Archived content: This media release was accurate on the date of publication.
Date: 18 December 2017
Summer is a great time to explore the beauty of Northland, with visitor numbers soaring and locals getting out and exploring new, or favourite, treasures.
With this in mind, the DOC has put together seven tips for keeping Northland safe this summer.
“This summer we want to encourage locals and visitors to explore Northland and the special places on offer, but remind people to take care and protect our species and forests at the same time,” says DOC Northern North Island Operations Director Sue Reed-Thomas.
“We often see tips for keeping people safe over summer, and thought a list of tips to protect the land and species was a good idea, from the glorious bottlenose dolphins in the Bay of Islands to our magnificent kauri. We want to make sure people are aware of their actions and the impact they might have on them,” says Sue.
Our tips
Kauri dieback
Protect Northland’s kauri from deadly dieback, stay on the track at all times and clean your shoes and gear.
Myrtle rust
Myrtle rust may be spreading in Northland – report any suspicious plants to 0800 80 99 66I and don’t touch them.
Visiting pest-free islands
Many of Northland’s islands are now pest free – let’s keep them that way! If you’re visiting an offshore island you need to check and seal:
Check your gear, including boats, kayaks, clothes and bags for pests.
Seal – make sure your gear and food is zipped up (no open bags).
If you see any small animal footprints on pest-free island beaches call 0800 DOC HOT (0800 362 468).
Marine mammals (dolphins, seals, whales)
It’s great to share our coast with marine mammals like dolphins, whales and seals, but we need to give them space – in the water, in the air and on the shore. Watch them from a distance and stay away from all mother and baby dolphins and whales. Call 0800 DOC HOT (0800 362 468) to report any concerns.
Bay of Islands dolphins
The Bay of Islands is lucky to have bottlenose dolphin,s and visitors love seeing them. To ensure their safety, give bottlenose dolphins a break from all boats between 11:30 am and 1:30 pm daily and report any concerns to 0800 DOC HOT (0800 362 468).
Taking dogs out and about
Enjoying summer with your dog is great, just check the local rules on where you can go. Look after our native wildlife by taking your dog only to approved dog areas.
Dogs and kiwi
Northland kiwi are under threat, let’s keep them safe this summer. Any dog, including pets, can kill kiwi. Make sure you keep your dog indoors or secured at night, stay away from ‘no dog’ areas and keep them under control at all times. Call your council dog ranger if you see a dog not under control.