Biosecurity

Contents

Keep kauri standing – Kia toitū he kauri

New Zealand's Kauri trees are under threat of extinction. We have no treatment or control tools yet. So the only way we can save our kauri forests is to contain the disease in its current locations and stop the spread into healthy areas.

What is Kauri Dieback Disease? 

Kauri dieback is a disease that has the ability to kill kauri trees of all ages. Nearly all infected trees die. It can infect single trees or cause dieback of entire stands. There is no known cure, although researchers are currently working on treatments.

Saving our kauri forests

  • You should always:
  • Use a wash station as instructed if available
  • Clean your gear. Remove soil before and after forest visits. Clean your shoes, tyres and equipment.
  • Stay on the track, and off kauri roots.

How can you help further?

If you think you have seen a sick kauri tree you should report it.

Recognising kauri dieback symptoms

This is an example of a "bleeding tree" 

Pesticide and Pest Control

Possums are a pest in New Zealand. You might see pesticide or possum control traps all across the country. On Public Conservation Land there will signs at all public entrances if a pest operation is underway in the adjoining forest block. The Department of Conservation lists its pesticide operations.

Department of Conservation Pesticide Summary

New Zealand's freshwater

As you walk the Trail, protect our rivers, lakes, and streams

New Zealand has many pristine rivers and lakes. Unfortunately, some of them are under threat from invasive weeds and algae. Freshwater pests can spread as single cells or tiny fragments from one river or lake. They can travel on moving water, equipment, clothing and any other damp item.

Once in a waterway, weeds and algae can rapidly destroy the waterway's environmental, recreational and aesthetic value. People are the main cause of spread.  Please check, clean, and dry your boots and anything else that gets wet when moving between waterways. This will prevent algae spreading.

  • Check- and remove all plant matter from your gear
  • Clean - spray or soak with 5% detergent and water
  • Dry - completely dry for 48 hours before entering the next waterway

Leave No Trace

Part of the appeal of walking Te Araroa is getting face-to-face with the New Zealand landscape. It is famous the world over for being "100% Pure New Zealand".

To ensure this beauty remains for generations, we ask everyone to leave no trace.

Leave no trace - Toitū te whenua

  1. Plan ahead and prepare
  2. travel and camp on durable surfaces
  3. dispose of waste properly
  4. leave what you find
  5. minimise the effects of fire
  6. respect wildlife and farm animals
  7. be considerate of others
Page last updated: Sep 17, 2020, 10:59 AM