A diver removing undaria Photo: SUPPLIED/Environment Southland
Fiordland is known for its stunning natural beauty - a magnet for visitors - but not all are welcome. Undaria, a species of invasive seaweed, has made itself at home in both Dusky and Breaksea Sounds. While efforts have been made to contain and eradicate the pest, budget constraints mean the local council can no longer continue with large-scale containment efforts.
Undaria is spread by attaching itself to the hulls of vessels so the plan now is to focus on eradicating new infestations at anchorage and mooring sites. Kathryn McLachlan, Marine Team Leader for Environment Southland talks to Kathryn Ryan about the challenge ahead and what it could mean for the future of this unique national park.
