The Hauraki Gulf is a
nationally-significant marine park.
Pest animals and plants can invade our islands by stowing away on or in your footwear, gear or boat. Rats can squeeze through a 12 mm gap and mice can squeeze through a 7 mm gap. Insects could hide in your bag, and weeds, seeds and soil could cling to your clothing and shoes.
Pests threaten New Zealand’s native wildlife.
- Rats eat birds, eggs, reptiles and insects.
- Mice prey on insects and eat small birds and reptiles.
- Argentine ants can reach large numbers and have a big appetite killing our native insects, skinks, geckos and baby birds.
- Plague skinks compete with native lizards and other animals for food and habitat and have displaced our native skinks on the mainland.
- Soil can carry plant diseases such as kauri dieback.
- Weed seeds can become a weed forest and smother native plants.
Prepare for your trip by being alert for these threats. Please:
- Make sure all food is packed and sealed in plastic containers with lid. Ensure cardboard boxes are closed and taped – there must be no opportunity for an unwanted pest to access the container/box in transit.
- Ensure all footwear and gear is clean and free of soil.
- Thoroughly check any camping or overnight gear for stowaways. Gear that has been stored away is high risk.
- Thoroughly check seedlings, potting mix or plant matter to ensure there are no hitch-hikers.
- Seal up your gear/food as soon as you have finished packing and leave it closed until you reach your destination.
For more information: Visiting the Hauraki Gulf islands (Auckland Council)
Biosecurity Checks May Be Required
Before transporting high-risk goods, equipment, or vehicles to any Hauraki Gulf / Tīkapa Moana Island, a biosecurity inspection may be required under the Controlled Area Notice – Hauraki Gulf.
If a pest or sign of pest activity is detected, the item cannot be transported until it has been treated, cleaned, or approved by an authorized biosecurity officer.
There is no charge for a biosecurity check. Book by emailing biosecurity@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz — please allow 10 days’ notice.
For more information: Transporting items to the Hauraki Gulf islands (Auckland Council)
Note: Any costs for pest removal, treatment, transport, or other associated costs are the responsibility of the property owner of the affected goods.
PEST-FREE CERTIFIED, RELIABLE AND PROFESSIONAL, WITH EXCELLENT COMMUNICATION.
IF YOU NEED MARINE BASED SERVICES IN THE HAURAKI GULF, GET IN TOUCH.
Working in a controlled or pest-free area? Talk to us.
We meet strict biosecurity standards and keep things moving.
CALL 021 280 8718
OR EMAIL TIM@MARINEPRO.CO.NZ