We are excited to offer volunteer weedbusters a trip to the southern reaches of iconic Molesworth Station, to remove wilding conifers. We’ll be working with Boffa Miskell in an area around the Sedgemere Lakes that is infested with Scots pine (Pinus Sylvestris) and Pinus contorta. The size of most of the saplings is 1m to 1.5 m, so they can be cut at the base with loppers and handsaws.

Accommodation for 8 has been arranged nearby at the DOC chalet and if needed at a public DOC sleepout for 6, or people can bring tents. BYO bedding and food. At the chalet there is drinkable water and solar power, but no fridge. We will arrange travel into Molesworth via Hanmer Springs and have special permission to access Tarndale at this time of year (it will be closed to the public). From the huts the worksite is about 10 minutes in a 4WD. The track is in good condition but there are a couple of small creek crossings. The route passes the beautiful Sedgemere Lake and we’ll be working near Island Lake.

The plan is to arrive late afternoon Friday, and work Saturday and Sunday morning, leaving after lunch. If people want to arrive independently, to stay for a shorter or longer time, this may be possible. Let us know so that we can arrange keys.

The site is exposed and can get windy, so bring suitable weather-protection gear. There may be cattle in the area but they are low density. Hurunui Weedbusters will provide tools and gloves, or bring your own. We’ll provide a gas bottle for the hut’s cooker. Please register promptly, so we can fine-tune planning and follow up with details.

Send your name and phone contact to [email protected] or call Belinda on 0221600383. Car-pooling can be arranged from Christchurch and Amberley.

Here is a link to a map of the area.

More about Hurunui Weedbusters here