Biosecurity

Keep the island predator-free — check before you visit

Motuihe Island / Te Motu-a-Ihenga is a predator-free sanctuary. Biosecurity is imperative to ensure Motuihe maintains its pest-free status. Every visitor plays a role in keeping it that way.

Why It Matters

Pest rodents such as rats, ferrets, and stoats can decimate native birds including little spotted kiwi, saddleback, geckos, skinks, and tuatara. Pest weeds are slowly being removed by volunteers and contractors, but without biosecurity checks there is a high risk of new weeds and diseases being introduced — including kauri dieback.

H5N1 Avian Influenza Alert

While not yet in New Zealand, DOC asks volunteers and visitors to be vigilant. Practice good biosecurity and hygiene when handling birds. Do not handle sick or dead birds if you suspect bird flu.

Signs include: tremors, twisting/arching neck, weakness, paralysis, difficulty breathing, and diarrhoea. If you see three or more birds or marine mammals displaying these symptoms, or three or more dead animals together, report to:

More information: MPI Avian Influenza page

Before You Arrive

We ask all visitors to familiarise themselves with our biosecurity guidelines and ensure their transport vessels, camping gear, day bags, and footwear are all thoroughly cleaned and checked before arrival.

Check Your Gear

  • Check all bags and containers for mice, rats, insects, seeds
  • Check camping gear — rodents hide in tents, sleeping bags, boxes
  • No open bags or loose items
  • Inspect your boat if arriving privately

Clean Your Footwear

  • Thoroughly clean shoes before arrival
  • Remove all soil, seeds, and plant material
  • Prevents weed seeds and kauri dieback disease

Not Allowed on the Island

  • Dogs, cats, and all domestic animals — prohibited from beaches and land, no exceptions
  • Live animals or insects
  • Soil or plant material
  • Open fires (gas BBQs are permitted)

On the Island

  • Take all rubbish home — there is no rubbish collection
  • Stay on marked tracks
  • Keep clear of shorebird nesting areas
  • Take care when visiting archaeological or historic sites
  • Report any pest sighting immediately

Report a Pest

DOC Ranger: 0274 372 576 · info@motuihe.org.nz

Thank you for your assistance in helping keep Motuihe Island pest-free.

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