Work is expected to be underway in October to rehome the estimated 100-200 chickens in Titirangi Village following the appointment of green asset management specialists Treescape to undertake the work.
It follows the decision to rehome the chickens by Waitākere Ranges Local Board, after an increase in the number of chickens roaming in the village, causing visible public health and safety issues and concerns raised by residents and businesses.
The process of rehoming the chickens is expected to take around four weeks, with a methodology designed to capture the birds humanely and with minimum disruption.
Unusual project
Sam Pohiva, Auckland Council Delivery Business Manager, says Treescape were appointed as they best demonstrated the required skillset and operational experience with animals to carry out the unusual project.
“Although this may sound like a straightforward process, there are a number of different variables that make this a complex operation”, he says.
“There would be very few organisations in New Zealand experienced in the particularly unique requirements of this job, but Treescape, who already manage ecological maintenance contracts for the council, demonstrated that they are the best equipped to carry this out.
“Three council-approved ecological maintenance contractors were contacted to provide quotes for the job. Of these, two submitted quotes and methodologies, and we chose the most robust methodology which coincidentally provided the lowest cost option.
Process
“It will involve the installation of coops for the chickens, a period of pre-feeding before their removal, and housing of the chickens at a different location once captured until re-homing is possible.
“Vets will check welfare and ensure the health of the chickens is not negatively impacted during this time.
“The council will also undertake a thorough process of contacting and vetting those that have already expressed an interest in housing chickens to ensure they would be housed in humane conditions that will comply with bylaws.”
Members of the public who wish to provide a new home for any of the chickens should contact the Auckland Council call centre on 09 301 0101 or email titirangichickens@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz .
