06/10/2025
This post is to notify you that EcoFX, on behalf of the Bay of Plenty Regional Council (BOPRC) and the Waikato Regional Council (WRC), are undertaking the toxic component of the Matahina Forest aerial wallaby control operation on Wednesday 8th October 2025 and if needed Thursday 9th October 2025, weather permitting (refer to map of operation area in the factsheet attached).
Helicopters will be sowing toxic cut carrot bait, along predetermined flight paths, controlled by GPS.
This operation is part of the Tipu Mātoro Wallaby-free Aotearoa programme and is in response to rising wallaby numbers in the area. Wallaby pose a significant threat to native biodiversity, forestry and farming. This operation aims to reduce the risk of wallaby crossing the Rangitāiki River and establishing in the Ikawhenua Range.
Pesticide to be used: Sodium Fluoroacetate (1080).
The toxic cut carrot bait has been dyed green in colour.
Warning signs will be put in place. A reminder to please check for signage if you are in the area. And;
· DO NOT TOUCH poison 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 possums.
· Poison bait or carcasses are DEADLY to DOGS
Observe these rules whenever you see warning signs about pesticides. The presence of warning signs indicates pesticide residues may be present in baits or animals. Risks will exist until signage is taken down. Poisoning can occur through eating baits or poisoned animals, and dogs are particularly susceptible to 1080 until poisoned carcasses have disintegrated. This takes approximately four to eight months, but can be longer, and depends on monitoring results.
When signs are removed, this means you can resume normal activities in the area. Please report suspected vandalism or unauthorised removal of signs.
If you would like any further information about the planned operation, please contact Ian Cutler on 021 134 2674, or [email protected]
You can find further information about 1080, including the safety data sheet on our website: http://www.ecofx.co.nz/current-aerial-operations/