Current pest control operations

Smaills Beach Reserve Rabbit Control Operation – Pindone

22 June – 6 July 2026

Dunedin City Council (DCC) contractors are undertaking a rabbit control operation to protect native biodiversity across the Smaills Beach Reserve.

The control method used is ground-based pindone carrots.

Warning signs have been placed across the area with detailed information about the toxin. All toxin will be deployed off main walking tracks and removed after the operation. Please keep dogs on lead across the area and if you suspect poisoning, please seek immediate veterinary assistance.

Pindone laced carrots

Should you require further information please contact the DCC on 03 477 4000.

Dunedin Golf Club - Chisholm Links and Anderson Bay Cemetery Rabbit Control Operation – Pindone Pens

15 June - 6 July 2026

Dunedin City Council (DCC) contractors will be undertaking rabbit control at the Dunedin Golf Club - Chisholm Links, and the Anderson Bay Cemetery to help protect the grounds from rabbit damage.

This follows the successful pindone cage trial across the area in Winter 2025.

The control method used is BAIT PENS - pindone carrots will be deployed within cages to keep non-target animals out.

Warning signs will placed at all main public entrances and on or around the pens with detailed information about the toxin.
All toxin will be deployed within the pens and removed after the operation. Contractors will visit the sites regularly to remove any carcasses.

Please do not touch the toxin. Please keep dogs on leash at all times. If you suspect your dog has consumed a poisoned rabbit or bait pellet, please contact your vet immediately. For more information about pindone, please click here.

Pen locations

Pindone laced carrots

Should you require further information please contact the DCC on 03 477 4000.

Signal Hill rodent control programme

April 2026 - June 2028

Dunedin City Council (DCC) contractors are undertaking an intensive rodent control operation at Signal Hill Reserve.

The two introduced European rat species in New Zealand (Ship and Norway) pose a major threat to our native flora and fauna due to their rapid breeding rates, destructive foraging behaviours and appetites.

Rodent bait stations containing Double Tap are situated off all main public walking tracks within the reserve. Bait is secured within the locked stations preventing spillage.

Double Tap is a unique, cost-effective and fast-acting toxic bait that is highly palatable for rats. It is a combination of Diphacinone, and Cholecalciferol (vitamin D3).

Please do not touch the bait stations.

Warning signs are placed at all reserve entry points.

Risks to dogs

Whilst the risk to dogs is low, please ensure you:

• Keep them on a lead around bait stations
• Do not allow them to scavenge dead animals or baits
• Stick to main walking tracks

If you suspect your dog has consumed bait, seek urgent veterinary advice.

Environmental effects

Double Tap residues are unlikely to be found in water as bait is placed inside bait stations and clear from streams and waterways. Cholecalciferol does not persist in the environment at all, while Diphacinone is a ‘low residue’ compound.

Should you require further information please contact the DCC on 03 477 4000.

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