Rabbit control for Wharewaka reserves

10 July 2015

Rabbits overtaking Secombe Park and surrounds will be dealt with through a rabbit control programme later this month.

Taupo District Council has contracted Epro to address the problem. Bait will be laid from July 22 and the work will conclude in mid-August. The exact date of the bait laying will be determined by the weather, as rain can break it down and render it ineffective.

Areas covered will include the from the Secombe Park ramp to the end of Kohutu Parade, including the Chad Street stormwater gully.

Group manager of policy and operations Gareth Green said the rabbit control work was necessary to protect both the environment and surrounding properties. The rabbit population is becoming unmanageable in this area and we need to carry out this work every few years to keep on top of it, he said. Rabbits tend to burrow under buildings and can undermine foundations if left alone, which is not what we want for our residents and property owners.

The work will only be done on council land but will affect those who live nearby or use the areas. Dog owners are advised to take their dogs elsewhere until the work is completed and the land has been cleared. Signposts will be erected in affected areas so dog walkers are aware.

The bait being used is a low potency poison that breaks down easily. Any bait not eaten by the conclusion of the programme will be removed.