As we emerge from what seems like a particularly wet and chilly winter, I am heartened by the articles in this issue of Canopy. We have made some fantastic reserves purchases this year, discovered and protected important wildlife and habitats, and continued our restoration work successfully involving and encouraging local interest groups.

Our new Michael Taylor Kiwi Reserve neatly fills a gap between several conservation areas important for kiwi in Northland. A Trustee, avid conservationist and ornithologist, Dr Taylor left a sizeable bequest to the Trust which was used to purchase the property next to the Marlborough Forest. The new reserve already holds a good population of kiwi and we look forward to establishing a stronghold for kiwi there.

We provide an update on the Patui appeal which is now nearing the end goal, an amazing achievement given the scale of the task. In addition we hear about the new discoveries at Patui which only further justify the decision to purchase.

The account of the war against pampas grass in the Marie Neverman Reserve put me in mind of a military operation, albeit catered with tea, biscuits and BBQ sausages! And we also highlight some community engagement projects in the Far North, including a huge predator control programme to protect Northland brown kiwi.

All of our work is reliant on the help of honorary rangers, supporters and local community groups. Because of your support, whether practical or financial, we are able to protect and restore native habitats for the benefit of all. As always, heartfelt thanks go out to everyone for all your help.

Best wishes,