Full text of flier
Please help our treasure islands
Animal pests can injure or kill our native wildlife and compete for their food, while invasive weeds can alter the habitat they need for survival.
Treasure Islands flier
The most likely way pest animals and plants can invade our treasured islands is by stowing away on or in your footwear or gear, or on your vessel or kayak. It’s easy to pick one up.
- Rats can squeeze through a 12mm gap
- Mice can squeeze through a 7mm gap
- Insects and mice could hide in your bag
- Weeds, seeds and soil cling to clothing and shoes
What can I do to help?
Stop, Check and Go!
- Remember to check your gear and vessel before you set out, every time
- Pay special attention to clothes and footwear — make sure they’re thoroughly clean
- Once checked:
- keep your bags tightly closed
- keep food supplies in sealed containers
- Leave only footprints, take only photos
- Become a Treasure Island volunteer. E-mail wellingtonvc@doc.govt.nz
What to do if you find a pest
On the mainland before leaving
- Get rid of the pest and clean your gear again
On your own boat or in your kayak
A rat preys on a fantail nest
- Make sure the pest has been destroyed before you land
- Don’t throw rats/mice overboard as they can swim
- Return to the mainland to deal with the pest if you need to
On a commercial boat
- Tell the crew what you have found and where it is