Thread: Molesworth Ballot 2018

Hi all,

I'm involved with the Marlborough NZDA. We conducted a survey of the Molesworth using a Helicopter after the 1080 drop last year. A research paper is currently being written detailing our findings. We aren't releasing any details of our findings as we are keeping our powder dry for when the report is completed.

I can however talk about my personal experience. I booked the Chimney block in late Jan as I wanted to see how things were looking 3 months after the 1080 drop. The Chimney block had 1080 applied to it but is right on the boundary of the poisoned area and next to some prime hunting areas that didn't get 1080 dropped on them. I spent two days hunting this block and the only living things a found were rabbits and hares. There was zero deer sign.

I have since cancelled my roar block as I believe it is pointless going in there. The DOC permit states:

"Hunters need to be aware that this operation has had an impact on the numbers of deer, and you will expect to see fewer deer than normal in affected areas during a hunting trip to Molesworth."

I think "see fewer deer" is a huge understatement. It should say, you are highly unlikely to see any deer. If you have a roar block in the Molesworth you may want to do some of your own research before you head in.

I would be interested to hear what other hunters have experienced in the Molesworth since the 1080 drop.