Biosecurity
Rotoroa Island is a safe haven for Aotearoa’s native wildlife, thanks to the successful eradication of pests. But it only takes one careless visitor to undo years of conservation work. Before you arrive, please follow our Island Care Code to help keep Rotoroa pest-free. A few simple steps are all it takes to protect this special place—our taonga for generations to come.
Before you arrive
No Pets
Pets are not permitted on the island—not on leashes, not on beaches, and not below high water mark. Our takahē family, chicks, and visiting kiwi depend on this protection to thrive safely.
No Mooring
Boats are the 2nd main vector for pests to come ashore, so we don’t permit mooring at our pontoon or wharf. Please check your boat before leaving town and moor out in Home Bay, ensuring you bring a dinghy to get between the island and your boat.
No Fires
Open fires are not permitted anywhere on Rotoroa Island. Instead, enjoy barbecues at our designated picnic spots with electric BBQs available at Home Bay and Ladies Bay—perfect for a seaside meal with all the convenience and safety.
Check Your Gear for Pests
Inspect all gear—especially camping equipment—for rats, mice, ants, plague skinks, soil, and seeds. Pay extra attention if Argentine ants or plague skinks are present where you live. Small animals and eggs hide easily in gear and soil.
Seal Everything
Pack all food in sealed containers and keep all bags zipped closed. Seal boxes completely—no holes. Rodents can squeeze through gaps as small as 7–12mm. Notify catering companies you're travelling to a pest-free island.
No Camping
Camping is prohibited anywhere on the island. This is to protect our wildlife and minimise fire risk. If you wish to stay on Rotoroa Island we would love to welcome you to stay in one of our holiday homes.
Seal Everything
Pack all food in sealed containers and keep all bags zipped closed. Seal boxes completely—no holes. Rodents can squeeze through gaps as small as 7–12mm. Notify catering companies you're travelling to a pest-free island.
Pack In—Pack Out
Take all rubbish home with you. Clean your clothing, footwear, and gear to remove soil and seeds before and after your trip. Use the cleaning stations at the departure pier to brush your shoes before boarding the ferry.
Why this matters
Our pest-free status is fragile. One stowaway—hidden in your gear, on your shoes, or in soil—can devastate years of conservation work. Rats squeeze through 12mm gaps, mice through 7mm. Pests kill native wildlife and compete for food. Soil carries plant diseases like kauri dieback. Invasive weeds destroy habitats. Once established on an island, pests are extremely costly and time-consuming to remove.
Stop and check before you go to Rotoroa. Your care protects our sanctuary.
Found a pest?
On the mainland: Get rid of the pest and clean your gear again.
On the ferry: Tell the crew what you have found and where it is.
On Rotoroa Island: Immediately report it to the Duty Ranger on 09 283 0849
