Due to suitable weather, the first helicopter winch operation will commence on Monday, 20 November, with the helicopter planned to arrive on the Island on Sunday, 19 November. Operations are expected to run for at least two weeks, but this may extend depending on weather.

The first stage of operations will involve helicopter winch access of field teams in the Southern Mountains.

The second stage of operations will involve sling loading of track maintenance gear between Goat House, Mutton Bird Point, Max Nicholls and the Aerodrome. There will be additional communications regarding planned track closures and traffic management during these operations. Sling loading should one take 1-2 days and will be scheduled towards the end of the operational period. 

Find out more about how the helicopters will be used to undertake priority Weed Eradication Work.