Safe shellfish gathering
Every summer we test water quality at a number of spots around Northland that are popular for collecting shellfish (kai moana).
Guidelines for Recreational Shellfish Gathering Water Quality
Over a shellfish-gathering season, the guideline for recreational shellfish gathering water quality is:
- a median faecal coliform count not exceeding 14 per 100 ml ; and
- not more than 10% of samples exceeding 43 per 100 ml.
Non-compliance with either of these parameters indicates that the water is not suitable for the purpose of recreational shellfish gathering.
Results for summer 2007 / 2008
Of the 15 sites sampled during the 2007/2008 summer season:
- six sites exceeded the median faecal coliform limit of 14 per 100 ml
- 14 sites had more than 10% of samples that exceeded a faecal coliform count of 43 per 100ml.
The only site that had 100% compliance with the water quality guidelines for recreational shellfish gathering in the 2007-08 season was Tinopai, below creek.
Download a summary of the results (40 KB)
Check before you collect shellfish
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Shellfish gathering.
Some areas might look safe at first but may not be safe for collecting shellfish. The water could be contaminated by:
- sewage and domestic waste
- engine fuel, paints and chemicals
- agricultural waste and run-off
Avoid collect shellfish from areas where there are signs warning of contaminated shellfish. Look out for the following risk indicators:
- recent heavy rain causing farm run-off
- houses close to beach - they may have septic tank leaks
- rivers and streams that may be polluted by animal or industrial waste
- stock near the gathering area
- algal bloom in the water
- stormwater drain outlets on the beach
Keeping shellfish safe to eat
Always ensure your shellfish (kai moana) is safe to eat.
Always:
- collect from clean, safe areas
- check with locals if in doubt
- take your shellfish straight home and refigerate
Know your limit
There are limits to the amount of shellfish you are allowed to take. This is to ensure there is enough for everyone - today and for the future. Shellfish limits are managed by the Ministry of Fisheries.
For shellfish bag limits and size restrictions, contact the Ministry of Fisheries:
- phone 0800 4 RULES (0800 478 537)
- visit their website: www.fish.govt.nz
- report a poacher by phoning 0800 4 POACHER (0800 476 224)
Who to contact
For information about a specific area or a warning sign contact your local district council or the on-duty Health Protection Officer at Northland Health.
Far North District Council
Phone: 09 405 2750
Whangarei District Council
Phone: 09 430 4200
Kaipara District Council
Phone: 09 439 7059
Northland Health
Phone: 09 430 4100
For shellfish bag limits and size restrictions:
Ministry of Fisheries
Phone: 0800 4 RULES (0800 478 537)
For general information:
Northland Regional Council
Freephone: 0800 002 004