Boaties heading to one of Northland’s most treasured freshwater destinations will face new biosecurity requirements from Friday, October 23, with an automated gate installed at Lake Taharoa to help prevent invasive freshwater pests from entering the iconic Kai Iwi Lakes.
The Northland Regional Council has funded the installation of the approximately $53,000 gate at the Lake Taharoa boat ramp, introducing a self-certification system designed to protect the lake’s water quality, native biodiversity and recreational value.
Public access to Lake Taharoa remains open, but boaties wanting to launch or retrieve vessels will now need to complete an online biosecurity declaration and obtain a PIN to operate the gate.
The council recommends completing the process at least 48 hours before travelling to the lake.
How the New System Works
From Friday, October 23, anyone planning to launch a boat at Lake Taharoa must complete the self-certification process online.
The process reinforces the importance of ensuring vessels and equipment are free from freshwater pests before entering the lake.
Once completed, boaties will receive a PIN allowing them to open the automated gate when launching and retrieving their vessels.
The self-certification process is available at:
The new requirements are intended to maintain recreational access while reducing the risk of invasive species being transported between waterways.
Keeping the Invasive Freshwater Clam Out of Northland
A major concern is the invasive freshwater clam, which has not yet been detected in Te Tai Tokerau.
The pest can spread through contaminated boats, trailers and equipment, creating serious risks for freshwater ecosystems.
Once established, invasive clams can be extremely difficult to control or eradicate.
They can affect native biodiversity, alter freshwater habitats and create problems for water infrastructure.
Northland Regional Council’s Kaipara constituency representative, John Blackwell, says preventing the pest from entering the region is far more effective and affordable than attempting to manage it after an infestation occurs.
The threat extends beyond recreational lakes.
Invasive clams can also block farm water lines, ballcocks and water reticulation systems, potentially creating significant costs for agricultural businesses.
Protecting a Taonga for Future Generations
Lake Taharoa is part of the Kai Iwi Lakes group, an important natural and recreational taonga in Kaipara.
The lake is valued for its freshwater environment, biodiversity, cultural significance and recreational opportunities.
The new gate has been developed through cooperation between Northland Regional Council, Kaipara District Council, Te Roroa, Te Kuihi hapū, the Department of Conservation and the Taharoa Domain Working Group.
The partnership reflects the importance of protecting the lake through shared environmental responsibility and local involvement.
For tangata whenua, protecting freshwater environments is closely connected to kaitiakitanga and ensuring natural taonga remain healthy for future generations.
Check, Clean, Dry Before You Launch
The new system reinforces the national Check, Clean, Dry approach to preventing the spread of freshwater pests.
Lake users are being encouraged to check boats and equipment for unwanted organisms, clean them appropriately and ensure they are dry before moving between waterways.
The council says the gate is designed to strike a balance between maintaining public access and strengthening environmental protection.
The installation cost and ongoing operational expenses are being funded by Northland Regional Council.
Boaties planning a visit to Lake Taharoa from October 23 should complete their self-certification before travelling to avoid delays at the ramp.
The message is straightforward: enjoy the lake, but make sure your boat and equipment are clean so invasive pests do not threaten one of Northland’s most treasured freshwater environments.
For self-certification and gate access, visit:
https://www.nrc.govt.nz/selfcertify
For information about the invasive freshwater clam and its risks, visit:
https://www.nrc.govt.nz/invasiveclam
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