Buller Coast TB Management Area (TMA)

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 and wildlife. Each TMA has a specific TB control plan designed to eradicate TB as effectively as possible.

The Buller Coast TMA

The Buller Coast TMA covers 76,280 ha between Ngakawau and Charleston. The area includes Cape Farewell, Westport, Waimangaroa, Granity, Hector, Nikau and Mohikinui.

The habitat is a mix of farmed flats, native and exotic forest, coastal habitat and very steep scrubby faces. Altitude ranges from sea level to 1000 metres.

History of TB and pest control in Buller Coast

There has been with a long history of TB infection in cattle herds from infected wildlife in the Buller Coast TMA. Movement of cattle grazing at Cape Foulwind has been the cause of infection in other areas.

We completed ground-based possum control in:

• 2018/2019 in the Buller Coast block, and
• 2020/2021 in Buller North, Buller South and Buller South Aerial blocks.

We undertook aerial possum control in 2011, 2015 and 2020 in the Buller South aerial block.

Current state

There are currently no infected herds in the Buller Coast TMA.

If you're moving animals

The Buller Coast TMA is in the West Coast Movement Control Area (MCA). Before you move cattle or deer to another herd or farm, you must have them tested for bovine TB.

Future pest control operations

We plan our pest control operations up to 3 years in advance. The current year runs from July 2021 to June 2022.

Dates and control methods for pest control operations in Buller Coast TMA are provisional and subject to change. 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.

Contacts

Vector Free Marlborough Limited manage eradication activities in the Buller Coast TMA. Contact them directly if you have feedback or questions about upcoming operations.

Vector Free Marlborough Limited
Phone: 0508 548 008
Email: communications@vectorfree.co.nz

Your nearest local OSPRI office is in Christchurch.

OSPRI Christchurch Office
PO Box 8674
Riccarton
Christchurch 8440
Phone: 03 363 3090
Email: vectornsi@ospri.co.nz