Eradicating bovine TB in NZ

As part of our TBfree programme we deliver our pest control operations through a framework of TB management areas (TMAs). TMAs are areas with known TB infection in livestock or wildlife. Each TMA has a specific TB control plan designed to eradicate TB as effectively as possible.

Map showing boundaries of the Clutha Buffer TMA.The Clutha Buffer TMA

The Clutha Buffer TMA covers over 113,000 hectares. It stretches from the east of Clutha River from Beaumont Station to Crawford Hills Road.
 
The topography ranges from developed farmlands to steep, scrubby gullies. The habitat also comprises native bush, tussocks, and dense regenerating scrub.

History of TB and pest control in Clutha Buffer

The Clutha Buffer TMA has a history of TB from the early 1980s. The latest wildlife infection was in 2011/2012 and the latest herd breakdown was in 2015.

We completed a ground control operation in:

  • Beaumont, Crawford Hills, Manorburn, Knobby Range, Teviot River, and Timaburn in 2016/2017
  • the Speargrass Creek area in 2015/2016.

We completed ferret and pig surveys in 2022/2023, covering the majority of the Clutha Buffer TMA.

Current state

As of June 2023, the Clutha Buffer TMA does not have any infected herds.

Future pest control operations

We plan our pest control operations up to 3 years in advance. The current year runs from July 2023 to June 2024.

Dates and control methods for pest control operations in Clutha Buffer TMA are provisional. If you’re affected by any upcoming operations, our pest control contractors will contact you before work begins. They will:

  • talk you through the specifics of each operation
  • explain what you need to do before the operations start
  • get your consent for the work to be done.
Type of controlWhenCoverageWhere
Ferret surveys2023/202462,500haBeaumont, Crawford Hills, Knobby Range, Manorburn, Millers Flat Bridge Buffer, Speargrass Creek, Teviot River, Timaburn
Pig survey2023/2024102,000haClutha Buffer

Map of 2023/2024 pest control operations

The proposed areas for wildlife surveillance are marked in blue.

Interactive map showing Clutha Buffer TB management area boundaries, Vector Control Zone, and proposed control areas.

Contacts

Rentoki Initial manages eradication activities in the South Canterbury South TMA. Contact them directly if you have feedback or questions about upcoming operations.

Rentoki Initial

Phone: 0508 767 786

Email: info@highcountrycontracting.co.nz

Nearest local OSPRI office

OSPRI Dunedin office

PO Box 5745

Moray Place

Dunedin 9058

Phone: 03 477 9829

Email: cr_ssi@ospri.co.nz