The feral animals have become something of mascot for Greymouth and any mention of goat control raises hackles.
The herd associated with Kells Hotel was moved to Waipuna earlier this year, but a burgeoning population remains at both ends of the Cobden bridge.
Authorities said controlling numbers would require a multi-agency approach, as goats came from Department of Conservation (Doc) land and also strayed on to state highways controlled by Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency.
Grey District Council regulatory manager Michael McEnaney said the council had recorded seven complaints from May 2023 to now, including three near misses and two of damage to gardens.
Council staff had also spoken to residents who might have been encouraging the feral goats on to private property.
Mr McEnaney said the council recognised the frustration of some residents .
‘‘We are looking to engage with other agencies that should rightfully be involved in mitigating any issues with the animals.’’
The provenance of the goats generated discussion at a recent council meeting.
Cr Allan Gibson said they were ‘‘a tourist attraction’’.
Cr Rex MacDonald said someone had approached the council with the idea to move the goats, but mayor Tania Gibson said the idea was considered ‘‘cost-prohibitive’’, although a local farmer believed they could help.
The underlying issue was whose responsibility the goats were and how much control would cost, she said.
‘‘Is it Doc’s land, is it Mawhera’s land or our land, or NZTA ... It is still a cost and of high public interest because people do love them, and as a safety issue they’re there and then they are not — it’s awkward.’’
— Greymouth Star
