Department of Conservation staff on Stewart Island are logging about one security incident a week linked to predator-free work, including harassment, threats and verbal abuse. Among a string of incidents linked to predator free work were two involving damage or theft on boats, one involving hazardous substances, and another of "obscene behaviour." In August, a group of people opposed to Predator Free Rakiura held a protest. He said the conversations between his group and those leading Predator Free Rakiura had felt like a box ticking exercise. He said it was disappointing that opposition to Predator Free Rakiura had escalated to verbal abuse and harassment.

Source: Otago Daily Times April 10, 2026 20:09 UTC