Coronet Face
From trail to treeline, we’re building a predator control network to support one of the most ambitious restoration projects in Queenstown.
The face of Coronet Peak is more than just a stunning landmark — it’s becoming a key ecological corridor, linking trapping networks between Arrowtown and Mt Dewar. Working alongside the Whakatipu Wildlife Trust, QEII, Queenstown Trails, Soho Properties and a crew of dedicated volunteers, we’ve established a new line of defence for native wildlife.
Predator control on the move
In 2022, we began setting traps along the Coronet Water Race trail, a popular walking and biking route originally built to follow historic water races from the goldmining era. Since then, our efforts have expanded rapidly.
Today, with generous support from Rod Drury and TRAC, our integrated trapping network includes:
40+ high-tech, remote-reporting traps (AT220s and others)
Over 2,000 predators removed so far — and counting
Connectivity to surrounding landscapes, helping create a safer passage for native species
This network is part of a wider landscape-scale approach to restoring biodiversity across the Whakatipu Basin.
Eyes on the landscape
To guide our trapping strategy, we also deploy camera monitoring across the Coronet Loop and Water Race. These cameras are baited with fresh rabbit and ZIP motolures (which dispense mayonnaise daily — a favourite among curious predators!) and left in place for 21 nights.
Once analysed, the data helps us understand what pests are present — and where best to target our next effort.
Restoration in motion
Our work complements one of the most ambitious native planting efforts underway in the country. Led by our friends Queenstown Lakes District Council and Te Tapu o Tāne through Project Tohu, over 80,000 native trees have already been planted along the Coronet Face — part of a long-term vision to restore this once-cleared face back to thriving native forest.
While Southern Lakes Sanctuary doesn’t lead the planting work, our trapping network plays a vital role in supporting its success by reducing predator pressure on newly created habitat and the native species that will one day return.
It’s a powerful example of what’s possible when conservation, recreation and restoration align — and it’s an exciting time for the environment in Queenstown.
Posted in: Projects