Stop the spread of freshwater pests
Some introduced freshwater plants and animals compete with, attack or smother our native freshwater species.
These introduced species are regarded as freshwater pests and cause enormous damage to our unique freshwater habitats and diminish our recreational opportunities.
Once freshwater pests become established, they are difficult and costly to control. If we can prevent them getting into our waterways in the first place we have a better chance at stopping their spread.
Clean, Check, Dry to help prevent the
spread of didymo and other freshwater
pests
How you can help stop the spread
Protect our waters from freshwater pests
Check, Clean and Dry all boats and recreational equipment between waterways.
Freshwater pests (including waterweeds, pest fish, the eggs and fry of pest fish, and the invasive alga didymo) can 'hitch a lift' on boating and recreational equipment and start new pest infestations. Checking, Cleaning and Drying boats, trailers, jet units and fishing equipment helps to prevent the spread of freshwater pests between waterways.
Protect our waters from freshwater pests
Do not move plants and fish between waterways
The best way to prevent the spread of pest fish and waterweeds is to not move them between waterways. If you do want to move them between waterways, permits are required.
DOC does not require permits for possession or transfer of native freshwater species if your pond or aquarium is indoors, undercover or prevented from overflowing into natural waterways. Source your water plants and fish from reputable pet shops and garden centres.
If you want to move any freshwater plants or animals between waterways, please contact your local DOC office for more information. Depending on the species and activity you want to undertake, you may need permits from one or more of the following agencies; Department of Conservation, Ministry of Fisheries, Fish and Game New Zealand, MAF Biosecurity New Zealand. There are fines if you do not have the right permits.
Protect our waters from freshwater pests
Do not release plants and fish into waterways
Dispose of aquarium contents appropriately. Compost waterweed and return fish to pet shops for re-homing.
Current concerns
Freshwater pests have dramatically expanded their range in recent years. Of particular concern has been the discovery of the waterweed hornwort, and the pest fish species koi carp and Gambusia in the South Island for the first time. The Department of Conservation have been involved in eradication programmes to remove these species to prevent them becoming established in the South Island.
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