Final notice for illegal whitebait huts

Archived content: This media release was accurate on the date of publication. 

We are seeking information on the ownership of the remaining whitebait structures along the banks of the Waiau River in Southland.

Date:  05 May 2017

DOC's Murihiku Operations Manager Tony Preston said any structures, which include vehicles, caravans, trailers and huts must be removed by 20 May 2017.

Mr Preston said DOC put the call out to the public in June 2016 to remove structures near the river mouth and he was very pleased with the response so far.

"Most owners have been very helpful in removing their structures. However, there are still a number remaining which need to be removed as soon as possible or owners will be charged with the cost of removal."

Last year, there were up to 50 structures dotted along the river bank near Tuatapere located on conservation land, Mr Preston said.

DOC will now work with the local community, Land Information New Zealand and the Southland District Council to discuss removal options.

"Anyone with an interest in the remaining Waiau River mouth structures should contact DOC on 03 211 2400 or call in to the Murihiku office on the 7th floor 33 Don Street Invercargill."

Contact

David Miller
Biodiversity Ranger
Email: dmiller@doc.govt.nz
Phone: + 64 27 408 3407