The Hūnua Ranges Regional Park will be reopened to dogs from Monday, nearly four months after Auckland Council’s final 1080 pest control application for 2025.
The operation treated 19,885 hectares with aerially applied 1080, plus 130 hectares of ground control across 22 private land parcels.
Auckland Council says monitoring has confirmed all pest bait and carcasses have broken down, with lab tests showing no detectable 1080 residues, and optimal summer conditions accelerating the process, allowing the park to reopen sooner than expected.
Warning signs have been removed, and dogs can now be exercised in accordance with on-leash and designated off-leash areas.
Auckland Council’s Project Manager, Miranda Bennett says the weather played a key role in bait breakdown.
“The caution period has helped keep dog owners vigilant, ensuring their pets are safe while enjoying the park. With results exceeding expectations, our native bush and wildlife now have the space to thrive,” said Ms Bennett.
The Council says post-operation monitoring shows outstanding results, with possum numbers dropping to 0.17% and rats to 0.83%, well below the targets of 2 and 3% respectively.
Council says the reductions are critical in supporting native birds, including kōkako, kererū, and kākā, during their breeding season.
Chair of the Policy, Planning and Development Committee Chair, Richard Hills said the results show what’s possible when science, careful planning, and long-term commitment come together.
“The Hūnua kōkako population is now thriving, with 259 pairs, and this pest control work helps ensure these species are protected for future generations,” he said.
