5 February 2026
Council is reminding anyone moving between different rivers and lakes to Check, Clean, Dry their gear to help prevent the spread of freshwater pests, as freshwater use increases over summer. This is especially important if you’re entering Tairāwhiti from another region.
Freshwater pests can be unknowingly transported on boats, fishing gear, clothing and equipment and even small amounts of water or plant material can spread pests into waterways.
Team Leader Biosecurity Phillip Karaitiana says prevention is critical.
“All it takes is a tiny fragment of aquatic weed or a single organism hitching a ride to spread freshwater pests,” Mr Karaitiana says.
“Once pests establish, they are extremely difficult and costly to remove - if removal is even possible at all.”
In Tairāwhiti, Council’s current freshwater biosecurity priorities include the invasive freshwater clam, Hornwort and Lagarosiphon.
Mr Karaitiana says there’s more chance of infestations in summer when more people are active in waterways but the message applies well beyond the warmer months.
“We see more movement between rivers and lakes over summer, which is why this reminder is timely.”
“This isn’t just a seasonal message - the risk is there any time people move between waterways, which is why Check, Clean, Dry should be routine all year.”
Council is asking freshwater users to follow three simple steps every time they move between rivers or lakes:
Check - for what’s visible
- Before leaving a river or lake, check all gear, boats, trailers and equipment for plant matter, mud or visible clams. Remove anything you find and leave it at the river or lake bank or put it in the rubbish. Drain all river or lake water from boats and gear.
Clean – for what’s not visible
- Wash down gear and watercrafts with tap water onto grass - not into drains or stormwater systems. For absorbent items such as clothing, life jackets, waders or nets, use an approved treatment such as hot water, a bleach solution, freezing, or a salt solution.
Dry - to be sure
- Allow gear to dry to the touch, inside and out, then leave it to dry for at least 48 hours before using it again. For boats and other watercrafts, dry any pooled water inside and leave the craft to dry for at least 48 hours.
Mr Karaitiana says these simple steps help protect waterways.
“In Tairāwhiti we treasure our waterways and want to protect them for current and future generations. Check, Clean, Dry is one of the easiest and most effective ways people can help do that.
If you suspect you’ve sighted any freshwater pests, contact Council’s biosecurity team or the Biosecurity New Zealand’s hotline 0800 80 99 66.
For more information visit Check Clean Dry.