Regional Services wishes to advise that a ground based possum control operation will be taking place to keep possum numbers under control to prevent spread of TB. This operation will be conducted as a part of the TBfree New Zealand programme.

Areas covered: The boundary runs from Phosphate Road north of Milburn, west along Cullen Road through Circle Hill Rd / Russell Road intersection down along the East Branch of the Tokomariro River. Continues southwest along Table Hill Road-Perry Road towards Mount Stewart crossing Manuka Gorge Highway onto Fella Burn Road. From this point it goes south along Adams Flat Rd, Cross Rd, Station Rd to the southern end of the operational boundary at Robson Rd/Lake Tuakitoto. The boundary continues east towards Poverty Hill then changes direction north along forestry boundary adjacent Elliotvale Rd. From Elliotvale Rd/Toko Mouth Rd intersection north around Tokoiti onto Back Rd/Forsyth Rd, and finishing along the Waihola Highway back at Phosphate Road.

Operation date: 13th October 2014 to 31st March 2015

Poisoning methods, poison used and nature of poison: Possum habitats will be targeted using

• Feratox (potassium cyanide). Baits are dyed green and will be in blue biodegradable bags or bait stations.
• Sodium Fluroacetate (1080). Pellets are dyed green and will be applied directly onto the ground and/or in bait stations
• Brodificoum (Pestoff). Pellets are dyed blue and will be in bait stations
  
  

The public is warned not to enter these areas and not to remove carcasses or baits. Baits are dangerous to people and dogs.

General warning

• Do not touch poison baits/bait stations/traps
• Do not touch poisoned possum carcasses
• Keep pets under supervision; do not let dogs eat poisoned carcasses
• Do not leave children unattended
• Follow the advice on the poison warning signs.
  
  

If you suspect poisoning

• Contact your local hospital, or dial 111
• National Poisons Centre 0800 POISON – 0800 764766
• In the case of a domestic animal being poisoned, contact a local veterinarian
  
  

For further information (including maps of the operational area), contact the operator

Bryce Smith, Regional Services, 027 2789120