Lake Rototoa is one of Auckland Council’s priority lakes for invasive species management. Due to limited success in controlling pest fish, a pest exclusion enclosure has been installed to reduce their impact on the lake’s endemic freshwater mussels (Echyridella menziesii, kākahi). These enclosures create a controlled environment to support kākahi recruitment and restore essential ecosystem functions.
This presentation will examine the design and implementation of the programme, highlighting its objectives, challenges, and early findings. It will also explore broader ecological benefits, including potential applications for freshwater restoration initiatives. Additionally, key lessons learned from this alternative species management approach will be discussed, providing insights for future conservation efforts.