13,000 salmon die

At least 13,000 salmon died on Saturday night after their water supply was shut off by intruders on a salmon farm. Haast police say the offenders shut off the salmon rearing tanks at the Paringa Salmon Farm Cafe in South Westland, causing the fish to suffocate due to lack of oxygen. Senior Constable Paul Gurney said it had caused thousands of dollars of loss for the business. A vehicle parked several kilometres up the state highway was also tampered with. Anyone who saw anything suspicious in the area that night is asked to contact Haast police or email Paul.Gurney@police.govt.nz. Information can also be provided anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.