Locals Rally Behind Oyster Farmers as Mahurangi River Faces Environmental Crisis

Petition Launched to Hold Infrastructure Providers Accountable

A heartfelt statement recently written by Matakana Oysters on Facebook and supported by hundreds of concerned locals has drawn attention to the increasingly dire situation facing the Mahurangi River and the region’s oyster farming community.

The post, now circulating widely, outlines how infrastructure failures in Warkworth have led to repeated sewage overflows into the Mahurangi River. This has not only halted oyster harvesting but is also endangering the long-term viability of one of the area's most iconic, environmentally positive industries.

It was reported that in just one month—since mid-April—more than 1,000 cubic metres of sewage has overflowed into the river. What used to be a minor issue during extreme weather now occurs with as little as 10mm of rainfall. Independent testing has confirmed the presence of norovirus in waters used for shellfish farming, resulting in closures enforced by the Ministry for Primary Industries to protect public health.

The article highlights a number of serious concerns:

• No warning signs have been placed on wharves or boat ramps despite contamination.
• Auckland Council has reclassified the Mahurangi River as "non-recreational", allowing resource consents to be issued for overflow events.
• No temporary mitigation measures have been implemented despite repeated requests.
• The overflow point is hidden behind a local curtain shop, draining into a stream used by children and recreational fishers.

Meanwhile, small, family-run oyster farms—many of which have operated for generations—are now closed, with no clear timeline for resumption.

The Mahurangi Harbour is more than just a place of business. It is a living ecosystem. Oyster farming is known to support marine environments by filtering water and sequestering carbon. Losing this industry means losing both economic value and environmental stewardship.

The infrastructure upgrades promised by Auckland Council and Watercare remain two to three years away. Without immediate action and regulatory intervention, the damage to both livelihoods and the environment may be irreversible.

A petition has been launched, urging the government to hold Watercare and Auckland Council accountable and to enforce proper oversight of large-scale polluters—just as is expected of individual residents and farmers.

Signing the petition is not just for oyster lovers—it’s for anyone who values clean water, community resilience, and transparent governance.

👉 Add your name to the petition here:

https://chng.it/JxBpXtsWjw