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.

The Grey TMA

Map showing boundaries of Grey TB management areaThe Grey TMA covers 99,224 hectares east of Greymouth, between the Taramakau and Grey Rivers. The area includes the Arnold Valley, Lake Brunner, Inchbonnie, Taramakau Valley and Moana Township. Public conservation areas include the Peter Ridge, Mt Te Kinga and the Hohonu Range.

The habitat is narrow strips of farmland interspersed by moderate to high hills, covered with podocarp bush and scrub areas. Altitudes range from sea level to 1200 metres on the Hohonu Range.

History of TB and pest control in the Grey TMA

The most recent wildlife infection in the Grey TMA was a TB-infected pig from the Hohonu Range in 2010.

Since 2012 we have completed ground-based possum control throughout the area. Most recently, we completed ground control in Marsden West, Arnold Valley, Taramakau and Bell Hill in 2023/2024.

We have also completed:

  • aerial control in Hohonu, Marsden East and Te Kinga in 2012
  • aerial control in Kaiata South in 2013
  • pig surveillance in Marsden East in 2023/2024.

Current state

As of June 2024, there are no infected herds in the Grey TMA.

If you're moving animals

The Grey TMA sits across the Tasman/West Coast Movement Control Area (MCA) and the West Coast Kahurangi Annual Special Testing Area (STA). Before you move cattle or deer to another herd or farm from an MCA, you must have them tested for bovine TB. If you're in an STA, you don't need to do pre-movement testing.

Future pest control operations

We plan our pest control operations up to 3 years in advance. The current year runs from July 2024 to June 2025.

Dates and control methods for pest control operations in Grey 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.
Type of controlWhenCoverageWhere
Aerial control2024/202513,300haHohonu
Ground control2024/20256200haInchbonnie
Ground control2025/20264000haArnold Valley, Bell Hill, Inchbonnie, Kaiata Central, Marsden West, Taramakau

Map of 2024/2025 pest control operations

The proposed area for ground control is marked in green on the map, and the proposed area for aerial control is marked in yellow.

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

Contacts

Vector Control Services manages eradication activities in the Grey TMA. Contact them directly if you have feedback or questions about upcoming operations.

Vector Control Services

Phone: 0508 141 268

Email: info@vcs.net.nz

Nearest local OSPRI office

OSPRI Greymouth office

PO Box 535

Greymouth 7840

Phone: 03 769 9098

Email: vectornsi@ospri.co.nz