Latest news with #Fish&Game
Otago Daily Times
04-07-2025
- Science
- Otago Daily Times
Critically endangered fish found in two new sites, returns to another after years
A tiny native fish with a big conservation story has resurfaced in the streams of Central Otago. The Clutha flathead galaxias, a critically endangered species found nowhere else in the world, has been discovered in three separate locations in the Cardrona Valley, two new sites and one where the species had not been seen in more than 20 years. The discovery was made during an extensive field survey led by University of Otago postgraduate researcher Isaac Davies, supported by the inaugural Donald Scott Memorial Scholarship in Freshwater Ecology. Mr Davies and his research team surveyed 30 streams across the Cardrona Valley, ultimately detecting the elusive galaxias in small, trout-free headwaters protected by natural barriers. These findings underscore the importance of such barriers in shielding vulnerable native species from introduced predators such as brown and rainbow trout. Mr Davies said the Cardrona remained a valued sports fishery, "but this project demonstrates there's also room to recognise and protect the special native species that are still holding on in some of the valley's more remote corners". The Clutha flathead galaxias may be small, seldom exceeding 10cm, but its presence is a critical indicator of freshwater ecosystem health. With trout known to prey on or outcompete native species, the galaxias' survival often depends on remaining in isolated habitats above natural fish barriers. The project was made possible through a generous donation by Patricia Scott, who established the scholarship in memory of her late husband, Donald Scott, a long-serving Fish & Game councillor and passionate advocate for freshwater conservation. "The outstanding work in the discovery of these new populations of rare galaxiids by the first scholar of the Donald Scott Memorial Scholarship proves the worth of Fish & Game's ongoing commitment to scientific research and to being kaitiaki of the taiao," Mrs Scott said. Otago Fish & Game chief executive Ian Hadland welcomed the findings, noting they aligned with the organisation's approach to balancing the needs of both native species and the region's popular trout fisheries. "We're committed to supporting resilient ecosystems that support both native fish and a world-class sports fishery. "This work, guided by our Regional Species Management and Interaction Policy, shows the value of partnerships in getting there." In addition to mapping galaxias populations, Mr Davies' research is shedding new light on the species' life history — including spawning age, egg size and the downstream drift of larvae — which will help guide future conservation efforts and fishery management strategies. University of Otago' department of zoology professor Gerry Closs said the support from the scholarship and partner organisations made a tangible difference. "Supporting students enables these critical discoveries to be made." The research also identified priority sites for future environmental DNA (eDNA) sampling, which will help provide a clearer picture of where native fish populations persist and how best to protect them. Key findings — Three Clutha flathead galaxias populations found — two new, one rediscovered — All located in trout-free headwaters protected by natural barriers — 30 streams surveyed across Cardrona Valley — Additional species recorded: brown and rainbow trout, kōaro, upland bullies, longfin eels — Research to inform future native and sports fish co-management — APL
Scoop
01-07-2025
- Politics
- Scoop
Five Farmer Advocates Recognised For Outstanding Service
Five grassroots champions for Kiwi farmers have been recognised for their massive contributions to agriculture, winning awards at the Federated Farmers national AGM last week. Each year, the organisation's national awards celebrate farmers who have gone above and beyond for their fellow farmers, rural communities, and the wider agricultural sector. Outgoing Federated Farmers board member Richard McIntyre was presented with the award for Outstanding Contribution - a fitting conclusion to his three-year term as national dairy chair. "Richard has been an absolute titan of farmer advocacy and rural New Zealand is in a better place because of his work," Federated Farmers president Wayne Langford says. "He's relentlessly stood up for our members when it counted, pushing hard for a banking inquiry, better immigration settings, and KiwiSaver changes for young farmers. "I don't think there would have been a single week where we didn't see him in the media, fighting hard to change the political landscape for farming families. "There's no fight he hasn't been willing to take on, his work rate has been phenomenal, and most importantly for our members, he's delivered tangible results." The Advocate of the Year award went to Southland Federated Farmers president Jason Herrick, who has been a standout communicator on behalf of farmers. "When it comes to emerging farming leaders, Jason Herrick is without a doubt one to watch. He's got a huge contribution to make and a big future ahead of him," Langford says. "Whether it's calling out Fish & Game's antics or pushing back on unworkable, costly new farming rules, Jason's exemplified what Federated Farmers is all about - fighting for farmers. "I've been so impressed with not just his workload and ability to prosecute issues in the media, but also with his personal growth and development as a leader in his community. "He's been tenacious and articulate, and he's shown a thick skin. You can't stick your neck out for farmers without copping some heat back, but he's taken it all in his stride." James (Jimmy) Emmett, who is contract milking on two farms just outside Geraldine, has been named Dairy Advocate of the Year. "Jimmy has been an incredibly valuable member of our dairy council - he brings strong ideas and opinions, but always contributes in a collaborative, respectful way," Langford says. "He's thoughtful and constructive in discussions about the challenges facing the dairy sector, offering practical solutions while genuinely listening to the perspectives of others. "At a local level, as South Canterbury Federated Farmers dairy chair, Jimmy has been such a great advocate for farmers at the grassroots. "He consistently goes out of his way to seek support and advice for those doing it tough and he puts in the work to make a real difference in their lives." This year's Meat & Wool Advocate of the Year is Matt Simpson, a third-generation sheep and beef farmer on a 4100ha high country station in South Canterbury. Langford says Matt, who is South Canterbury Federated Farmers meat & wool co-chair, is a passionate and effective leader in his community. "Matt's been instrumental in the pest management space, especially on wallaby eradication, and has been a driving force in getting better coordination between farmers, landowners, recreational hunters and government. "He's also had a massive amount to do in South Canterbury on the court case around Outstanding National Landscapes (ONLs) being placed over farms. "He and his wife Tory have put in a huge amount of time and effort on mediation, and the positive outcome of that will lay the groundwork for other provinces. "In all of it, Matt's just an absolute champion in his community, where he's deeply respected for being such a pillar among farming families." The Arable Advocate of the Year award went to Southland Federated Farmers arable chair Sonia Dillon, who operates a mixed cropping and seed production business. Langford says Sonia has been extremely strong on local advocacy. "There are some issues in Southland that are quite specific for that area and she's great at getting them airtime and discussion. "That's particularly true when it comes to transportation and logistics, with Southland being at the bottom of the country. "She's pointed out that if it costs $60 to get something from Christchurch to Southland, how come grain that comes from Canterbury can be cheaper than it's priced in Southland? It's a fair point. The price should be what it costs to buy, plus freight - that's how it should work." Sonia is also a great asset for the Federated Farmers Arable Council, Langford says. "She's always happy to bring challenging issues to the forefront, so the council can look for solutions."
Otago Daily Times
18-06-2025
- Politics
- Otago Daily Times
Reform to ‘modernise' Fish & Game
Otago Fish & Game Council chairman Adrian McIntyre says he welcomes modernisation. FILE PHOTO: NZ HERALD Southern Fish & Game councils say they broadly welcome proposed improvements to the organisation's operations, signalled by the government earlier this month. Hunting and Fishing Minister James Meager has announced proposed new legislation governing Fish & Game, aimed at streamlining and compartmentalising the roles of the national body and its 12 regional councils. He said it would "modernise and strengthen" the organisation. "I want to make it as easy as possible for Kiwis to go hunting and fishing in New Zealand. This long overdue reform to Fish & Game will refocus the organisation on its core job of managing our sport fishing and game bird resources and implement a more professional approach to national decision making," he said. Key changes would include clarifying council and national body roles; shifting to a nationalised fee collection and funding distribution system; and voting changes. The proposed new act would also "require Fish & Game councils to better consider the interests of other stakeholders such as farmers and the aviation sector in decision-making". New national advocacy policy would restrict court proceedings to within that policy. Southland Fish & Game chairman David MacGregor said the minister had provided further clarification on that last point. "The minister has clarified that Fish & Game can still advocate for the health of waterways where it improves fisheries, which is entirely consistent with Southland Fish & Game's involvement in the [environment Southland's] Water & Land Plan, where the court found there were significant adverse effects on aquatic life," he said. Federated Farmers Southland clashed with Fish & Game Southland last year following a Court of Appeal decision regarding effluent discharge Federated Farmers claimed would prevent them farming. "Fish & Game has never taken frivolous court action, and funding for much of the Southland case came from the New Zealand council, so I can't see our advocacy function changing," Mr MacGregor said. Otago Fish & Game Council chairman Adrian McIntyre said he welcomed modernisation. "Making it easier for New Zealanders to go hunting and fishing is something we all support, and it's encouraging to see a proposal that retains strong regional decision-making — close to where the action is happening. "Regional autonomy is essential to what we do. It's great to see that the minister has preserved the ability of regional councils to make decisions based on local knowledge and direct engagement with hunters, anglers, landowners, iwi and scientists. That connection is one of our biggest strengths." A Federated Farmers spokesman said his organisation remained concerned about Fish & Game's political advocacy functions. "We're welcoming a review of Fish & Game's advocacy function, something Federated Farmers have been vocal in calling for, but we have serious concerns changes won't go far enough." Key changes • Clarify the roles and responsibilities so that regional Fish & Game councils focus on delivering hunting and fishing opportunities on the ground, with the New Zealand Council responsible for administrative tasks and policies. • A nationalised fee collection system to reduce double handling of licence fees and ensuring funding follows the demand on the resource. • Make more licence holders eligible to vote and stand in Fish & Game elections and requiring councillors to comply with professional standards. • Fish & Game councils to better consider the interests of other stakeholders such as farmers and the aviation sector in decision-making. • Develop a national policy around advocacy and restricting court proceedings to within that policy.
Scoop
13-06-2025
- Politics
- Scoop
ECan Backtracks On Te Waihora Leadership, Fish & Game Doubles Down On Harm
Press Release – Animal Justice Party At a public forum presentation to ECan on 26 March 2025, AJP raised urgent questions about both environmental and animal welfare impacts of duck shooting. The Animal Justice Party (AJP) is calling written responses from ECan and Fish & Game New Zealand on recreational duck shooting at Te Waihora (Lake Ellesmere) a clear failure of leadership. 'Te Waihora (Lake Ellesmere), is recognised as one of Aotearoa's most ecologically significant wetlands,' says Danette Wereta, General Secretary of AJP, 'It is governed by a national Water Conservation Order, which overlays all other management.' The Order identifies Te Waihora's habitat for wildlife as an outstanding amenity or intrinsic value warranting protection. Regional Councils are responsible for implementation of National Orders. At a public forum presentation to ECan on 26 March 2025, AJP raised urgent questions about both environmental and animal welfare impacts of duck shooting. 'On the day, the majority of Councillors showed genuine engagement and concern for the contradiction between ECan's wildlife habitat responsibilities to Te Waihora and the ongoing disturbance and killing of wildlife for recreation,' says Wereta. However, a letter to AJP from ECan Chair Craig Pauling after the meeting deflects responsibility to other agencies, specifically Fish & Game and the Department of Conservation (DOC). ECan's written response claims ECan holds no jurisdiction over protecting biodiversity, passing the issue to Fish & Game and DOC. Fish & Game's Game Bird Specialist, Matthew Garrick, says, 'Game bird hunting is specifically listed as an integral part of the future and is listed as an important aspect to connect the community to Te Waihora.' But is shooting really the kind of connection Te Waihora needs? Just because it used to happen doesn't mean it still should. With such strong bird life at the lake, shouldn't protection and care come before outdated bloodsport? 'Fish and Game's response highlights their primary interest in promoting hunting and fishing. That organisation's interest in protecting habitat is focused through the lens of protecting habitat for game species alone, when the Lake is home to more than 150 bird species' says Wereta, 'alongside the National Order, the Lake is covered by international conservation agreements like the Convention on Migratory Species.' Fish and Game cite the Animal Welfare Act's hunting exemption to justify harm, and claim a contribution to biodiversity protection while simultaneously enabling activities that traumatise and kill wildlife. 'The idea that gunfire, wounded birds, and habitat disruption can coexist with meaningful conservation is absurd,' says Wereta. Wereta considers Fish & Game's response also reveals a dangerous contradiction at the heart of Te Waihora's governance. 'The site is identified as both a biodiversity hotspot and a recreational killing ground, yet the organisations responsible are refusing to reconcile this conflict, each pointing to the other, while the damage continues.' ECan is a member of the Te Waihora Co-Governance Group, 'it has the primary role to protect the lake as a habitat for all wildlife. We are calling for an immediate reassessment of the lake's use, and a clear prohibition on recreational duck shooting,' says Wereta, 'this is a moment to lead, not retreat.' About the Animal Justice Party Aotearoa NZ: AJP was registered in August 2023. AJP is a political party dedicated to advocating for the rights, welfare, and protection of animals. Their mission is to create a society where animals are treated with respect, compassion, and consideration. Through active participation in the political landscape, they aim to drive policy changes that reflect their commitment to a more ethical and sustainable future.
Scoop
13-06-2025
- Politics
- Scoop
ECan Backtracks On Te Waihora Leadership, Fish & Game Doubles Down On Harm
The Animal Justice Party (AJP) is calling written responses from ECan and Fish & Game New Zealand on recreational duck shooting at Te Waihora (Lake Ellesmere) a clear failure of leadership. 'Te Waihora (Lake Ellesmere), is recognised as one of Aotearoa's most ecologically significant wetlands,' says Danette Wereta, General Secretary of AJP, 'It is governed by a national Water Conservation Order, which overlays all other management.' The Order identifies Te Waihora's habitat for wildlife as an outstanding amenity or intrinsic value warranting protection. Regional Councils are responsible for implementation of National Orders. At a public forum presentation to ECan on 26 March 2025, AJP raised urgent questions about both environmental and animal welfare impacts of duck shooting. 'On the day, the majority of Councillors showed genuine engagement and concern for the contradiction between ECan's wildlife habitat responsibilities to Te Waihora and the ongoing disturbance and killing of wildlife for recreation,' says Wereta. However, a letter to AJP from ECan Chair Craig Pauling after the meeting deflects responsibility to other agencies, specifically Fish & Game and the Department of Conservation (DOC). ECan's written response claims ECan holds no jurisdiction over protecting biodiversity, passing the issue to Fish & Game and DOC. Fish & Game's Game Bird Specialist, Matthew Garrick, says, 'Game bird hunting is specifically listed as an integral part of the future and is listed as an important aspect to connect the community to Te Waihora.' But is shooting really the kind of connection Te Waihora needs? Just because it used to happen doesn't mean it still should. With such strong bird life at the lake, shouldn't protection and care come before outdated bloodsport? 'Fish and Game's response highlights their primary interest in promoting hunting and fishing. That organisation's interest in protecting habitat is focused through the lens of protecting habitat for game species alone, when the Lake is home to more than 150 bird species' says Wereta, 'alongside the National Order, the Lake is covered by international conservation agreements like the Convention on Migratory Species.' Fish and Game cite the Animal Welfare Act's hunting exemption to justify harm, and claim a contribution to biodiversity protection while simultaneously enabling activities that traumatise and kill wildlife. 'The idea that gunfire, wounded birds, and habitat disruption can coexist with meaningful conservation is absurd,' says Wereta. Wereta considers Fish & Game's response also reveals a dangerous contradiction at the heart of Te Waihora's governance. 'The site is identified as both a biodiversity hotspot and a recreational killing ground, yet the organisations responsible are refusing to reconcile this conflict, each pointing to the other, while the damage continues.' ECan is a member of the Te Waihora Co-Governance Group, 'it has the primary role to protect the lake as a habitat for all wildlife. We are calling for an immediate reassessment of the lake's use, and a clear prohibition on recreational duck shooting,' says Wereta, 'this is a moment to lead, not retreat.' About the Animal Justice Party Aotearoa NZ: AJP was registered in August 2023. AJP is a political party dedicated to advocating for the rights, welfare, and protection of animals. Their mission is to create a society where animals are treated with respect, compassion, and consideration. Through active participation in the political landscape, they aim to drive policy changes that reflect their commitment to a more ethical and sustainable future.
