Beneath the surface: marine biosecurity intel for boat owners

by From Clean Below? Good to Go 16 Apr 2025 14:30 NZST

Exotic Caulerpa on an anchor © Marine Biosecurity

April 2025

Protecting our coastlines

In this issue we highlight how vigilance in detecting marine pests really does count, check out an ultrasonic solution for antifouling and learn what boat owners think about hull cleaning.

A cruiser was surprised - and worried - when he pulled up a substantial amount of seaweed that looked like it could be exotic caulerpa in Paradise Bay at Urupukapuka. Learn more

Around the country, successful responses to detections of Mediterranean fanworm underline the importance of vigilant surveillance and prompt response. Learn more

The Mahi

Boat Show thanks

We talked to hundreds and hundreds of boat owners, crew and their friends and families at the Auckland Boat Show this March and we are looking forward to doing the same at the Hutchwilco in May. Come visit us, check out some marine pest specimens, learn about the rules and ask questions. See you there!

Watch: Matt Watson on marine biosecurity

Kiwi fishing personality Matt Watson is sharing the marine biosecurity protect our paradise message with his viewers this autumn. More

Insight: National survey of moored boat owners

700 owners of boats moored in marinas around Aotearoa New Zealand responded to a survey about hull cleaning and the great news is that most were concerned about the spread of marine pests, the harm they can do, and felt that boaters have responsibility to play their part. More

Marine biosecurity research boosted

Following the conclusion of the highly successful Marine Biosecurity Toolbox research programme, Cawthron Institute has received funding from the 2024 MBIE Endeavour Fund to tackle the next step in the biosecurity continuum: eradication and management. Learn more

Aquaculture New Zealand scores A+ for new biosecurity standards

Biosecurity is a top priority for the aquaculture industry, as farmers have seen first-hand the consequences of marine invasions. More

New ultrasonic tech

Hull Shield ultrasonic antifouling systems use high-frequency sound waves to reduce fouling on boats and other submerged surfaces and a new product has been launched in Florida. More

Minimum Evidence Requirements for Vessel Biofouling Inspection

A reminder that the minimum evidence requirements for vessel biofouling inspections will come into force on 13 April 2025. The requirements were introduced as part of the revised CRMS Vessels, released October 2023, with an 18 month lead in period. The requirements can be found under Schedules 2 and 3 of the standard. Get full information in the latest issue of Vessel Quarterly.

Clean Below? Good to Go is brought to you by
the Top of the North Marine Biosecurity Partnership: