Sue Grey is calling for comprehensive toxicology testing after numerous dead and dying South Island pied oystercatchers were found on the Motueka Sandspit shortly after the recent aerial 1080 operation in Kahurangi National Park.
Media reports confirm that several members of the public reported sick and dead birds, prompting an investigation by the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI). Testing has since ruled out H5N1 highly pathogenic avian influenza (bird flu) as the cause.
“The fact that bird flu has been excluded makes it even more important to investigate other possible causes,” said Sue Grey, Leader of Freedom and candidate for West Coast-Tasman in the 2026 election. Grey has tertiary qualifications in law, biochemistry and microbiology, and environmental management, and was Conservancy Solicitor for DOC for two years from mid-2006.
“I have asked the Department of Conservation to ensure these birds are tested for 1080 poisoning, including both fluoroacetate and fluorocitrate, and to publicly release the results of all testing.”
Grey says the deaths have raised concerns because they follow the recent Kahurangi aerial 1080 operation and are reminiscent of reports of dead birds, fish, crabs, and other wildlife found on Buller beaches following previous 1080 operations.
“ERMA’s reassessment and DOC’s own research recognise that 1080 is ecotoxic and poses risks to numerous native bird species and other wildlife. Those risks should be properly investigated whenever unexplained bird deaths occur following aerial poison operations.”
In a letter sent to DOC, Crown Law, and Conservation Minister Tama Potaka, Grey requested that:
- All affected birds be tested for 1080 poisoning;
- Testing include both fluoroacetate and its metabolite fluorocitrate;
- The results of all testing be made publicly available; and
- The investigation fully consider whether there is any connection with the recent Kahurangi 1080 operation.
DOC has acknowledged the request, advising that it has referred the matter to the Regional Lead of the National Predator Control Programme for a response.
Grey says transparency is essential.
“The public deserves a thorough and independent investigation into unexplained wildlife deaths, particularly where there has recently been aerial application of a highly toxic poison in the same region. Testing should not stop just because bird flu has been excluded.”
“1080 is classified as a deadly poison that is ecotoxic and causes reproductive harm. It has been recently aerially spread in the Motueka and Riwaka River catchments. It preceded mass wildlife deaths on Buller beaches after 1080 poisoning in that catchment. 1080 is an obvious line of inquiry that should be properly investigated and either confirmed or ruled out through appropriate scientific testing,” says Sue Grey.
D.O.C
Department Of Corruption.