Our regional parks have specific information on dog control.
There may be further precautions that you need to take if there is a pest control operation happening in the area, or if there is a toxic algae bloom in a waterway that runs through the park.
To prepare for your visit, you should always:
- Check the regional park page for notices
- Check for signage at the entrance
Signage in parks changes regularly. Even if you are a frequent visitor, keeping an eye out for new notices is important for keeping your dog safe.
Aerial possum control project – East Harbour Regional Park – central area, Northern Forest
Posted 27/5/22
Toxic baits and possum carcasses pose a threat, particularly to children and dogs. Children should be kept under strict supervision in the treatment area.
Danger to dogs
Possum carcasses can kill your dog. Please be mindful that the carcasses may come downstream from the control area onto beaches, particularly after heavy rain. Keep your dogs out of the control area until the warning signs have been officially removed. See map for detail about the treatment area. We also strongly recommend keeping dogs out of the rest of the park. By doing so, you will be putting your dog at risk. Dogs must be on leads at all times in the park, and muzzles are also highly recommended while warnings are in place. We have a limited supply of free muzzles to give away - please contact eastharbour.ranger@gw.govt.nz or call Jo Greenman on 027 467 3076.
If you suspect that your dog has been poisoned, take it to the vet immediately.
OSPRI is planning an aerial operation to target possums during May or June of 2022, but will be weather dependant. This operation will help reduce the possum population to prevent the spread of bovine tuberculosis (TB). This will have additional conservation benefits for native birds and bush. Possums eat the forest canopy and prey on native birdlife, including eggs and chicks.
Aerial control is also effective at controlling other introduced predators such as ship rats and stoats. Deer were not specifically targeted by this operation. They are not a protected species, and as a result Greater Wellington did not require OSPRI to use a deer repellent in baits used. This decision was made with support from the local community and conservation groups, in line with the objectives of protecting this designated Key Native Ecosystem. Prior to the operation private hunters had been given the opportunity to hunt deer within East Harbour Forest.
Warning signs will be placed at all main access points to the operational area and everyone must follow the cautions on the signs. There is not a health risk when using this area as long as you follow the instructions.
- Do not handle any bait or allow children to wander unsupervised. The baits are dyed green.
- Do not hunt or take game from within a two kilometre radius of the operational area for human or pet consumption until the warning signs have been officially removed.
- Do not bring dogs into the treatment area until the warning signs have been officially removed.
For further information please contact OSPRI directly on 0800 482 463, or go to their website.
Download a map of the operational area
(PDF 388 KB)
Download a fact sheet about this control operation
(PDF 1.1 MB)
