Upcoming aerial predator control
Kahurangi National Park
Why we are controlling introduced predators
Kahurangi National Park is one of New Zealand’s most diverse landscapes with ecosystems ranging from open alpine tops, a variety of beech forests and extending to lowland broad-leaved forests with large podocarps and northern rātā through to warm coastal communities.
Over half New Zealand’s native plant species, and 80% of alpine plant species, are present in Kahurangi, many of which are only found there. Some of our most iconic and unique fauna in the area include tuke/rock wren, whio/ blue duck, roroa/great spotted kiwi, kea, kākā, pekapeka/ long-tailed bats and giant land snails (Powelliphanta.). Many of these are at risk from introduced predators and need protection.
In 2026 a rapid increase in the rodent and stoat population is predicted. This happens when forests produce massive amounts of seed in what’s called a mast. It provides plentiful food for native species but also fuels an upsurge in rodents and stoats. This has a devastating impact on native species which could completely disappear from parts of Kahurangi.
The Department of Conservation (DOC) is planning expanded predator control operations in Kahurangi between October 2025 and June 2027 to protect native species during the most widespread mast in the South Island in seven years.
Five separate operations are planned for completion between July 2026 and May 2027. The two operations listed here are being delivered by Vector Control Services for DOC. These operations are: Parapara starting in July 2026 and Garibaldi-Kakapo in March 2027.
How are we going to achieve this
The safest and most effective method we have to control introduced predators over large areas is to use biodegradable cereal pellets containing 1080.
This bait targets rodents and possums. Stoats are also controlled through secondary poisoning as they feed on the carcasses of the dead rodents.
Parapara 2026 & Garibaldi-Kakapo 2027
Vector Control Services has been contracted by DOC to complete the work.
Each of the operations will consist of one prefeed of tan coloured nontoxic cereal pellets followed by one application of 1080 cereal pellets dyed green.
Baits will be distributed by helicopter on predetermined flight paths that are monitored.
The Mokihinui-Karamea, Garibaldi-Kakapo and Tasman Wilderness operations have been completed.
Please treat the Wilderness areas with caution until the warning signs are removed.
Managing risk
1080 is poisonous to humans, domestic and game animals. In areas where the toxin has been applied dogs are highly at risk until poisoned carcasses have disintegrated. This takes four to eight months or longer.
Risks can be eliminated by following these rules:
DO NOT touch bait
WATCH children at all times
DO NOT EAT animals from this area or within the buffer zone outside the treatment boundary.
The standard buffer zone is 2km for deer and pigs, 200m for rabbits, and 1km for hares, tahr, wallabies and possums.
Poison baits or carcasses are DEADLY to DOGS
Observe these rules whenever you see warning signs about pesticides. These signs indicate pesticide residues may be still present in baits and poisoned carcasses. When signs are removed this means you can resume normal activities in the area. Always report suspected vandalism or unauthorised removal of signs.
Parapara 2026 Fact Sheet
