The Predator Free New Zealand Trust is bringing three free conservation events to the Bay of Plenty this month featuring local conservation icon Cam Speedy.

Known for his decades of expertise in predator control and ecosystem management, Speedy has been instrumental in national kiwi and whio recovery programmes and predator eradication efforts at Sanctuary Mountain Maungatautari.

His talks, titled Fine-tuning Your Predator Control, will provide practical tips for increasing the effectiveness of predator trapping efforts.

Cam Speedy is passionate about sharing knowledge with the predator-free community. Photo/ PFNZ

Speedy will focus on attention to detail – an essential component of successful predator control – and address common challenges such as traps that pests encounter but avoid.

These free presentations with Q&A sessions are aimed at individuals and community groups working to protect native birds, lizards, and insects from invasive predators.

“Native species are here in our towns, suburbs, parks, reserves and farms. It’s up to everyday people to help protect and restore it, which means getting behind the Predator Free NZ 2050 goal and trapping rats, stoats and possums where we live, work and play,” Predator Free NZ communities adviser Janine Hearn said.

“Cam Speedy has a knack for inspiring everyone he meets. Whether you’re struggling to catch as many rats as you used to or you’re thinking about expanding trapping efforts, he has practical advice and his enthusiasm is infectious. As Cam puts it, he can turn anyone from ‘a trap checker to a predator-hunting ninja’.”

Speedy is a freelance wildlife biologist with over 40 years of experience managing native and introduced species in New Zealand.

His extensive work includes kiwi, tahakē and kōkako recovery efforts, alongside research on introduced species like deer and possums.

His approach combines scientific research with practical fieldwork to develop effective conservation strategies.

An advocate for community involvement, Speedy is dedicated to equipping volunteers with the skills and knowledge needed to contribute to the Predator Free NZ 2050 goal.

His engaging talks have earned him recognition as a sought-after speaker in wildlife management and environmental education.

Cam Speedy has more than 40 years’ experience in predator control. Photo/ PFNZ

Fighting for a predator-free New Zealand

The events are co-hosted by the Predator Free NZ Trust, Bay Conservation Alliance, and Project Tongariro.

Predator Free Bay of Plenty is part of a national effort to protect native birds, aiming to place one rat trap in every fifth backyard.

Community-led initiatives, such as pest trap libraries in Tauranga, Waihī Beach, and Whakamarama, have already removed more than 21,200 pests.

A DOC 200 trap in the bush. Photo/ PFNZ

These free events, which require registering, are open to all and offer an opportunity to learn from one of New Zealand’s leading conservationists.

To register for these talks, go to Predator Free NZ Trust.

Event details:

Taupō: December 9, 6pm–7.30pm, Wairākei Golf + Sanctuary, Wairākei Drive.

Rotorua: December 10, 6pm–7.30pm, Rotorua Bowling Club, 87 Oruawhata Drive.

Te Puke: December 11, 6pm–7.30pm, Te Ranga Hall, 1458 Te Matai Rd.