Freshwater fish

Has a receding lower jaw and black spots behind the head.

Smelt have a distinctly forked tail and a strong cucumber smell.

NIWA is leading a new six-year research project that seeks to increase our understanding of piharau/kanakana/lamprey, using Mātauranga Māori, social science and biophysical science approaches.

Our biosecurity management tools include: assessment models, field surveys, management advice and the testing of control methods.

This is a user guide on non-native fish, reptile, invertebrate, algal and plant species that are recorded in New Zealand freshwaters.

Identifying the factors causing fish numbers to drop will allow you to determine which restoration tools you need to employ.

The giant kōkopu is a native whitebait species considered rare and vulnerable. NIWA is working with Mahurangi Technical Institute and environmental consultancy Boffa Miskell to test the feasibility of reintroducing giant kōkopu to Nukumea Stream, north of Auckland.

The kōaro was once abundant in the Te Arawa lakes near Rotorua in New Zealand’s North Island. NIWA has assessed the viability of restoring this species in the region.

Giant kokopu

Common bully

Torrentfish