Boaties urged to help fight spread of marine pest

East Auckland’s boaties are being asked to do their bit to help stop the spread of a harmful and invasive marine pest.

Exotic caulerpa is the name for two fast-spreading seaweeds that have the potential to blanket the seafloor, potentially outcompeting native seaweeds and seagrass.

It’s been found in parts of the Hauraki Gulf, Bay of Islands, and Coromandel and can disrupt vital marine habitats for fish, shellfish, and other marine life, leading to a decline in biodiversity and threatening the recreational fishing and diving opportunities New Zealanders cherish.

The pest gets spread over long distances on vessels and equipment and has been found around the Hauraki Gulf in popular anchorage locations.

Auckland Council, Biosecurity New Zealand and iwi are calling on boaties to help stop its spread by checking and cleaning their gear before they move, every time.

Mayor Wayne Brown says he’ll be out on the water again this summer and remaining vigilant around caulerpa.

“It is good to see reminders going out to boaties. Now it’s up to us to make sure we help prevent the spread of this nasty weed and protect our treasured marine environments for everyone.”

Boaties, fishers, and beachgoers can help contain the spread of exotic caulerpa by:

• Avoid anchoring or disturbing the sea floor in infested areas.
• Always check and clean gear. Clean anchors, fishing gear, dive equipment, and any other gear when moving between regions.
• When at sea, check your anchor, chain and equipment for any attached seaweed.
• If you see any unfamiliar seaweed, including exotic caulerpa, take a photo, record the location, and report it to MPI on 0800 80 99 66.
• Respect Controlled Area Notices (CANs) and rāhui which are in place to protect vulnerable marine environments. As much as you can, avoid all locations where caulerpa has been found.

Throughout the summer, mainland champions and ambassadors will be stationed at places like boat ramps, marinas and out on the water to provide information and answer questions.