News

18.9.2026

The Department of Conservation’s Kapiti Wellington Office will shortly resume pest control in Rangituhi/Colonial Knob Scenic Reserve (130 ha)

Possum and rat control using pesticide on Rangituhi reserve is about to resume. This is part of an on-going operation that has been active since 1996. In late September/October 2026, cereal pellets containing cholecalciferol (8 g/kg) will be placed inside bait stations. The bait stations are nailed to trees. All pesticide remaining in stations at the end of the operation will be removed.

The operation targets possums and rats and will be done every year from 2026 to 2030. This is part of ongoing animal pest control that begun in 1996 to improve the health of the forest across this site.

Each spring, DOC will notify adjoining landowners and other key parties, and put up warning signs immediately prior to applying the pesticide.

Warning signs will remain in place after the operation to indicate that pesticide residues may still be present in baits or animals. When signs are removed, this means normal activities can be resumed at the site.

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