Check, Clean, Dry all gear to prevent the spread
Didymo is found in Lake Te Anau, Lake Manapouri and other lakes and rivers. Therefore it is important to Check, Clean, Dry all gear before leaving the lake edge and moving into lake tributaries or when moving between waterways.
Check, Clean, Dry prevents the spread of all freshwater pests, not just didymo.
Anglers – special conditions
Anyone wanting to fish on most of Fiordland’s rivers and lakes must obtain a Clean Gear Certificate for all gear at an approved cleaning station, within 48 hours prior to fishing. Specific areas are excluded from these restrictions and conditions – see map in the brochure link below.
These fishing controls require you to have in your possession:
- a current Sports Fishing Licence
- a valid Clean Gear Certificate
- an approved didymo cleaning kit. The cleaning kit must include; a bucket or large strong plastic bag, scrubbing brush, spray bottle, cleaning solution and a measuring cup. Use it to clean all equipment when moving between waterways within these areas
- the Clinton and Worsley rivers and Ettrick Burn also require applying for a ballot through the online form from Fish & Game.
Note: felt-soled waders are not permitted in lakes and rivers.
Boat users – special conditions
Fiordland is well known for its packrafting opportunities. But this comes with an increased risk of spreading didymo to remote Fiordland waterways.
Popular routes such as the Hollyford-Pyke, and the Kaipo River Route are particularly risky for spread. Didymo is in the Hollyford River, and has recently been detected in the Kaipo River. Check, Clean, and Dry your packrafting gear before and after trips in these areas.
Watercraft operating on large eastern Fiordland lakes are encouraged not to enter tributary rivers, as these lakes are didymo-infected. Movement may spread didymo upstream into these pristine rivers.
Pack rafters are encouraged to carry their own Check, Clean, Dry gear.
Cleaning stations for boat users
Cleaning stations are available throughout the National Park. There are many off the Milford Road (Dore Pass Route) and at other high use areas (Lake Hauroko, Sandfly Point).
For a complete list of cleaning stations and further assistance, contact the Te Anau Office.
Permits for kayakers and packrafters
All water craft are prohibited from entering the Clinton River. A permit a permit control system and Clean Gear Certificate is in place for kayakers and packrafters to use non-motorised watercraft on the Arthur River between Sandfly Point and Lake Ada.
To get a permit contact the Fiordland National Park Visitor Centre in Te Anau during opening hours.
Trampers and hunters – special conditions
To prevent the spread of didymo, Milford Track walkers need to bring dry clothing and boots. If boots and socks are damp, they will need to be disinfected before leaving for the track. There is also a cleaning station provided at Glade clearing.
It is up to each person to take personal responsibility for limiting the spread of didymo. While cleaning gear is provided at some huts you are encouraged to carry your own supplies. The message is Check, Clean, Dry your gear before heading into Fiordland.
Disinfecting your gear
If your gear has been thoroughly dry to touch for at least 48 hours before your trip, you are didymo-free. If your gear is wet or damp from contact with any river or lake, you will need to disinfect your equipment, including socks and boots. Felt-soled waders are not permitted in lakes and rivers.
Treat all items with an approved cleaning method. For details, see the Ministry for Primary Industries’ Check, Clean, Dry page.
Restrictions on fishing in Fiordland National Park
There are restrictions and conditions on sports fishing in certain rivers and lakes of Fiordland National Park due to the threat of didymo.
Download this information in a brochure
Freshwater pest controls for Fiordland National Park and map (PDF, 516K)
Related links
- Didymo - how to Check, Clean, Dry on MPI website
- Fish and Game New Zealand