Camping on pest free islands
Before you leave check your gear for stowaway pests:
- All gear must be free of rats, mice and ants - especially camping gear which has ideal places for pests to hide when stored. Take extra care to clean gear if you have Argentine ants where you live.
- Clean clothing, footwear and camping gear removing soil and seeds before and after each trip.
- Pack food in sealed containers to avoid attracting rodents. Open supermarket bags are not sufficient.
Note: On arrival you may be met by rangers to check your gear.
Taking your own boat or kayak?
- Before departing check your vessel for rats, mice and ants. Look for signs of rodents such as droppings and gnawing.
- Keep fresh bait and/or set traps on your veseel and in the area it is stored.
How these pests are bad for the environment:
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Rats eat birds, eggs, reptiles and insects.
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Mice prey on insects and eat small birds and reptiles.
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Soil can carry plant diseases such as kauri dieback.
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Weed seeds can become a weed-forest and smother native plants.
Please report any sighting of pests on pest free islands to the DOC HOT line - 0800 362 468