A 9.5km predator proof fence has been constructed at the Cape Kidnappers Wildlife Preserve to assist in the protection of some of New Zealand's most precious wildlife. An area of some 2,200 hectares is now protected, a privately funded intiative led by leading New Zealand ecologist and kiwi recovery expert, Dr John McLennan.
The vermin proof fence is 1.8m high with a depth of 30cm with an additional 'skirt' of 60cm to prevent burrowing underneath. The fence has been constructed to exacting standards to keep out a range of predators including stoats, ferrets, weasels, rats and wild cats. These species prey on the eggs of native birdlife preventing their survival.
In addition to the vermin proof fence, an intensive program of pest control is in place inside the preserve. 1200 traps have been placed along 15 tracking tunnel monitoring lines throughout the preserve.