Monday 22 September 2003
Targeted Winter Aerial Operation Expected Tuesday 23 September
Weather permitting, the targeted winter aerial operation against the painted apple moth is expected to start tomorrow –
Tuesday 23 September 2003. The current operation, delayed all week by unsettled weather, was unable to proceed today due
to high winds. A final decision, regarding an operation starting tomorrow, will be made before first light in the
morning.
Tomorrow’s aerial operation is due to take place, weather permitting, in the 5 small winter target areas covering a
total area of less than 900 hectares. As a guide if the operation is completed in one day, it is expected that Waikumete
and Riverpark areas will be treated from 6am followed by Motions/Meola Creek. Treatment in Ranui will start before 8am.
Aerial operations in Hobsonville will be from 8am and all spraying should be finished before 10am. As schools are on
holiday this week, and there will be no children travelling to school, treatment will continue during 8am to 9am.
The public can listen to More FM (91.8FM) or Newstalk ZB (1080AM) from 6am for status updates or call the free
information line on 0800 96 96 96. People can also visit www.maf.govt.nz/paintedapplemoth to see a map of the winter
target areas and for general information about the programme.
ENDS