Urban Eels

Person with traditional Maori tattoos holding an eel in a stream.

While you're out walking, scooting, or biking along the He Ara Kotahi pathway, make sure to stop by the Urban Eels platform on the Turitea Stream.

This unique spot, made out of recycled concrete pads from the Turitea bridge construction, offers you the chance to watch and feed the eels. It's a great way to learn about why these fascinating creatures are so important to Māori culture and the health of our waterways.

Tips for taking care of our eels, and yourself

Please don’t try to hand-feed the eels—they can bite.
Since eels are carnivores, if you want to bring food, meat is best.
Eels are most active at dawn and dusk, so those are the best times to see them.
Be careful on the concrete platforms, especially after heavy rain, as they can get slippery.
A rahui is in place—this means no eels can be caught.

Eels thriving again in our awa

In the past, eels (called ‘tuna’ by Māori) were plentiful in the Manawatū River, with some growing as large as 40kg. Although eels can still be found in our streams today, their numbers have decreased, and it's rare to find any over 10kg. This decline is mostly due to the destruction of their habitats over time. Fishing and barriers like dams and culverts that block their movement and breeding continue to affect their populations.

For Rangitāne, tuna are more than just a part of the natural environment; they hold deep cultural significance. These eels are an important taonga (treasure), symbolising the health and vitality of the river. Protecting and nurturing the tuna is vital for preserving the traditions and wellbeing of Rangitāne iwi.

A rahui has been placed on the Manawatū River and its surroundings, meaning no one is allowed to catch or consume tuna. This will help create a sanctuary for these eels, allowing them to thrive once more.

A true partnership project

The Urban Eels initiative is a partnership project led by Tanenuiarangi Manawatū Incorporated and Gordon Consulting in collaboration with Ngati Hineaute Hapu Authority, Te Rangimarie, Palmerston North City Council, Horizons Regional Council, Te Manawa Museum of Art Science and History, Massey University, Palmerston North City Environmental Trust and the Manawatū River Leaders Accord.