Photo credit: Jude Hynes
Photo credit: Jude Hynes

Ngā kōrero hou mō te kaupapa mahi ki Kawau

Kawau project operational updates

Keep up with all the important updates on the Kawau Island pest eradication project.

Photo credit: Jude Hynes

Introduction

The success of this programme, initially and long term, depends on the support and involvement of Kawau Island’s community. Auckland Council is committed to working with you, keeping you up to date and listening to your feedback.

This is your page to keep up with all the important updates on the Kawau Island pest eradication programme and some of the environmental outcomes we hope to celebrate in the future.

 

Map of Kawau Island showing the hunting blocks, fence lines and gates. 
Download map (PDF - 1.80MB)

Kawau Island Operations Update – 22 July to 10 August

Hunting in Department of Conservation reserves and surrounding residential areas

Over the next three weeks, the field team will be making a concentrated push in Block 1 - Department of Conservation Kawau Island Historic Reserve and Stoney Hill Recreational Reserve and surrounding residential areas.

This is an important stage of the operation to target hot spots of activity as much as possible before a daytime grid search is scheduled and the specialist possum team come through the residential areas in August.

How you can help:

If you have seen any recent possum or wallaby activity on your property, please email: kawau@islandconservation.org Sharing date/time/location details helps us direct the field team to exactly where they’re needed most.

What:
  • Drone survey and hunting, firearms are fitted with suppressors to reduce noise.
  • Shots will only be taken if completely safe to do so, following strict safety protocols.
Where:
  • Block 1 which covers Department of Conservation Reserves Historic Reserve and Stoney Hill Recreational Reserve. And residential areas where landowner permission has been granted in Schoolhouse, Sunny, Harris, and Karaka Bay.
When:
  • Night-time drone survey and hunting in DOC reserves: From Tuesday 22 July to Sunday 10 August, between 5pm and 9am.
  • Night-time drone survey and hunting in residential areas: exact dates/times to be confirmed directly with residents of Schoolhouse, Sunny, Harris and Karaka Bay.

Questions or concerns

Contact the project team at: kawauislandproject@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz  or phone 09 301 0101.

Previous updates

Check out previous updates 1 May to 19 July 2025 (PDF 117KB).