• Over one hundred leg hold traps were removed by Parks staff yesterday.
  • Council urges public to report any traps rather than touching or moving them.
  • Alternative pest control methods are in place to protect pets and community safety.

The Invercargill City Council has raised concerns after more than one hundred leg hold traps were found scattered around Sandy Point yesterday. The discovery has prompted warnings to the public to be extra cautious while visiting the area.

“We were disappointed yesterday to discover that someone had placed a large number of leg-hold traps around Sandy Point,” the Council stated. The Parks team located and removed the traps but warned there may still be more hidden in the reserve.

The Council has reminded residents that public parks are shared spaces where families and pets frequently visit. “Please never place leg hold traps in our public parks — these are areas where people walk and where pets often roam. It would be far too easy for someone or their pet to be seriously injured.”

Anyone who sees a trap on Council land is asked not to approach, tamper with, or try to remove it. Instead, they should note its exact location and contact the Parks and Recreation team immediately on (03) 219 9070.

The Council stressed that they already have alternative pest control measures in place, handled by trained staff and the appropriate agencies. “We need to put the safety of our community first. We have alternative pest control measures in place and ask that you leave this work to our Parks team and the appropriate agencies.”

Residents are urged to remain vigilant while enjoying Sandy Point to ensure the area remains safe for everyone.

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