The Rangitikei District Council (RDC) will be undertaking a cull of the rabbit population within Taihape Cemetery to reduce the numbers of this pest to manageable levels. Over the last two months we have seen significant damage to lawns and historic graves caused by the burrowing of rabbits.

Our aim is to see a significant reduction in rabbit numbers so that little, or no future damage, occurs at the cemetery.

RDC has employed a commercial contractor to commence the operation towards the end of January, depending on weather. Letters to neighbouring landowners will be sent well in advance of the operation taking place, and signs will be erected letting cemetery visitors know a control programme is occurring.

We understand this is a very sensitive issue and care will be taken to minimise any effects on those visiting loved ones buried in the cemetery.

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PM's Statement: Deadly Eruption Of Whakaari / White Island

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To those who have lost or are missing family and friends, we share in your unfathomable grief at this moment in time, and in your sorrow. Your loved ones stood alongside kiwis who were hosting you here. We grieve with you, and we grieve with them... More>>

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Gordon Campbell: On The Eruption And Tourism Safety
Adventure tourism is a central theme in New Zealand tourism, and by definition, adventure always includes a certain level of risk. That said, New Zealand itself is also at risk of being seen as a tourism destination where commercial factors – rather than safety factors – are routinely allowed to determine the point where the boundary line of acceptable risk is being drawn. More>>