In June 2026 a two day hui was held to discuss a national project to improve Īnanga stocks, not only to increase the population of this threatened species but to ensure populations are maintained to provide a sustainable cultural and recreational harvest. It is in no way aiming to be detrimental to Whitebaiters, quite the contrary as the depth of knowledge built up over the years can only be of benefit to all, to not only preserve stock but to improve populations. Whitebait is a taonga (treasure) species to Maori and is of cultural significance. 

Historically, the stretch of Whitebait Creek at Foxton Beach between Seabury Avenue and the paddock to the South, adjacent to Flagstaff Street has long been  known as a spawning area for Īnanga, the most abundant of the 5 Galaxiid species making up around 95% of the catch. There had been no surveys done since 2013-15 and it was not known if it was still used. The two day hui included a field trip to the Creek and it was during that time that eggs were found.

Currently, a team are involved in creating a plan to enhance the area as a spawning site and it must be pointed out that it will not interfere with whitebaiting activities and will centre around monitoring at low tide, pest plant and animal removal, and other none intrusive activities during the season while educational material is being created.

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