Boaties are being urged to help stop the spread of exotic caulerpa with our marine ecosystem at stake

Auckland Council is teaming up with local iwi, the Ministry for Primary Industries and neighbouring regions, to help contain the spread of the marine pest.

It's been found in several popular boating areas, including parts of the Hauraki Gulf, Bay of Islands, and Coromandel.

Council spokesperson Liz Brooks says it thrives in certain conditions.

She says it can out-compete seagrass, which is a natural nursery habitat for baby snapper.