Investigation launched into deaths of nearly 200 eels in Bay of Plenty
Wednesday 16 September 2026 · 2 outlets · 2 reports · updated In this story Bay of Plenty Regional Council
The Bay of Plenty Regional Council has launched an investigation after nearly 200 eels died in pump stations earlier this year. Researchers are looking into whether the stations are harming eels during their river migration. A major research programme will be used to better understand the impact of communal pump stations.
Key facts
3 facts
- 190 shortfin tuna died in March near the Old Rangitāiki Canal and Tarawera River
- 500kg of eels were relocated in April to prevent further deaths before Cyclone Vaianu
- The Bay of Plenty Regional Council is investigating pump station impacts on eel migration
The full story
1 min read · 2 outlets
The Bay of Plenty Regional Council has launched an investigation following the deaths of 190 shortfin tuna (eels) in March. The mass mortality event occurred near the Tarawera River and the Old Rangitāiki Canal after adverse weather. Integrated catchments manager Chris Ingle told councillors that the actual number of deaths could be higher than the bodies found at the mouth of the Tarawera.
A major research programme will examine how communal pump stations affect migrating eels and if mitigation measures are required. The investigation aims to identify which pump stations pose the highest risk and how effectively trap-and-transfer operations reduce losses. This follows an emergency operation in April where approximately 500kg of eels were relocated downstream of pump stations before Cyclone Vaianu.
The next migration period is expected in February and March, with research and mitigation work planned before that time. Committee chairwoman Kate Graeme stated the work is part of a broader effort to understand the long-term sustainability of the regional flood protection and drainage systems.
Councillor Anna Grayling noted that discussions regarding fish-friendly infrastructure must address the contradiction between conservation and commercial harvesting. Councillor Ken Shirley expressed caution, noting that the impacted species was shortfin tuna rather than the endangered longfin species.
Where reports differ
- One report states nearly 200 eels died, while another specifies the number as 190
Compiled from reports by NZ Herald and 1News.