Ban on anchoring at Hauturu Little Barrier Island
New biosecurity rules are in place at Hauturu o Toi Little Barrier Island, making it illegal to anchor anywhere around the island without a permit from Biosecurity New Zealand. So far, 17 small areas of exotic caulerpaotice issued today and are in response to the discovery of exotic caulerpa in a number of small patches on the island’s north and east coasts.
As well as the anchoring ban, the CAN prohibits any form of fishing in the Controlled Area that contacts the seabed such as netting, dredging, bottom trawling or lobster potting. Drift fishing, spear fishing and hand gathering are still allowed.
Equipment used within the CAN area – for example, fishing/diving gear, needs to be inspected before leaving the area and any seaweed found on the equipment must be removed, stored securely and disposed of on shore.
The CAN is to help prevent spread of the pest around the island or further afield.
We know that exotic caulerpa can be inadvertently relocated when small pieces are caught on anchors, anchor chains, and fishing/dive equipment. Stopping anchoring and seabed-contact fishing activities around the whole coastline will greatly reduce this risk.
Ngāti Manuhiri has placed a rāhui over the same area with the same restrictions.
Protecting Hauturu is important as it is a significant environmental area. It is New Zealand’s first ever nature reserve and one of the most significant conservation areas in the world.
Since the discovery of caulerpa there in early May, Biosecurity New Zealand has worked closely with Ngāti Manuhiri, Auckland Council, the Department of Conservation, Auckland University and Revive our Gulf on operations in response to the finds.
Work has involved surveillance for the pest seaweed and rapid treatment using chlorine pellets under benthic (seafloor) mats. So far, 17 small areas of exotic caulerpa have been treated.
Full information about the Hauturu Little Barrier Island CAN, including a map.