Auckland flats living with rats

After temperature drops around the country, Auckland is seeing an influx of mice and rats.

Rodent numbers are spiking after New Zealand’s long hot summer, creating optimal breeding conditions.

Cooler temperatures are luring mice and rats towards houses for warmth.

Doug Morris, operation director at Direct Pest Control, says: “With a longer summer, [rodent] breeding season extends and there’s more food out there.”

AUT student Molly Kirkbride says her flat in Mt Eden had a problem with rats.

“Our dishwasher hose got chewed and had to be replaced.

“For about a week we noticed scampering under the house. We put out rat poison and haven’t had any trouble since.”

Jessica Jary, a recent graduate flatting around the Ponsonby area, says mice have hit her flat hard and fast.

“My flatmate noticed a mouse in the pantry.

“Since then we have had them in our rooms and around the house, even climbing on and in our beds.”

Ms Jary says her flat is surrounded by thick gardens and bush which could be a contributing factor to the infestation.

Direct Pest Control’s Mr Morris says clearing up the garden would help in preventing a rodent horde.

“Don’t leave any rat or mouse habitat around. That could mean getting rid of a lot of undergrowth.”

He says spreading peanut butter on bait is the most effective way of getting rid of unwanted house guests.

Students are advised to keep their flats clean and talk to landlords about ways to prevent possible infestation. They are also advised to cut trees back from gutters to stop rodents getting into ceiling and walls.