30 June 2023
The Bay of Islands is a pristine marine environment, and we are active in managing the potential threat of harmful marine pests establishing themselves in the area.
We were therefore concerned to learn of the highly contagious exotic Caulerpa marine pest being identified recently across more than 10 locations in the Bay of Islands.
What can you do as a boatie to help stop the spread?
- Check your gear – anchors and chains especially. If you see any seaweed on your equipment, chuck it straight back.
- Know where Caulerpa is
- Know the rules about anchoring and fishing in the area
- Report any suspected finds to Biosecurity New Zealand on 0800 809 966 or by completing the online reporting form at report.mpi.govt.nz .
We are backing calls by Biosecurity NZ for people to keep their boats and equipment clean as the best thing they can do to avoid spreading marine pests and diseases, including exotic Caulerpa. To manage this risk, the skipper of any vessel wanting to use any marina in New Zealand’s Far North has to prove before it arrives that the vessel is free of the pest. A vessel will either need to have been antifouled within the previous six months or to have had its hull completely power-washed within the previous month.
The Government’s first mainland exotic caulerpa anchoring ban, known as a controlled area notice (CAN), started from 11.59pm ON 12th June 2023. Fishing of all sorts, diving and kaimoana gathering are also banned.
