Aerial 1080 drop begins across Makarora backcountry

Helicopters are back in the skies over the Makarora Valley as a major predator control programme gets off the ground.

The Department of Conservation has begun spreading 1080 bait pellets across tens of thousands of hectares of remote backcountry. The treatment zone stretches through the Wilkin, Young, Siberia and Cameron valleys, covering steep forested terrain known for periodic rodent explosions after heavy beech seeding.

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The operation has started early amid forecasts of rising rat numbers, which typically trigger a spike in stoats and place added pressure on native bird populations.

Several popular visitor sites have been temporarily shut while the bait is laid. Access to the Blue Pools Track and surrounding facilities is restricted during the operation. Tracks and camp areas within the drop boundary are subject to warnings until monitoring confirms it is safe.

Warning signs are now up at all access points. Dog owners are being told to keep their animals well away from treated areas.

Carcasses and bait fragments may remain on the ground in the days following the drop.

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The aerial work is dependent on suitable flying conditions and could continue into next week if weather interrupts scheduled runs.

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