Media Statement for Immediate Release
As the hotter weather approaches, the Tūwharetoa Māori Trust Board (TMTB) encourages you to join us and our partners in safeguarding Lake Taupō and the Waikato Awa from biosecurity threats. With the Christmas and New Year holidays bringing an influx of boats into the district, boat ramps are set to be particularly busy as more people embrace the festive break on the water.
The rise in visitors increases the risk of introducing harmful pests, like freshwater gold clams, to our waterways. Given the nearby gold clam infestations in the Waikato Region, preventing their spread is crucial.
Jeremy Robb, an experienced kaimahi at TMTB, will be key to our efforts over the summer. Alongside rangers from DOC Taupō Fishery Management Team and with support from essential partners like the Ministry for Primary Industries, Waikato Regional and the Department of Conservation, Jeremy will be out and about engaging with our community at boat ramps and on the water, advocating for and monitoring biosecurity measures. He will work closely with locals to help them understand best practices for monitoring their equipment and adhering to necessary safety protocols.
“It’s essential that we as a community come together to keep our moana, awa, and whenua safe and enjoyable for everyone,” Rakeipoho Taiaroa, Chief Executive Officer of TMTB, stated. “Jeremy’s collaboration with our partners will ensure that essential biosecurity practices are effectively communicated.”
Boaters, please respect speed limits on the lake and, whenever possible, use locally sourced boats in the Waikato Awa to help prevent the transfer of invasive species like gold clam. Jeremy emphasises the importance of the ‘Check, Clean, Dry’ protocols from Biosecurity New Zealand, especially when moving between different waterways. If you use equipment from a different waterway, soak it in water heated to 55 degrees Celsius for at least five minutes to decontaminate it effectively.
While advocating the Check Clean Dry message, Tūwharetoa kaimahi (staff) will monitor commercial operators conducting business on Taupō Waters.
As you take in the beauty of Lake Taupō and Waikato Awa, please remember to follow the principle of leaving no trace. Packing out what you bring in, especially your rubbish, ensures a cleaner taiao (environment) and a healthier ecosystem.
We encourage everyone to enjoy summer together while being mindful of our shared biosecurity responsibilities. With your help, we can protect our whānau (family) and precious waterways for ourselves and future generations. Whakanuia te raumati—let’s celebrate summer!
For media inquiries and more information, please contact:
Kelly Te Heuheu
Communications Manager
Tūwharetoa Māori Trust Board
Email: kelly@tuwharetoa.co.nz
Phone: 021 028 40332