Environmental care: Te Rāhui’s marine biosecurity practices

As a brand-new development, Te Rāhui Herenga Waka has an opportunity to achieve environmental excellence to a standard that few other marinas in New Zealand – and even in the world - can enjoy.

One area where it can optimise practice is in biosecurity. In marine terms, that means protecting our awa and coastlines from marine pests that can hitch-hike on biofouling.

The lower Whakatāne Awa area is already a popular destination for both commercial and recreational boats. But there is little protection from aquatic biosecurity risks relating to activities at vessels in the mooring area and on the hardstand at the main boat ramp.

 Once Te Rāhui is operational, it will have an important role to play in protecting the local area from the introduction of aquatic invasive species. It will provide a place where boat operators can safely clean and maintain their boats on the new dedicated hardstand and washdown area, and will play a guardian role in ensuring that vessels entering and leaving the region are free from marine pests. Even the types and layout of structures will be chosen to encourage native species to colonise the harbour, while discouraging invasive species, based on emerging new research about sustainable ways to ensure balanced ecosystems.

Even during construction all equipment entering the site, including work barges and vessels, will be examined and cleared by a biosecurity inspector.

Have you checked our FAQ page lately?

From dredging to navigating the bar, the stages of the project build, and the meaning of the name, Te Rāhui. Our FAQ page includes responses to many of the questions that we have been asked in the last months. Visit www.terahui.nz/faqs