Rat control operation 2025
Rotoehu Ecological Trust, with the approval of the Department of Conservation, will undertake rat control in Rotoehu Forest and Rotoehu Forest West Public Conservation Land between August and October 2025.
Why We’re Controlling Rats
Rats are one of the biggest threats to the North Island kōkako and other native species in Rotoehu Forest. This rat control operation is part of a wider programme to protect and restore one of Aotearoa’s most important kōkako habitats.
By reducing rat numbers, we give kōkako and other forest birds a better chance to breed and thrive. Lower predator numbers also help reconnect smaller kōkako groups within the forest, creating a larger, healthier population across a wider area.
Thanks to ongoing pest control efforts, the kōkako population in the area managed by the Rotoehu Ecological Trust has grown from 286 birds in 2019 to 479 in 2023—a 67% increase.
How We’re Doing It
We’re using RatAbate, a diphacinone-based toxin, placed in Philproof bait stations. This method is proven to be safe, targeted, and effective for controlling rats while minimising risks to non-target species.
Timeframe
RatAbate will be placed in Philproof bait stations across the treatment area during August 2025. Any uneaten bait will be removed by November 2025. These dates may shift due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances.
Warning signs will be installed immediately before the operation begins and will remain in place until the caution period ends, likely around January–February 2026. A map of the treatment area is provided below.
Important Information
Using bait stations and bait bags helps ensure the pesticide is available to pest species while limiting access to native wildlife and other non-target animals. However, there is still a risk of poisoning to humans and animals—particularly dogs. Dogs can be poisoned by directly consuming bait or by eating the carcasses of poisoned pests. These carcasses may remain toxic for up to four months or longer.
To keep everyone safe, please follow these rules:
❌ DO NOT touch or handle bait
🚸 DO NOT allow children to wander unsupervised in the area
🐶 DO NOT bring dogs into the treatment area
🐟 DO NOT take or consume animals from the forest
Warning signs mean pesticide may still be present in bait or animal carcasses. Only resume normal activities once signs are removed. If unsure, check with the Department of Conservation (DOC).
If You Suspect Poisoning
📞 Contact immediately:
Your doctor or local hospital
The National Poison Centre: 0800 POISON (0800 764 766) or (03) 479 7248
For emergencies: Dial 111
More Information
To find up-to-date details about where pesticides have been applied on land managed by DOC, visit the Pesticide Summaries Interactive Map:
🔗 https://www.doc.govt.nz/nature/pests-and-threats/pesticide-summaries/map
Proposed Pesticide Treatment Area
