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Wolf Safety

Normally wolves are secretive and will run away when they encounter people, but they can become habituated and may approach camping areas and hikers.

Avoiding Encounters with Wolves

It is extremely important to discourage wolves from approaching.

  • Do not allow children to play away from camp. Keep them close to adults at all times. Keep pets leashed and under control. Better still, don't bring them at all. 
  • Keep a clean and orderly camp. Cook and store food away from sleeping areas. Suspend food, toiletries, garbage and other loose objects on a rope between trees, or in secured kayak hatches, out of reach of wildlife. Wolves have been reported removing personal and other non-food items from campsites.
  • Do not bury garbage. If you pack it in - pack it out!
  • Wash dishes in a container and dispose of grey water at sea. 
  • Use areas below high tide mark, away from camp, in an area of high tidal exchange for toilets - do not use the upland areas, wolves will feed on human excrement. 
  • Remember, you are a guest in this environment. This is home to the animals that live here. 

What to do if a wolf approaches

If a wolf appears and acts unafraid or aggressive, take the following action as soon as you notice the animal: 

  • Do not allow the wolf to approach any closer than 100 metres.
  • Raise your arms and wave them in the air to make yourself appear larger. 
  • When in a group, act in unison to send a clear message to the wolves they are not welcome. 
  • Back away slowly, do not turn your back on the wolf. 
  • Make noise, throw sticks, rocks and sand at the wolf. 

If you encounter a wolf, or any animal that is displaying habituated behaviour (not afraid of people) please report sighting and details to Parks staff.

Under the Park, Conservancy and Recreation Area Regulation and the Wildlife Amendment Act, it is an offence to feed wildlife. Persons observed feeding wildlife will be charged.