Hunua 1080 application update

The first application of toxic 1080 bait in the Hunua Ranges area is complete and the parklands are expected to reopen later this week.

In the last few years, possum and rat numbers have increased significantly in the Hunua Ranges. This is having a severe effect on the health of our forest and threatened species, like kōkako that live within it.

To target these pests, toxic 1080 bait was applied to block one of the 21,000 hectare operational area on Friday (21 August). Block two was also treated, with non-toxic pre-feed bait to familiarise pest animals with the baits.

Operational lead, Auckland Council’s Biodiversity Manager Rachel Kelleher, says the operation is now past the half-way point.

“The operation is progressing well, we are starting to see evidence of the toxin at work and are monitoring breakdown of both bait and possum carcasses to inform our caution period.

“Staff have completed the initial requirements of our track clearance programme which has also been audited by the Auckland Regional Public Health Service.

“Now is the time to really remind dog owners to think carefully about bringing dogs into or near the operational area and to supervise dogs at all times,” she says.

While undertaking the track clearance programme on Monday staff were disappointed to find two dogs roaming within the regional park treatment area with no form of identification or owner present. Staff stayed with the dogs until arrangements were made for them to be safely looked after.

Once the park re-opens, visitors to the park and reserve lands must remain aware that they are in an area recently treated with 1080. Dogs and young children are particularly at risk from 1080 poisoning – 1080 is a deadly toxin, anyone visiting the ranges must read information on the park, observe warning signage and ensure that children do not touch or eat the toxic baits.

Dog owners are advised to avoid taking dogs into the operational area until the caution period is over and warning signs are removed – this is likely to be some months away.

Those who choose to bring their dogs to areas of the parks (where dogs are allowed) or near to the operational area should supervise them closely to prevent scavenging of carcasses and consider muzzling the dog if off-lead.

Watercare’s Wairoa and Mangatawhiri dams remain out of service until a stringent water testing programme has been completed and approval has been given by the Medical Officer of Health. Results returned so far have not detected any 1080 in the water supply. Public water supply results are published on the Watercare website.

Clear results are also being returned from the cultural and private property water testing programme which involves working with iwi and private landowners to monitor waterways flowing from the operational area.

Project Director Mace Ward says the next (and final) stage of the operation will be in 7-10 days, depending on the weather.

“The last stage of the operation is applying toxic 1080 bait to block two – which will see the regional parks and DOC tracks closed again, the Cossey’s and Mangatangi dams disconnected and another track clearance programme carried out,” he says.

ENDS

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