The Department of Conservation in New Zealand has made a courteous appeal to all residents and tourists who flock the Kapiti Coast and Wellington Harbor during the summer months to keep them free from pests. The common way that pests enter these tourist locales is by stowing away on boats without the knowledge of the tourists. Rodents have been the major pest invasion in the area and hence there is an appeal made to the public to have their boats and steamers checked before they start out into the waters.
For bigger vessels, recommendations are made to install rodent traps and bait stations in locations that are prone to rodent infestation. Also a request has been made to the tourists and public to check their bags, shoes, clothing, etc., before going ashore for insects and sea weeds that can cause infestation. Protected islands do not allow pets for this purpose, and the authorities have reached out to the public to cooperate.