KEY POINTS:
The invasive didymo weed has been found in the Kakapotahi River, south of Ross, Fish and Game said this afternoon.
It is the second find in Westland after the weed, also known as rocksnot, was picked up in the upper Buller River earlier this year.
Fish and Game West Coast said Biosecurity NZ had confirmed samples of algae taken from the Kakapotahi contained the invasive algae.
The sample was taken at the Old Church Backpackers, which is a popular kayaking and tourist spot, alongside State highway 6.
Fish and Game officer Dean Kelly said the infestation was in its early stage, with visible colonies of 1cm to 2 cm in length.
"With the start of the summer fishing season and whitebaiting at its peak, it is a timely reminder for all river users to thoroughly check, clean and dry their equipment after contact with any river or lake."
- NZPA
