Toby Rothery with his Koi carp catch
Predator Free Te Awamutu and Pirongia is encouraging youngsters to catch pest fish for the 2026 Kids’ Koi Carp Challenge.
Michael Bennett and daughters Olivia and Abby fishing for Koi carp.
“The idea is to bring awareness and improve the state of our Mangapiko Stream and Waipā River which run through both the Te Awamutu and Pirongia surrounds,” Carla Innis said.
“The first challenge was in the April school holidays. It was low key, but the challenge got loads of enthusiasm from Pirongia children.
“Only one Koi was caught but loads of time was spent out there trying.
“Awareness is the goal – having good family times in our natural environment is an added benefit. The hope is that with this challenge being in the summer holidays, the carp might be a bit more visible and in higher numbers.”
Lane and Riley McClunie Koi carp fishing in the 2025 challenge.
Children under the age of 16 can post pictures oto the Pirongia Enviro Group Facebook page through to February ahead of a prizegiving at the monthly Pirongia market.
“The challenge was started by Pirongia Enviro Group volunteers. Predator Free Te Awamutu and Pirongia volunteers actively trap land-based predators such as rats and mustelids in public spaces and promote and support landowners to trap in their own backyard,” Innis said.
“We don’t want eels fished, they are not a sport, but a good reflection of the health of our waterways. They are to be protected, but let’s raise awareness of the pest fish in our waterways – Carp, Catfish, Goldfish, Gambusia, Rudd, Trench and Perch.”
What makes Koi such a pest? “They suck – literally and figuratively”.
“Get out there, try to catch these pests and have fun. What you do today will make a difference not just to tomorrow but for years to come,” Innis said.
Toby Rothery with his Koi carp catch.
