The Department of Conservation (DOC) begins the first stage of an aerial predator control operation this weekend.

The non-toxic ‘pre-feed’ drop is scheduled for three days from Sunday to Tuesday (January 18-20), weather permitting, marking DOC’s 37,000-hectare rat and stoat control programme across the Makarora, Young, Siberia, Wilkin and Cameron Valleys, as well as the Brewster Track.

The Blue Pools Track, Blue Pools carpark, Cameron Flat Campground and surrounding public conservation land will be closed from 7am on Sunday (January 18) until Tuesday (January 20).

Helicopters will distribute non-toxic cereal pellets over three days to familiarise pests with the bait before the toxic 1080 pellets are applied in one to six weeks’ time.

DOC says the operation is in response to a predicted beech mast this summer and rising rodent numbers, which pose a serious threat to vulnerable native wildlife, including the endangered mohua.

Read more: Mohua return to West Matukituki Valley after decades away

Several closures will be in place to ensure public safety while helicopters are operating.

Visitors are advised to avoid other parts of the treatment area during flight operations, and to check the DOC website or contact the DOC Wānaka Visitor Centre (03 443 7660) for updates or delays.

If poor weather affects the operation, work, and the associated closures, may be extended. 

This operation uses only non-toxic pellets.

PHOTO: Caroline Harker