Goldfish (Carassius auratus) currently have no legal status in New Zealand, but new evidence suggests that in the wild they should be recognised a pest fish species. Feral goldfish are widespread in New Zealand, and boat electrofishing has revealed that they are abundant throughout the lower Waikato basin. Juveniles can be found at most times of the year, suggesting that they do not have the same temperature limitations on breeding as koi carp (Cyprinus carpio). Because of their size, koi carp dominate the fish biomass at most Waikato locations, but goldfish generally outnumber koi carp. Goldfish breed freely, and they hybridise with koi carp. About 1% of our koi carp catch in the Waikato is hybrids, though we have no evidence that such hybrids are fertile. Environment Waikato, a regional pest management authority responsible for the Waikato region, has recognised feral goldfish as a pest in its Draft Regional Pest Management Strategy, and is the first regional council in New Zealand to do so.