Recent water hyacinth infestation
Water hyacinth was found in a settlement pond in Cloverlea Reserve, Pukekohe, Auckland in late December 2023. A family raised the alarm when they saw it was spreading quickly.
Biosecurity New Zealand has been working with the Auckland Council to control and eliminate this infestation.
Progress report: 30 April 2024
The pond was successfully treated on 20 March 2024.
A follow-up inspection on 9 April found no signs of live water hyacinth. The site will remain under observation and regular inspections are scheduled.
Risk to New Zealand of water hyacinth
Water hyacinth is a serious weed. It out-competes and smothers other aquatic plants, including natives. It grows rapidly and forms dense floating mats that can clog waterways and create a risk of flooding. The infested pond in Pukekohe is part of the local stormwater system, so this flooding risk is of concern.
Water hyacinth can also create a drowning risk when the thick mat of weed obscures the water underneath.
What you can do to help
Do not enter the pond or let your pets go in the water.
Do not gather or move any plants from this waterway.
Note that under the Biosecurity Act 1993, it is illegal to move water hyacinth.
If you see water hyacinth elsewhere, report it
Freephone 0800 80 99 66.
Find out more about water hyacinth
Getting rid of water hyacinth and salvinia
Water hyacinth – Conservation Auckland (Auckland Council)
National Interest Pest Responses programme
