The Nelson City Council’s annual animal control operation in the Maitai and Roding Water Reserves will take place from 20 – 30 September.

The operation protects the natural values of one of Nelson’s most precious ecosystems – the Mineral Belt. There will be fewer wild goats, deer and pigs grazing in Nelson’s native forests, damaging tracks and entering property. The work is being undertaken by a contractor. The operation is split into three different hunting zones and only closing a zone to the public when the hunters are working in that zone. This will enable people to use walking and MTB tracks while the hunters are not present. Please see the map for dates and zones.

The Coppermine track will be open 25-26 September while the Coppermine Classic MTB race takes place. The trail runs through two of the hunt zones. Hunters will be working on the 26 September, but with a 1km buffer from the trail. If you have any questions about this operation, please feel free to contact Geoff Churchill: Geoff.churchill@ncc.govt.nz.

See a full list of trail closures here