Vertebrate Toxic Agents

VTAs can harm humans and the environment if not used correctly. You need to follow the rules for handling, using and storing them to protect yourself, other people, and the environment.

This page contains information to assist pest controllers on managing these hazardous chemicals. It provides a series of links to information and guidance material on the following topics:

Emergency Response Template

Where large amounts of Vertebrate toxic agents and other hazardous products are stored, an emergency response plan is necessary. A template for preparing a response plan is available.

Controlled Substances Licensing

Under the Hazardous Substances and New Organisms (HSNO) Act, certain substances can only be used by people who have a Controlled Substances licence. This licence ensures that high risk substances are only possessed by fit and proper persons, much like a firearms licence does. Controlled Substances licences are issued by Test Certifiers who can also issue Approved Handlers Certificates.

Permissions Required

If you are undertaking pest control operations that require the use of certain vertebrate toxic agents (VTAs), you may need a permission from the Department of Conservation (DOC) and/or the Public Health Unit (PHU) of the local District Health Board. Further information is available here.

HSNO Legislation

The HSNO Act and its regulations are available at the Government Legislation Website.

Hazardous Substances Register

HSNO requirements for VTAs are summarised on the ERMA New Zealand Hazardous Substances Register.

You can search this register using the Trade Name of the product (e.g. No Possums). Enter the Trade Name in the "Alternative Name" field of the search engine and press "Search".

Contact ERMA New Zealand

Information on HSNO compliance is also available from ERMA New Zealand. Contact our Hazardous Substances Compliance Line:

Phone: 0800 376 234, or
Email: hsinfo@ermanz.govt.nz

Or contact us at:

ERMA New Zealand
PO Box 131
Wellington