Kiwis urged to do bit this Conservation Week

Conservation Minister Maggie Barry is encouraging New Zealanders to get out and enjoy their own backyards and make a difference locally during Conservation Week which starts on Saturday.

"Take a look around you and see how you can help protect and nurture our unique wildlife.

"Perhaps install a rat, stoat or possum trap or join volunteers who are already working with Doc and community groups on the War on Weeds or to achieve the goal of Predator Free NZ by 2050,’’ Ms Barry said.

More than 100 Conservation Week events have been organised throughout New Zealand by Doc, local businesses and community groups.

She was pleased more communities were banding together to make their own areas predator-free to protect native birds and wildlife.

‘‘If we are to rid our country of these unwanted vermin it needs to start in our own backyards and even small actions make a real difference.’’