Lamprey
Lamprey juveniles (ammocoetes) live in burrows in silty river edges and migrate out to sea after 4-5 years. Whilst at sea, the lamprey are parasites on marine life until, after another 4-5 years they migrate back up streams to breed and die. Maori consider lamprey or piharau to be a delicacy. They are threatened fish.
New Zealand's native freshwater fish factsheet (PDF, 195K)
New Zealand large galaxiid recovery plan (PDF, 980K)
New Zealand non-migratory galaxiid fishes recovery plan (PDF, 162K)
Find out about the biology of whitebait and whitebait identification
Journey Up the CreekThis stimulating and easy-to-use bilingual website for students follows Dion, Rick, and Ani on a trip up the creek as they learn how fresh water supports life.
DOC HOTline - 24 hour emergency number
Phone 0800 DOCHOTline (0800 362 468) to report:
Sick or injured wildlifeWhale or dolphin strandings
