KEEP FIORDLAND PEST-FREE

WITH ITS BREATHTAKING scenery and pristine waters, Fiordland is one of New Zealand’s most unique and nationally significant areas – ecologically and economically. One of the biggest risks to this area is the invasion of marine pests such as Undaria or Mediterranean Fanworm.

To prevent this is the Fiordland Marine Regional Pathway Management Plan which aims to greatly reduce the risk of marine pests being carried in on local and visiting vessels. It’s the first of its kind in New Zealand.

It’s been developed (and will be implemented) by a partnership group including Environment Southland, Fiordland Marine Guardians, Ministry for Primary Industries, Department of Conservation, and Ngai Tahu.

The plan sets out a number of rules and standards that must be met by all vessels entering within one nautical mile of the landward boundary of the Fiordland Marine Area and requires vessel operators to obtain a Fiordland Clean Vessel Pass.

Boats owners can apply for a Clean Vessel Pass online. It’s free and valid for 12 months. To apply, visit the Environment Southland website – www.es.govt.nz. Alternatively, you can email a completed application form (downloaded from the website) to service@es.govt.nz, or post a completed application form to Environment Southland, Private Bag 90116, Invercargill 9840. You can also call 0800 76 88 45 or email service@es.govt.nz to have a form posted out to you.