Hundreds of fish strandings reported at Ninety Mile Beach

Experts are saying that a recent event at Ninety Mile Beach is a natural occurrence. A large number of small fish, thought to be koheru, have washed up on the shore. This happened earlier this month, and many people noticed it. The Department of Conservation (DoC) confirmed that this type of stranding happens occasionally along Northland’s coast. Meirene Hardy-Birch, who is in charge of operations in Kaitaia, mentioned that these events usually occur in autumn. Residents of Ahipara shared images and videos of the stranded fish on social media. Some locals noted that similar situations have happened before, sometimes as often as twice a year. This often aligns with king tides and full moons, conditions that were present during this stranding. Experts have also warned that the stranded fish may be unsafe to eat. They advise caution regarding consumption.