Pests and pets pose threat to Hauraki Gulf islands

Date:  21 December 2006

DOC wants people to be aware of the danger introduced pests and pets present to conservation islands in the Hauraki Gulf.

DOC Auckland Conservator Sean Goddard said while the Department encourages people to get out and enjoy the islands, it is important they take measures to keep introduced pests and weeds and pets off them.

A huge amount of pest control work has been undertaken on the islands by DOC, community groups and volunteers.

Tiritiri Matangi, Motuora and Motuihe are free of all introduced mammalian pests such as rats, mice, mustelids (stoats and ferrets), possums, cats, hedgehogs and rabbits. Rangitoto and Motutapu are free of possums, ferrets and weasels, and all of these islands have ongoing programmes to control introduced weeds. Great Barrier Island is free of Norway rats, mustelids, possums, hedgehogs and deer, and Burgess Island, the only island in the Mokohinau group that the public can land on, is also free of all mammalian pests.

Introduced pests and weeds and pets are a threat to native plants and birds, such as kiwi, many of which have been reintroduced to islands as part of restoration projects.

Mr Goddard said visitors to conservation islands should make personal checks to ensure they are not bringing rats, mice, insects such as Argentine Ants, or weed seeds ashore.

“We’re asking all visitors to check their boats, packs, clothing and boots before they go ashore on any conservation island.”
Dogs and cats are also a threat to the islands as they can disturb and kill wildlife such as shorebirds, penguins and kiwi.

Dogs and cats are not allowed on DOC-managed conservation islands, including the beaches down to the low-tide level, said Mr Goddard. Dogs are also not allowed on conservation land on Kawau and Great Barrier islands.

Conservation islands are popular summer destinations for people who go to relax and enjoy the wildlife, history, walking tracks and beaches. 

Before visiting conservation islands:

• Check baggage and stores for rats, mice and insects, and packs, clothes and shoes for weed seeds
• Keep an eye out for signs of stowaway rodents on your boat
• For larger boats, have bait stations, baited traps or glue boards on board and check them regularly
• Leave your pets at home – dogs and cats are not allowed on conservation islands or beaches down to the low-tide level.