Current pest control operations

Dunedin City Council Ungulate Control Programme

04 September – 19 December 2026

The Dunedin City Council has contracted Rentokil Rural and Environmental Services (High Country Contracting) to undertake intensive ungulate control operations across the following DCC Reserves:

• Silverstream
• Swampy Sumit
• Mount Cargill
• Chingford’s Bush
• Mihiwaka

The programme aims to protect native forests and preserve the health of these ecosystems, which are home to an increasing diversity of native flora and fauna and are of high recreational use value. Goats, pigs, deer, and wild cattle will be targeted during this programme.

The following control methods will be used:

• Hunters – firearms and hunting dogs
• Thermal and drone technology
• Pig traps/nets
• No toxins will be used during the programme.

All operations will take place during weekdays, both during the day and night.

Public Access

All listed reserves and tracks shall remain open to the public throughout the programme; however, caution is advised during hunting operations.

Signage will be mounted at all main entrances prior to commencement of operations for each of the sites, including the date range of operations.

Shooting in Progress signs and road cones will be clearly visible at each of the sites when an operation is taking place.

Operational Schedule

For any queries, please contact 027 237 4425 or the Dunedin City Council on 021 238 8554 or email pests@dcc.govt.nz

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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