Feral cats and Predator Free 2050

The story so far
The cats will join other predators on the list, including rats, possums and mustelids.20 Nov 2025 The Minister described feral cats as killers, and a campaigner welcomed the decision.21 Nov 2025 Nelson and Tasman had already introduced feral cat rules, including microchipping and registration, which align with the government's decision.9 Dec 2025
Latest
On 9 December 2025, a report said Nelson and Tasman's existing cat control rules align with the government's change.9 Dec 2025
Key moments
- Minister announces feral cats will join Predator Free 2050 eradication list.

- Minister calls cats killers; campaigner welcomes the decision.
- Nelson and Tasman's existing microchipping and registration rules align with government policy.

Written from the stories below; each sentence links to its sources.
Key people and organisations
Christopher Luxon Prime Minister, National leader
Tama Potaka Associate Housing Minister
Coverage
RNZ3
NZ Herald2
Waikato Times1
1News1
Otago Daily Times1
The Press1