Didymo

Meridian Energy has been regularly monitoring and studying the Waiau arm and entrance to Lake Manapouri for didymo.  As New Zealanders we want to ensure that our country's resources are used as effectively and responsibly as possible for the benefit of the environment and all New Zealanders.

Didymo is an invasive species of algae found in waterways; its thick blooms can affect freshwater fish, plant and invertebrate species by reducing the amount of suitable habitat.

Since being found Didymo has been declared an unwanted organism under the Biosecurity Act 1993. It is an offence to knowingly spread an unwanted organism. Didymo is most likely to be spread by humans moving items between waterways. To ensure you don't spread didymo, wherever possible restrict equipment, boats, clothing and other items for exclusive use in one waterway.

For more information about Didymo and how to prevent its spread visit the Biosecurity website.