Tens of thousands of eels have been found dead near Lake Ellesmere, Te Waihora, in Canterbury, upsetting many locals.
Environment Canterbury has said the deaths occurred naturally, during the eels’ annual migration, known as the tuna heke, during which they attempt to travel from the lake to the ocean.
ECan is bringing in machinery to the site, and will lower the beach crest between the lake and the sea over the coming days.
While mass deaths have occurred at the same spot in previous years, Leigh Griffiths, General Manager Hazards at Environment Canterbury, said they don’t normally intervene unless requested.
“This isn’t something we do automatically,” Griffiths said. “It requires thoughtful planning and collaboration with local groups like Te Taumutu Rūnanga.
She said generally it’s best to let nature do its own thing.
“We know there is more migration to come, so we’re taking action now to ensure the eels have a safer passage.”
