News

Emma Murtagh 10/9/26 Emma Murtagh 10/9/26

SEPTEMBER 2026

Spring Is Coming… But the Stoats Are Ready

September has arrived, and spring is teasing us in the Nelson Lakes. Fresh daffodils are popping up, promising warmer days and longer evenings — although the fresh snow dusting the mountains this past week is a good reminder that winter isn’t quite ready to let go just yet!

But why are we talking about the weather? Because the arrival of spring signals something much more important for our native wildlife. Breeding season is here Spring marks the beginning of the breeding season for mustelids — including stoats, ferrets and weasels — and this activity continues right through summer until the end of March.

For the Friends of Rotoiti, this means one thing: our traplines need more attention than ever. As the network of traplines continues to expand, regular checking and maintenance are vital to keeping these predators under control and protecting the incredible native wildlife of the Nelson Lakes.

We need you!

The Friends of Rotoiti is a charitable trust, and we simply couldn’t do what we do without the incredible support of our volunteers. With our busy season just around the corner, now is the perfect time to get involved.

Whether you have:

• A few hours to lend a hand in the workshop

• A day to spare checking traplines

• A willingness to get out into some of the stunning locations around Rotoiti

• Or simply a desire to help protect the place we all love …there’s a job for you!

Every hour makes a difference. Every trapline checked helps. And every volunteer helps us protect the special wildlife and wild places of the Nelson Lakes.

Ready to get involved? We’d love to hear from you! Connect with the Friends of Rotoiti via Facebook, Instagram, our website or email to find out how you can lend a hand this spring.

Come and be part of the team — there’s always a job waiting for you!