New Zealand begins process of cat extinction

Abandoned cats are already caught and killed in some areas, but listed predators are subjected to coordinated destruction, with extensive programs and research into extinction. More detailed plans will be published in March 2026.

Over 2.5 million cats roam the forests and islands of New Zealand. They can grow up to three feet [1 m] long, including their tail, and weigh up to seven pounds [7 kg]. Experts say they have eliminated local savage life.

To increase biodiversity, preserve natural heritage and create the kind of country we want to see, we need to get rid of some of these killer creatures”, Potaka said.

Cat involvement on the list of predators comes after years of campaigning. So far, such measures have been rejected by many members of the public. When environmentalist Gareth Morgan launched the “campaign Cats Must Go” in 2013 caused unrest. A competition that encouraged children to shoot cats was met with opposition from animal rights groups. The Conservation Department told Guardian that reactions to the draft strategy were overwhelming in favour of cat control, with 90 per cent supporting the best list or monitoring of cats.

House cats, which are not included in the strategy, are also considered a serious threat to biodiversity. Their impact has caused heated debate among the country's catlike public, which has one of the highest rates of domestic cats in the world and uneven property regulations.