The ever-expanding aerial attack against a moth pest began on schedule yesterday with about two-thirds of the spray zone covered.
The triple-aircraft attack on the painted apple moth began about 5.30am but high winds meant it was called off at 11.15am.
The spraying will restart at the same time today.
About4000 residents in Westmere, Pt Chevalier, Herne Bay and western-most parts of Ponsonby and Grey Lynn experienced spray drift from the Btk insecticide for the first time.
The Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry also targeted a "hot spot" infestation around Meola Creek and doused Auckland Zoo.
This is the third round of spraying in the Government's $90 million campaign against the Australian pest. More spraying is scheduled on December 18.
The ministry has declared Christmas Day, Boxing Day and December 27 spray-free days - even if the weather forces the fourth round of spraying to run over schedule.
Yesterday's three-pronged operation, using a Fokker Friendship aircraft, a light aircraft and a twin-engined helicopter, was suspended at scheduled times to cater for children going to and from school and having lunch.
Most West Auckland schools gave pupils the option of staying indoors for at least two hours after spraying finished.
The last-ditch attempts to wipe out the moth were approved by the Government after the ministry's earlier, smaller, aerial campaign failed to halt the spread of the pest.
The spray zone is now 8500ha, affecting about 40,400 households - but it may be enlarged.
The ministry has agreement from the Government to spray up to 12,000ha.
Some residents are strongly opposed to the spraying, and the programme will be reviewed early next year.
Before the spraying runs, the department moves about 1000 residents.
Some people say the spray has caused respiratory problems, rashes and headaches.
* The painted apple moth is a native of Australia but natural predators there mean it is not regarded as a serious pest. It is seen as a threat to forestry and horticulture, although the ministry's estimate of the potential economic damage varies from $50 million to $350 million.
