With the boating season well underway, we’re reminding boaties across our marinas of the important role we all play in protecting the Waitematā Harbour and its marine environment.
Marine pests are unwanted hitchhikers that can attach themselves to hulls, propellers, anchors, ropes, and other equipment. Once introduced, they can spread quickly between harbours and marinas, threatening native marine life, water quality, and the health of our coastal ecosystems.
Whether you’re heading out for a short sail or planning a longer trip, taking a few minutes to check, clean and dry your vessel and gear helps prevent the spread of invasive species. These simple actions support the long-term sustainability of our marinas and the waterways we all share.
A valuable resource for boaties is the Marine Biosecurity Porthole website, which provides practical guidance on identifying marine pests and easy steps to take before and after being on the water.
By making biosecurity part of your routine, you’re helping protect the Waitematā and beyond for current and future generations.
Before you head out – three things to check:
- Hull and fittings: Check for marine growth around the waterline, propeller, rudder and intakes
- Gear and equipment: Inspect anchors, chains, ropes, fenders and fishing gear for attached organisms
- Bilges and wet areas: Ensure bilges, lockers and other wet spaces are clean and free of plant material
Remember: check ✅ clean ✅ dry ✅ every trip to help protect our harbour.