Our work towards Predator Free 2050

DOC is the Government’s lead agency responsible for facilitating the Predator Free 2050 programme. We bring together the unique perspectives and knowledge of communities and collaborators. With their input, we developed the strategy to get us to the shared PF2050 goal.

We also contribute directly towards Predator Free 2050. We control predators, undertake eradication science, foster technology development, train people, build partnerships and support.

Learning-based approach 

PF2050 is a world first – there is no manual to explain how to achieve the goal. But we’re investing in research and learning by doing. We will need to develop and adapt our approach, methods and tools as we learn more about predators, ecology and the part people will play.

Our work is a critical part of learning quickly. It provides an opportunity for trialling new methods, planning approaches, and tools and technology at scale. It also builds momentum in our communities.   

From control to eradication 

As we continue to learn, many projects will shift from predator control to eradication (the complete removal of predators). Permanent eradication is much more difficult than control – it requires more planning, resourcing, long-term support and new tools. DOC currently does both - ‘holding the line’ through control and eradication on islands and land we can defend.    

Eradication allows our species to thrive 

For our endangered species, eradication could mean the difference between living on the edge of extinction and thriving. If you’ve been to a fenced sanctuary or predator free island, you can see and hear the difference.

Since pests were eradicated from Kapiti Island in 1996, some lizard populations have grown 28-fold and around 1,200 little spotted kiwi now call the island home. The dawn chorus is deafening with kākā, tūī and kākāriki. Eradication is challenging but worth it for our treasured species.