The Ministry for Primary Industries is asking the public to refrain from attempting to rescue paua affected by the Kaikoura earthquake.

“We understand there are calls for people to take part in a rescue mission to save paua in the newly formed intertidal zone on the Kaikoura coastline,” says Gary Orr, MPI Manager of Compliance Operations.

“We appreciate these efforts are well-intentioned. Unfortunately, they may do more harm than good, as moving the surviving paua could kill them.

“We’re asking everyone to hold fire on any paua rescue efforts for now.

“The fact is it’s too late to save the dead shellfish. Those that are still alive are more likely to survive if they are left alone. They will migrate themselves into deeper waters over time.

He says the tidal areas are home to paua brood stocks and that any further damage could threaten the future of the fishery.

“Many people don’t realise that paua are haemophiliacs. They need very careful handling. Any cuts they receive from being moved could cause them to bleed to death.

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