WELCOME TO THE NEW ZEALAND NATIVE FRESHWATER LIFE WEBSITE

Established in 1999, this website was designed to help raise awareness about:

The existence of a natural wonder on many of our doorsteps

Most New Zealanders are unfortunately unaware of the amazing aquatic animals and plants that even live in backyard streams.

Continued maintenance

The need for conservation efforts to maintain New Zealand's unique freshwater biodiversity.

Their plight

Some species are already under threat of extinction, and there is insufficient knowledge about the status of many of the others to be able to know whether they are safe or not.

Habitat destruction

The widespread and damaging destruction of native freshwater life habitats, but that their are alternative to how we can better live alongside our 'fellow New Zealanders'.

Scientific knowledge

The low level of scientific research and limited knowledge we have concerning these aquatic plants and animals - how can we protect what we don't even know we have?

• Displays of native fish and aquatic plants to increase public awareness.
• Interest articles in various local and international magazines and newspapers.
• Lobby national and local government in support of native aquatic life.
• Working with governmental agencies to protect and restore aquatic habitat.
• Working with ecological restoration groups to providing a freshwater perspective to restoration activities.
• Educating the next generation so that they can do a better job of protecting this amazing natural resource.

Talking about creek life with local kids