DOC and conservation projects have been a significant part of our community projects and have been both challenging and rewarding.
Weta Motels
These boxes have become a a regular feature on walking tracks where the wetas are observed using them as nests and is part of a reasonably regular construction programme as demand for them continues. Modifications of their construction has changed and a more efficient process evolved which has improved productivity and made life a lot easier for us.
Making the separate nesting chambers has been the biggest challenge and we now router these out
Chambers have a clear cover and moveable timber cover.
The metal cap ensures the box remains weathertight when mounted on the tree.
One of our Weta boxes on a walkway in QE2 Park
……….and if you look closely it has a visitor at home
Penguin nesting boxes
Another production line was set up for these penguin boxes which were made using specifically donated materials. Those who were involved in positioning them in the sand dunes along the Kapiti coast were allowed to write them names on the boxes.
Team work is part of projects especially for repetitive work.
I wonder if there are left and right handed penquins
Will this help the penguins recognise home
Kaka nesting boxes
Simulating hollow tree trunks was the project to encourage Kaka nesting and a prototype that had worked was our guide. This was a another learning curve with our own modifications including one members ability to paint the camouflage. We have made an extra one that is to be mounted in one of the trees in the Reserve adjacent our shed.
Prototype waiting
Straight cutting is essential
Entry holes, timber liners done.
Base coat and mounting branch
Tops plus nest supports ready for the next phase
Camouflage painter in action – just as well he is in blue
Stoat Traps
An important project for conservation has been the construction of stoat traps and we have set up production lines at various times to meet requirements.
Peter organising donated timber for the next batch of traps
DOC receiving their next order assembled by the Great Race teams
The inner of the trap looks menacing and there is a clear warning on top