My first hide ever, so here goes. 

It's easy to get to with parking around, but do be resepectful that there may be a service on.

Make sure you place cache back the way it was found and be gentle. BYOP

It is NOT the green box!!!!

Gypsy Moth

Lymantria dispar

Legal Status: Notifiable Organism

Status in New Zealand: Eradicated

Organism: Insects, worms and other land invertebrates

This pest is NOT in New Zealand

Report any sightings to hotline, ph 0800 809 966

General information

The gypsy moth is a serious pest causing millions of dollars damage around the world every year

Large numbers of caterpillars infest trees, stripping them clear of leaves and exposing them to diseases. A major outbreak of the pest here could destroy gardens, crops, forests, native bush, and the communities that depend on them.

Egg masses were found on several vessels and shipping containers in the early 1990s. In response MAF studied the moth, planned for an outbreak, and established a network of traps around major ports and airports to act as an early warning system.

In March 2003 a live adult moth was caught in an early warning trap in Hamilton, a major entry point for international air freight. No more moths have since been caught, but experts believe it was unlikely to have been alone.

The excellent condition of the caught moth means it probably hatched in New Zealand. A typical gypsy moth egg mass contains between 500 and 1000 eggs.

In May 2005 MAF concluded an eradication programme to prevent an outbreak of the pest. The programme included aerial treatment, intensive pheromone trapping, and controlling the movement of vegetation out of Hamilton.

Eradication was officially announced on 26 May 2005, two generations after aerial treatment was completed.