Otago Regional Council contractors will be spraying herbicide in the sections of rivers noted below. The spray will be applied by helicopter, and only vegetative growth of willows, broom and gorse will be targeted.

Holders of known water takes will be advised separately of these operations.

Actual dates of spraying will depend upon weather and contractor availability.

Spraying is planned to commence on 1 March 2025, and will be complete by the end of April 2025.

The rivers affected include: 

• Rees River — Lovers Leap to Precipice Creek
• Matukituki River — East/West confluence to West Wanaka Road bridge
• Fern Burn — Wanaka Mt Aspiring Road to mouth
• Kye Burn — Danseys Pass Road to SH 85
• Maps of areas to be sprayed are available on ORC’s website at orc.govt.nz/OtagoSpraying

For any enquiries, please contact customerservices@orc.govt.nz or call 0800 474 082.