1. Department of Conservation (DOC) – The Ecological Impact

Focus: Why rabbits are a threat to our native plants and lizards.

• What to look for: The "Threats" section which explains how rabbits destroy the "Mauri" (life force) of the drylands.

• Links: DOC: Rabbits in New Zealand                       DOC: Rabbits and Hares 

2. Te Ara Encyclopedia – The "Plague" History

Focus: This page is perfect for finding those "shocking facts" about the 1800s. It contains archival photos of millions of rabbits and explains the disastrous "predator mistake" (introducing stoats).

• What to look for: The section on "The Great Rabbit Plague" and the historical photos of rabbit-proof fences.

• Link: Te Ara: The Rabbit Story

3. Environment Canterbury (ECan) – The "Problem Map"

Focus: This is the best source for current problem areas. Canterbury and Otago are the "hotspots."

• What to look for: The maps and the "Responsibility" sections. It explains why some areas are "Extensive" (huge numbers) and others are "Buffer zones."

• Link: ECan: Rabbits

4. Manaaki Whenua (Landcare Research) – The Virus "Arms Race"

Focus: High-level science explained simply. This shows how we use biology (viruses) to fight rabbits and why they keep becoming immune.

• What to look for: The "Rabbit Biocontrol" section which explains the illegal release of the virus in 1997.

• Link: Landcare Research: Biocontrol of Rabbits

5. Predator Free NZ – Quick Facts & Comparisons

Focus: Further facts comparing various pest animals in NZ.

• What to look for: The bullet points on breeding rates and the comparison of rabbits to other pests like possums.

• Link: Predator Free NZ: Rabbit Facts