About us

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 protecting the region’s remnant kiwi population. In 1998, while volunteering to erect a predator fence across the peninsula, they realized that their work needed to be expanded to have a meaningful impact.

This realization led to the formation of an informal group known as 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. 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.

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.