TUS STNN - how we began

Titirangi Urban Sanctuary began like many good things, over a cup of tea.

In 2016 Gecko Trust NZ Ltd facilitator, Rhyll Stafford, drew together 3 or 4 small localised street groups already working under the Living Neighbourhoods programme.

Soon, this small group of neighbours began tackling invasive weeds in their local area. As they worked, they dreamed of growing a neighbourhood organisation which would tackle weeds across the whole South Titirangi area.

Designed to be community led, STNN as it was known, quickly mushroomed. A number of committed people joined the group and expanded the vision. 

It was known that predators were having a devastating effect on the environment. Bird numbers had dwindled significantly and bush regeneration was being slowed by possums. The group began running trap lines and encouraging neighbours to get involved in backyard trapping.

In 2019 supported by Gecko Trust, the Waitākere Ranges Local Board, Auckland Council and a group of dedicated supporters STNN developed their first strategic plan. As the plan was fulfilled, STNN slowly began to stand on its own financial feet, relying less and less on Gecko Trust. STNN became a registered Charitable Trust in 2024 and since then has been able to hire its own facilitator.

In our latest developments we have recently changed our name and logo to better reflect our aspirations. We are now known as Titirangi Urban Sanctuary. Our purpose remains the same, as does our community lead approach.