Category: Department of Conservation

Source: Department of Conservation

Date:  08 April 2024

Bookings for the 2024-25 season are staggered to give people making multiple bookings a better chance of securing their preferred dates. The season runs from 1 July 2024 to 30 June 2025.

Bookings open at 9.30 am on the dates below:

• South Island campsites: 9 April 2024
• North Island campsites: 11 April 2024
• Huts: 16 April 2024
• Tōtaranui Campground:17 April 2024
• Sole occupancy lodges, cabins and cottages:18 April 2024
• Momorangi Bay Campground: 23 April 2024

*Bookings for Great Walks will open from May, with specific dates to be announced later this month.

As part of its annual pricing review, DOC has adjusted the pricing of 21 high-demand huts, campsites, and cottages to contribute to the increasing costs.

“Not all facilities are subject to increase, just 21 out of nearly 1,300 campsites, huts, and cottages,” says Director of Heritage and Visitors, Cat Wilson.

“Increases will take effect for these (21) sites from 1 July 2024, and they range from a $5 – $15 increase for the most popular huts such as Hooker and Mueller huts in the Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park.

“More people using DOC’s most popular huts means higher upkeep and maintenance costs.

“New Zealand has a huge variety of facilities with price points for all budgets, including many that are free for everyone to enjoy. We recommend booking huts, campsites, and cottages early to secure popular dates and times.”

For information on DOC’s recent pricing changes see: Accommodation price changes 2024/25

To book DOC huts, campsites and cottages visit: Bookings

For a full list of the hut, campsite and cottage and lodge prices see:

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Source: Department of Conservation

Date:  28 March 2024

Water dragons are a native Australian semi-aquatic lizard and are considered a threat to New Zealand wildlife. Young water dragons are fully insectivorous, supplementing their diets with plants as they grow, and pose a significant threat to local biodiversity.

Kelly Hancock, DOC Manawatu Operations District Supervisor, says while the exotic lizard has been humanely euthanised, DOC rangers don’t want to add dragon slaying to their job descriptions.

“Letting a pet go in your local reserve might seem like the humane option, but many pets aren’t equipped to survive in the wild or can cause damage to the ecosystem if they do,” says Kelly.

“New Zealand weather is too cold for most species of lizards, so they will likely die during winter if outdoors, but if they do manage to survive, they may spread diseases and prey on native plants and animals.”

“We think this one may have been at large in the reserve for a while, so removing it is a big win. The native wildlife will be safer now the invasive dragon has been caught.”

New Zealand’s ecosystems are not equipped to handle invasive species like water dragons or other exotic pets. Lizards, turtles, and even goldfish can wreak havoc on our ecosystems if released into the wild.

Kelly’s advice for lizard owners who are no longer able to care for their pets is to find them a new home.

“Don’t ever release exotic lizards anywhere,” says Kelly. “They may prey on endangered species, compete with them for food, or transmit diseases that could wreak havoc on our native lizards, which have no immunity.”

“Animal welfare organisations like your local SPCA can give advice on how to surrender unwanted pets. This is kinder, not just for the pet, but for our taonga native species as well.”

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Source: Department of Conservation

Date:  28 March 2024

DOC Coastal Otago Biodiversity Ranger Jim Fyfe says 29 pups have been tagged to date.

“We’re thrilled with this result, which is a big jump from the 21 pups tagged last season.”

Jim Fyfe says it’s fantastic to think how far the species has come since the first sea lion to breed on the mainland, known as Mum, had her first pup here in 1993.

“It feels like Dunedin’s sea lion population has turned a corner, with a widespread presence across local beaches, and these numbers are a great reflection of the increased presence we’re seeing.”

“Interestingly, we never found the birthplace for at least a dozen pups; for all the ones born in very public places, there were many others that managed to remain hidden away. This is amazing, given how populated our coastal areas are, and there was some effort made to search more isolated areas.”

Jim Fyfe says the pups are now getting more active and venturing out from their birthing sites. Although they are “creching” (or congregating so they can interact to learn through play) they are still mobile and may appear in unexpected places in coastal areas. Pups are reliant on their mothers for about 11 months.

“People are asked to keep an eye out for sea lions, especially when driving on coastal roads – please slow down, it could save a sea lion’s life.”

“If you do see one – whether in the car or on foot – make sure to give it plenty of space.”

If you see one on the road, please report it to DOC by calling the DOC emergency hotline

• 0800 DOC HOT (0800 362 468).

Jim Fyfe says another two pups are known to have died of natural causes – one was stillborn and the other was accidentally crushed by a large male sea lion.

Tūmai Cassidy from Te Rūnanga o Ōtākou says both whakahao (male sea lions) and kake (female sea lions) are highly valued taoka for the people of Ōtākou and Ngāi Tahu.

“A source of mahika kai, oil and clothing, the sea lion has always been a part of our traditions, whakapapa and culture.”

“Ōtākou hapū members have been involved in the monitoring and management of the growing population since the species first made its return to our takiwā in 1993. Our whānau continue to contribute to the ongoing conservation of our taoka today alongside our treaty partners, including this year’s pup tagging efforts.”

“The fact that our coastlines have enough life to support the growth of their population is a good sign for us. Sea lions are a key part of our ocean and coastal ecosystems and play a vital role in restoring the abundance that formerly existed in our rohe. We hope their population continues to increase for many generations to come.”

New Zealand Sea Lion Trust’s Mike Neill says the trust is thrilled numbers are increasing around the Otago coastline.

“We remind members of the public to continue to respect these wonderful animals by maintaining a 20m distance when enjoying their company.”

Background information

The New Zealand sea lion is one of the rarest sea lion species in the world, with a threat status of Nationally Vulnerable.

They have a total population of about 12,000 but the vast majority live in the Subantarctic Islands, with only a small number found in Rakiura/Stewart Island, Southland and Dunedin. There are thought to be 34 breeding females in Dunedin, with about 160-200 sea lions in the region in total (the number fluctuates as the males move around).

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Source: Department of Conservation

Date:  27 March 2024

The quad bike got as far as the top of the first set of steps, scuffing the sides of the walking track and leaving tyre marks in its wake.

DOC Buller Acting Operations Manager Chris Hickford says the biker’s actions show a total lack of respect for the Cave Creek Memorial.

It’s the latest in a series of incidents up Bullock Creek Road, which leads to the memorial site, he says.

“The locked swing arm which prevents access to the old bridge up there was pulled out on one occasion. The lock on that gate has also been destroyed several times, and the gate to the start of the Memorial Track has been smashed multiple times.

“It’s hugely disappointing to see such inconsiderate and anti-social behaviour and the impact it has on other visitors and the natural environment.

“Repairing this damage takes our staff away from critical conservation work. It’s incredibly frustrating for them to see their effort and commitment deliberately wrecked by others.”

The quad biker in the photo gained access to the pedestrian only track leading to Cave Creek Memorial Track/Kotihotiho by forcing his machine through a pedestrian entrance on 17 March 2024.

If the public has any information about who this person might be, or other information about any damage done at any time, they are urged to provide information to DOC. This will be kept strictly anonymous, Chris Hickford says.

“We are grateful to those people who are vigilant about protecting our natural spaces and encourage anyone seeing behaviour like this to report it via their local visitor centre, or on the DOC Hotline 0800 DOC HOT (0800 362 468).”

Driving a vehicle in any part of Paparoa National Park that is not a formed road is not permitted.

Anyone convicted of an offence against 39(1)(e) of the Conservation Act 1987: knowingly and without authority “interferes with or damages in any way historic or natural features of or on any conservation area” is subject to: in the case of an individual, imprisonment for a term not exceeding two years or a fine not exceeding $100,000, or both.

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Source: Department of Conservation

Date:  26 March 2024

The pest-free open sanctuary has been the subject of a month-long incursion response after a rat was found dead in a trap in February.

DOC Rakiura Operations Manager Jennifer Ross says that after more than four weeks of increased surveillance, intensive trap checks and comprehensive monitoring work across the island, there have been no further rodent detections.

“This means we’re winding down our incursion response and returning to normal surveillance measures. Normal surveillance doesn’t mean we’re taking our foot off the pedal; far from it. Having an intensive network in place round the clock means when we do get a detection – like we did in February – we can act quickly and scale up.”

Ulva Island is one of the few pest-free open sanctuaries in New Zealand. It is home to vulnerable native species like tieke/South Island saddleback, mohua/yellowhead, titipounamu/rifleman, and South Island kākā.

Since 20 February DOC staff have checked over 225,000 trail camera images, walked more than 110 km of trap lines, travelled more than 180 km by dinghy, and completed over 2,750 trap checks. Two rodent detection dogs also scoured the island multiple times. 

“Given how close Ulva is to mainland Rakiura – just 780 m at its closest point, and how many people visit it, incursions are frequent, averaging between 1 and 2 incursion events each year,” says Jennifer.

“Catching rats in traps is a key way we detect and remove invaders and protect the island from rat populations becoming established.”

The island was first declared pest free in 1997. In winter 2023 a breeding population of rats established on the island sparking an intensive re-eradication programme. In the months since the eradication took place, monitoring – including trap checks, motion sensitive camera surveillance, and the use of rodent detection dogs – had not shown any sign of rats remaining on the island, until one was found in February.

As part of last year’s re-eradication response, the island’s biosecurity system was upgraded with more trail cameras, more frequent trap checks and a rearranged grid increasing detection control devices in the coastal area where rodents usually arrive.

However, Jennifer says keeping Ulva Island pest free will continue to be a challenge as long as there are pests on mainland Rakiura.

“That’s why initiatives such as Predator Free Rakiura are so important, and everyone has their part to play.

“We’d like to extend our thanks to everyone for doing their part and continuing to be extra vigilant when visiting Ulva Island. Special mention to the Ulva Island Charitable Trust who have offered to donate $5,000 to the response.”

If you see anything suspicious on Ulva Island – please take photos, record the location accurately and report it to the DOC Rakiura Office.

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Source: Department of Conservation

Date:  24 March 2024

In New Zealand, marine mammals including Hector’s dolphins/upokohue are protected species under the Marine Mammals Protection Act and Marine Mammals Protection Regulations. This legislation directs how vessels must behave around marine mammals and says it is illegal to harass or disturb them. All vessels and people involved in the SailGP event, including any support boats or spectators, must abide by this legislation. It is a legal requirement. People controlling vessels who encounter a dolphin or other marine mammal must travel no faster than idle/no wake speed if within 300m of a dolphin, and do not herd, harass or obstruct marine mammals or cut through groups.

DOC does not have a role in permitting or allowing the race to go ahead. DOC’s role is to advocate for marine mammals and to carry out compliance functions if any incidents involving protected wildlife were to occur which may have broken the law.

SailGP has chosen to hold its event in a marine mammal sanctuary that was established for the protection of Hector’s dolphins. This decision to hold the event there was made in the full knowledge that protection of the dolphins from the impact of boats will be paramount.

In the lead-up, DOC provided feedback and advice on the race organisers’ marine mammal management plan, working closely with Te Hapū o Ngāti Wheke, Rāpaki. Our feedback focused on technical advice ensuring the plan reflected the Marine Mammals Protection Act and Regulations and advocating for the safety of marine mammals.

The marine mammal management plan was developed by and belongs to the race organisers. DOC does not have a role in implementing it. We have staff at the event, including a vessel on the water, who are prepared to respond if an incident involving a marine mammal was to occur.

Hector’s dolphins/upokohue have a conservation status of “Threatened – Nationally Vulnerable”, which means they have been assessed as facing a high risk of extinction in the medium term. They are unique to New Zealand and are one of the world’s smallest and rarest marine dolphins.

At this time of year, mothers and calves are present in the harbour and calves have been seen on the course this weekend. Newborn calves and young animals are vulnerable to boat strike as they are less aware of risk, spend more time on the surface and dive more slowly than mature dolphins. 

We recognise the importance of events to the region and acknowledge yesterday’s cancellation would have been disappointing for spectators and racers.

The above can be attributed to Henry Weston, DOC Deputy Director-General Operations.

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Source: Department of Conservation

Date:  21 March 2024

DOC used replica eggs as a management tool during high-risk periods such as storms and high tides, allowing the birds to continue incubating while their real eggs were temporarily held in incubators or moved to safety at Auckland Zoo.

Initially, DOC used hand-painted wooden eggs, followed by real eggs with hollow interiors filled with wax. However, these methods presented challenges as the eggs became fragile over time.

In 2023, with funding from the Endangered Species Foundation (ESF) Tāngaro Tuia te Ora, DOC commissioned Shaun Lee to produce 3D replica eggs, which were then hand painted by artist and marine biologist, Carina Sim-Smith. 

Real egg (left) and 3D printed dummy egg (right) used in tara iti nest protection. Image: DOC | DOC

The replica eggs have undergone meticulous design considerations including shape, weight, UV resistance, size, colour, and texture. The success of the replica eggs has been pivotal in protecting tara iti nests, ensuring the birds continue their incubation without disruption.

The resulting eggs are so close to the real thing tara iti parents are completely oblivious when they were swapped out.

“DOC is really lucky to have the support of ESF to produce these 3D eggs which are a crucial management tool used to save tara iti. They allow us to improve productivity and save nests without losing real eggs in the process,” says Ayla Wiles, DOC Biodiversity Ranger, Whangarei.

Natalie Jessup, General Manager of ESF,  says: “It’s been so heartening this year to see the progress DOC, volunteers, community groups and Auckland Zoo have made to boost numbers of the tara iti.

“We were happy to see the replacement eggs were successful at holding nesting sites during risky periods when the real eggs were safely cared for at Auckland Zoo – they were so realistic parent birds had no idea they were not sitting on the real thing.”

This success is part of a broader initiative to conserve tara iti populations, which has seen a record-breaking breeding season with 22 eggs laid and 14 chicks successfully hatched.

A dedicated team of tara iti DOC rangers and volunteers works year-round to trap predators, create safe nesting environments, and prevent disturbance near nesting sites.

The tara iti, once widespread, now breeds at only five main nesting sites from Auckland North: Papakānui Spit, Pākiri Beach, Waipū and Mangawhai sandspits, and Te Ārai Stream mouth. DOC collaborates closely with various partners, including Patuharakeke, Ngāti Wai, Ngāti Whātua o Kaipara, Ngāti Manuhiri Settlement Trust, Auckland Zoo, the Shorebirds Trust, the NZ Fairy Tern Charitable Trust, About Tern, Birds NZ, Tara Iti Golf Club, and the Waipū Trapping Group.

Generous support for the tara iti season has been provided by the Shorebirds Trust, Endangered Species Foundation, Pākiri Beach Holiday Park, Tara Iti Golf Club, Auckland Council, Manāki Whitebait, Tongariro National Trout Centre, and New Zealand King Salmon.

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Source: Department of Conservation

Date:  21 March 2024

Vito and his handler, DOC Senior Ranger Adeline Bosman, were inspecting the mainland site and its surrounding area in case the highly aggressive ants were present as they are a serious risk to native species, which have no defence against them.

Adeline says this is a good news bad news situation.

“The bad news is the ants are present,” says Adeline, “and that they exist in New Zealand at all. The good news is we found this lot before they made it onto a pest-free island, and can handle accordingly.”

First detected in Auckland in the 1990s, Argentine ants are especially difficult to deal with due to their unusual behaviours compared to other ant species. They are highly aggressive, swarming over and biting perceived threats or obstacles, and possess multiple queens per colony. When they detect they are being poisoned, they cease foraging in that area and move away to continue the colony elsewhere.

“Certified conservation dogs are the only active tool we have, alongside passive tools like cameras and traps,” says Adeline. “If it wasn’t for dogs like Vito, we’d be at a much higher risk of these ants spreading even further afield.

“These dogs help prevent disasters before they happen.”

DOC will treat the site and its environs and eradicate the local population of ants before the materials are shipped to Matiu/Somes Island to construct the new wharf, intended to be in service by summer 2024.

Adeline and Vito continued their work in Wellington last week, inspecting sites on Matiu/Somes Island, Mana Island, and Kapiti Island. No incursions of Argentine ants were found on any of these pest-free islands.

“If you’re visiting pest-free islands, please comply with biosecurity regulations and check your clothes and packs,” says Adeline. “We don’t all have Vito’s nose!”

Vito is certified under DOC’s Conservation Dogs Programme. Air New Zealand is the national partner for the Programme, and their investment helps DOC run a world-class programme offering mentoring, training, and certification to dog handler-teams around New Zealand.

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Source: Department of Conservation

Date:  21 March 2024

The disappointing incident is a reminder for drivers to check and follow the rules before taking vehicles on to conservation land.

Department of Conservation Warranted Officer Lorna Luciani says DOC wants to speak to the group who were seen driving eight quad bikes on the Bealey Spur Track last Saturday (16 March), which is partly in Arthur’s Pass National Park.

The track is popular for both day and overnight walkers. It climbs through native beech forest and crosses pristine sub-alpine terraces with excellent panoramic views over the upper Waimakariri River before ending at the historic musterer’s hut built in 1925.

Vehicles, including quad bikes and mountain bikes, are not permitted on this track.

Lorna says it’s hugely disappointing to see this inconsiderate and anti-social behaviour, impacting both other visitors and the natural environment.

It is estimated the resulting damage to the track and natural surroundings will cost approximately $5,600 to repair.

“Repairing this damage takes our staff away from other critical conservation work, and it’s pretty frustrating for them to see their previous effort and commitment on the job trashed by careless people.

“A DOC ranger visited the scene this week, and said the riders had clearly left the formed walking track in several locations causing considerable damage to native vegetation and a fragile wetland area.

“Many live tree roots on and next to the track were broken or had a ring of bark removed, and ‘corduroy’ logs used to protect boggy areas from foot traffic have been uprooted.

“At one point the quad bikers travelled off the track through known great spotted kiwi/roroa territory.”

Lorna says the tramping track is now littered with tens of thousands of loose rocks dislodged from the track surface, creating numerous trip hazards for other users. Several boardwalks were also damaged.

“We are just relieved they did not also try to get through the large wetland and kettle lake area below Bealey Spur Hut.”

Lorna thanked members of the public for informing DOC of this incident, and especially for cleaning up the litter left behind.

“We’re asking those who were riding the quad bikes, and other hikers who saw them, to come forward and talk to us, please contact arthurspassvc@doc.govt.nz,” Lorna says.

If the public has any information about this incident they are urged to provide any information to DOC – and it will be kept strictly anonymous.

“We are grateful to those people who are vigilant about protecting our natural spaces and encourage anyone seeing behaviour like this to report it via their local visitor centre, or on the DOC Hotline 0800 DOC HOT (0800 362 468).”

Driving a vehicle in any part of the National Park that is not a formed road or campsite is an offence under the Arthur’s Pass National Park bylaws and carries the penalty of an infringement fee of $400 and a maximum fine of $800.

Anyone convicted of an offence against 39(1)(e) of the Conservation Act 1987: knowingly and without authority “interferes with or damages in any way historic or natural features of or on any conservation area” is subject to: in the case of an individual, imprisonment for a term not exceeding two years or a fine not exceeding $100,000, or both.

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