What is a pest animal?

The species featured in Pest Detective have all been introduced to New Zealand either by accident or intentionally for various reasons.

They are regarded as pests because they can threaten the health of our native ecosystems and/or primary production sector. Their adverse impacts can include preying on or competing with native species, damaging crops or spreading disease.

Some of these species are also valued in certain situations for hunting, agriculture or as pets. These species require managing to minimise their pest impacts while recognising their community or economic values.

Deer, pigs, chamois and tahr are game animals, under the Game Animal Council Act 2013. Under this act, some populations of these species will likely be managed as herds of special interest for hunting purposes, whilst also considering their impacts and other relevant legislation.