The combined efforts of students, teachers and some community volunteers is turning what was a pest-infested block of land, across the river from Mahurangi College, into a living classroom to be proud of. According to teacher Catherine Hutton, the project gives students the opportunity to get their hands dirty and feel a sense of accomplishment. Hutton, Phil Last, Sam Rivett and Colin Binsted make up the living classroom leadership team.
Since 2020, around 3000 trees have been planted and 471 pests have been trapped, mainly possums, rats and mice, but also hedgehogs, stoats and weasels. Hutton says that by actively participating in the guardianship of the land, students are building belonging and connection to one another and the land. “The students learn about the environment and service,” she says.
“Over the last three years, we’ve also had a significant wetland planting project with support from local companies such as Terra Pura. “We have a large planting project planned next year and look forward to inviting families to be involved.” Last, who is in charge of the trapping group, says there are three parts to the living classroom – pest plant removal, replanting native species and trapping animal pests, so birds can do their job.
He said that the trapping group uses DOC200 traps for rats and Trapinator traps for possum. Trapinator possum traps work when possums reach up and grab bait. The trap then cuts the throat and neck, killing it instantly.
All kills are logged on Trap NZ, which helps the team record and understand their predator control and biodiversity data. Last says students are also learning to read environmental signs. “If the young karaka leaves are not being eaten, then you know that the possums, which eat the plant’s new growth, have moved.
” He says the success of the work being done is also being monitored in a qualitative way. “When we see new growth and kākā visiting, which haven’t been there before, we know we are on the right track. “Trapping also provides an important set of skills for students and they realise that restoration is an important responsibility.
It makes students appreciate the native bush and the small group creates a strong bond because they have a shared goal. “They are learning skills for life.” As well as planting near the school, students have been involved in planting days at Scandrett Regional Park and Warkworth Showgrounds, and trips to Mt Tamahunga, where they can see the impact of ongoing trapping and restoration.
Year 12 trapping student Lucy Ingham says she loves trapping and each week she knows that they are making a difference. She spends lots of time outdoors, especially camping, which has helped her to appreciate the importance of conservation. “I didn’t realise how cool the wetland across the river was until I started trapping over there.
“A few years ago it was dry and overgrown, but after lots of hard work by many people it has turned into a beautiful scene. “It feels so special hearing bird song in the trees, and knowing your work has contributed to that.” Year 12 student Elisha Hollis says that when she first started trapping, there weren’t as many bird calls or greenery present in the areas where they trapped, especially down the bottom of the field and over the river.
“It has been truly wonderful to see the change. “It has become a really important part of what I do and a small way I can contribute to restoration efforts.”.
