14/05/2026
For this weeks members highlight we're joining Debbie from the Waimapu care group
"I started getting involved in the Waimapu area in October last year. Iโd studied conservation but felt a bit stuck on where to begin, so it really just came from wanting to do something tangible and actually get out there and start doing the work. Waimapu estuary has kind of been my backyard for a few years now, and itโs been there through some pretty hard times, so Iโve come to really care about it. Volunteering over at Glenfern Sanctuary on Aotea a few years ago is actually where I found the confidence to give something like this a go, and thatโs definitely stuck with me.
Weโve been focusing a lot on pest plant control, mainly bamboo, tradescantia, and jasmine, as well as some wild ginger and wattle-and itโs been really cool seeing the changes happen, even in small ways. Clearing those areas and knowing it creates space for native species to come back is pretty powerful.
Weโve also recently put in monitoring tunnels, which is really exciting. Hopefully itโll help us understand whatโs actually living in the space and how we can better support native flora and fauna.
Whatโs kept me going the most is just being out there regularly, you start to notice so much more, from the plants to the birds to mushrooms and all the little details youโd usually miss.
I usually head out on Mondays at 9:30, working either in Yatton Park or more recently Esk Street Reserve. If anyoneโs keen to get involved, they can reach out to me through the Waimapu Kaitiaki page Kaitiaka (still a bit new to running it, but getting there!).
I was honestly really nervous starting the group, Iโve never done anything like this before, but itโs been amazing seeing people get involved and watching it slowly turn into a bit of a community. Weโve got some really awesome people involved, and itโs something I really value and appreciate.
Weโre also currently planning a planting day with TCC around August, so keep an eye out for that!" - Debbie
