Half Moon Bay Marina Becomes a Pest Free Partner
We’re proud to share that Half Moon Bay Marina is now an official Pest Free Partner with Auckland Council.
This partnership strengthens our commitment to protecting the marina environment and the wider Hauraki Gulf from invasive pests, both on land and at sea.
Why This Matters
The Hauraki Gulf islands are home to some of New Zealand’s most precious native wildlife. Many are designated pest-free sanctuaries, and even a single rodent can cause serious damage to native bird and lizard populations.
As a gateway to the Gulf, marinas play an important role in preventing the accidental spread of pests between mainland and islands.
Becoming a Pest Free Partner means we are taking practical, proactive steps to support biosecurity across our marina community.
What This Means for Our Marina
As part of the programme, we are:
Conducting regular pest control audits Strengthening communication around biosecurity Providing clearer reporting channels for berth holders Promoting best-practice vessel checks Sharing official Auckland Council resources
This isn’t just about compliance, it’s about leadership and stewardship.
What Berth Holders Can Do
Biosecurity is a shared responsibility. Simple actions make a big difference.
1️⃣ Inspect Your Vessel
Before heading out, check bilges, lockers, and storage areas for signs of rodents or insects.
2️⃣ Keep Your Boat Clean
Remove mud, organic material, and debris from hulls, decks, trailers, and equipment.
3️⃣ Secure Food and Waste
Store food tightly and dispose of rubbish in designated bins.
4️⃣ Report Sightings Promptly
If you spot rodents on your vessel or around the marina, notify marina staff immediately.
Auckland Council offers complimentary inspections, which may include a trained biosecurity rodent detection dog.
Travelling to Hauraki Gulf Islands?
Many islands are strictly pest-free sanctuaries.
The safest option is to leave pets at home.
If travelling with pets, always follow island signage. It is an offence to take pets onto or near certain islands.
Cats must be microchipped to ensure safe return if lost.
For more information on visiting the islands responsibly, visit:
https://www.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/en/environment/what-you-can-do-for-environment/visiting-hauraki-gulf-islands.html
Building a Culture of Biosecurity
By joining the Pest Free Partner programme, we are reinforcing a culture of awareness and proactive action across our marina.
Protecting the Hauraki Gulf isn’t just a council initiative, it’s something we can all take pride in.
Together, we can help ensure the marina remains a safe launching point for adventure – while safeguarding the unique wildlife that makes this region so special.