About Us
Russell Landcare Trust is a community-run group making a difference on the Russell Peninsula and supporting the restoration and reintroduction of native forests and birds.
We combine community action and expert conservation efforts to restore Russell’s native ecosystems.
The Trust was formed in 2002 and has been active for over twenty years.
The Trust leads several key projects, including Predator Free Russell, which aims to eradicate rats, stoats, and possums from the peninsula. Additionally, the Trust is involved in native habitat restoration, dune restoration at Long Beach, and various other initiatives that protect and enhance the natural environment of the Russell Peninsula.
Our People
Russell Landcare Trust is guided by a dedicated team of local conservationists and community members.
Ella van Gool
General Manager
Nik Minchin
Trustee & Technical Advisor
Todd Warrander
Field Manager
Ben Wood
Trapper
Serena Collins
Trapper
Evita Zarina
IT & Adminstration
Cory Parlanepeters
Trapper
Alex Ough Dealy
Communications Coordinator
Kerry Mulligan
Community Coordinator
Victoria Froude
Trustee (Chair)
William Fuller
Trustee
Chris Richmond
Trustee
Denise Ellis
Trustee
Helen Ough Dealy
Trustee
Neil Morris
Trustee
John Russell
Trustee
Our Story
Now
Present Day
Since its founding, the Trust has grown significantly, undertaking numerous projects that have made a substantial impact on the local environment. From the successful translocation of North Island weka to ongoing habitat restoration efforts, Russell Landcare Trust continues to build on the legacy of its founders, working towards a predator-free Russell Peninsula where native species can flourish.
2002
Russell Landcare Trust is registered
In 2002, following a public meeting and with the assistance of local solicitor John Gallie, the group officially became the Russell Landcare Trust, a registered charitable trust.
1998
Russell Kiwi Group created
In 1998, while volunteering to erect a predator fence across the peninsula, they realized their work needed to expand to have a meaningful impact. This led to the creation of the Russell Kiwi Group, which began meeting regularly to coordinate their efforts. As their work gained momentum, it became clear that a more formal organization was needed to secure funding and support from the wider community.
Late 1990's
An idea was formed
Russell Landcare Trust traces its origins back to the late 1990s when a small group of passionate individuals—Laurence Gordon, Lindsay Alexander, Helen Ough Dealy, Bob Frater, and Dianna Frater—began working independently to control predators on the Russell Peninsula. These early efforts were inspired by their shared commitment to protect the region’s remnant kiwi population.
Our Funders
Our Mahi
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Learn more about the projects we’re managing across the Russell peninsula through community-driven conservation. |
