This is some of what we do at the South Auckland Branch.
The Fish Passage
Forest & Bird South Auckland branch chair Dene Andre has created a fish ladder to help native fish overcome concrete barriers constructed to help stop flooding.
The Whangaparoa Peninsula is now home to the “biggest and best” fish passage in the country, Andre claims.
Fish often have to travel upstream or downstream for multiple reasons, whether it is to breed, forage for seasonal food or even just to cool off from hot temperatures. The creation of this ladder allows fish to carry out their “natural life cycle, and escape heat or pollution,” Andre says.
The Forest & Bird’s Hibiscus Coast branch initiated the ladder, which is made of a series of tiered pools. Andre worked alongside retired hydraulic engineer Nick Rogers and storm water engineer Chris Stone to create the fish passage.
This passage will allow redfin bullies, long and shortfin eels and banded kokopu to conquer the three-metre wall in Stanmore Stream.
