Check, Clean, Dry to protect our waterways

Protecting our biodiversity

Northland's lakes and rivers are home to many native birds, fish, invertebrates and a wide range of aquatic and wetland plants. They are also highly valued by the people of Northland and visitors as a place to swim, spend time with whānau, gather kai and have fun on the water.

Find out more about our biodiversity

Aquatic pests

Many of our native species are under threat or vulnerable due to freshwater pests such as catfish, hornwort or oxygen weed. These pests can also prevent us from accessing and enjoying our waters.

Find out more about aquatic pests

Check, Clean, Dry method

Freshwater pests are already established in some of Northland’s lakes, rivers and streams and so the key is to prevent the spread.

If you visit our lakes or rivers, you can help to reduce the spread of freshwater pests by using the 'Check, Clean, Dry' (CCD) method:

  • CHECK equipment and remove any fragments
  • CLEAN all equipment that had been in contact with the water
  • DRY equipment thoroughly and then wait for at least 48 hours