Treetops to Traps

In a joint effort to preserve native flora and fauna, West Coast Treetop Walkway and Zipline has teamed up with Hokitika Scenic Tours with an innovative conservation initiative. The project involves selling native trees and using the proceeds to purchase and install humane automated traps in the forests surrounding the West Coast Treetop Walkway just outside of Hokitika.

The idea for the initiative emerged during the COVID lockdown, as Rachel sought innovative ways to support predator control in the area. After discussing the idea with her friend Vonnie Cherry from the Treetop Walkway and Zipline, the partnership was born.

West Coast Treetop Walkway and Zipline provides visitors with an exhilarating adventure amongst the temperate rainforest giants. The walkway features a 450-meter-long steel platform situated 20 meters above the ground, as well as a thrilling 425-meter zipline through the Jurassic-looking rimu and kamahi tree canopy.

Vonnie mentioned that visitors enjoy experiencing the birdlife at the Treetop Walkway. "We've already observed a significant increase in bird numbers since the trapping project began."

Nestled among the towering ancient trees, you can encounter and listen to tūī, kererū, and bellbirds. A cantilever viewing platform extends towards the scenic Lake Mahinapua, offering a chance to observe black swans, grey and mallard ducks and, during their season, the graceful kōtuku (white herons) gliding along the reed-fringed lake.

The predator-trapping initiative is helping wildlife and plant life flourish in the area.

"We are immensely grateful to all the visitors who have participated in this initiative, as their support directly contributes to safeguarding our native flora and fauna,” Rachel said.

Development West Coast chief executive Heath Milne said the collaboration between Hokitika Scenic Tours and West Coast Treetop Walkway and Zipline is a great example of regenerative tourism.

“The initiative provides an opportunity for guests to give back to the region, providing an avenue to engage with the local ecosystem in a meaningful way, while helping protect our untamed natural wilderness.”