Three huts on the Whanganui Journey Great Walk have been closed and are being fumigated after reports of bed bugs.
Bridge to Nowhere – Whanganui Travel | from the Department of Conservation
Photo: Conservation Department
Steve Taylor, director of cultural heritage and visitor to the Department of Conservation, said the department took precautionary action following a single report of a bed bug attack.
Taylor said bed bugs had not yet been reported in huts along the Whanganui River, but the report came from a credible source.
“As a result, we are treating this as an urgent matter and responding immediately.”
Taylor said the Whakahoro and Tīeke huts would be temporarily closed while the John Coull hut would remain closed for the winter.
The number of those affected would be limited as the Great Walk season for the kayak trip ends in a week.
DOC had contacted people with bookings, and tour guide companies had also been informed of the closings and treatment plans.
Bed bug – Cimex lectularius
Photo: Flickr
Taylor said many people indicated they would still move on with their plans but could choose to camp instead of using the cabins.
Those who chose to go ahead with their plans would receive a refund, he said.
Taylor said bed bugs are not a common problem across the DOC cabin network, but infestations have appeared from time to time.
He said DOC’s approach is to work fast to get minor infestation problems under control before they become a bigger problem.
“Of course we want people to be able to enjoy their experiences in the great outdoors. This also means that they know what facilities and services the department offers.
“Visitors to these fantastic DOC facilities can do their part by carefully cleaning their walking gear between sites and reporting bed bug sightings or attacks immediately so we can deal with them as soon as possible.”
