Carwash trial and survey

Waitakere has a significant role to play in the protection of native freshwater fish in the Auckland region. We have several streams with good populations of native fish, which are supported by extensive native bush in the Waitakere Ranges. We are able to help maintain these freshwater ecosystems through encouraging practices that help to protect our streams as they pass through urban areas.

Overseas research has indicated that domestic car washing can contribute significantly to stream pollution. Research to date has shown that in Auckland we do not have easily accessible information about how people wash their cars. Waitakere City Council is currently investigating residents’ car washing habits, in order to see if our streams are impacted in the same way.

To find out more about this project, please email carwash@waitakere.govt.nz.