What a whirlwind the past year has been for the whole Predator Free Dunedin whānau!

Despite the challenges posed by a global pandemic, exciting milestones have been achieved in the field, and we’ve made big strides on the strategic side.

Thanks to the mandate afforded to us by members at the end of 2020, we have been able to plan and secure funding for a significant expansion of operations, providing certainty of direction for the Trust and delivery partners out to 2025.

We also worked hard to strengthen and deepen budgeting and reporting for financial and non-financial contributions, both within and between Predator Free Dunedin and delivery partners. This allows us to plan ahead with greater accuracy, track progress with confidence, and provide clear, timely information to funders.

Predator Free Dunedin would be nothing without the remarkably large network of stakeholders who share the vision.

To all who have contributed to the kaupapa in some way this past year, the Trust extends its thanks. In particular, we’d like to express our gratitude to trustees, staff and contractors giving their all for Predator Free Dunedin and delivery partners. Your commitment is clear, and your work is very much valued.

As I step down as chair to focus on the needs of my family, I do so knowing Predator Free Dunedin is in very good heart, and that it is an exciting time for the project.

Now is a great time for a new independent chair to take the helm, and I look forward to continuing to support the project in whatever capacity I am able.