NZ Department of Conservation launches online cat‑trap permits, raises bird flu alert

The New Zealand Department of Conservation (DOC) will introduce an online permit system for individuals who wish to trap feral cats on conservation land. The new system, expected within the next 12 months, will work like the existing online hunting permits, providing instant approval by email. The change follows criticism of the previous paper‑based process, highlighted by hunter Victor Tindale, who had to navigate lengthy email exchanges to obtain a permit. DOC’s director of regulatory transformation, Joanna Clifford, said the rollout is part of a broader effort to modernise permit applications, which already includes online drone permits and will soon cover filming and photography.

In a separate notice, DOC placed its Wairarapa operations on high alert after a second case of H5 bird flu was identified. Deputy Director‑General Cat Wilson briefed staff to increase surveillance, use personal protective equipment in the field, and follow site‑response plans if an outbreak occurs among native wildlife. The department urges the public to report groups of dead or sick birds and avoid handling them. Vaccination efforts are underway, with 81 of roughly 300 threatened birds—such as kākāpō, takahē and black stilt—already vaccinated. DOC is collaborating with the Ministry for Primary Industries, the Ministry of Health and other agencies as part of a One Health approach.