Auckland Islands pest eradication project manager Stephen Horn said the project had been put on pause until funding could be secured. [File Photo]A large programme to remove predators from the sub-Antarctic Auckland Islands has been halted until further funding can be secured. During a Southland Conservation Board meeting on Thursday, Maukahuka Pest Free Auckland Island project manager Stephen Horn​ said during Covid-19, the project was put on pause because it was unrealistic to start in the economic climate. READ MORE:* Predator eradication project on Stewart Island gets momentum boost* DOC start field trials for Auckland Islands pest eradication project* Rats and stoats to be banished from Waiheke Island by 2025Maukahuka Pest Free Auckland Islands initially received $2 million to complete a feasibility study in 2018. Beaven was also identifying work the Auckland Island team on other predator free projects.

Source: Stuff June 28, 2020 01:07 UTC