Pest-free Warrant label
To help protect the pest-free islands of the Hauraki Gulf, DOC and the Auckland Council have set up a biosecurity warrant system for commercial vessel and tourism operators.
Why is a Pest-free Warrant needed?
Pest-free islands in the Hauraki Gulf provide a safe haven for some of New Zealand’s most endangered species. They provide opportunities for visitors to enjoy a fantastic wildlife experience close to Auckland City.
However, with popularity and open access comes the increased risk from boats and visitors who may accidentally bring “stowaway” pests. Pest invasions threaten wildlife and are also expensive to reverse.
Rats, mice, insects (particularly Argentine ants) and weed seeds are all potential stowaways on boats, in gear or on clothing. Once ashore, these pests have the ability to undo the great restoration work that’s happening in the Gulf.
The warrant
The Pest-free Warrant system is a way for DOC to assess if the biosecurity standards for visiting the islands of the Gulf are being met.
Why should I get a warrant?
Who needs a warrant?
What other permits might I need?
Why should I get a warrant?
Getting a warrant shows you are meeting the biosecurity standards for visiting islands in the Hauraki Gulf. It also allows you to use the Pest-free Warrant logo, offering you a marketing advantage; your customers will value your clean green commitment.
Other benefits include:
- Your business will appear on a ‘biosecurity friendly’ list on the Treasure Islands website
- Reduced risk of pest invasion on Hauraki Gulf islands
- Protection of the very environment that your customers are coming
to see
- Involvement in a process that is clear, simple and applicable to a
range of activities
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Who needs a warrant?
You may fit within more than one of the categories listed below. A single warrant will be issued to cover all facets of your particular business.
- Those who offer commercial vessel services to islands
- Those commercial vessels that wish to land at DOC and Auckland Council managed island wharves
- Those who hold DOC concessions to guide or run events on an island
- Other service suppliers like caterers and gear-hire companies who may be contracted by the above three groups
What other permits might I need?
As well as a Pest-free Warrant, you may also need one of the following permits to undertake commercial activities on DOC managed public conservation land:
- Concession - this DOC permit allows you to undertake commercial activities, i.e. guided walking, on public conservation land. A standard condition for most DOC concessions for the Hauraki Gulf islands is the requirement for a Pest-free Warrant.
- Wharf use permit - this permit allows commercial boat operators to use DOC managed wharves in the Hauraki Gulf. As with concessions, a standard condition of most wharf use permits is the requirement for a Pest-free Warrant.
Contact
If you are interested in obtaining a Pest-free Warrant for your business please contact the appropriate person below.
For Rangitoto, Motutapu, Browns (Motukorea) and Motuihe:
Carol Nanning - Ranger, Island Biosecurity
Department of Conservation
Auckland Area Office
Phone: 09 445 9142 or 027 225 2255
Email: cnanning@doc.govt.nz
For Tiritiri Matangi, Motuora and Little Barrier Island (Hauturu-o-Toi):
Jenny Heath - Ranger, Biosecurity
Department of Conservation
Warkworth Great Barrier Area Office
Phone: 09 425 7812
Email: jheath@doc.govt.nz
For other islands with some pests, including Kawau, Rakino and Great Barrier Island/Aotea:
Jeff Cook - Biosecurity Officer, Hauraki Gulf
Auckland Council
Phone: 09 624 4926 or 027 555 3451
Email: Jeff.Cook@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz
Related links
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