent to be subscribed. No.

Rat trap colletion / delivery details

I'm at an event and will collect my trap. I'm registering and need delivery. Other.

If "Other", please specify:

Trapping Tips & Resources

Chewcards

Identify hidden pests in your backyard. Even if you don't see them, chewcards help detect their presence.

Tips

Master the basics with our practical guide to successful and safe backyard rat trapping.

Rat ID

Learn to distinguish between different rodent species to ensure you are using the right trapping methods.

Stay informed with seasonal updates, local success stories, and the latest conservation advice from our team.

Trapping Group

Join our private Facebook community to share your catches, ask questions, and connect with local trappers.

Fight for the Wild

Watch the inspiring TVNZ documentary series about the massive effort to protect New Zealand’s native species.