21 October 2003
Painted Apple Moth Operation - Just Under
6,000 Hectares Completed Today - Tuesday 21 October
The current 6,500-hectare spring aerial operation against the painted apple moth was suspended today, Tuesday 21
October, at 1pm due to rising winds.
Fine weather throughout the morning allowed the operation to make excellent progress with just under 6,000 hectares
being completed before wind caused the operation to be put on hold. The remaining 600 hectares, at the southern end of
the Hobsonville area, will be treated tomorrow - Wednesday 22 October, weather permitting.
A small fixed wing aircraft will be used to complete the operation tomorrow or on the next day that weather permits. The
operation will resume at first light and is expected to finish before 10am.
The public can call the free information line 0800 96 96 96 for status updates and for general information about the
programme.
People can also visit the resident’s page at www.maf.govt.nz/paintedapplemoth to register for email or text message
updates on the status of the aerial operation. A map of the 6,500-hectare operation area and up-to-date information
about the painted apple moth eradication programme is also available on the website.
ENDS