DOC and Southland Fish & Game have confirmed didymo in Kaipo River in northwest Fiordland. If your trip involves rivers, lakes, packrafting, tramping, hunting or fishing, treat gear cleaning as part of the journey between waterways.
Key facts
- Fact 01
Didymo has been confirmed in Kaipo River, northwest Fiordland.
- Fact 02
The source says most Fiordland rivers and tributaries still remain free of didymo.
- Fact 03
DOC names packrafters, trampers, hunters and anglers among waterway users who should Check, Clean and Dry gear.
- Fact 04
Dry gear should be left for two days after it is dry to the touch before entering another waterway.
DOC and Southland Fish & Game have confirmed didymo in Kaipo River in northwest Fiordland, so visitors using Fiordland waterways should Check, Clean and Dry gear before entering the area and when moving between catchments.
What has been found
The announcement says a recent DOC survey confirmed freshwater pest algae didymo in Kaipo River. The river is described as a previously notable site for freshwater biodiversity and recreation, and the agencies say most Fiordland rivers and tributaries still remain free of didymo.
This is a biosecurity warning, not a closure notice. The source does not announce a track closure, river ban, guided-trip cancellation, transport change or new visitor timetable.
What waterway users should do
The practical advice is to build cleaning time into any Fiordland itinerary that touches rivers, lakes or streams. DOC's message applies to watercraft, fishing gear and absorbent materials, and specifically names packrafters, trampers, hunters and anglers among users who need to act.
Check gear before leaving a waterway by removing weed, mud or pests and draining water. Clean equipment with tap water, and treat absorbent gear with an approved treatment. Once gear is dry to the touch, the advice is to leave it drying for two days before entering another waterway.
Questions visitors are asking
Does this mean Kaipo River or nearby Fiordland waterways are closed?
The supplied announcement does not report a closure. It is a biosecurity warning and gear-cleaning reminder following a confirmed didymo find.
What should I do if my trip moves between Fiordland waterways?
Treat Check, Clean and Dry as part of the plan: remove material and drain water, clean gear, and dry it before using it in another lake, river or stream.