By Samantha Gee
The islands off the coast of the Abel Tasman National Park have been declared free of predators once again.
But conservation staff have warned there is a risk of rats and mice reaching the islands through visiting vessels.
Department of Conservation operations manager Chris Golding said following a pest control operation in 2017, monitoring has shown there are no longer mice on Adele/Motuareronui, Fisherman/Motuareroiti and Tonga islands.
He said it was possible rats and mice could reach the islands by hitching a ride on visiting vessels or by swimming across from the mainland.
“People planning to go to the islands should check before going out on the water that boats, kayaks, all bags, containers, food and gear are clear of mice, rats, ants, spiders or other animals.
“All clothing, footwear and gear should be free of soil and plant material, including seeds and foliage.”
