The council recently voted in favour of 17 newly developed principles, which seek better management and protection of threatened native fish species.
Fish & Game chief executive Ian Hadland said while the council would continue to focus on providing for all aquatic life, it recognised more intensive habitat protection was needed for vulnerable non-migratory galaxiids.
‘‘It simply reflects the strong conservation values held by the council and their support of a holistic view to management to ensure biodiversity, mahinga kai and sport fish values were all provided for.’’
The new principles would prioritise the restoration and enhancement of habitat in natural channels.
Focus would also be on species separation, where species interactions risked causing harm to non-migratory galaxias.
Interventions, such as permanent fish barriers, would be used to protect indigenous species populations.
Specific solutions for management would be determined on a case-by-case basis.
They would also need to be agreed on by the parties as statutory managers of freshwater species.
