Freshwater fish

Tuna are found in all sorts of habitats (places), including coastal estuaries, lakes, wetlands, rivers, mountain streams and even alpine tarns.

All species of freshwater tuna spawn at sea, although the spawning grounds of only four species are known with certainty worldwide.

More information about our online freshwater databases.

A list all of New Zealand's freshwater fish species.

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