Hopeful whitebaiters are lining Murihiku Southland's riverbanks with their nets at the ready as the much-anticipated whitebait season begins. While locals chase one of the region's prized delicacies, the team at Environment Southland will also be out on the water next week ensuring whitebait stands are compliant and ready for the season ahead.
Environment Southland's compliance team will be carrying out monitoring and education visits from 7 to 11 September, weather permitting, across the Waikawa, Mataura, Titiroa, Pourakino and Aparima rivers.
Environment Southland Compliance Manager Donna Ferguson said, "Now is a great time to check that your stand is in good repair, clearly identified and meets consent requirements before the season gets into full swing.”
Environment Southland manages permits for whitebait stands on riverbanks. The council is also responsible for protecting and maintaining waterways that support the various life stages of whitebait.
Resource consents help ensure whitebait stands are well-maintained, structurally sound and securely anchored, minimising disturbance to riverbeds and reducing risks associated with river flows, coastal processes and navigation safety.
"Our role is to help stand owners have a successful season while protecting the rivers that support Southland's whitebait fishery,” Donna Ferguson said.
"Whitebaiting is an important Southland tradition, and by working together we can help ensure our rivers remain healthy and productive for many seasons to come."
Environment Southland Deputy Harbourmaster Conrad Adams said anyone spending time around Southland's rivers should have safety front of mind.
“With stands, nets, boats and people all sharing the same areas, we’re asking everyone to look after themselves and each other, and show a bit of patience and courtesy.
“Whitebaiting often takes place in dynamic river environments where conditions can change quickly, so stay alert to weather forecasts and river levels. Anyone heading out in a vessel six metres or less must wear a properly fitted lifejacket at all times, and should carry at least two reliable forms of communication, kept waterproof and within easy reach.”
For more information, visit es.govt.nz, call 0800 76 88 45, or email escompliance@es.govt.nz.
