AERIAL 1080 OPERATION BLOCK 1
COMPLETE
Commenced August 1st 2026
Photo by John Doogan
1080 Notifications Fact sheet
This link takes you to the 1080 Notification Fact Sheet for Block 1, which provides all of the key information about the upcoming operation. Inside, you’ll find a clear breakdown of what’s happening, why it’s being carried out, and how the operation will be managed.
The fact sheet also includes a detailed map of Block 1, showing the exact area of the operation and the boundaries. This is the first place to visit to get a full, accurate understanding of the operation from timelines and safety information.
Please take some time to read through the document so you’re well‑informed and prepared for the next steps in the 2026 cycle.
LATEST NEWS
Update: August 28, 2026
Aerial 1080 - Toxin
Pānui
Friday 28 August 2026
Block 1 of the Raukūmara Aerial 1080 toxin operation has been successfully completed.
The operation began at 8.18am on Monday the 24th and concluded at 9.30am on Tuesday the 25th of August.
48,150 hectares was treated safely, efficiently, and as planned.
Introduced predators continue to place enormous pressure on our ngahere and the native species that depend upon it. By reducing that pressure across a landscape of this scale, we are creating the conditions for our manu, rākau and living systems to recover, regenerate and thrive.
NOTIFICATIONS
Friday 21 August 2026
Aerial Predator Control Operation
Raukūmara Pae Maunga, Block 1
This notice advises of a pending aerial pellet 1080 (toxic) application due to commence on Monday 24 August 2026, and will take about 2 days, weather and operational constraints dependent.
Please feel free to pass this information on to all relevant parties that may be directly involved within or around this operation. We will keep affected landowners updated throughout the process.
Operation Detail
Epro Limited has been contracted by Raukūmara Pae Maunga to undertake an aerial predator control operation in the Raukūmara ngahere.
Keeping Safe
1080 is poisonous to humans, domestic and game animals. In areas where the toxin has been applied, dogs are highly at risk until poisoned carcasses have disintegrated. This takes four to eight months or longer.
There will be warning signs placed at entrances to the operational area immediately prior to the operation.
Always Remember
-
Do not touch or eat the bait.
-
Watch children at all times.
-
Do not eat animals from this area.
-
Toxic bait and carcasses are deadly to dogs.
Observe these rules whenever you see warning signs placed at the public access ways in the above areas. Warning signs indicate that pesticide residues may remain in baits and carcasses.
If you suspect poisoning, please contact either:
-
Your local doctor or hospital.
-
The National Poisons Centre: 0800 764 766 (urgent calls) or 03 479 7248.
-
Dial 111.
-
Seek veterinary advise for suspected poisoning of domestic animals.
Should you require further information or require clarity on any points please use the contact details below.
Control Method
Aerial application of cereal bait pellets containing 1080 is the most effective method of controlling possums, rats and stoats over large areas. Helicopters will safely and precisely distribute bait across the operational area along pre-determined and monitored flight paths.
The toxic cereal bait contain 0.15 percent of 1080, are cylindrical and approximately two centimetres in diameter. They are dyed green and contain a cinnamon lure to attract predators.
Toxic warning signs will be placed at all normal points of entry to the operation prior to toxic 1080 bait being applied. The carcasses of poisoned animals pose a significant risk to dogs for several months after the operation. Warning signs will remain in place until this risk has passed.
Water monitoring wānanga
Thursday 20 August 2026
Te Mauri o te wai
Two critically important water monitoring wānanga were held at the Hāparapara Awa and Hāwai. This wānanga was about understand the mauri of our waterways. Before we drink from it, swim in it, take from it, we first must learn from it.
Whānau members joined our teams for an interactive session on;
Water Clarity
-
How clear and cloudy the wai is?
Water Velocity
-
Understanding how fast the awa is moving.
Stream Habitat
-
What’s hiding in the banks?
Periphyton
-
Algae and growth on rocks.
Freshwater Invertebrates
-
The tiny indicators of stream health.
To truly care for our wai, we need to listen to what it is telling us. To observe its changes. To understand its whakapapa, it's life and everything that lives in it.
Update: July 22, 2026
This is our story
We have installed storytelling signs from the Hāparapara bridge to Hawai. This initial set is just the start; additional signs will be introduced once we gain approval to continue with the 1080 operation in suitable weather conditions. This initiative demonstrates our dedication to community engagement and building momentum during this next phase of operations.
**For any enquiries, please email us at Aerial1080@raukumara.org.nz or complete the form below and we will be in touch
Raukūmara Roadshow
On the 16th and 17th of July, we hosted two Raukūmara Roadshows at Ōtūwhare Marae and Whitianga, providing our whānau with a valuable opportunity to come together, engage with our kaupapa, and learn in depth about our mahi and the 1080 operation. It was an awesome turnout, and the level of interest and kōrero from whānau was greatly appreciated.
