Environment Southland’s compliance and science teams have been investigating a report last week of dead eels in the Low Burn Stream near Mataura.

Thousands of dead eels were discovered in Low Burn Stream near Mataura. Photo: Environment Southland

Compliance manager Donna Ferguson said the team estimates several thousand dead eels over about a 10-kilometre distance.

“Our staff have spent extensive time out investigating any potential causes and we have identified one potential source.

We have sent a suite of samples away for testing and will continue to look for further evidence.”

It is likely that people will continue to see dead eels as they make their way down the waterway and into the Mataura River.

“We know the deaths of these eels and other stream life in the area will be distressing.

This is an active investigation and our teams are working hard to establish the cause.”

As this is an open investigation, we are unable to make further comment.

Please continue to avoid contact with the water, and report any further eel deaths to the compliance team on 0800 76 88 45.