Department of Conservation reveals unusual call centre queries

The New Zealand Department of Conservation (DOC) has shared details regarding the unusual and frequent queries received by its call centre. The department manages more than 40,000 calls annually, with volume increasing to approximately 1,000 calls per week during the summer holiday season.

Customer Service Team Lead Olivia Tooley noted that many callers are often mistaken about the department's specific remit. Unusual reports have included sightings of a UFO falling into the Tararua Range, concerns regarding a hypothetical MMA bout between a human and a chimpanzee, and inquiries about animals at the Wellington Zoo.

Commonly reported issues include pests like rats, mice, and possums on private property, as well as questions regarding seals. While seals are a protected species, Tooley explained that the department maintains a ‘hands off’ approach, leading to frequent queries about feeding seals or concerns regarding their appearance on beaches.