MFish Recreational Handbook

RECREATIONAL FISHERS
HANDBOOK
October 2009 - October 2010
F
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A Guide to New Zealands shing rules
for all areas, including set netting, paua gathering,
handling rock lobster and more!
Sale or Rafe of sh in
Clubs/Hotels/Workplaces
Each year thousands of New Zealanders go shing and take
large numbers of sh (nsh, craysh and shellsh). These
quantities, from a very wide range of species, can seriously
affect local sheries.
It is important for the sustainability
of New Zealands shery
resources that all members
of the public play
their part in helping
to conserve the
resource so that
generations to
come will also be
able to enjoy a
days shing.
Fishery Ofcers
are concerned
that some
clubs, hotels and
workplaces are
conducting sales
or rafes of sh which
have not come from a
legal source. Such
illegal sales or rafes
of sh pose a
serious threat to
conservation of the
resource.
HOW CAN YOU HELP
To help clubs, hotels and workplaces to
fully understand the rules so that they
can play their part in conserving
the resource, the main laws to
remember in relation to the
sale or rafe of
sh are:
*Dont buy,
or even
have in your
possession,
any fnfsh,
crayfsh or
shellfsh (other than
whitebait) for the purposes
of any sale in any form
whatsoever (including raffes)
unless you can prove you have
obtained the fsh from one of the
following sources:
1. A licensed sh receiver or other authorised person
2. A commercial sherman in the vicinity of his or
her shing vessel (maximum amounts apply to the
amount of sh which can be
purchased, e.g. 10kg of nsh)
* Dont knowingly permit any premises to
be used for illegal sale of fsh.
REMEMBER
The meaning of sale under the Fisheries Act is very wide. Sale includes
every method of disposition for valuable consideration, including barter;
and includes the disposition to an agent for sale on consignment; and also
includes offering of attempting to sell, or receiving or having in possession for
sale, or exposing for sale,or sending or delivering for sale, or causing or permitting
to be sold, offered, or exposed for sale; and also includes
disposal by way of rafe, lottery, or otrher game of chance...
*Severe penalties apply to offences under the Fisheries Act
(large fnes as well as forfeiture of property)
Anyone organising a sale or rafe of sh wanting further detailed information on the
laws relating to the sale of sh, should contact any ofce of the Ministry of Fisheries.
Spending a day, a weekend or a summer holiday
fshing is part of our heritage and a way of life for
thousands of New Zealanders. We enjoy, by world
standards, a unique marine environment - one that
offers variety and challenge.
However, each year we take large numbers of
fnfsh, rock lobster and shellfsh. To ensure this
resource remains available to our children in the
years to come, we must all play part in sustaining
that resource.
The Recreational Fishers Handbook has been
prepared to help you continue to be a responsible
fsher. It gives a detailed summary of the
information you need to fsh responsibly and legally
wherever you might be in New Zealand from
1 October 2009 to 31 October 2010. However,
please be aware that rules and regulations are
subject to change without notice.
For further information, please contact your
nearest Ministry of Fisheries offce or visit
www.fish.govt.nz
Publication details
The Recreational Fishers Handbook is published by the
Ministry of Fisheries.
Design, Layout, Production and Printing
Kale Print & Design, Tauranga.
Please note
The information contained in The Recreational
Fishers Handbook is a summary of the Recreational
(amateur) Fishing laws of New Zealand as they relate
to recreational fshing. The information is intended as
a guide only.
The laws and regulations governing recreational fshing in
New Zealand waters are subject to alteration at any time.
Contact Ministry of Fisheries offce for clarifcation
of any aspect of the information presented in The
Recreational Fishers Handbook, or for detailed
information about the laws and regulations governing
recreational fshing in New Zealand waters.
A complete copy of the law (including the Fisheries
Act 1983 and the Fisheries Act 1996 and associated
regulations) is available from Bookshops.
ISSN 1177-3502
2009 The Ministry of Fisheries, Wellington,
New Zealand. All rights reserved.
Happy Fishing
Auckland Kermadec
Fishery Management Area
Central
Challenger
Southland
Fiordland
A guide to the law 7
Six Main Fishery Management Areas
- rules and information 8
Releasing undersized fish - guidelines 58
Heres the Catch - offences and
infringement fees 62
Rock Lobster - measuring and handling
rock lobster 64
Finfish and Shellfish Species - picture
gallery and guide 70
Rock Lobster Tagging 74
Guidelines for gathering Paua 76
Set Nets - code of practice 80
Taiapure Reserves - local fsheries 85
Mataitai Reserves 86
Customary Fishing 88
Blue Cod Fishing - guidelines 90
Temporary Closures/Method Restrictions 92
Contacts Directory 93
Page 8
Page 16
Page 24
Page 40
Page 48
Contents
South East
Page 32
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Southland
FMA
Sub-Antarctic FMA
South-East FMA
All Areas
The following sections are designed to
help you understand the restrictions on
recreational fshing in your area.
Why have rules?
Fish species are managed on an area basis and
may require different managed quotas to achieve
sustainability. There are some variations from area
to area relating to individual species. Each area
may also have areas where fshing is restricted or
prohibited. Signifcant increases in yield can be
achieved in our fsheries if people observe size and
bag limits, and carefully return undersized fsh to
the sea.
What if I am fshing in more than
one area?
Where fshing occurs over a number of days and/
or travel crosses into areas that have sub-limits
or size differences, it is permissible to possess
more fsh than the bag limit allows, or fsh less
than the size for that particular area, provided you
can prove the fsh in question were taken lawfully
in the appropriate area and, if necessary, on the
appropriate day or days.
What do I have to remember?
The restrictions on recreational fshers are relatively
simple. The three main things to remember are:
Dont take more than the daily limit >
Dont take undersized fsh >
Dont sell or trade your catch >
Only those physically involved in taking fnfsh,
rock lobster or shellfsh are entitled to claim a catch
within the daily limit. You should also be aware of
the restrictions on the fshing gear and methods you
can use.
6
While the landing of a legal size fish destined for the table may
be the prime reason for going fishing it is how you care for your
catch that determines the culinary delight or disaster you will
experience when you return home.
By following a few simple guidelines you can ensure that you
take home the absolute freshest fish and other seafood for the
family. Not only will your dining pleasure be enhanced but you
will also avoid any possibility of build up of bacteria in the flesh
prior to cooking.
What you will need are a good quality plastic fish bin,preferably
with a removable lid,an Iki Spike,a sharp bait knife with a blade
of around 8 to 15cm long and sufficient chipped ice for the
duration of your fishing trip.
Ice is inexpensive and can be purchased from most service
stations and bait supply shops. It is a good idea to look for the
saltwater ice when you buy your bait for the day. Being made
from salty water this is more compatible with sea fish than the
freshwater type but either is better than no ice at all.
Once you are settled in your fishing possie and have
established that your target fish species are in the area, place
a good layer of ice in the bottom of the fish bin and replace the
lid to delay thawing of the ice.
As the first keeper fish comes on board then take your Iki
Spike and kill the fish quickly as shown in the photograph.
This method relaxes the flesh of the fish and ensures the best
eating quality.
It is also a good idea to gut this first catch and check the
stomach contents which will give you a good idea of what the
fish in the area are feeding on.
Place the fish on the ice in the bin ensuring that it is well
distributed over the body and in the gills. As the day progresses
keep topping up the ice in the fish bin as necessary.
If you forget the ice or dont have a fish bin aboard then place
the fish on the cockpit floor out of harms way and cover with
hessian sack dipped in seawater. Keep the sack wet at all
times and move the fish around so they stay out of the sun.
The sacks you need are the old fashioned sugar bags that
absorb water into their fibres.
Although it is not always possible during a particularly hot
bite session try to gut your fish and remove the gills as soon as
possible and pack ice into the gut cavity.
Fish left to die in the sun on the deck with no ice, and the gut
and gills intact, are going to have even the family cat turning up
its nose when you arrive home!
While all fish can be iki spiked some,such as kahawai,are best
bled immediately on capture. Do this by turning the fish on its
back and exposing the gill area. Severe the head partially by
cutting through the area where the head and body join.
Alternatively you can break the neck by inserting your fingers
under the gill flaps while holding the body. A sharp snap will
break the neck and allow the blood, which could taint the meat,
to flow out of the body quickly.
Small pelagic tuna such as skipjack and albacore can be
similarly bled by making cuts under each pelvic fin to start the
blood flow.
Before you leave the coast fill a container with seawater and
use this for any clean up work that involves the fish during the
preparation. Being from the same environment as the fish it is
more compatible than freshwater.
Once you arrive home ensure that the fish are cleaned, scaled
if necessary, filleted or steaked, and skinned as soon as
possible. You will find that the immersion in the ice has firmed
up the flesh of most fish making the filleting job that much
easier.
Place prepared fish on plates or trays which have absorbent
paper towels on them, cover in clingwrap and place in the
fridge or chiller until they are to be cooked.
Bon Appetite!
Care of your fsh
7
Maori
Cook Islands Maori
Niuean
Tongan
Samoan
Chinese
Vietnamese
These notes provide a guide to the regulations. For full details on recreational (amateur) fshing restrictions,
contact your nearest Ministry of Fisheries offce. A complete copy of the law (including the Fisheries Act 1996
and associated regulations) is available from Bennetts Government Bookshops.
A guide to the law
8
Play your part to conserve
the resource
Fishing is one of New Zealands most popular
recreational activities. Every year a large number
of fnfsh, rock lobster and shellfsh are taken by
recreational fshers. This can seriously affect local
fsheries. This means it is important for all fshers to act
responsibly and help conserve the resource.
Know the limits
Commercial fshers must have a current fshing permit
and are subject to strict quotas or limits on how much
they can catch, along with many other controls. The
restrictions on recreational fshers are relatively simple.
The three main things to remember are:
Dont take more than the daily limit. >
Only those people physically involved in taking fnfsh,
rock lobster, or shellfsh are entitled to claim a catch
within the daily limit. You should also be aware of the
restrictions on the fshing gear and methods you can
use.
Alive and unharmed
Unlawfully taken fsh (such as fsh taken in excess
of your daily limit, undersized fsh, or fsh taken with
undersized mesh) must be immediately returned to
the water. Fish taken alive should be handled with
wet cotton or rubber gloves or at least wet hands and
returned to the water very gently, allowing the fsh to
slide into the water from as close to the surface as
possible.
It is important to return fsh, especially shellfsh and
rock lobster, as near as possible to the place where
they were found. Dead fsh that are taken unlawfully
must also be returned to the water. If you encounter
large numbers of undersized fsh then change locations
or use a larger hook size. Landing nets can be used to
secure fsh lawfully taken by any method.
Auckland Kermadec Area (Includes Northland, Waikato and
the Bay of Plenty)
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9
A guide
These notes provide a guide to the regulations. For full
details on amateur fshing restrictions, contact your
nearest Ministry of Fisheries offce. A complete copy
of the law (including the Fisheries Act 1983 and the
Fisheries Act 1996 and associated regulations) are
available from Bennetts Government Bookshops.
Method and species
restrictions
Line fshing
No person may use or be in possession of more than >
one line (other than handlines or rod and reel lines).
All surface foats attached to any line must be >
marked permanently and legibly with the fshers
initials and surname. A phone number is also useful.
No person may use or possess a line with more than >
25 hooks.
Where more than one person is using a line from a >
vessel (other than rod and reel lines), no more than
two lines (other than rod and reel lines) may be used,
set from or possessed on board that vessel.
General netting restrictions
No person may set or possess more than one drag >
net, set net, fyke net, or any other type of net at any
one time.
Nets must be hauled by hand. >
Any net or nets used either individually or jointly >
must not extend across more than one-quarter of the
width of any river, stream, channel, bay or sound.
No person may set or use a baited net (except fyke >
nets).
Nets must not be staked (except fyke nets). >
No net may be used in a way that causes fsh to be >
stranded by the falling tide (stalling).
Each end of a set net must have a surface foat >
permanently and legibly marked with the fshers
Only one foat is required for fyke nets.
Drag net restrictions
Drag nets must not exceed 40 metres in length. >
Total warp length must not exceed 200 metres. >
Drift net restrictions
Drift netting is
prohibited in any
part of the Waikato
River. A drift net
is a net that acts
by enmeshing,
entrapping, or
entangling any fsh
or marine life, and
acts by drifting in
the water, or on the
surface of the water,
and is not attaached
to a vessel or any
point of land or the sea bed.
Set net restrictions
Only one set net is allowed to be used from, or be >
on board any vessel. (An additional net is allowed for
baitfshing if it is less than 10 metres long and has a
mesh size of 50 mm or less).
Must not exceed 60 metres in length. >
Must not be set within 60 metres of another net. >
Stalling of set nets is prohibited. >
Minimum mesh sizes
There are restrictions on net mesh sizes for taking
particular species as detailed in the FINFISH - Bag
limits and size restrictions section of this pamphlet. In
some cases the minimum mesh sizes for set nets are
different from the minimum sizes for other nets such as
drag nets.
Protection of spotted black groper
Spotted black groper: no person may take or possess
spotted black groper.
10
Auckland Kermadec Area
Finfsh
Bag limits and size restrictions
In the North Region there is a combined daily bag limit
of 20 of any combination of the following fnfsh:
In addition to the combined limit, you can take a
maximum of:
Blue Cod 30 100 100
Blue Moki 40 114 115
Bluenose - 160 100
Butterfsh 35 108 108
Elephant fsh - 150 150
Flatfsh
(except sand founder) 25 114 100
John Dory - 100 100
Kahawai - 90 85
Parore - 114 100
Porae - 100 100
Red cod 25 100 100
Red gurnard 25 100 100
Red moki 40 115 115
Red snapper - 114 100
Rig - 125 150
Sand founder 23 114 100
School shark - 125 100
Tarakihi 25 100 100
Trevally 25 125 100
Trumpeter 35 100 100
Fish species Minimum
fsh length
(cm)
Minimum
set net
mesh size
(mm)
Minimum
dragnet
mesh size
(mm)
Eels - 6 12 12
Grey Mullet - 30 90 85
Snapper 27 10 125 100
Snapper SNA1(ref#) 27 9 125 100
Finfsh Species Maximum
daily limit
per person
Minimum
set net
mesh
size (mm)
Minimum
dragnet
mesh
size (mm)
Minimum
fsh length
(cm)
In addition to the previously mentioned limits you may
also take the following:
A combined daily limit of 5 (with no more than 3
kingfsh) of the following fnfsh:
Groper/Hapuku/Bass - 160 100
Kingfsh 75 100 100
fsh length
(cm)
Minimum
set net mesh
size (mm)
Minimum
dragnet mesh
size (mm)
No daily bag limit applies to the following fnfsh:
Garfsh (piper) - 25 25
Pilchard - 25 25
Yellow eyed mullet - 25 25
All others - 100 100
#SNA1 refers to the area
from North Cape to Cape
Runaway, out to a distance
of 200 nautical miles
offshore (see diagram).
Length measurement
Finfsh length is
measured from the
tip of the nose to
the V in the tail (as
shown in diagram).
Shellfsh
How to measure shellfsh
Paua: measure the greatest length
of the shell in a straight line, (do
not measure over the curve of the
shell).
Scallop: measure the greatest
diameter of the shell.
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Closed area to all set netting within 4
nautical miles of the coast from Maunganui
Bluff to Pariokariwa Point (excluding the harbours)
Closed area
Manukau Harbour
Entrance
Paratutae Island
Kauri Point
Puponga Point
South Head
Closed area to all set
netting at the Manukau
Harbour entrance
CAPE RODNEY
CUVIER ISLAND
RED MERCURY
ISLAND
THE ALDERMEN
ISLANDS
HOMUNGA POINT
MURIWAI
PORT WAIKATO
AUCKLAND
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Dredge Oysters: must not pass through a rigid circular
metal ring with an inside diameter of 58mm.
Underwater Breathing Apparatus (UBA)
(Does not include snorkels)
No person may take paua using UBA. >
No person may be in possession of paua while in >
possession of UBA. This includes possession in or on
any vessel or vehicle.
Open seasons
Oysters: There is no season restricting the taking of
oysters. They can be taken all year round. However,
oysters may not be taken from a small number of
designated Mori reserves in the Northland and Waikato
Region. Contact the Ministry of Fisheries for the exact
locations of these reserves.
Scallops: the open season is 1 September to 31 March
inclusive. Specifc area closures may apply, please
contact your local MFish offce for details.
Protection of Coral
Black Coral: no person may take or possess black
coral.
Paua Accumulation Limits
The maximum number or amount of paua that one
person can have in their possession at any one time is:
20 paua being two times the maximum daily bag >
limit of paua; or
shucked weight (shell removed) of 2.5kgs of paua >
* Dredge oyster, paua and scallop must be landed in the shell
and cannot be shucked or shelled seaward of the mean
high water mark. This does not include dredge oysters and
scallopsshucked onboard for consumption while at sea
within daily bag limits.
Rock and Pacifc oysters must not be opened while they
adhere to the object on which they grow
+ Divers may take additional quota for up to a maximum of 2
safety people per vessel.
# Toheroa must not be taken, possessed, or disturbed unless
an open season is declared by the Chief Executive of the
This is a combined, mixed-species bag limit. It applies to all
shellfsh species not specifcally named above and includes
paddle crabs.
Recreational shellfsh daily bag limits in the Auckland
Coromandel area apply in the highlighted area depicted.
This area extends on the east coast from Cape Rodney
around the Coromandel Peninsula to Homunga Point
(northern end of
Waihi beach) and
on the west coast
from Okiritoto River
(Muriwai Beach)
to the sand-spit at
Port Waikato.
Shellfsh Species Daily limit
per person
Auckland
Coromandel
area daily
limit per
person
Minimum
size (mm)
Cockle 150 50 none
Crab 50 50 none
Kina (sea eggs) 50 50 none
Green-lipped mussels 50 25 none
Oysters - Dredge*+ 50 50 58
- Rock & Pacifc 250 100 none
Paua - Ordinary* 10 10 125
- Yellow Foot* 10 10 80
Pipi 150 50 none
Scallops + 20 20 100
Toheroa# Prohibited Prohibited Prohibited
Tuatua 150 50 none
All others (combined) 50 50 none
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Closed area to all set netting within 4
nautical miles of the coast from Maunganui
Bluff to Pariokariwa Point (excluding the harbours)
Closed area
Manukau Harbour
Entrance
Paratutae Island
Kauri Point
Puponga Point
South Head
Closed area to all set
netting at the Manukau
Harbour entrance
CAPE RODNEY
CUVIER ISLAND
RED MERCURY
ISLAND
THE ALDERMEN
ISLANDS
HOMUNGA POINT
MURIWAI
PORT WAIKATO
AUCKLAND
12
Two or more individuals fshing from a vessel may >
use, set, or possess up to six pots in any one day.
Mimiwhangata Peninsular one pot per person per >
vessel.
Bobs and ring pots can be used to catch rock >
lobster. They are exempted from escape gap
requirements but all other requirement (size, pot
limits) remain.
Use of Pots
All rock lobster pots must have an escape gap as
detailed in the ESCAPE GAPS FOR ROCK LOBSTER
POTS section.
Escape gaps restrictions
No escape gap or aperture shall be incorporated in >
either the top or the bottom of any pot.
Escape gaps or apertures are designed to allow >
undersized rock lobster to escape.
Round or beehive shaped pots must have at least >
3 escape gaps/or apertures (other than the mouth).
Each aperture must have an inside dimension of not
less than 54 mm x 200 mm.
Square or rectangular shaped pots must have at >
least 2 escape gaps/or apertures (other than the
mouth) in opposite faces of the pot. Each aperture
shall not be less than 80% of the height or length
of the face of the pot in which the apertures are
contained. Each aperture shall have an inside
dimension of not less than 54 mm x 200 mm.
Any rock lobster pot constructed entirely of unaltered >
spot welded mesh with inside dimensions of 54 mm
x 140 mm does not have to have escape gaps/or
Rock Lobster
Daily limit
No person may take or possess more than 6 rock
lobsters (both species combined) on any one day.
Possession
Rock lobster may not be possessed seaward of the high
water mark in an unmeasurable state.
Protected rock lobster
The following types of rock lobster must be returned
immediately to the water:
Undersized rock lobsters. >
Any rock lobster carrying external eggs (these are >
carried between the pleopods on the underside of
the tail).
Any rock lobster in the soft shell stage. >
Any rock lobster that cannot be measured (e.g. >
because of damage to the tail preventing accurate
measurement).
General restrictions
It is an offence to:
Remove external eggs or the egg-bearing >
appendages from any rock lobster.
Use a spear or any device which could puncture the >
shell when taking rock lobster,
or possess any rock lobster which has been speared.
Lassoes
Only hand operated loops or lassoes may be used to
take rock lobster. It is prohibited to use a spring loaded
loop or lasso.
Pots
Limits:
All pots and surface foat must be clearly and >
permanently marked with the fshers surname and
initials.
Individuals may use, set, or possess up to three pots >
in any one day.
13
apertures but the pots must be used without covers or
liners or with covers or liners that leave unencumbered
at least 80% of the surface area of each of 2 opposite
sides.
Minimum sizes
No person may take or possess
Male red rock lobster with a tail width less than 54mm. >
Female red rock lobster with a tail width less than >
60 mm.
Packhorse rock lobster (either sex) with a tail length >
less than 216 mm.
How to measure a red rock lobster
The tail width is measured in a straight line between
the tips of the two large (primary) spines on the second
segment of the tail, as shown in the diagram which
follows:
The sex is easily determined:
Females have small pincers on the rear pair of legs. >
Pleopods are in paired form on each side of the >
underside of female tails, and are in single form in
male tails.
If you are unsure of the sex, use the 60 mm measurement
and you will be safe.
How to measure a packhorse rock lobster
The tail length is measured along the underside in a
straight line from the rear of the calcifed bar on the frst
segment to the tip of the middle fan of the tail.
Male Female
Primary spines on second segment Female rear leg detail showing pincer
5
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m
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Pleopods
Pleopods
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216 mm
14
Closed and restricted areas
In each of the regional Fishery Management Areas,
there are closed and restricted areas where no fshing
is allowed. These areas may be closed by the Ministry
of Fisheries as prohibited areas (e.g. area near
the Auckland International Airport and Tawharanui
Peninsula) or by the Department of Conservation
as marine reserves (e.g. Long Bay Okura Marine
Reserve).
Within the North Region there are locations which
are closed to shellfsh gathering. The following notes
identify some of the areas, but this should only be used
as a guide as closures may change from time to time. If
you are unsure of the location of closures or the species
subject to closure, you should contact your nearest
Ministry of Fisheries offce. Umupuia Beach - closed
to taking of cockles for 2 years from 16 October 2008.
Cockle Bay - closed for taking of all shellfsh
1 October to 30 April each year (both days inclusive).
Shellfsh closures and restricted areas
The following areas within Auckland are closed
to all shellfsh gathering: Eastern Beach, Karekare
Beach, and Cheltenham Beach.
A 186a Closure in the Kaipara harbour for Scallops
(ONLY) for the period 18th November 2008 to 18th
November 2009.
Set nets
The following areas are closed to set netting: Three
Kings Islands, Cape Reinga Scott Point, Reef Point to
Whangape Harbour, Bay of Islands (Cape Wiwiki, Whale
Rock, The Twins - Cape Brett) northern side of the
Hen and Chickens, Mokohinau Islands, Simpson Rock,
Little Barrier, Great Barrier (Needles Point, eastern
side of Arid Island, Cape Barrier),Channel Island, Cape
Colville, most of the Mercury Islands, Pauanui, Tamaki
River, Panmure Basin, Muriwai Beach, Karekare Beach,
Pariokariwa Point to Maunganui Bluff, Manukau Heads
and Cape Runaway.
Set nets and set lines
These methods are prohibited in the following
places: all year round the Poor Knights Islands,
Mimiwhangata, and Mayor Island; from 1 October to
30 April in the eastern Bay of Islands (except for grey
mullet and fatfsh nets); from 1 December to 31 March
for 6 nautical miles from Okatoa Rock (near Motu River
mouth). Contact the Ministry of Fisheries for the exact
locations.
Closed areas for set nets
Set netting is prohibited between Maunganui Bluff north
of Kaipara Harbour and Pariokariwa Point north of New
Plymouth - offshore to seven nautical miles.
Set netting is prohibited at the entrance of the Kaipara,
Manukau and Raglan harbours as well as at the
Waikato River entrance.
There are other set net prohibitions and restrictions in
the Auckland and Kermadec Fishery Management Area
and the Central Fishery Management Area that are to
protect Mauis dolphins.
You must check for set net prohibitions and restrictions
in the area where you plan to fsh - before you go
fshing.
Go to fsh.govt.nz or call your nearest Ministry of
Fisheries offce.
A set net includes a gill net or other sort of net that acts
by enmeshing, entrapping, or entangling fsh; but does
not include a fyke net or hnaki.
Set Net Ban Area
Mauis dolphins are among the worlds rarest
dolphins. They are a sub-species of the Hectors
dolphin species which is found only in New
Zealand waters. The Department of Conservation
classies Mauis dolphins as nationally critical.
Fishing is the greatest-known threat to Mauis
dolphins. They can become entangled in set nets
and drift nets and drown.
From 1 October 2008 there will be a prohibition
on set nets and drift nets on the North Island west
coast between Maunganui Bluff and Pariokariwa
Point to protect Mauis dolphins. This prohibition
adds to the one implemented in 2003.
New recreational set net prohibition
Set netting is prohibited between Maunganui Bluff north of Kaipara
Harbour and Pariokariwa Point north of New Plymouth offshore to
seven nautical miles.
Set netting is prohibited at the entrance of the Kaipara, Manukau and
Raglan Harbours as well as at the Waikato River entrance.
There are other set net prohibitions and restrictions in the Auckland and
Kermadec Fishery Management Area and the Central Fishery Management
Area that are not to protect Mauis dolphins.
You must check for set net prohibitions and restrictions in the area
where you plan to sh before you go shing.
Go to sh.govt.nz or call your nearest Ministry of Fisheries ofce.
A set net includes a gill net or other sort of net that acts by enmeshing,
entrapping, or entangling sh; but does not include a fyke net or hnaki.
AUCKLAND/KERMADEC AND CENTRAL FISHERY MANAGEMENT AREA
set net prohibition maps
Set net prohibition in the Kaipara
Harbour entrance
Set net prohibition between Maunganui Bluff and Pariokariwa Point
Set net prohibition in the Manukau
Harbour entrance
Set net prohibition in the Waikato
River entrance
Set net prohibition in the Raglan
Harbour entrance
Important
Unless specied, the prohibition does not apply to rivers and harbours
subject to any other sheries restrictions, you can use set nets in these
areas inside a straight line joining the natural entrance points of the
waterway. The regulations dene these points in some cases because they
are not always clear.
Set Net Ban Area
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Contact Fishery Offcers
Ministry of Fisheries,
Whangarei (09) 470 0580
Auckland (09) 820 1990
Mt Maunganui (07) 571 2820
Whitianga (07) 866 0549
Hamilton (07) 859 3126
Kaitaia (09) 408 6024
Opotiki (07) 315 5232
For information on fshing rules
www.fish.govt.nz
0800 4 POACHER
(0800 476 224 to report illegal poaching)
Harbour entrance
Harbour entrance
River entrance
Harbour entrance
Important
Set Net Ban Area
Harbour entrance
Harbour entrance
River entrance
Harbour entrance
Important
Set Net Ban Area
Harbour entrance
Harbour entrance
River entrance
Harbour entrance
Important
Set Net Ban Area
IMPORTANT
Unless specifed, the prohibition does not apply to
rivers and harbours - subject to any other fsheries
restrictions, you can use set nets in these areas inside
a straight line joining the natural entrance points of the
waterway. The regulations defne these points in some
cases because they are not always clear.
Set net prohibition in
the Kaipara Harbour
entrance
Set net prohibition in the
Waikato River entrance
Set net prohibition in
the Manukau Harbour
entrance
Set net prohibition in the
Raglan Harbour entrance
16
Central Area (Includes East Coast, Wellington, Wanganui and New Plymouth)
Finfsh
Daily limits per person
In the Central Fishery Management Area there is a
combined daily bag limit of 20 fnfsh, consisting of
any combination of:
There is no limit on species not named above.
Additionally, individual limits, over and above the
combined bag, apply to:
Snapper: a daily bag limit of 10.
Groper/Hapuku/bass and kingfsh: a combined daily
bag limit of 5 with no more than 3 kingfsh.
Freshwater eels: a daily bag limit of 6.
Length measurement
Finfsh length is
measured from the tip
of the nose to the V
in the tail (as shown in
diagram).
Line fshing
initials and surname.
25 hooks.
Blue cod
Blue moki
Bluenose
Butterfsh
Elephant fsh
Flatfsh
Grey mullet
John Dory
Kahawai
Parore
Porae
Red cod
Red gurnard
Red moki
Red snapper
Rig
School shark
Tarakihi
Trevally
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Closed areas
Set netting prohibited in Pauatahanui inlet (see map 1). >
There are set netting restrictions around Cape >
Runaway. Contact your local Fisheries offce.
There are also some closed areas not specifed in >
this publication. Contact the
Ministry of Fisheries for the exact locations.
Pukerua Bay, handlines only to be used. >
Eels
No person shall take any eels from Lake Horowhenua or
the Hokio Stream unless that person does so in exercise
of fshing rights pursuant to Section 18 of The Reserves
and Other Lands Disposal Act 1956.
one time.
nets).
Set net
on board any vessel. (An additional baitfsh net is
allowed so long as it is less than 10 metres long and
has a mesh size of 50 mm or less).
Must not exceed 60 metres in length. >
Must not be set within 60 metres of another net. >
Must not be secured by stakes (except fyke nets). >
Must not be used in a way that causes fsh to be >
stranded by the falling tide.
Drag net
Size and method restrictions
The minimum mesh size for drag nets is 100 mm. >
The minimum mesh size for eel fyke nets or traps is >
12 mm.
Blue Cod 33 100
Blue Moki 40 114
Bluenose - 160
Butterfsh 35 108
Elephant fsh - 150
Flatfsh (except Sand founder) 25 100
Garfsh (piper) - 25
Groper/Hapuku/Bass - 160
Herrings - 25
Kahawai - 100
Kingfsh 75 100
Grey Mullet - 100
Parore - 100
Pilchard - 25
Porae - 100
Red cod 25 100
Red gurnard 25 100
Red moki 40 115
Red snapper - 100
Rig - 150
Sand founder 23 100
School shark - 150
Snapper 27 100
Tarakihi 25 100
Trevally 25 100
Trumpeter 35 100
Yellow-eyed mullet - 25
All Others - 100
fsh length
(cm)
Minimum
set net mesh
size (mm)
18
Central Area
Shellfsh
Cockles 150 none
Crab 50 none
Kina (sea eggs) 50 none
Mussels 50 none
Oysters - Dredge* + 50 58
- Rock & Pacifc 250 none
Paua - Ordinary* 10 125
- Yellow foot* 10 80
- Taranaki Paua Area 10 85
Pipi 150 none
Scallops - Central* + 20 100
Toheroa # Prohibited Prohibited
Tuatua 150 none
All Others (combined) 50 none
Shellfsh species Maximum
daily limit
per person
Minimum
size (mm)
* Dredge oyster, paua and scallop must be landed in the shell
and cannot be shucked or shelled seaward of the mean
high water mark. This does not include derdge oysters and
scallops shucked onboard for consumption at sea within daily
bag limits.
Rock oysters and Pacifc oysters must not be opened while
they adhere to the object on which they grow.
an open season is declared by the Chief Executive of the
+ Divers may take an additional quotas for up to a maximum
of 2 safety people per vessel.
paddle crabs.
Amateur Taranaki Paua Fishery Area
Recreational fshers may take or possesss any Paua >
that is 85mm or greater in length within the Amateur
Taranaki Paua Fishery Area.
Paua taken or possessed outside of the Amateur >
Taranaki Paua Fishery Area must be 125mm or
greater in length.
Measuring shellfsh
Paua: measure the greatest length of the shell in a
straight line. Do not measure over the curve of the shell.
Scallop: measure the greatest diameter of the shell.
limit of paua; or
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Underwater Breathing Apparatus (UBA)
Open season for scallops
15 July to 14 February inclusive. >
Ma
-
taitai Reserves
Ma
-
taitai reserves are areas where tangata whenua
manage non-commercial fshing through bylaws.
Bylaws apply equally to all individuals. Reserves can
only be applied for over traditional fshing grounds
which are of special signifcance to tangata whenua.
Generally, there is no commercial fshing within these
reserves.
There are a number of Ma
-
taitai Reserves in the Central
Area. For further, detailed information on the location
of ma
-
taitai reserves and how they are administered,
please contact your nearest Ministry of Fisheries offce,
or visit www.fsh.govt.nz
V
V
V
Scale
ZONE 1 AND 3:
(i) Use of nets or set lines is prohibited.
(ii) Use of any line with more than 3
hooks is prohibited.
(iii) No person shall be in possession of
fishing gear within this zone that is not
permitted to be used in the zone unless
the gear is stowed or sealed in such a
manner that it cannot be readily used
for fishing.
ZONE 2:
(i) No person shall take any
fish within Zone 2 other than
Kingfish or Kahawai taken
by trolling or by spearfishing.
(ii) No person shall be in
possession of fishing gear
within Zone 2 that is not
permitted to be used in the
zone unless the gear is
stowed or sealed in such manner
thatit cannot be readily used for fishing.
Sugar Loaf Islands Marine Park
Motumahanga
(Saddleback I.)
Tokomapuna
(Barrett Reef)
Corinna
Rocks
900m
ZONE 1
Pararaki
(Seagull
Rock)
Motuotamatea
(Snapper Rock)
ZONE 3
Maturoa I.
Whareumu
(Lion Rock)
Tokatapu
Waikaranga
500m
9
0
0
m

ZONE 2
Mikotahi
Paritutu
Mataora (Round Rock)
N.P.C.C. Centennial Park
Herekawe Stm
B
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B
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(Seal Rock
Group)
The taking or the removal
of any marine species from
the Marine Reserve is
strictly prohibited
Day Markers
Marine Reserve
Marker Beacon
Boat Ramp
Waiomoko River
Pouawa River
Road Access
Gisborne
Gable End Foreland
Te Ana o Paikea/Whangara Island
Te Tapuwae o Rongokako
Marine Reserve
Tatapouri Point
Harbour
Tuaheni Point
Scale
Kilometres Nautical Miles
5 0 5 2 0 2
35
35
Wairoa Hard
Mohaka River
Waihua River
Hawke Bay
N
Kapiti
Marine
Reserve
(Western)
2
9
0
2
8
0
0
7
0
8
.5
m
2
2

5
0

0
0
Kaiwharawhara Point
Arapawaiti
Point
Trig
Point
Otehape Stream
West Point
White Day Marker
Buoy 0
0
1 2 3 4
1 2
Nautical Miles
Kilometres
Paraparaumu Beach
Tahoramaurea (Browns Island)
Motungarara (Fishermans Island)
Tokomapuna (Aeroplane) Island
Passage Rocks
Waterfall Bay
90 11 30
Kapiti Marine Reserve (Eastern)
Korukohatu
Point
Whakahoua
3
0
6
0
4
3
0
The taking or the

removal of any
marine species
from this Marine
Reserve is strictly
prohibited
Waikanae Beach
Waikanae Estuary
5
9
4
8
0
0
Scientific
Reserve
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No person shall use any net for
taking finfish in the waters of Hawke
Bay known as the Wairoa Hard.
Pauatahanui Inlet
No person shall use a set net
in the waters of Pauatahanui Inlet.
Porirua Harbour
Mana I.
Titahi Bay
Porirua East
Karehana Bay
Paremata
Porirua
Pauatahanui Inlet
Moeangiangi
River
0
1k
Closed Area
Tapuae Marine Reserve / Sugar Loaf Island
Marine Protected Area
9
0
0
m
Parininihi Marine Reserve
Closed Area - Nets
V
V
V
Scale
ZONE 1 AND 3:
for fishing.
ZONE 2:
Motumahanga
(Saddleback I.)
Tokomapuna
(Barrett Reef)
Corinna
Rocks
900m
ZONE 1
Pararaki
(Seagull
Rock)
Motuotamatea
(Snapper Rock)
ZONE 3
Maturoa I.
Whareumu
(Lion Rock)
Tokatapu
Waikaranga
500m
9
0
0
m

ZONE 2
Mikotahi
Paritutu
Herekawe Stm
B
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B
e
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h
(Seal Rock
Group)
strictly prohibited
Day Markers
Marine Reserve
Marker Beacon
Boat Ramp
Waiomoko River
Pouawa River
Road Access
Gisborne
Gable End Foreland
Marine Reserve
Tatapouri Point
Harbour
Tuaheni Point
Scale
5 0 5 2 0 2
35
35
Wairoa Hard
Mohaka River
Waihua River
Hawke Bay
N
Kapiti
Marine
Reserve
(Western)
2
9
0
2
8
0
0
7
0
8
.5
m
2
2

5
0

0
0
Kaiwharawhara Point
Arapawaiti
Point
Trig
Point
Otehape Stream
West Point
White Day Marker
Buoy 0
0
1 2 3 4
1 2
Nautical Miles
Kilometres
Paraparaumu Beach
Passage Rocks
Waterfall Bay
90 11 30
Korukohatu
Point
Whakahoua
3
0
6
0
4
3
0
The taking or the

removal of any
marine species
from this Marine
Reserve is strictly
prohibited
Waikanae Beach
Waikanae Estuary
5
9
4
8
0
0
Scientific
Reserve
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Pauatahanui Inlet
Porirua Harbour
Mana I.
Titahi Bay
Porirua East
Karehana Bay
Paremata
Porirua
Pauatahanui Inlet
Moeangiangi
River
0
1k
20
Central Area
Closed Area - North Island West Coast -
Nets
Closed Area - Marine Reserve
V
V
V
Scale
ZONE 1 AND 3:
for fishing.
ZONE 2:
Motumahanga
(Saddleback I.)
Tokomapuna
(Barrett Reef)
Corinna
Rocks
900m
ZONE 1
Pararaki
(Seagull
Rock)
Motuotamatea
(Snapper Rock)
ZONE 3
Maturoa I.
Whareumu
(Lion Rock)
Tokatapu
Waikaranga
500m
9
0
0
m

ZONE 2
Mikotahi
Paritutu
Herekawe Stm
B
a
c
k

B
e
a
c
h
(Seal Rock
Group)
strictly prohibited
Day Markers
Marine Reserve
Marker Beacon
Boat Ramp
Waiomoko River
Pouawa River
Road Access
Gisborne
Gable End Foreland
Marine Reserve
Tatapouri Point
Harbour
Tuaheni Point
Scale
5 0 5 2 0 2
35
35
Wairoa Hard
Mohaka River
Waihua River
Hawke Bay
N
Kapiti
Marine
Reserve
(Western)
2
9
0
2
8
0
0
7
0
8
.5
m
2
2

5
0

0
0
Kaiwharawhara Point
Arapawaiti
Point
Trig
Point
Otehape Stream
West Point
White Day Marker
Buoy 0
0
1 2 3 4
1 2
Nautical Miles
Kilometres
Paraparaumu Beach
Passage Rocks
Waterfall Bay
90 11 30
Korukohatu
Point
Whakahoua
3
0
6
0
4
3
0
The taking or the

removal of any
marine species
from this Marine
Reserve is strictly
prohibited
Waikanae Beach
Waikanae Estuary
5
9
4
8
0
0
Scientific
Reserve
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Pauatahanui Inlet
Porirua Harbour
Mana I.
Titahi Bay
Porirua East
Karehana Bay
Paremata
Porirua
Pauatahanui Inlet
Moeangiangi
River
0
1k
Closed Area - Marine Reserve
V
V
V
Scale
ZONE 1 AND 3:
for fishing.
ZONE 2:
Motumahanga
(Saddleback I.)
Tokomapuna
(Barrett Reef)
Corinna
Rocks
900m
ZONE 1
Pararaki
(Seagull
Rock)
Motuotamatea
(Snapper Rock)
ZONE 3
Maturoa I.
Whareumu
(Lion Rock)
Tokatapu
Waikaranga
500m
9
0
0
m

ZONE 2
Mikotahi
Paritutu
Herekawe Stm
B
a
c
k

B
e
a
c
h
(Seal Rock
Group)
strictly prohibited
Day Markers
Marine Reserve
Marker Beacon
Boat Ramp
Waiomoko River
Pouawa River
Road Access
Gisborne
Gable End Foreland
Marine Reserve
Tatapouri Point
Harbour
Tuaheni Point
Scale
5 0 5 2 0 2
35
35
Wairoa Hard
Mohaka River
Waihua River
Hawke Bay
N
Kapiti
Marine
Reserve
(Western)
2
9
0
2
8
0
0
7
0
8
.5
m
2
2

5
0

0
0
Kaiwharawhara Point
Arapawaiti
Point
Trig
Point
Otehape Stream
West Point
White Day Marker
Buoy 0
0
1 2 3 4
1 2
Nautical Miles
Kilometres
Paraparaumu Beach
Passage Rocks
Waterfall Bay
90 11 30
Korukohatu
Point
Whakahoua
3
0
6
0
4
3
0
The taking or the

removal of any
marine species
from this Marine
Reserve is strictly
prohibited
Waikanae Beach
Waikanae Estuary
5
9
4
8
0
0
Scientific
Reserve
W
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S
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1
Pauatahanui Inlet
Porirua Harbour
Mana I.
Titahi Bay
Porirua East
Karehana Bay
Paremata
Porirua
Pauatahanui Inlet
Moeangiangi
River
0
1k
Arthurs Nose
Moa
Point
Te Raekaihau
Houghton
Bay
Island
Bay
Taputeranga
Island
174 44.67 E
41 22.00 S
174 47.37 E
41 22.00 S
2
.
3
k
m
2
.
1
k
m
174 47.37 E
41 20.75 S
174 44.67 E
41 20.83 S
Marine reserve
boundary markers
No taking of any marine life
Lyall Bay
Owhiro
Bay
TAPUTERANGA
MARINE
RESERVE
Rock Lobster
Daily limit
lobsters (both species combined) taken on any one day.
Possession
The following types of rock lobster are protected by law
and must be returned immediately to the water:
Undersized rock lobsters. >
Any female rock lobster carrying external eggs (these >
are carried between the pleopods on the underside
of the tail).
measurement).
Use a spear or device which could puncture the >
shell when taking rock lobster, or possess any rock
lobster which has been speared.
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Lassoes
loop or lasso.
Pots
Limits:
initials.
in any one day.
limits) remain.
Use of Pots
POTS section.
Escape gap restrictions
Round or Beehive pots must have at least > 3 escape
gaps/or apertures (other than the mouth). Each
aperture must have an inside dimension of not less
than 54 mm x 200 mm.
Square or rectangular pots must have at least > 2
escape gaps/or apertures (other than the mouth) in
opposite faces of the pot. Each aperture shall not be
less than 80% of the height or length of the face of
the pot in which the apertures are contained. Each
aperture shall have an inside dimension of not less
than 54 mm x 200 mm.
No escape gap or aperture shall be incorporated in
Any rock lobster pot constructed entirely of >
unaltered spot welded mesh with inside dimensions
of 54 mm x 140 mm does not require escape
gaps or apertures. Pots must be used without
covers or liners or have covers or liners that leave
unencumbered at least 80% of the surface area of
each of 2 opposite sides.
Minimum sizes
> Male red rock lobster with a tail width less than 54mm.
Female red rock lobster > with a tail width less than
60mm.
Packhorse rock lobster > (either sex) with a tail
length shorter than 216 mm.
How to measure a red rock lobster
segment of the tail, as shown in the diagram which
follows:
male tails.
If you are unsure of the sex, use the 60 mm
measurement and you will be safe.
How to measure packhorse rock lobster
The tail length is measured along the underside in a
straight line from the
rear of the calcifed bar
on the frst segment to
the tip of the middle fan
of the tail.
Male Female
5
4

m
m
6
0

m
m
Pleopods
Pleopods
216 mm
22
Central Area
the resource
recreational activities. Most of us regard fshing and
collecting seafood as an important part of our way
of life, but every year a large number recreational
fshers taking more fnfsh, rock lobster and shellfsh.
The combined effect of this can seriously affect local
fsheries. Stocks are easily depleted.
This means it is important for all fshers to act
responsibly and help to conserve the resource.
Know the limits
Only those physically involved in taking fnfsh, rock
lobster, or shellfsh are entitled to claim the daily limit.
For example, only a diver who enters the water and
gathers shellfsh from its natural habitat on the seabed
is entitled to his or her daily catch entitlement. There
are however some qualifed exceptions to this rule.
Specifcally, when diving from a vessel for scallops and
dredge oysters for up to two safety people. The safety
people must be on board the vessel, and acting in that
capacity, when the diving is undertaken. If only one
safety person is on board the vessel, only one extra bag
limit may be taken. A maximum of two extra bag limits
may be taken per vessel, regardless of the number of
people diving.
Alive and unharmed
Unlawfully taken fsh - such as fsh taken in excess
undersized mesh - must be immediately returned to the
sea. Fish taken alive should be returned very gently,
allowing the fsh to slide into the water from as close
to the surface as possible. It is also important to return
fsh, especially shellfsh and rock lobster, as near as
possible to the place where they were found. Dead fsh
that are taken unlawfully must also be returned to the
sea.
A guide
This section is a guide to laws controlling the taking
and possession of fnfsh, shellfsh and rock lobster,
and there are heavy penalties for breaching these
laws but it is not a complete summary. There are a
number of other restrictions relating to fshing in local
areas. All these laws are subject to change at any time,
without prior notice and the restrictions change from
time to time, so you should be aware of any changes,
particularly in bag and size limits.
The complete regulations (the Fisheries Act 1996 and
associated regulations) are available from Bennetts
Government Bookshops.
23
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Napier (06) 835 1065
Gisborne (06) 869 0870
New Plymouth (06) 755 9311
Masterton (06) 370 3590
Wellington (04) 576 8040
0800 4 POACHER
24
Challenger Area
Important Information
Blue Cod Closure
Landing Blue Cod Whole Or Gutted In Marlborough
Sounds Area
Set Net Closed Areas
the resource
recreational fshers. This means it is important for
all fshers to act responsibly and help conserve the
resource.
Know the limits
Dont take more than the daily limit. >
Only those physically involved in taking fnfsh, rock
lobster, or shellfsh are entitled to claim a catch
within the daily limit. You should also be aware of the
restrictions on the fshing gear and methods you can
use. (Refer Finfsh Method Restrictions section)
In some areas recreational fshers can only use rod and
reel or hand lines. Hand lines are considered to be a
dropper type rig on a hand spool or stick as available
from most sports goods stores.
Alive and unharmed
undersized mesh) must be immediately returned to the
water, whether the fsh were caught intentionally or
as by-catch. Fish taken alive should be handled with
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25
returned very gently, allowing the fsh to slide into the
water from as close to the surface as possible. It is
important to return fsh, especially shellfsh and rock
lobster, as near as possible to the place where they
were found. Dead fsh that are taken unlawfully must
also be returned to the water. If you encounter large
numbers of undersized fsh then change locations, use
a larger hook size or mesh size.
Finfsh
Daily limits per person
In the Challenger Fishery Management Area there is
a combined daily bag limit of 20 fnfsh, consisting
of any combination of the species listed below, as long
as the individual species limits are not exceeded:
provided you can prove the fsh in question were taken
lawfully, in the appropriate area and if necessary on the
appropriate day or days.
*BLUE COD CLOSED AREA
It is an offence to take Blue Cod from within the
enclosed waters of the Marlborough Sounds including
the inner and Outer Queen Charlotte and Pelorus
Sounds, as well as Tory channel. (See attached map
and coordinates)
You may still fsh for other species within this area but
any blue cod caught must be returned immediately to
the water.
All blue cod landed within the Marlborough Sounds
Area must be landed in a whole or gutted state,
except for blue cod to be used for immediate personal
consumption on board the vessel during the trip in
which that blue cod was taken.
Note: Blue Cod caught outside the area may be
transported back in a whole or gutted state through the
no-take area, however the onus is upon the fsher to
provide evidence of the location of where the blue cod
have been caught. Useful information to assist Fishery
Offcers includes GPS tracks or chart plotters and digital
photographs of blue cod caught with coastal landmarks
in view.
Blue cod* Blue moki Bluenose
Butterfsh Elephant fsh Flatfsh
Grey mullet John Dory Kahawai
Red cod Red gurnard Red moki
Rig School shark Tarakihi
Trevally
In addition to the combined limit, you may also take the
following fnfsh on a daily basis:
Snapper - a total bag limit of 10 (Golden Bay, >
Tasman Bay, West DUrville Island, Port Underwood)
- Within this bag limit there is sub-limit of 3 for the
Marlborough Sounds
Blue Cod - a bag limit of 3 ( Golden Bay, Tasman >
Bay, DUrville Island, Port Underwood),
Groper/Hapuku/Bass and Kingfsh - a combined bag >
limit of 5, (with no more than 3 kingfsh)
Eel - a bag limit of 6 >
There is no limit on species not named above.
Accumulated Bag limits
Where fshing occurs over a number of days and/or
travel crosses into areas that have sub limits or size
differences, it is permissible to possess more fsh
than the bag limit allows for the area or fsh less than
the size for that particular area where you are found,
Blue Cod Closure
26
Challenger Area
Bag Limits For Blue Cod/
Snapper
East Challenger FMA Blue cod (Outside of
no-take area)
Within the bag limit prescribed above, there is a
daily sub-limit of 3 blue cod per fsher within the
East Challenger FMA, being the waters enclosed by
a line due north of Farewell Spit to the boundary of
the Challenger Fishery Management Area then in a
generally easterly, southerly and westerly direction
to Clarence River and back along the high water
mark to the point of commencement. (Note there is a
closed area for Blue Cod in Queen Charlotte, Pelorus,
Kenepuru, and Tory Channel)
Marlborough Sounds Snapper
Within the bag limits prescribed a daily sub-limit of 3
snapper per fsher within the Marlborough Sounds.
This area being the waters enclosed by a line from the
northern tip of Stephens Island to Cape Jackson then
to Cape Koamaru, then from West Head to East Head
of Tory Channel across French Pass and Stephens
Passage to the point of commencement.
Finfsh Method Restrictions
Line fshing/ (Long Lines)/ Dahn Lines
In all areas where line fshing is permitted:
one line (other than handlines, or rod and reel lines).
marked clearly, legibly and permanently with the
fshers initials and surname. A phone number is also
useful.
25 hooks.
two lines (other than rod and reel lines), may be
used, set from or possessed on board that vessel.
Line fshing includes the use of Long lines and Dahn >
(drop) lines but does not include rod and reel, or
hand lines.
Possession and use of Lines are prohibited in Pelorus
Sound inside a line from Tawero Point to Opani-Aputa
Point and in Kenepuru Sound (see map 1).
The following general restrictions apply in all areas:
time.
Nets must be hauled by hand only. >
width of any river, stream, channel, bay or sound at
any time of the tide.
nets).
Set Net Closed Area
Set Netting is totally prohibited from Cape Jackson to
the Clarence River. This area extends out to 4 nautical
miles seaward and includes the entire Queen Charlotte
Sound, Tory Channel, Port Underwood, Cloudy Bay,
Clifford Bay, and Cape Campbell areas. West Coast Set
netting is also totally prohibited from Farewell Spit to
Awarua Point. This area extends out to 2 nautical miles*
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Exemption:
Queen Charlotte Sound inside a line from West Head
Point (Ruakaka Bay) to Deiffenbach Point between
1 April and 30 September for Flatfsh Set Nets
only.
Westhaven Inlet
Refer Mfsh Website (fsh.govt.nz) or Challenger
Regualtions for coordinates of river mouths.
Flatfsh Set Net means a net that is less than 9
meshes deep, is anchored at each end, does not
exceed a total length of 60 metres, has a mesh size
greater or equal to 100mm and a monoflament
diameter less than
0.35mm.
Other Set Net Area
Restrictions
Set netting in the shaded
areas on map 2 may only
be undertaken using set
nets with a net mesh size
greater than or equal to
100mm which do not
exceed
nine meshes in height
and must be set in direct
contact with the seabed.
These restrictions apply
to setting and possession
of nets in:
Pelorus Sound: inside a
line from Tawero Point to
Opani-Aputa Point.
Tennyson Inlet and Hallam Cove: inside a line from
Sheep Point to Camel Point to Cregoe Point.
Croiselles Harbour: inside a line from Cape Soucis,
outside the Islands to Kakaho Point.
Within Kenepuru Sound, set netting is totally
prohibited from 1 October to 31 March inclusive
Kakaho Pt
Croisilles Harbour
Cape Soucis
Sheep Pt
Camel Pt
Cregoe Pt
Tawero Pt
Opani-Aputa Pt
Pelorus Sound
Kenepuru Sound
Westhead
Deiffenbach Pt
HAVELOCK PICTON
Queen Charlotte Sound
1
Kakaho Pt
Croisilles Harbour
Cape Soucis
Sheep Pt
Camel Pt
Cregoe Pt
Tawero Pt
Opani-Aputa Pt
Westhead
Deiffenbach Pt
HAVELOCK PICTON
Challenger (East)
Double Cove
No taking finfish
2
Set Net Requirements
bait fshing if it is less than 10 metres long and has a
Set nets must not exceed 60 metres in length. >
A set net must not be set within 60 metres of >
another net.
Each end of a set net must have a surface foat that >
is clearly, legibly and permanently marked with the
useful. Only one foat is required for fyke nets.
Fish and Mesh Sizes
The following minimum sizes and net mesh size
for particular species in the Challenger Fishery
Management Areas, unless specifed.
Signifcant increases in yield can be achieved in our
fsheries if people observe size and bag limits, and
carefully return undersized fsh to the sea.
Kakaho Pt
Croisilles Harbour
Cape Soucis
Sheep Pt
Camel Pt
Cregoe Pt
Tawero Pt
Opani-Aputa Pt
Pelorus Sound
Kenepuru Sound
Westhead
Deiffenbach Pt
HAVELOCK PICTON
1
Kakaho Pt
Croisilles Harbour
Cape Soucis
Sheep Pt
Camel Pt
Cregoe Pt
Tawero Pt
Opani-Aputa Pt
Westhead
Deiffenbach Pt
HAVELOCK PICTON
Challenger (East)
Double Cove
No taking finfish
2
Set Net Restricted Areas
Long Line Closed Area
28
Challenger Area
* Refer to Area restrictions and Combined bag limits.
Length measurement
Finfsh length is measured from the tip of the nose to the
V in the tail (as shown in diagram).
Only those persons physically involved in taking fnfsh,
rock lobster or
shellfsh are entitled
to claim a catch
within the daily limit.
SHELLFISH
Measuring shellfsh
Paua: measure the
greatest length of the
shell in a straight line.
Do not measure over
the curve of the shell.
Scallop: measure the greatest diameter of the shell.
(see diagram).
metal ring with an inside diameter of 58 mm.
Underwater breathing apparatus (UBA)
(does not include snorkels)
possession of UBA.
This includes possession in or on any vessel or
vehicle.
Open seasons
Oysters: In the Challenger FMA the oyster fshery is
open year round. (Rock oysters and Pacifc oysters must
not be opened while they adhere to the object on which
they grow).
Scallops: 15 July to 14 February inclusive.
Protection of coral
Black coral: No person may take or possess black
coral.
Fish species Daily
Bag
Limits
Minimum
mesh for
Set Nets
(mm)
Blue cod - Challenger East
(Outside closed area) 3* 30 100
Blue cod West Coast
below Farewell Spit 20 33 100
Blue moki - 40 114
Bluenose - - 160
School shark - - 150
Butterfsh/Greenbone - 35 100
John Dory - - 100
Kahawai - - 100
Parore - - 100
Flatfsh (except Sand founder) - 25 100
Red cod - 25 100
Red gurnard - 25 100
Red moki - 40 114
Sand founder - 25 100
Snapper 10* 25 100
Tarakihi - 25 100
Trevally - 25 100
Trumpeter - 35 100
Groper/Hapuku/Bass 5* - 160
Eels 6 - 12
Garfsh (piper), Pilchard,
Herrings (Yellow eyed mullet) - - 25
Grey mullet - - 100
Elephant fsh, Rig - - 150
Kingfsh 3* 75 100
Any other fsh not
otherwise stated - - 100
Minimum
length of
fsh (cm)
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29
* Dredge oyster, paua and scallop must be landed in the
shell and cannot be shucked or shelled seaward of the
mean high water mark. This does not include dredge
oysters and scallops shucked onboard for consumption
while at sea within daily bag limits.
This is a combined, mixed-species bag limit. It applies
to all shellfsh species not specifcally named above, and
includes all crabs, limpets, starfsh, periwinkles, whelks,
barnacles and freshwater crayfsh (koura).
+ Limited provision allows a diver on a vessel to gather extra
bag limits of oysters and scallops for up to 2 other people
acting in a dive safety capacity from that vessel.
limit of paua; or
Rock Lobster
Daily limit
lobster (both species combined) on any one day.
Possession
Undersized rock lobster. >
of the tail).
measurement).
It is an offence to remove external eggs or the egg-
bearing appendages from any rock lobster.
Use any spear or device which could puncture the >
lobster which has been speared.
Lassoes
loop or lasso.
Pots
Limits:
initials.
in any one day.
limits) remain.
Shellfsh Species Daily limit
per person
*Minimum
size (mm)
Cockles 150 none
Kina (sea eggs) 50 none
Mussels 50 none
Oysters - Dredge* + 50 58
- Rock & Pacifc 250 none
Paua - Ordinary* 10 125
Pipi 150 none
Scallops* + 50 90
Toheroa Prohibited Prohibited
Tuatua 150 none
The following restrictions on taking and possessing
shellfsh apply to all areas, unless specifed:
30
Challenger Area
Use of Pots
POTS section.
Each aperture must have an inside dimension of not >
Round or beehive pots must have at least 3 escape >
gaps or apertures (other than the mouth).
Square or rectangular pots must have at least 2 >
escape gaps or apertures (other than the mouth) in
opposite faces of the pot. Each aperture shall not be
less than 80% of the height or length of the face of
the pot in which the apertures are contained.
How to measure red rock lobster
segment of the tail (see diagram). The sex is easily
determined:
male tails.
How to measure Packhorse rock lobster
The tail length is measured
along the underside in a
straight line from the rear of
the calcifed bar on the frst
segment to the tip of the
middle fan or the tail.
CLOSED AREAS
In each Fishery
Management Area,
there are closed areas
where no fshing is
allowed. These areas
may be closed by the
Ministry of Fisheries as
prohibited areas or by
the Department of Conservation as marine reserves.
You should contact the Department of Conservation for
details of marine reserves.
In each Fishery Management Area there are also
areas where particular fshing methods are restricted.
Male Female
5
4

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6
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m
m
Pleopods
Pleopods
spot welded mesh with inside dimensions of 54
mm x 140 mm does not require escape gaps
or apertures but the pots must be used without
covers or liners or with covers or liners that leave
Minimum sizes
Male red rock lobster with a tail width less than >
54mm.
60mm.
shorter than 216 mm.
216 mm
Kakaho Pt
Croisilles Harbour
Cape Soucis
Sheep Pt
Camel Pt
Cregoe Pt
Tawero Pt
Opani-Aputa Pt
Pelorus Sound
Kenepuru Sound
Westhead
Deiffenbach Pt
HAVELOCK PICTON
1
Kakaho Pt
Croisilles Harbour
Cape Soucis
Sheep Pt
Camel Pt
Cregoe Pt
Tawero Pt
Opani-Aputa Pt
Westhead
Deiffenbach Pt
HAVELOCK PICTON
Challenger (East)
Double Cove
No taking finfish
2
31
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The notes in this guide identify the areas within the
Challenger Fishery Management Area, but these are
only a guide. If you are not sure about the location of
closed fshing areas, contact your nearest Ministry of
Fisheries or Department of Conservation Offce.
Fishing is prohibited in the Long Island Marine Reserve,
Tonga Island Marine Reserve, Horoirangi Marine
Reseve, Whanganui Inlet Marine Reserve, and in Double
Cove, Queen Charlotte Sound.
Horoirangi
Cable Bay
Glenduan (The Glen)
Tonga Island
Abel Tasman National Park
Westhaven Inlet
Farewell Spit
Marine Reserve Maps
Long Island
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463 metres from shoreline
Nelson
118 Vickerman St
(03) 548 1069 (offce hours)
Blenheim
State Highway 1,
Main Road, Blenheim
(03) 579 1088
To report illegal fshing Call Free 0800 4 POACHER (0800
476 224)
To Obtain further information refer
www.fsh.govt.nz
32
South East Area
South-East FMA
the resource
Know the limits
Only those physically involved in taking fnfsh,
rock lobster, or shellfsh are entitled to claim a
catch within the daily limit. You should also be aware
of the restrictions on the fshing gear and methods you
can use.
Alive and unharmed
returned to the water very gently, allowing the fsh
to slide into the water from as close to the surface
as possible. It is important to return fsh, especially
shellfsh and rock lobster, as near as possible to the
place where they were found. Dead fsh that are taken
unlawfully must also be returned to the water. If you
encounter large numbers of undersized fsh then
change locations or use a larger hook size.
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33
A guide
These notes provide a guide to the regulations which
may be subject to change without notice. For full
nearest Ministry of Fisheries offce or check the website
www.fsh.govt.nz. A complete copy of the legislation
(including the Fisheries Act 1996 and associated
regulations) are available from Bennetts Government
Bookshops.
Finfsh
In the South East Fishery Management Area there is a
combined daily bag limit of 30 fnfsh per person,
consisting of any combination of the species listed
on the following panel, as long as the individual
species limits are not exceeded.
Additionally, there are individual limits, over and
above the combined bag, for groper/hapuku/bass and
kingfsh. These species have a combined daily limit
of 5 (with no more than 3 kingfsh). There is no limit
on species not named above.
Finfsh Species Minimum
fsh
length
(cm)
Maximum
daily limit
per person
Blue cod - South East FMA 30 30
Blue cod - *Kaikoura - North Canterbury 10 30
Blue moki 15 40
Bluenose 30 -
Butterfsh/Greenbone 15 35
Elephant fsh 5 -
Eel 6 -
Skate / Ray 5 -
Kahawai 15 -
Kingfsh 3 75
Grey Mullet 30 -
Lamphrey 30 -
Ling 30 -
Marble Fish 30 -
Red Gurnard 30 25
Red cod 10 25
Red moki 15 40
Rig 5 -
Salmon (Otago Harbour) 2 45
Sand founder 30 23
School shark 5 -
Snapper 10 25
Stargazer 30 -
Tarakihi 15 25
Trevally 30 25
Trumpeter 15 35
Spiney dogfsh 15 -
Warehou 15 -
Wrasse 30 -
Seven gilled shark 1 -
Mako shark 1 -
Blue shark 1 -
Bronze shark 1 -
Hammerhead shark 1 -
Porbeagle shark 1 -
Thresher shark 1 -
Species daily limits
* Kaikoura -North Canterbury (those waters between Clarence
Point and the Waimakariri River).
- Maximum daily limit of 10 blue cod per person fshing.
34
South East Area
Length measurement
Finfsh length is measured from the tip of the nose to
the end of the middle ray of the tail fn (as shown in
diagram).
Protection of spotted black groper and
white pointer shark
No person may take or possess spotted black groper or
white pointer shark.
Method and species
restrictions
Line fshing restrictions
fshers initials and surname. A phone number is
also useful.
25 hooks.
Quinnat salmon fshing restrictions
No person fshing for Quinnat salmon shall be in >
possession or have control over more than one
assembled rod and running line.
No person shall use a rod and running line to take >
Quinnat salmon unless that person is within 15
metres of the rod and has the rod under visual
observation.
A person fshing for Quinnat salmon may use >
another rod and running line to jig for sprat or other
baitfsh, so long as any salmon taken on that rod and
running line is returned to the water immediately.
net, set net, fyke net, or any
other type of net at any one time.
nets).
is marked clearly, legibly and permanently with the
useful. Only one foat is required for fyke nets.
baitfshing if it is less than 10 metres long and has a
another net.
Minimum mesh sizes
particular species as detailed in the Finfsh - Bag
limits and size restrictions section. In some cases the
minimum mesh sizes for set nets are different from the
minimum sizes for other nets such as drag nets.
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12 mm.
Shellfsh
Open seasons
Scallops: Within the South-East Fishery Management
Area the open season is 15 July to 14 February
inclusive.
Paua: Measure
the greatest length
of the shell in a
straight line. Do not
measure over the
curve of the shell.
Scallops: Measure the greatest diameter of the shell.
Dredge Oysters: Must not pass through a rigid circular
metal ring with an inside
diameter of 58 mm.
Shellfsh to be landed in a measurable state: All
shellfsh to which a minimum size restriction applies
(including paua, scallops and dredge oysters) must be
landed in the
mean high-water mark.
(Within prescribed limits, provision exists permitting the
opening of dredge oysters and scallops for consumption
onboard a vessel). Any scallops and dredge oysters not
eaten must be landed in the shell.
^ Dredge oysters taken in the South-East FMA have no restriction
on either size or season. The exception is the waters of the
Chatham Islands where oysters must be 58mm.
+ Limited provision allows divers on a vessel to gather extra bag
limits of oysters and scallops for up to 2 other people acting in a
dive safety capacity.Note: This only applies to taking scallops
and oysters.
authorised by a Customary Authority or an open season is
declared by the Chief Executive of the Ministry of Fisheries.
all crabs, limpets, starfsh, periwinkles, whelks, barnacles and
freshwater crayfsh (koura).
Note: No Rock or Pacifc oysters are known to exist in Southland
FMA.
Protection of Coral
No person may take or possess black coral. >
No person may take or possess red coral. >
limit of paua; or
Rock Lobster
Daily limit
Shellfsh Species
Maximum
daily limit
per person
Minimum
size (mm)
Cockle 150 none
Kina (sea egg) 50 none
Mussel 50 none
Oyster - Dredge^+ 50 none
Paua - Ordinary 10 125
- Yellow foot 10 80
Pipi 150 none
Scallop - South-East FMA+ 20 100
Tuatua 150 none
36
South East Area
Possession
of the tail).
Any rock lobster in the soft shell stage (following >
moulting where the exoskeleton has not reached full
hardness).
measurement).
Lassoes
loop or lasso.
Pots
Limits:
initials.
in any one day.
limits) remain.
Use of Pots
POTS section.
3 escape gaps or apertures (other than the mouth).
least 2 escape gaps or apertures (other than the
contained. Each aperture must have an inside
mm x 140 mm does not have to have escape gaps
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Minimum sizes
Male red rock lobster with a tail width less than >
54mm.
60 mm.
less than 216 mm.
How to measure a spiny rock lobster
segment of the tail, (as shown in diagram):
male tails.
middle fan of the tail.
Flea Bay (Pohatu) marine reserve This is a total no
take area.
Temporary S186B Closure This rhui is a temporary
Closure for all fshing and gathering of aquatic life in the
area marked by information signs and foating buoys.
Please contact Ministry of Fisheries for more detailed
information on this closure. Ph (03)579 1080.
Rapaki Mataitai Reserve Rapaki mtaitai reserve
is situated in Rapaki Bay and is defned by foating
marker buoys. There are fshing and sea food gathering
restrictions in the marked areas, please contact the
Rapaki Marae or the Ministry of Fisheries for more
details Ph(03)339 3662
Port Levy Mataitai Reserve Cockles can only be taken
from within the reserve on any Saturday or Sunday
during the month of September. Only 12 cockles can
be taken by each person gathering and you must be
in possession of a gathering PERMIT from the local
Kaitiaki (Meri Crofts), 156 PA road, Port Levy. Ph
(03)329 4257.
Akaroa Taiapure From 1 October there will be reduced
bag limits for many fsh species and areas prohibited
for shellfsh gathering in Akaroa Harbour. A separate
brochure is available that describes these regulations or
you can fnd details on the Ministry of Fisheries website
www.fsh.govt.nz.
Male Female
5
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Pleopods
Pleopods
216 mm
Phatu Marine Reserve
Dyke Head
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Island Nook
Redcliffe
Point
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To
Akaroa
Ounu-hau Point
Northern
4352 47.07 S
17302 16.02 E
Southern
4353 20.01 S
17300 57.00 E
Nine Pins
4224.54 S
17342.32 E
New Wharf
4224.79 S
17342.19 E
St Kilda Rocks
4224.80 S
17342.80 E
Old Wharf
4225.02 S
17342.50 E
4225.01 S
17342.57 E
Kaikoura Rahui Area
38
South East Area
Set Netting
Set netting fshing is prohibited on the
South Island east coast of New Zealand
A person must not use a set net for fshing in the water
lying within 4 Nautical Miles from mean high water
mark to the sea along The East Coast of the South
Island.
Local Exemptions from this prohibition.
Set netting for founder permitted between 1st April and
30th September in designated founder areas around
The Banks Peninsula. These areas include the upper
reaches of: Akaroa Harbour, Port Levy, Pigeon Bay,
and Lyttelton Harbour. Set netting is still permitted in
estuaries, rivers, lagoons, and inlets except for the Avon
Heathcote Estuary. Please contact Ministry of Fisheries
or the Ministry of Fisheries website www.fsh.govt.nz.
Flatfsh set net means a net that:
is equal to or less than 9 meshes deep >
has a monoflament diameter equal to or less than >
.35mm
has a mesh size equal to or greater than 100mm; >
is anchored at each end >
does not exceed a total length of 60m >
Netting in North Canterbury
Restrictions apply for set netting in the Kaiapoi and
Waimakariri rivers from 1st February to the 30th
April. Please contact Ministry of Fisheries for detailed
information of these restrictions (03) 339 3662.
Use of Nets in Lake Ellesmere
Use any net for the taking of fnfsh in the waters of
Lake Ellesmere lying within an arc of a circle having a
radius of 1.2km around the centre of the mouth of:
The Irwell River >
Harts creek >
The Selwyn River >
No2 Drain >
The Halswell River >
The points where that circular are, meets the shore of
the lake being indicated in each case by posts painted
with alternate black and yellow bands.
Catlins Lake No person shall use a set net in the
Catlins Lake and tributaries running into the Catlins
Lake that lie up stream of the main road bridge
commencing at a point (at 46 28.50S and 169
45.60E); then in a southerly direction to 46 28.50S
and 169 45.60E.
Drag netting is prohibited in Catlins River. No person
shall use a drag net in the waters of the Catlins Lake as
described above.
East Otago Taiapure Set netting is permitted only
in the estuarine waters of the East Otago Taiapure.
Persons setting a net within this area must, at all
times, remain in the immediate vicinity of the set net.
For more details please contact Ministry of Fisheries
(03)474 0333.
Otago Harbour Restrictions to set netting apply to parts
of the Otago Harbour please contact the Ministry of
Fisheries (03) 474 0333.
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Designated fat fsh areas. Flat fsh set netting
permitted from 1 April to 30 September.
Ministry of Fisheries
Christchurch Dunedin
69 Nazareth Ave 1st Floor, 45 Filleul Street
(03) 339 3662 (03) 474 0333
Invercargill Waitangi
137 Spey Street Chatham Islands
(03) 211 0060 (03) 305 0004
Blenheim
State Highway 1, Main Rd, Blenheim
(03) 579 1088
www.fsh.govt.nz
0800 4 POACHER (0800 476 224 to report illegal
poaching)
POTATO POINT
WARRINGTON SPIT
BRINNS POINT
KARITANE
CORNISH HEAD
East Otago Taiapure Area
40
Southland Area

Southland
FMA
Sub-Antarctic FMA
the resource
Know the limits
Commercial fshers taking fsh for sale must have a
current fshing permit and are subject to the Quota
Management System with limits on how much they can
catch, along with many other controls. The restrictions
on recreational fshers are relatively simple. The three
main things to remember are:
Only those physically taking fnfsh, rock lobster,
or shellfsh are entitled to claim a catch within the
daily limit. You should also be aware of the restrictions
on the fshing gear and methods you can use.
Alive and unharmed
returned to the water very gently, allowing the fsh
to slide into the water from as close to the surface
as possible. It is important to return fsh, especially
shellfsh and rock lobster, as near as possible to the
place where they were found. Dead fsh that are taken
unlawfully must also be returned to the water. If you
encounter large numbers of undersized fsh then
change locations or use a larger hook size.
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A guide
These notes provide a guide to the regulations which
may be subject to change without notice. For full
nearest Ministry of Fisheries offce or check the
website www.fsh.govt.nz. A complete copy of the
legislation can be obtained from Bennetts Government
Bookshops.
Southland Fishery Management Area
The Southland and Sub Antarctic Fishery Management
Area includes all those waters lying south and west
from Awarua Point, South Westland to Slope Point,
on the Catlins south east coast and includes Foveaux
Strait, Stewart Island and all adjacent islands and
waters out to the edge of the 200 mile Exclusive
Economic Zone (EEZ). Within the Southland Fishery
Management Area, separate rules may apply to some
specifc areas including the FIordland Marine Area.
(Refer Closed and Restricted Areas section of this
brochure for further details)
Finfsh
In the Southland Fishery Management Area there is a
combined daily bag limit of 30 fnfsh per person,
consisting of any combination of the species listed
on the following panel, as long as the individual
species limits are not exceeded.
Species daily limits
Additionally, there are individual limits, over and
above the combined bag, for groper/hapuku/bass and
kingfsh. These species have a combined daily limit of
5 (with no more than 3 kingfsh). There is no limit on
species not named above.
Finfsh
Species
Maximum
daily limit
per fsher
Barracouta 30
Blue cod 30
Blue moki 15
Bluenose 30
Blue shark 1
Bronze shark 1
Butterfsh/Greenbone 15
Eel 6
Elephant fsh 5
Flatfsh 30
Grey mullet 30
Hammerhead shark 1
Kahawai 15
Lamprey 30
Ling 30
Mako shark 1
Marblefsh 30
Marlin 1
Finfsh
Species
Maximum
daily limit
per fsher
Porbeagle shark 1
Quinnat salmon 2
Red cod 10
Red gurnard 30
Red moki 15
Rig 5
School shark 5
Seven gilled shark 1
Skate ray 5
Snapper 30
Spiky dogfsh 15
Stargazer 30
Tarakihi 15
Thresher shark 1
Trevally 30
Trumpeter 15
Warehou 15
Wrasse 30
Length measurement
Finfsh length is
measured from the tip
of the nose to the end
of the middle ray of
the tail fn (as shown in
diagram).
Protection of White pointer shark
No person may take or possess any White pointer
shark.
Minimum mesh sizes
particular species. In some cases the minimum mesh
sizes for set nets are different from the minimum sizes
for other nets such as drag nets.
12 mm.
42
Southland Area
Finfsh Species Minimum
fsh length
(cm)
Minimum
set net mesh
size (mm)
Blue cod 33 100
Blue moki 40 114
Bluenose - 160
Butterfsh/Greenbone 35 108
Elephant fsh - 150
Garfsh (piper) - 25
Groper/Hapuku/Bass - 160
Herring (Yellow eyed mullet) - 25
Kahawai - 90
Kingfsh 75 100
Grey Mullet - 90
Pilchard - 25
Red cod 25 100
Red Gurnard 25 100
Red moki 40 115
Rig - 150
Sand founder 23 100
School shark - 150
Snapper 25 125
Tarakihi 25 100
Trevally 25 100
Trumpeter 35 100
All Others - 100
Method and species
restrictions
Line fshing restrictions
fshers initials and surname. A phone number is
also useful.
25 hooks.
vessel (other than handlines or rod and reel lines), no
more than two lines (other than handlines or rod and
reel lines) may be used, set from or possessed on
board that vessel.
Quinnat salmon fshing restrictions
No person fshing for Quinnat salmon shall be in >
possession or have control over more than one
assembled rod and running line.
No person shall use a rod and running line to take >
Quinnat salmon unless that person is within 15
metres of the rod and has the rod under visual
observation.
A person fshing for Quinnat salmon may use >
another rod and running line to jig for sprat or other
baitfsh, so long as any salmon taken on that rod and
running line is returned to the water immediately.
Note: In the Southland Fisheries Management Area
there are set netting prohibitions in place to protect
Hectors Dolphins. (Refer Closed and Restricted
Areas section).
In those areas where netting is permitted:-
net, set net, fyke net, or any
other type of net at any one time.
nets).
is marked legibly and permanently with the fshers
Only one foat is required for fyke nets.
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Note: In the Southland Fisheries Management Area
there are set netting prohibitions in place to protect
Hectors Dolphins. (Refer Closed and Restricted
Areas section).
In those areas where set netting is permitted:-
Only one set net is allowed to be used from, or be on >
board any vessel.
(An additional net is allowed for baitfshing if it is less
than 10 metres long and has a mesh size of 50 mm
or less).
another net.
It is unlawful to take any freshwater sports fsh using >
a set net (including trout and salmon species).
Protection of Coral
No person may take or possess any black coral or >
red coral.
Shellfsh
Open seasons
Dredge Oysters: Within the Southland Fishery
Management Area the open season is
1 March to 31 August inclusive.
Scallops: Within the Southland Fishery Management
Area the open season is 1 October to 15 March
inclusive.
Paua: Measure the
greatest length of the
shell in a straight line,
parallel to the ventral
surface. Do not measure over the curve of the shell.
Scallops: Measure the greatest diameter of the shell.
Dredge Oysters: Must not pass through a rigid circular
metal ring with an inside
diameter of 58 mm.
Shellfsh to be landed in a measurable state: All
shellfsh to which a minimum size restriction applies
landed in the
mean high-water mark.
Within prescribed limits, provision exists permitting >
the opening of dredge oysters and scallops for
consumption onboard a vessel. Any scallops and
dredge oysters not eaten must be landed in the
shell.
Oyster dredge size restriction
Within certain areas of the Foveaux Strait dredge >
oyster fshery, use or possession of a dredge with a
bar or bit exceeding 1 metre in length is prohibited.
(Contact the Ministry of Fisheries for further
details)
44
Southland Area
Shellfsh Species Maximum
daily limit
per fsher
Minimum
size (mm)
Cockle 150 none
Crab 50 none
Mussel 25* none
Oyster - Dredge 50^ 58
Paua - Ordinary 10 125
- Yellow foot 10 80
Pipi 150 none
Scallop 10^ 100
Tuatua 150 none
* Excluding Stewart Island where the mussel limit is 50.
^ Divers on a vessel may take an additional quota of
oysters or scallops for up to two persons acting in a dive
safety capacity. Note: This only applies to taking oysters
and scallops.
# Toheroa must not be taken, possessed, or disturbed
unless authorised by a Customary Authority or an open
season is declared by the Chief Executive of the
This is a combined, mixed-species bag limit. It applies to
all shellfsh species not specifcally named above.
Note: No Rock or Pacifc oysters are known to exist in
Southland FMA. All oysters taken within the Southland
FMA are subject to season, daily limit and minimum
size restrictions.
limit of paua; or
Rock Lobster
Daily limit
Minimum sizes
Male spiny rock lobster with a tail width less than >
54 mm.
Female spiny rock lobster with a tail width less than >
60 mm.
less than 216 mm.
How to measure a spiny rock lobster
male tails.
middle fan of the tail.
216 mm
Male Female
5
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6
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m
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Pleopods
Pleopods
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Possession
of the tail).
hardness).
measurement).
It is unlawful to:
Use or set a baited net for taking rock lobsters, or >
possess any rock lobster with a baited net.
It is lawful to use a ring pot, hoop net or bob to take
rock lobster.
Lassoes
loop or lasso.
Rock lobster pots
Rock lobster pot means any pot, whether baited or not,
that is capable of catching or holding rock lobsters; and
includes any other device capable of catching, holding
or storing rock.
initials.
Rock lobster pot limits
in any one day.
It is unlawful to use or possess on a vessel any rock
lobster pot without escape gaps.
3 escape gaps or apertures (other than the mouth).
least 2 escape gaps or apertures (other than the
contained. Each aperture must have an inside
mm x 140 mm does not have to have escape gaps
46
Southland Area
The use of set nets is prohibited in the Southland
Fishery Management Area from Slope Point to Sandhill
Point, east of Fiordland offshore to four nautical
miles. Set netting is also prohibited in the whole of Te
Waewae Bay between Old Man Rock, west of Garden
Bay and Sandhill Point. (Refer map).
[Note: The prohibition also extends beyond Slope
Point into the South East Fishery Management Area.
Recreational set netting is also prohibited within the
Fiordland Marine Area, west of Sandhill Point.]
Unless specifed, the set netting prohibitions do not
apply to harbours, estuaries, rivers, inlets and lagoons.
(Contact the Ministry of Fisheries for further
details).
Te Whaka a Te Wera / Paterson Inlet
Mataitai Reserve:
Additional bylaws apply within the Te Whaka a Te
Wera / Paterson Inlet Mataitai Reserve including area
closures, prohibitions and reduced bag limits.
(Contact the Ministry of Fisheries for details and
a copy of the Te Whaka a Te Wera / Paterson Inlet
Mataitai Reserve brochure).
Fiordland Marine Area:
Specifc rules apply for the Fiordland (Te Moana o
Atawhenua) Marine Area including area closures and
reduced bag limits. (Contact the Ministry of Fisheries
for details and a copy of the Fiordland Marine Area
brochure).
The Department of Conservation should be
contacted for details regarding:
Marine Reserves (where fshing is prohibited) and >
Marine Mammal Sanctuaries that exist within the
Stewart Island and Fiordland areas.
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Invercargill
137 Spey Street
(03) 211 0060
Dunedin
1st Floor, 45 Filleul Street
(03) 474 0333
www.fsh.govt.nz
0800 4 POACHER (0800 476 224) to report illegal fshing
48
Fiordland Area
Fiordlands fsheries need
your help!
Every year growing numbers of fshers are visiting
Fiordland to experience and enjoy the unique fshing
and diving opportunities available. Increased access
has led to harvest pressure on popular fnfsh, rock
lobster and shellfsh species. Unchecked, fshing
pressure within the most accessible fords has caused
local depletion. This is because fshery habitat within
the inner fords is unproductive and some species
suffer from poor recruitment, creating a situation where
fshing harvest must be carefully managed.
The impact of escalating access and harvest levels on
Fiordlands fsh stocks motivated a group of concerned
fshers and ford users to form the Guardians of
Fiordlands Fisheries and Marine Environment in 1995.
Through a process of negotiated gifts and gains
between the recreational and commercial fshers,
charter operators, Ngai Tahu and environmentalists,
the Guardians developed an integrated management
strategy for the Fiordland marine environment. In
2005 the Guardians strategy was realised with the
establishment of the Fiordland (Te Moana o Atawhenua)
Marine Area, incorporating modifed fshing rules and
marine protection measures. This area lies inside the
Southland Fishery Management Area.
Know the limits
The restrictions on recreational fshers are relatively
simple.
The main things to remember are:
Spread your fshing effort to avoid depletion >
Dont abuse your recreational entitlement* >
*Note: Only those persons physically taking fnfsh, rock
lobster or shellfsh are entitled to claim a catch within
the daily limit.
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All fsh taken and consumed during any trip must
be counted within the daily limit entitlement.
Fishers should also be aware of the restrictions on
closed seasons, closed areas, fshing gear and method
prohibitions that may apply within the Fiordland Marine
Area and the wider Southland Fishery Management
Area.
Alive and unharmed
Unlawfully taken fsh (such as fsh taken in excess of
your daily limit, undersize, unlawful state or fsh taken
with unlawful gear or method) must be immediately
returned to the water, taking all care to ensure the
fsh is unharmed and returned in the same location
where taken. Dead fsh that are unlawful must also be
returned to the water.
A guide to the law
These notes are provided as a summary guide of
applicable law, which is subject to change. For full
nearest Ministry of Fisheries offce. A complete copy of
the relevant legislation (including Acts and associated
regulations) is available from Bennetts Government
Bookshops.
A Guide to the Fiordland
Marine Area recreational
fshing rules
Fiordland (Te Moana o Atawhenua) Marine Area is
the area established by the
Fiordland (Te Moana o Atawhenua) Marine Management
Act 2005 - being all of that part of the Fiordland coastal
marine area shown on SO Plan 345612, enclosed by
a line commencing from Awarua Point on the West
Coast of the South Island and extending 12 nautical
miles from the mean high-water springs mark along the
Fiordland coast to its South-Eastern boundary point at
Sandhill Point, but excluding the coastal marine area
around the Solander Islands.
Non-Commercial Fishing
Areas
Internal waters of Fiordland are defned inner ford
areas as described in the Fisheries (Southland and
Sub-Antarctic Areas Amateur Fishing) Amendment
Regulations 2005 schedule. All commercial fshing
is prohibited within the internal waters of Fiordland
creating a 46,000-hectare non-commercial fshing
area. Special restrictions apply to the internal waters,
where the inner ford habitat is characterised by steep
rock walls, dominated by marine animal species and
where fsh life is less productive. Beyond internal water
boundaries, fsh life is correspondingly more abundant
and prolifc in the seaweed dominated outer ford and
nutrient rich coastal environment.
50
Fiordland Area
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52
Fiordland Area
Specifc Fiordland
recreational fshing rules
apply
Internal waters of Fiordland
Blue cod daily species limit of 3 with no >
accumulation*
Groper (Hapuku)/bass daily species limit of 3 with no >
accumulation*
Rock lobster daily species limit of 3 with no >
accumulation*
Fiord entrances and outer coast
Blue cod daily species limit of 20 with no >
accumulation* (includes the 3 blue cod limit from
within the internal ford waters)
Groper daily species limit of 5 with no accumulation* >
(includes the 3 groper limit from within the internal
ford waters)
Rock lobster daily bag limit of 6, with a three day >
accumulation limit of 15 (special provisions apply)
Any accumulated rock lobster must be held in >
labelled containers
(refer rock lobster provisions).
Entire Fiordland (Te Moana o Atawhenua)
Marine Area
Total combined fnfsh bag limit of 30 with no >
accumulation*
Groper (Hapuku)/bass species are included inside the >
combined fnfsh bag limit.
Jock Stewart (Sea perch) daily species limit of 10 >
with no accumulation included inside the combined
fnfsh bag limit*
Scallop and paua daily species limit of 10 with no >
accumulation*
*Note: Accumulation refers to the aggregation and
possession of daily fsh catch in excess of more
than one days legal possession entitlement, which
is unlawful for fnfsh, paua, scallops.
In the case of rock lobster, there is a 3 day
accumulation limit of 15 rock lobsters with special
provisions applying. (Refer rock lobster provisions)
Bulk harvest method restrictions
Blue cod pot > use is prohibited inside the internal
waters of Fiordland
Within the entire Fiordland Marine Area the following
restrictions apply:
Long lines > including any set line, dropline or dahn
line, limited to one per person, or two per vessel
> Long lines including any set line, dropline or dahn
line, limited to a maximum of 5 hooks per line
Rock lobster pots > limited to 3 per person and no
more then 3 per vessel
> Dredges and set nets are prohibited within the
entire Fiordland Marine Area.
Blue cod closed areas
Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound internal waters are
temporarily closed for taking blue cod to allow depleted
stocks to rebuild.
No person may take or possess any blue cod taken >
from Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound internal
waters of Fiordland.
Finfsh
Maximum daily limits
In the Fiordland (Te Moana o Atawhenua) Marine
Area there is a combined daily bag limit of 30 fnfsh,
consisting of any combination of the species listed on
the following panel, as long as the individual species
limits are not exceeded.
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Finfsh
Species
Maximum
daily limit
per fsher
Finfsh
Species
Maximum
daily limit
per fsher
Barracouta 30 Porbeagle shark 1
Blue cod 20 Quinnat salmon 2
Blue moki 15 Red cod 10
Bluenose 30 Red gurnard 30
Blue shark 1 Red moki 15
Bronze shark 1 Rig 5
Butterfsh/Greenbone 15 School shark 5
Eels 6 Sea perch/Jock Stewart 10
Elephant fsh 5 Seven gilled shark 1
Flatfsh 30 Skate ray 5
Grey mullet 30 Snapper 30
Groper/Hapuku/Bass 5 Spiky dogfsh 15
Hammerhead shark 1 Stargazer 30
Kahawai 15 Tarakihi 15
Lamprey 30 Thresher shark 1
Ling 30 Trevally 30
Mako shark 1 Trumpeter 15
Marblefsh 30 Wrasse 30
Marlin 1
Accumulation of fnfsh beyond the daily limit is
prohibited. Therefore possession at any time of
fsh taken from within the Fiordland Marine Area in
excess of the prescribed species limit and combined
bag limit is unlawful. Except for Kingfsh (individual
limit of 3) there is no limit on fnfsh species not listed
above.
Internal waters of Fiordland - conservative
limits apply
Within the internal waters of Fiordland the following
conservative daily limits apply:
Blue cod daily limit of 3 with no accumulation. >
Groper (Hapuku)/bass daily limit of 3 with no >
accumulation.
White Pointer shark prohibition
No person may take or possess any white pointer >
shark
Minimum Size Restrictions
Finfsh Species Minimum fsh length
Blue cod 33 cm
Blue moki 40 cm
Butterfsh/Greenbone 35 cm
Flatfsh (except sand founder) 25 cm
Kingfsh 75 cm
Red cod 25 cm
Red gurnard 25 cm
Red moki 40 cm
Sand founder 23 cm
Snapper 25 cm
Tarakihi 25 cm
Trevally 25 cm
Trumpeter 35 cm
Length measurement
Finfsh length is measured
from the tip of the nose
to the rear end of the
middle ray of the tail fn
as shown here.
Method and gear restrictions - Line fshing
Within the entire Fiordland Marine Area the following
restrictions apply to all line fshing including any
longline, set line, dropline and dahn line.
All surface foats attached to any line must be clearly >
and legibly marked with the fshers surname and
initials
5 hooks
one line (other than rod and reel lines or handlines)
vessel (other than a rod and reel lines or handlines),
no more than two lines (other than rod and reel lines
or handlines) may be used or set from, or possessed
on board that vessel.
Set nets prohibited
No person may use, set or possess any set net within >
the Fiordland Marine Area.
54
Fiordland Area
Blue cod hook size
When fshing for blue cod, the Fiordland Marine
Guardians recommend the voluntary use of size 6/0
or larger size wide gap or circle fsh hooks to avoid
damage and promote survival of undersize blue cod.
Blue cod pots prohibited
No person may use or set any blue cod pot within >
the internal waters of Fiordland.
Shellfsh
UBA - Underwater breathing apparatus
(does not include snorkels)
No person may take any paua using UBA. >
possession of UBA. This includes possession, in or
on any vessel or vehicle.
Dredges prohibited
No person may use or possess any dredge within the >
Fiordland Marine Area.
Open seasons
Dredge Oysters: Within the Southland Fishery
Management Area the open season is 1 March to 31
August inclusive.
Scallops: Within the Southland Fishery Management
Area the open season is 1 October to 15 March
inclusive.
Paua: measure
the greatest length
of the shell in
a straight line,
parallel to the
ventral surface. (Do not measure over the curve of the
shell)
Scallops: measure the greatest diameter of the shell.
Shellfsh Species Maximum
daily limit
per fsher
Minimum
size (mm)
Cockle 150 none
Crab 50 none
Mussel 25 none
Oysters - Dredge 50 58
Paua - Ordinary black foot* 10 125
Pipi 150 none
Scallop * 10 100
Tuatua 150 none
* No Accumulation of paua or scallop daily limits taken
within the Fiordland Marine Area.
Divers on a vessel may take an additional quota of
oysters or scallops for up to two persons acting in a dive
safety capacity.
This is a combined, mixed-species bag limit. It applies to
all shellfsh species not specifcally named above.
Note: No Rock or Pacifc oysters are known to
exist in the Southland Fishery Management Area
(including Fiordland Marine Area). All oysters taken
within the Southland FMA are subject to season,
daily limit and size restrictions.
Shellfsh to be landed in a measurable state
All shellfsh to which a minimum size restriction applies
landed in the shell and cannot be shucked or shelled
seaward of the mean high-water mark.
Within prescribed limits, provision exists permitting >
opening of dredge oysters and scallops for
consumption onboard a vessel. Any scallops or
oysters not eaten must me landed in the shell.
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Rock Lobster
Maximum daily limit
No person may take or possess more than 6 rock >
lobsters (both spiny and packhorse rock lobster
species combined) on any one day within the
Fiordland (Te Moana o Atawhenua) Marine Area.
No person may take or possess more than 3 rock >
lobsters on any one-day that are taken from within
the internal waters of Fiordland. No accumulation
applies.
Limits on accumulation
Within the Fiordland (Te Moana o Atawhenua) Marine
Area, a limited defence provision exists to allow
possession of accumulated rock lobster taken over 3 or
more days in excess of the daily possession limit if-
Not more than 15 rock lobster are possessed; and >
The daily take limit of 6 rock lobster was not >
exceeded on any day; and
Not more than 3 rock lobster were taken from the >
internal waters of Fiordland; and
The rock lobster are held in labelled containers or >
bags that:
- contain only rock lobster taken on a single day; and
- are clearly labelled to record -
(i) The individual fshers full name; and
(ii) The date on which the rock lobster was taken by
the fsher; and
(iii) The number of rock lobster held in the container or
bag; and
(iv) The number of rock lobster (if any) taken from the
internal waters of Fiordland.
Note: Accumulation refers to the aggregation and
possession of daily rock lobster catch in excess of
more than one days possession entitlement, which
is subject to a 3-day accumulation limit of 15 rock
lobster.
Possession
Rock lobster may not be possessed seaward of the
mean high-water mark in an unmeasurable state.
Minimum sizes
No person may take or possess:
Male spiny rock lobster with a tail width less than >
54 mm.
Female spiny rock lobster with a tail width less than >
60 mm.
shorter than 216 mm.
How to measure spiny rock lobster
The sex is easily
determined:
Females have >
small pincers on
the rear pair of
legs.
Pleopods are in >
paired form on
each side of the
under surface of
female tails, and are in single form
in male tails.
If you are unsure of the sex, use the 60mm
The tail length of the
Packhorse rock lobster
is measured along the
underside in a straight line
from the rear of the calcifed
bar on the frst segment to
the tip of the middle fan of the tail.
The following types of rock lobster must be immediately
returned to the water:
of the tail).
Male
Female
Primary spines
on second segment
Pleopods
Female rear leg detail showing pincer
5
4

m
m
6
0

m
m
216 mm
56
Fiordland Area
hardness).
measurement).
It is unlawful to:
Use a spear or device, which could puncture the >
lobster, which has been speared.
Use or set a baited net for taking rock lobsters, or possess >
any rock lobster with a baited net.
It is lawful to use a ring pot, hoop net or bob to take
rock lobster.
Lassoes
loop or lasso.
Rock lobster pot restrictions
Rock lobster pot means any pot, whether baited or not,
that is capable of catching or holding rock lobster; and
includes any other device capable of catching, holding,
or storing rock lobster except a loop, bob or ring pot.
It is unlawful to:
Use or set a rock lobster pot unless the pot and >
the surface buoy or foat, attached to the pot and
foat line are clearly and permanently marked with
the fshers surname and initials. This includes
possession on any vessel.
Set or possess a rock lobster pot unless it has >
escape gaps as detailed in the Escape gaps for rock
lobster pots section.
Rock lobster pot limits
No person may on any day within the Fiordland (Te
Moana o Atawhenua) Marine Area -
Possess, use or set more than 3 rock lobster pots. >
Possess on any vessel, or use or set more than 3 >
rock lobster pots from any vessel.
Escape gaps for rock lobster pots
either the top or the bottom of any pot
3 escape gaps/or apertures (other than the mouth).
least 2 escape gaps/ or apertures (other than the
contained. Each aperture shall have an inside
mm x 140 mm does not have to have escape gaps/
each of 2 opposite sides
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Rock lobster holding pots
Rock lobster holding pot means a pot that is used, or
can be used for holding or storing rock lobster but does
not include any pot that is capable of catching rock
lobster.
Holding pots are excluded from other rock lobster >
pot limits and escape gap requirements.
Limits apply restricting one holding pot per person or >
a maximum of 2 holding pots per vessel if there are
two or more persons.
Holding pots and attached surface foats used from >
or transported on a vessel must be clearly and
permanently marked with the vessel name and
the characters HP I for the frst holding pot and (if
applicable) HP 2 for the second holding pot.
Holding pots and attached surface foats used other >
than from a vessel must be clearly and permanently
marked with the fshers surname, initials and the
characters HP.
Protection of coral
No person may take or possess any black coral or red
coral.
Marine Reserves
In the Fiordland (Te Moana o Atawhenua) Marine Area
there are 10 Marine Reserves administered by the
Department of Conservation.
The following is a list of the Marine Reserves running
from North to South:
Piopiotahi (Milford Sound) Marine Reserve >
Te Hapua (Sutherland Sound) Marine Reserve >
Hawea (Clio Rocks) Marine Reserve [Bligh Sound] >
Kahukura (Gold Arm) Marine Reserve [Charles >
Sound]
Kutu Parera (Gaer Arm) Marine Reserve [Bradshaw >
Sound]
Te Awaatu Channel (The Gut) Marine Reserve >
[Doubtful Sound]
Taipari Roa (Elizabeth Island) Marine Reserve >
[Doubtful Sound]
Moana Uta (Wet Jacket Arm) Marine Reserve >
[Acheron Passage]
Taumoana (Five Fingers Peninsula) Marine Reserve >
[Dusky Sound]
Te Tapuwae o Hua (Long Sound) Marine Reserve >
[Preservation Inlet]
Within the marine reserves, all marine life is completely
protected with all fshing, both non-commercial and
commercial totally prohibited.
Penalties apply
There are heavy penalties for breaching fsheries
regulations including graduated Infringement notice
penalties of $250 and $500, maximum Court fnes of
$10,000 and for serious non-commercial offences,
there are maximum Court fnes of $20,000 and
$250,000 along with automatic forfeiture of any fsh,
gear and property (including vessels and vehicles) used
in the commission of the offence.
Invercargill
137 Spey Street
(03) 211 0060
www.fsh.govt.nz
0800 4 POACHER
(0800 476 224 to report illegal fshing)
58
How to release undersized fsh
This pamphlet will show you how to correctly
release undersized fsh so that they survive to reach
a larger size. Recreational fshers are encouraged to
know how to release undersized fsh correctly so
the fsh live to be caught another day.
A fsh out of water biological facts
Rough handling, especially with dry hands,
damages the protective mucous layer covering the
scales, reducing the chances of the fsh surviving
after release. The internal organs of the fsh can be
damaged by a fsher squeezing too hard, or by the
impact of thrashing on hard surfaces.
Avoid catching undersized fsh
The best way to protect small fsh is not to catch
them at all.
Use a larger hook and a bigger bait as these are
less likely to be swallowed by small fsh. Do not
keep fshing in an area where most of the fsh are
small.
Keep the fsh in the water
When fshing from small boats the best option may
be to keep fsh in the water while removing the
hook. This greatly reduces the stress caused by
handling.
Guidelines for releasing undersized fsh
Lifting fsh from the water
If fsh have to be removed from the water, this
should be done carefully as possible, especially if
the hook is swallowed. Small fsh can be safely
lifted using the line if they are hooked in the mouth.
Fish hooked in the gills or the gut should never be
lifted by the line.
Put the fsh on a wet, soft surface
Placing the fsh on a wet, soft surface such as a wet
sponge or towel will help protect the mucous layer
over the scales and most fsh will struggle less.
Handling fsh wear gloves
Professional fshers and marine biologists only
handle live fsh while wearing wet gloves. Wet
cotton gloves are the best, but cheap rubber gloves
are almost as good.
Always ensure that your hands are wet. Include a
pair of gloves with your fshing tackle and use them
when releasing fsh. If you are not wearing gloves,
remember to ensure your hands are wet.
Never hold a fsh by putting your fngers inside the
gill covers or eye sockets.
To handle a live snapper, hold the back of its head
in the gill cover area. If you grip from below the jaw,
you should avoid being spiked by the fsh.
59
When carrying a fsh, hold it around the gill covers
with one hand and support the body with the other.
Cut the line for gut-hooked fsh
If a fsh has swallowed the hook, it is very likely to
die if you try to remove it. Do not pull hard on the
line. This is sure to cause internal damage. Cut the
line as close as you can to the mouth.
If you lose a hook in the process of releasing a fsh
that would otherwise die, consider this a small price
to pay for the enjoyment you gain from fshing.
Never use a gob stick on fsh you intend to
release.
Getting the hook out
If fsh are hooked in the mouth or lip, you should
extract the hook as carefully as possible. Lie the fsh
on a wet, soft surface and use hook removers or
long-nosed pliers to get a secure grip.
Try to push the hook back the way it came and try
not to tear the mouth.
Barbless hooks make releasing mouth-hooked fsh
easy. You can make your hook barbless by either
fattening the barb with pliers or fling the barb off.
Having removed the hook, return the fsh to the
water head frst, as gently as you can from the least
possible height.
Size limits
You should know the minimum legal size limits as
there are large penalties for breaking the law. The
limits are set at levels that allow fsh to breed at
least once before then can be legally caught and
taken home.
Finfsh are measured from the tip of the nose to
the V in the tail. Size limits can vary from area
to area. For example, the minimum legal size limit
for snapper in the North Island fsheries is 27 cm.
In the South Island it is 25 cm. The minimum legal
size for kingfsh is 75 cm.
The Ministry of Fisheries believes that signifcant
increases in the numbers of fsh can be achieved in
our main fsheries if people observe the minimum
legal size limits and carefully return undersized fsh
to the water.
Handling larger fsh
Where possible, do not remove large fsh from the
water at all.
A kingfsh that is just sub-legal (less than 75 cm)
may still be quite a big fsh of around 3 kg.
Kingfsh are strong, active and often diffcult to
control in a small boat. One way of controlling
kingfsh is to leave the fsh in the landing net while
you remove the hook, then return it to the water.
Alternatively, use a wet towel to hold the kingfsh
while the hook is removed.
Landing Nets
Use a knotless landing net to land your fsh as this
type of net minimises the damage to fsh scales and
slime. Another beneft, especially if using barbless
hooks is the reduction in tangling of hooks in the
net mesh. With knotted landing nets this can cause
considerable delays in removing hooks, especially
barbed from the net and reduces fshing time. This
can be important during short periods when the fsh
are avidly biting.
Fish grips
A fsh grip device can be used to assist in handling
and immobilising a fsh however the body of the fsh
should be supported at all times. Avoid grips with
inbuilt scales and dont be tempted to weigh the fsh
by hanging it off the grip.
Venting
Venting or puncturing the swim bladder with a fne
hollow needle can be used to allow the expanded
air in the swim bladder to escape. Venting methods
can vary with species however in most cases the
needle is inserted in line with the top of the pectoral
fn and below the 4th dorsal spine.
60
REMEMBER TO DO
THESE THINGS
>
Remove fsh from the water only if you have to
Wear cotton or rubber gloves or at least wet your
hands
Lie fsh on a soft wet surface if you need to
handle them out of the water
Change to a larger hook size if you are catching a
lot of undersized fsh
Minimise the time fsh are out of the water
Remove the hook carefully from mouth-hooked
fsh
Return fsh gently to the sea
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
7
7
7
7
7
7
PLEASE DO NOT
>
Hold fsh by inserting your fngers inside the gill
cover
Poke or touch the eyes, and never hold fsh by the
eye sockets
Use a gob stick on fsh you intend to release
Squeeze the gill covers or gut area
Lift fsh by the tail as this can dislocate the spine
Drop or place fsh on a hot, dry deck or on rocks
61
Sale or Rafe of sh in
Clubs/Hotels/Workplaces
Each year thousands of New Zealanders go shing and take
large numbers of sh (nsh, craysh and shellsh). These
quantities, from a very wide range of species, can seriously
affect local sheries.
It is important for the sustainability
of New Zealands shery
resources that all members
of the public play
their part in helping
to conserve the
resource so that
generations to
come will also be
able to enjoy a
days shing.
HOW CAN YOU HELP
To help clubs, hotels and workplaces to
fully understand the rules so that they
can play their part in conserving
the resource, the main laws to
remember in relation to the
sale or rafe of
sh are:
*Dont buy,
or even
have in your
possession,
any fnfsh,
crayfsh or
shellfsh (other than
whitebait) for the purposes
of any sale in any form
whatsoever (including raffes)
unless you can prove you have
obtained the fsh from one of the
following sources:
1. A licensed sh receiver or other authorised person
2. A commercial sherman in the vicinity of his or
her shing vessel (maximum amounts apply to the
amount of sh which can be
purchased, e.g. 10kg of nsh)
* Dont knowingly permit any premises to
be used for illegal sale of fsh.
REMEMBER
The meaning of sale under the Fisheries Act is very wide. Sale includes
every method of disposition for valuable consideration, including barter;
and includes the disposition to an agent for sale on consignment; and also
includes offering of attempting to sell, or receiving or having in possession for
sale, or exposing for sale,or sending or delivering for sale, or causing or permitting
to be sold, offered, or exposed for sale; and also includes
disposal by way of rafe, lottery, or otrher game of chance...
*Severe penalties apply to offences under the Fisheries Act
(large fnes as well as forfeiture of property)
Anyone organising a sale or rafe of sh wanting further detailed information on the
laws relating to the sale of sh, should contact any ofce of the Ministry of Fisheries.
Fishery Ofcers
are concerned
that some
clubs, hotels and
workplaces are
conducting sales
or rafes of sh which
have not come from a
legal source. Such
illegal sales or rafes
of sh pose a
serious threat to
conservation of the
resource.
62
Heres the catch
63
The Ministry of Fisheries
doesnt want to give you
an infringement fee, but
if you break the fshing
rules, we may.
Everyone who enjoys fshing wants to make sure
New Zealand has enough fsh for the future. Thats
why we have recreational fshing rules.
At the Ministry of Fisheries, we do our best to make
sure that everyone who fshes knows the rules and
sticks to them. But some people dont seem to care.
Theyre the ones who take more than their share and
put New Zealands fsh and shellfsh stocks at risk.
The law allows us to give an infringement fee
to people who put themselves frst and New
Zealands fsh stocks second. The non-commercial
recreational penalty structure is shown below.
The penalty structure
Infringement Offences
$250 minimum For breaches of shellfsh and fnfsh minimum legal size limits.
For netting and gear offences.
$250 - $500 Graduated penalties for taking excess bag limits for all species, up to three times the daily limit.
Take with/use/possess excess rock lobster pots.
Offences which go to Court
Some offences will
go to Court
To avoid an infringement fee:
Know your bag and size limits. >
Be sure you know how to measure your catch. >
Ask the Ministry of Fisheries for a recreational >
fshing rules brochure for your area.
(North, Central, Challenger, South).
www.fish.govt.nz
The maximum for non-commercial offences is $20,000 >
There is a new category, serious non-commercial offending, where the Court >
may forfeit fishing related property as well as impose a fine of up to $250,000.
For example, taking more than three times the daily bag limit is a serious
non-commercial offence.
64
Stuck between a rock and a hard place?
Getting to grips with handling and
measuring lobster
65
New Zealand rock
lobsters found around our
coastline and offshore
islands, are referred to
as crayfsh, a name
more correctly applied
to freshwater species.
They are often fshed by
commercial, recreational
and by Maori customary
fshers.
The sustainable management of our rock lobster
fsheries is supported by an extensive research
programme and an enforcement and compliance
regime.
What can you do to look after the
fshery?
We ask all fshers to comply with the regulations >
so there will be plenty of rock lobsters for future
generations.
Rock lobster that must be returned to the sea >
should be done so immediately and with care to
maximise their chances of survival.
Know the size limits, bag limits and other fshing >
rules for your area.
Avoid grasping rock lobster by their legs or the >
antennae. Legs and feelers are easily detached
and injured lobsters seldom survive.
Do not take female rock lobsters with their tails >
tucked in underneath them; they are carrying
thousands of eggs.
Lobster rapidly go blind in sunlight. Measure >
them as soon as they leave the water and quickly
return illegal lobster to where they can fnd
shelter.
Pots should not be left baited and unattended for >
more than 24 hours. Octopus can enter pots and
will kill any rock lobster that cannot escape.
Description
New Zealand has two common species of rock
lobster:
The red or spiny rock lobster > Jasus edwardsii
and the green or packhorse rock lobster Jasus
verreauxi.
The packhorse, the worlds largest rock lobster, >
can be as large as 60 cm and 15 kg. Red rock
lobster are generally smaller, but have been
measured at 54 cm overall length and weighing
over 8 kg.
Life cycle
Mating occurs within a few weeks of the female
moult.Females bear up to 550,000 eggs depending
on locality and their size. Eggs are carried under the
tail, for up to 6 months before hatching. The eggs
hatch into spider-like larvae that drift freely as part
of the plankton in open waters for at least 9-12
months, where they fall prey to a variety of plankton
feeders. The survivors may move considerable
distances with ocean currents, returning to inshore
areas to settle on the bottom as transparent
puerulii, which resemble miniature adults. At this
stage they may suffer heavy predation from bottom
feeding fsh, until they fnd adequate shelter.
Distribution, habitat and movement
Both Red rock lobsters and Packhorse rock
lobsters are widespread throughout New Zealand,
particularly in coastal areas where there is plenty
of cover.
Rock lobsters usually move by night to search for
food and shelter, returning to the safety of crevices
during the day.
They eat a wide variety of bottom life, with a
preference for shellfsh, crabs, seaweeds, small fsh
and sea urchins.
66
There is also a seasonal movement into shallow
water for moulting and mating, and another when
females move to the edges of reefs to spawn their
eggs.
Rock lobster migrate in large numbers. Movements
of up to 460 km by red rock lobsters, and up to
1070 km by packhorse lobster have been recorded.
Growth and age
To increase size, a rock lobster must shed or moult
its shell and grow a new larger one which is initially
soft, leaving it very vulnerable to predators. It
absorbs water rapidly and expands to its new size.
The shell hardens within a few days, taking longer
to thicken to full strength. Moulting frequency and
times depend on age and sex.
Legal size is attained in 5-10 years, depending on
the sex of the lobster, area, and growth rates. Rock
lobster may live for over 30 years.
Recreational fshery
Recreational fshing for the daily limit (6 legal rock
lobster per fsher) is largely based on diving, but
baited pots are also used.
Recreational fshing can have a signifcant impact
on stocks in some areas.
The need for different minimum
legal sizes
Tail width measurement is used to determine the
legal size for red or spiny rock lobster. Females of
similar body sizes have wider tails than males, so
different minimum legal sizes are needed for each.
This contributes to the effectiveness of the escape
gaps that must be used in all rock lobster pots.
Escape gaps reduce the damage to, and possible
mortalities of, juvenile rock lobster.
Pot limits
Know the rock lobster pot limits:
Individuals may use, set, or possess up to three >
rock lobster pots in any one day.
Two or more individuals fshing from a vessel >
may use, set, or possess up to six rock lobster
pots in any one day.
Paterson Inlet Within Paterson Inlet, Stewart >
Island (those waters lying inside a line between
Ackers Point and Bullers Point on The Neck),
there is a limit of two rock lobster pots per
person.
Mimiwhangata No person may use more than >
one pot per person per vessel.
67
Male
Female
Primary spines
on second segment
Pleopods
Female rear leg detail showing pincer
5
4

m
m
6
0

m
m
Set any pot unless the pot & surface foat are >
clearly and permanently marked with fshers
surname and initials.
Individuals may use, set or possess up to 3 pots >
in any one day
Two or more individuals fshing from a vessel >
may use, set or possess up to 6 pots in any one
day.
Octopus posts need to be secured by a latch or >
similar devise
Regulation escape gaps to allow
undersized lobsters to escape
It is an offence to set or possess a rock lobster >
pot unless it has an escape gap as detailed
below.
Round or beehive pots must have at least 3 >
escape gaps or apertures (other than the mouth).
Each aperture must have an inside dimension of
not less than 54 mm x 200 mm.
Square or rectangular pots must have at least >
two escape gaps or apertures (other than
the mouth) in opposite faces of the pot. Each
aperture shall not be less than 80% of the height
or length of the face of the pot in which the
apertures are contained.
No escape gap or aperture shall be incorporated >
in either the top or the bottom of any pot.
Determining a rock lobster sex
Females have small pincers on the rear pair of >
legs.
underside of female tails and are in single form
in male tails.
If you are unsure of the sex use the 60 mm >
Hold the lobster by the back of its carapace (hard
shell), tail facing towards you. Turn it upside town.
Gently fold out its tail and determine its sex.
Measuring red rock lobster
The tail width is measured in a straight line
between the tips of the two large (primary) spines
on the second segment of the tail, as shown in the
diagrams opposite. The minimum sizes for red rock
lobster are:
54 mm for males and 60 mm for females.
If a red rock lobster measures less than 54 mm
for a male or less than 60 mm for a female, or if
any part of the spines or shell on this segment is
broken, the lobster can not be kept and must be
returned to the sea, immediately and unharmed.
Each aperture shall have an inside dimension of >
not less than54 mm x 200 mm.
Any rock lobster pot constructed entirely >
of unaltered spot welded mesh with inside
dimensions of 54 mm x 140 mm does not have
to have escape gaps or apertures, but pots must
be used without covers or liners or have covers
or liners that leave unencumbered at least 80%
of the surface area of each of 2 opposite sides.
68
Measuring packhorse rock lobster
For packhorse rock lobster, the minimum tail
length measure is 216 mm.
The tail is measured along the underside in a
straight line from the rear of the calcified bar on the
first segment to the tip of the middle fan of the tail.
Special measuring gauge
The regulations require that, in cases of dispute,
a red rock lobster must be measured with an
offcial, certifed gauge. You may measure with an
uncertifed gauge or a ruler, but these can serve
only as a guide. Certifed gauges are available from
MFish offces.
Other rules
Handgathering is the only harvest method allowed
to divers. It is illegal to use any spear or device
which could puncture the shell when taking rock
lobster or possess any rock lobster which has been
speared. Rock lobster pots are the only other legal
method of capture. In addition to regulation escape
gaps, all pots and surface foats must be marked
clearly, legibly and permanently with the initials and
surname of the fsher. It is illegal to use baited set
nets to take rock lobster.
Only hand operated loops or lassoes may be used
to take rock lobster. It is prohibited to use a spring
loaded loop or lasso.
Fishers must immediately return egg bearing
(berried) female lobster or any lobster in the soft
shell stage to the water. Special care should be
taken to return all lobster onto suitable habitat
immediately so that mortalities from exposure to
sun and wind, or attacks by predators as they swim
to shelter, are minimised. It is illegal for recreational
and customary fshers to sell their catch.
216 mm
69
70
New Zealands most popular Finfsh
and Shellfsh Species.
Red Cod Hapuku
Kahawai Red Snapper
Kingfsh Snapper
Tarakihi Maomao
71
This is a guide to New Zealands most
popular fn and shellfsh species.
Blue Cod Red Gurnard
John Dory Leather Jacket
Blue Moki Trevally
Trumpeter Butterfsh
It is designed to help you to positively
identify your catch and keep within the
allowances for each species
72
Cockles Pipi
Tuatua Toheroa
Green Mussel Blue Mussel
Kina Rock Oyster
73
Conserve our marine
resources. Take only
what you need.
Stay within bag limits
Red Rock Lobster
Packhorse Rock Lobster
Black Foot Paua
Scallop
Yellowbelly Flounder
74
The NZ Rock Lobster Industry Council
(NZ RLIC) is a contracted research
services provider to the Minister of
Fisheries and operates an extensive rock
lobster stock monitoring and research
project which includes a lobster tag,
release and recapture programme.
The object of this programme is to estimate growth,
determine distribution and seasonal patterns in
abundance and size of rock lobsters, and to
determine movement patterns within rock lobster
management areas. Rock lobsters increase in size
each time they moult. Smaller lobsters can moult
several times in one season, whilst older and larger
lobsters moult less frequently. Mature female
lobsters also grow more slowly than male lobsters
because they expend a great deal of energy on
egg bearing.
Tagging
When a lobster is tagged, the sex, stage of female
maturity length, carapace, tail width, and number
of injuries are recorded. Five percent are double
tagged to give an indication of possible tag loss.
The tag(s) are inserted on the dorsal (top) side
into the tissue between the carapace and tail. This
allows the tag to stay in place even when the lobster
moults, and also enable the tag to be clearly visible.
At release, latitude, longitude, and water depth are
recorded. Every attempt is made to release the
lobster as close as possible to where it was caught.
GPS is used to record positions.
Rock Lobster Tagging
75
Recapture
Recapture of tagged lobsters can give us
information on growth and movement. As normally
we will not be present when recaptures occur,
we appreciate all lobster fshermen (and women)
providing assistance in returning information to us
on Amateur Tag Recapture cards.
These are available from the NZ Rock Lobster
Industry Council (Tel: 04 385 4005) or from a local
Ministry of Fisheries Offce.
When tagged lobsters (both sub-legal and legal) are
recaptured, we would like you to record the details
of the recapture.
These include the sex, tail width, number of injuries,
tag number(s) and prefx, depth, position and
whether or not you retain or release the lobster.
The number of injuries means the number of
missing legs and antennae, or severe damage such
as horns missing or holes in the carapace. The
prefx of the tag number is important as there are
a number of tagging programmes being conducted
around the country and a tag number can be
duplicated. The prefx however makes it unique.
While many tagged lobsters are reported by the
fshermen, some escape detection and are only
noticed when the catch is cooked and served as a
meal. The prefx in these cases identifes the source
of the tag. It is also important to record both tag
numbers if there are two tags.
You can also report tagged rock lobsters on the
Tagtracker web site go to
http://tagtracker.trophia.co.nz/
On that site you will also fnd more detailed
information on the rock lobster tagging programme
and a summary of recapture results from around
the New Zealand coastline.
If a legal sized tagged lobster is recaptured, it may
be landed in the usual way. Minimum legal size is
54mm tail width for male lobsters and 60mm tail
width for females.
You may choose to re-release the legal lobster, as
the additional information when it is caught again
will be very useful. If the lobster is under minimum
legal size or carrying eggs it must be returned to
the water in any case. When a tagged lobster is
re-released, please record the position and depth.
As with any tagging programme there will be a
small percentage of recaptures so there will not be
screeds of paperwork to complete. When you do get
a recapture though, please fll in the card and return
it to us. If you are going to retain the recaptured
lobster, remove the tag gently and attach to the
completed form. You need a new form for each
recapture. If you use the Tagtracker website to
report your recaptures please ensure that you
complete the report accurately.
It is important when completing forms that the
information is accurate. Please try to fll in every
record. If you are not sure, leave the box blank and
write a note on the form regarding the details. It is
easier for someone to check with you later, than to
try to fx wrong data.
NZ Rock Lobster Industry Council
Private Bag 24-901
Wellington
76
Why have a code of practice for amateur
paua divers and hand-gatherers?
Recent studies have revealed that we have a special
problem with paua. While most recreational fshers
are responsible, some use fshing techniques
which kill undersized paua.A number of practices
used in the recreational paua fshery result in high
mortalities of undersized paua through ignorance
and poor harvesting techniques.
Lethal damage
Many fshers remove undersized paua from the reef
surface using sharp instruments. This will usually
result in some damage to the foot of the small paua.
Paua are unable to clot blood when cut, so even
the tiniest nick could result in the paua bleeding to
death. Even if the paua survives the cut, the blood
will attract predators into the area, and the paua
may be killed before it has a chance to clamp down
onto the rock surface. Furthermore, damage to the
paua may reduce the ability of the paua to clamp
onto the rock surface. Research has shown that
damaged paua may develop abscesses, which will
result in death weeks later.
Drying out
Paua should not be removed from the water and
placed on deck to be counted and measured. Paua
left in the sun quickly dry out and will soon die in
these conditions.
Left to die
Undersized paua are commonly thrown back into
the water with no thought of where the paua may
end up. Paua thrown over areas of sand have no
hope of survival. Even if paua are thrown over reef
areas, they often land on their shell and take some
time to right themselves and clamp onto the reef
surface. While paua are not attached to a reef they
are an easy meal for predators in their area.
Why worry?
Undersized paua should be thought of as next
years harvest. Death of any damaged paua that
you return will not only lead to fewer paua in the
following year, but also in years to come. This is
because young stocks are the breeding stocks of
the future. You could be contributing to this problem
quite unknowingly. It is important that you are
aware of the impact your fshing techniques may be
having on the paua resource.
How important are paua anyway?
Paua are unique to New Zealand and have >
always been an important part of our culture. It
is in everyones interests to look after the paua
resource.
This shellfsh is highly valued by Maori, >
recreational fshers and the commercial fshing
industry.
Paua has always been a food source for Maori, >
and plays a signifcant role in manaakitanga ki
nga manuhiri (hosting of visitors).
Guidelines for Gathering Paua
77
The maximum number of Paua that one person >
can have in their possession at any one time is:
20 paua being 2 times the maximum daily limit >
of paua OR
shucked weight (shell removed) of 2.5kgs of >
paua.
What should you do if you see
suspicious or illegal activity?
If you see others taking more than their daily limit
or taking undersized fsh, or if you are suspicious
about the activity ofa person or a group of people,
please report what you haveseen to the Ministry of
Fisheries as soon as you can.
If possible, record or memorise the following
information:
Exact location, time and date >
Vessel name and numbers, description of vessel >
type, colour, length
Vehicle registration numbers and a description of >
the make,model, and colour
Number and description of people involved (and >
names and addresses if known)
The details of what you observed or heard about >
or found.
The recreational paua fshery is an important >
component of the New Zealand lifestyle.
Commercial exploitation of paua developed and >
expanded through the 1970s and 1980s into
the lucrative commercial industry it is today. The
paua industry is an important component of the
New Zealand economy, providing jobs and export
earnings.
Current regulations for amateurs
The amateur harvest of paua is controlled by daily
bag and size limits:
Only 10 paua of each species are permitted per >
fsher each day.
The minimum legal sizes are 125 mm for the >
blackfoot paua (Haliotis iris) and 80 mm for
the yellowfoot paua (Haliotis australis). This
allows paua to reach maturity and breed before
becoming large enough to harvest.
By law paua have to be landed in a measurable >
state (that is unshelled). This is to enable Fishery
Offcers to check that all harvested paua are
greater than the legal takeable size.
Underwater Breathing Apparatus (UBA) is >
prohibited when collecting or in possession of
paua (this includes having UBA in your vehicle or
on your vessel). This is to prevent large areas of
paua from being systematically cleared by divers
and to leave stocks in deeper waters untouched.
The removal of accumulated paua stocks could
signifcantly reduce the productive potential of
paua in the area.
Amateur Taranaki Paua area
Recreational fshers may take or possess any >
Paua that is 85mm or greater in length within the
Amateur Taranaki Paua Fishery area.
Paua outside of the area must be 125mm or >
greater.
S
H
0
3
78
Whether you phone or write to the Ministry of
Fisheries, any information provided in confdence
will remain confdential.
How to measure paua
The size of paua is measured in a straight line
across the greatest overall length of the shell.
By following these simple guide-lines you will
protect the undersized paua, ensuring a productive
fshery in the following year.
Paua less than the minimum legal size are next
years harvest. Often these paua are removed
and damaged by paua divers, only to be
returned to the sea to die. There are a number
of ways to ensure that undersized paua are not
removed from reef surfaces, and ways to care
for the young paua if they are inadvertently
removed.
You can help ensure your future paua harvest by
following a few simple rules.
If possible, avoid removing undersized paua
from the reef.
Use instruments with an underwater measuring
device/mark. If you measure your paua underwater
you will have less chance of taking and damaging
undersized paua.
Take care when removing paua, just in case
some of them are undersized.
When collecting paua, use paua friendly tools
(that is, no sharp instruments). Any damage to
undersized paua will signifcantly reduce their
chances of survival. If unsuccessful in removing a
paua on the frst attempt, leave it, because if it has
clamped onto a rock it is extremely unlikely it will be
prised loose without suffering damage.
Return undersized paua to ensure their survival.
Any undersized paua should be returned by a diver
to the reef surface promptly and placed right way
up. Do not throw them over the side of your boat.
Unless paua are placed on the reef surface the right
way up, they are likely to be eaten by starfsh, reef
fsh and other predators before they have a chance
to clamp onto the rock surface. It is unlikely that
paua thrown back onto a sandy or gravely substrate
will survive.
Keep paua in the shade and ensure they remain
damp when on deck.
You should measure your paua underwater.
However, if you have taken paua out of the water
to measure, keep them damp and in the shade.
Heat damaged paua returned to the reef will be in a
weakened state and are susceptible to predation.
Take only what you need.
Take only the paua you need (within the confnes of
the daily bag limit). Leave some for another day.
Dont clear out whole areas.
Take only a few paua from within a bed and move
on to another area. If paua are cleared from large
areas you may lose a favourite paua spot.
Dont shuck paua (remove the shell) below high
water mark.
Remember, paua must be landed in a measurable
state to enable Fishery Offcers to measure your
catch. Furthermore, shucking of paua leaves waste
which will attract predators to the area.
For further information
Contact your local Fishery Officer or
www.fish.govt.nz for information on rules
0800 4 POACHER
125mm
79
Relaxing on a beach, splashing in rock
pools, messing around in boats, or
spending a day fshing for snapper or
blue cod, or gathering paua or kina -
they are all part of our heritage and our
way of life. Our coastal and oceanic
waters are important not only for these
activities but also for regulated activities
such as commercial fshing, tourism
and aqauaculture.
What can we do?
Recreational fshers can play a part by:
catching only the fsh they actually need, and >
certainly no more than the daily allowable catch
following the guidelines for net fshining >
observing the size limits sets for individual >
species
carefully returning undersized fsh back in >
the sea
not discarding of waste and general refuse into >
the sea
www.fish.govt.nz
The choice is yours
80
A guide to good netting
Set netting is a commonly used fshing method
around the coast of New Zealand. To avoid
problems associated with set nets it is important
that the nets are used properly. Poor netting
practices can cause fsh wastage, the bycatch of
unwanted fsh species, lost or abandoned nets
which continue to fsh, and, on rare occasions, a
catch of sea birds or marine mammals.
These problems can usually be avoided. The catch
and bycatch of set nets are determined mainly by
the design and construction (particularly the mesh
size) of the net, how it is set, and where it is set.
This set net code of practice is intended to
complement the existing law by encouraging fshers
to fsh safely and competently.
Set net laws
Before you go fshing, you will need to know the
amateur fshing regulations. These are available free
of charge from your local Ministry of Fisheries offce.
The main laws that apply nationally to recreational set
netting are:
Any net or nets used either individually or jointly
must not extend more than a quarter of the way
across any bay, channel, river, stream or sound.
Nets must not be set in a way that causes fsh to be
The use of stakes to secure nets is prohibited.
Each end of a net must have a surface buoy
permanently and legibly marked with the fshers
Set nets must not exceed 60 metres in length.
Only one set net (maximum 60 metres) and one
bait net (maximum 10 metres with a mesh size of
50 mm or less) can be carried on a boat at any one
time.
Nets must not be set within 60 metres of another
net.
An important point to note is that a set net
may not be used as a drag net if it exceeds
40 metres in length.
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
Set net Code of Practice
81
The net
Design and construction
Use the net properly designed for the fish you
are targeting.
There are correct net types to target each of the
major fsh species that can be taken by set net.
For example, nets used in harbours and estuaries
to target mullet, fatfsh, or herrings are usually
made of light materials, and an appropriate mesh
size for the species of fsh. Mullet or founder nets
should not be used outside harbours, estuaries, or
sheltered waters. Strongly constructed nets with
larger mesh are intended for more open, exposed
waters where fsh are larger, and the use of nets
with a smaller mesh size may result in the capture
of fsh which must be returned to the sea.
Minimum mesh sizes are regulated for each of the
major set net target fsheries based on the size,
biological characteristics, and shape of each fsh
species. Consult your regional regulations to fnd
the correct mesh size for the species you wish to
target, and when purchasing a net make sure you
specify what species you will be fshing.
Below are some general features of a good net. If
you are not familiar with set netting, please consult
an experienced net maker before purchasing
or constructing a net. When targeting species
that swim close to the bottom, such as founder,
unwanted bycatch can be minimised by bagging
the net. To do this you should tie down the
foatline of the net to the lead line to a height of
approximately 30 cm at regular intervals along the
net. Alternatively, use low, loosely slung nets which
are made of light materials.
Anchors
Use anchors that are designed for the
conditions.
Concrete blocks, bricks, or sash weights will not
hold even in a moderate current and should never
be used in these conditions. The anchor bridle
should be weaker than all other ropes so that if it
becomes fouled, the anchor can break free from
the net. Some fshers fnd it helpful to use grapple
anchors with tines that can straighten and release
with a strong pull. Anchors should weigh about
1kg for each 10 metres of net, so that a 60 metre
net would have a 6 kg anchor at each end. Nets
cannot be staked.
Features of a good net
82
Net construction
Use nets that can be easily retrieved.
A properly constructed net, if snagged, is easier
to recover. It is important that the buoy rope is
stronger than all the other ropes and is attached
directly to the bottom lead line. This is to ensure
that if the anchor or net is snagged, the buoy line
can be used to recover the net.
To avoid being caught or cut by a propeller, the
buoy rope should be made of sinking line or
weighted to hold it straight down. The buoy rope
can be more easily recovered if about 1 metre of
foating line and a small buoy are attached to the
main buoy.
Buoy ropes should be of suffcient length to cope
with variations in water depths due to tidal change
or swell. Ensure that you have suffcient length
of buoy line to recover your net if it is swept into
nearby deeper water.
Buoys
Use proper buoys.
Plastic bottles, oil cans, etc, are not suitable as they
can be easily damaged by the sun and sink. Use only
purpose-designed foats that can be clearly seen at a
distance. A buoy should be large enough to foat on
the surface even in a strong tide, but not so buoyant
as to lift and move the net. Each end of a net must
have a surface buoy permanently and legibly marked
with the fshers initials and surname.
Setting the net
Set your net where it can safely fsh and
be recovered
If you are unfamiliar with the area, seek the advice
of experienced local fshers. They will advise you
of the local characteristics of the area and any
potential problem areas for set netting. Stay near
the net (preferably within sight) so that you can
attend to it if conditions deteriorate.
Do not set your net in areas with fast currents, such
as the entrance to harbours, where your net could
be swept away. Where there is a moderate current,
set the net with, rather than against, the fow.
Always check the weather and tides before you set
your net.
Unexpected weather changes can make it unsafe or
impossible to retrieve your net. Do not set your net
if it is likely that a storm could occur which could
cause the net to be lost.
If you do not remain in attendance make sure that you
know and remember the exact location of your net.
Do not set your net in areas where there are large
amounts of weed, jellyfsh, or logs foating in the
water. These can clog the net and result in it being
carried away by the tide.
Respect other people and wildlife
Do not set your net in boating channels or attach
it to navigation signs, beacons, or buoys. Avoid
sites commonly used for wind surfng or bathing.
Also, avoid setting your net in areas where marine
mammals and seabirds are present.
If you inadvertently catch wildlife in your net, you
should inform the staff at your local Ministry of
Fisheries offce or the Department of Conservation.
Set your net below the low tide line
It is illegal to set a net where it can lie exposed and
stranded at low tide and it is also bad practice. Any
fsh exposed to the air will quickly deteriorate or
be eaten by scavengers. Do not set your net in the
intertidal zone unless you remain in attendance of
the net or use a short soak time.
Avoid setting on reefs
In the northern areas of New Zealand, the odds are
high that you will lose or damage your net if you
set it over foul ground or rocky reefs (areas with
seaweed). Many of the reef species that may be
taken in these areas are not preferred eating and
may be wasted.
83
In southern areas, experience is essential before set
netting around rocky coastlines. In these places you
should set your net between the kelp and (as nearly
as possible) at right angles to the shore.
Be aware that certain reef fsh, such as red
moki, are slow growing and live in the same area
throughout their life. A reef stripped of its resident
fsh can take a long time to recover.
Fishing the net
Use the shortest net and largest mesh that is
practical.
The law defnes the maximum length and the
minimum mesh sizes you can use for each type of
net. Larger meshes will allow a better escapement
of small juvenile fsh and non-target species. Short
nets are easier to recover and, if properly set, can
be effective in catching fsh. They also help to
ensure that you stay within your bag limit.
Stay near your net
Responsible set net fshers remain near the net
and check it at frequent intervals. If you are near
your net you are better able to respond quickly to
changing conditions. This is particularly important
when deteriorating weather and sea conditions
make it diffcult to retrieve the net.
Short fshing times are better
Even if you are not staying near your net, you should
still check it at frequent intervals (hourly). Remove
your net entirely after the shortest practicable soak
time (3-4 hours). A short soak time reduces the
possibility of damage or waste to the fsh caught.
There is also less chance of being caught out by the
weather. Unwanted or undersized fsh and any birds
or marine mammals (which are rarely caught) have
a better chance of remaining alive and unharmed if
they are released carefully and soon after they are
caught.
Avoid overnight set netting in
certain areas
Avoid set netting overnight, especially in areas
where it is diffcult to retrieve your net if conditions
deteriorate. There is a much greater risk of the loss
of nets and fsh wastage during overnight setting
because of the long fshing times involved.
If you do fsh in the dark, set the net for the shortest
practical period.
Recovering your net
Take care when hauling your net in your boat.
When retrieving your net do not wear loose clothing
with large buttons which will get caught up in the
net. Ensure that your boat has no projections that
could catch the net and cause a capsize even in a
slight swell. You should also haul (and set) your net
over the windward side of the boat and bow frst.
These techniques will reduce the possibility of losing
control of the net or entangling the propeller.
Build up experience
Set your net with other experienced fishers.
Your set net practice will improve if you share
your knowledge of fshing practices with others.
Preferably fsh with an experienced fsher at least a
year before you fsh your own net.
Lost nets
Attempt to recover or report a lost net.
Lost nets usually roll up into a ball, but in some
circumstances they can continue to fsh for an
extended period. Try to recover a lost net by grappling
for it with an anchor. If you are unsuccessful, take
bearings to remember the location or drop an anchor
buoy to accurately mark the spot.
Inform your local Ministry of Fisheries offce about
the location of the lost net. Do not dive on the net
yourself as this can be very dangerous.
84
The following general restrictions apply in all areas:
No person may set or possess more than one >
set net.
must not extend across more than one-quarter
the width of any river, stream, channel, bay
or sound.
No person may set or use a baited net. >
Set nets must not be set within 60 metres of >
another net.
marker permanently and legibly with the fshers
initials and surname. Only one foat is required
for fyke nets.
Set nets must not be used in a way that causes >
fsh to be stranded by the falling tide.
Regional controls
Regulations relating to the mesh size, net size and
net construction vary from region to region.
There are also specifc areas closed to set netting in
each region.
Marine reserves, marine mammal sanctuaries and
areas protected under the Conservation Act are also
in place in many regions.
Set netting is prohibited in these areas.
There are specifc areas closed to set netting to
protect Hectors and Mauis Dolphins. Contact your
local Ministry of Fisheries offce for details.
Set Net Ban Area
Harbour entrance
Harbour entrance
River entrance
Harbour entrance
Important
Set Net Ban Area
85
Taiapure Reserves Local Fisheries
The intention of taiapure - local
fsheries is to set aside estuarine or
shoreline coastal fshing areas that have
customarily been of special signifcance
to any iwi or hapu as a source of food
(kaimoana), or for spiritual or cultural
reasons. These are the only purposes
under which taiapure - local fsheries
can be established.

This recognizes the role of iwi in managing certain
local fsheries.
Taiapure - local fsheries are intended to be managed
by local communities. If a proposal is approved, a
Management Committee, appointed by the Minister
of Fisheries, will be responsible for helping to advise
on the management and conservation of the area.
In the context of the Fisheries Act, taiapure - local
fsheries means a local fshery area in estuarine or
littoral coastal waters.
Generally, these waters can be described as
follows:
Estuarine waters - the waters in the tidal part of >
the shore, a tidal channel or the tidal mouth of a
river where it nears the sea with a mix of fresh
water and salt (tidal) water.
Littoral coastal waters - waters pertaining to >
the shore of the sea, with the littoral zone lying
between high and low water marks.
In deciding whether to agree to a proposal in
principle, the Minister of Fisheries must have
regard to:
The size of the fsheries area affected. >
The impact on the general welfare of the >
community in the vicinity.
The impact on persons with special interests in >
the fshery.
The impact on fsheries management. >
For further, detailed information on the location
of taiapure local fsheries and how they are
administered, please contact your nearest Ministry
of Fisheries offce, or visit www.fish.govt.nz
86
Mataitai reserves are areas where tangata
whenua manage non-commercial fshing
through by-laws. Bylaws apply equally to all
individuals. Reserves can only be applied for
over traditional fshing grounds which are
of special signifcance to tangata whenua.
Generally, there is no commercial fshing
within these reserves.
The Minister of Fisheries will only approve a mataitai
reserve application when satisfed the following
criteria have been met:
A special relationship exists between tangata >
whenua and the area of the proposed reserve.
The proposed reserve is a traditional fshing >
ground.
The proposed reserve is of a size appropriate to >
effective management by tangata whenua.
The general management aims are consistent >
with the sustainable use of the fsheries
resources in the area.
The proposed mataitai reserve is not a marine >
reserve.
The Minister and tangata whenua agree on >
conditions to address the concerns of submitters.
And:
The Minister must also be satisfed the mataitai
reserve will not:
Unreasonably affect the ability of the local >
community to take fsh for non-commercial
purposes.
Prevent persons with a commercial interest in a >
species from taking their quota or annual catch
entitlement within the quota management area
for that species.
Unreasonably prevent persons with a commercial >
fshing permit for a non-quota species from
taking fsh within the Fishery Management Area
for which that permit has been used.
And in the North and Chatham Islands:
Unreasonably prevent non-commercial fshers >
from fshing within the quota or Fishery
Management Area for that species.
When an application for a mataitai reserve is
received, the Minister must publish full details of
the application twice in a newspaper circulating in
the area of the proposed reserve, inviting written
submissions on the application from the
local community.
On learning of any changes tangata whenua have
made to the application, the Minister must advertise
the fnalized application and call for submissions
from persons having an interest in the species in
the area of the proposed mataitai reserve.
For further, detailed information on the location of
mataitai reserves and how they are administered,
please contact your nearest Ministry of Fisheries
offce, or visit www.fish.govt.nz
Mataitai Reserves
87
88
The Fisheries (Kaimoana Customary
Fishing) Regulations 1998, Fisheries
(South Island Customary Fishing)
Regulations 1999, and regulation 27A
of the Fisheries (Amateur Fishing)
Regulations 1986 provide the
legislative framework to manage
customary fshing.
Customary Fishing
89
What the customary fshing
regulations cover.
The regulations cover non-commercial fshing;
they do not provide for commercial fshing, nor do
they remove the right of tangata whenua to catch
recreational fsh under the recreational fshing rules.
Anyone who is given permission to take fsh under
the customary fshing regulations cannot trade the
fsh, exchange the fsh for money, or accept any
form of payment.
The kaimoana and South Island customary fshing
regulations also cover the establishment of mataitai
reserves. These reserves provide a tool for tangata
whenua to manage non-commercial fshing in their
traditional fshing grounds.
Regulation 27A
Regulation 27A of the Fisheries (Amateur Fishing)
Regulations 1986 provides for the taking of fsh for
the purposes of a hui or tangi. Within the terms of
this regulation, hui and tangi have been interpreted
to mean specifc traditional gatherings.
The regulation applies to all fsh species managed
by the Ministry of Fisheries, including eel, but not
freshwater fsh such as trout or whitebait that are
managed by other government agencies.
Subject to regulation 27A the Chief Executive of the
Ministry of Fisheries has made specifc conditions
for the taking of fsh (see the Ministry of Fisheries
brochure Interim Rules for Customary Fishing:
regulation 27A of the Fisheries (Amateur Fishing)
Regulations 1986.
When do the kaimoana and South Island
customary regulations apply?
The regulations only apply in an area when the
Minister responsible for the regulations has
confrmed Tangata Kaitiaki/Tiaki (or Tangata
Tiaki/Kaitiaki as appropriate) as notifed by the
tangata whenua for that area. Unit that happens,
the only rule allowing the taking of fsh for
customary purposes is regulation 27A of the
amateur fshing regulations (see the Ministry of
Fisheries brochure Interim Rules of Customary
Fishing: regulation 27A of the Fisheries (Amateur
Fishing) Regulations 1986.
Do the regulations apply to
freshwater fsheries?
The South Island and Kaimoana Customary Fishing
regulations both apply to freshwater species
managed under the Fisheries Act 1996. Species
such as whitebait and trout are managed under the
Conservation Act 1987.
www.fish.govt.nz
90
Why do we need guidelines?
Blue cod is one of the most popular
species for recreational fshers in the
top of the South Island. Because of this
blue cod stocks are under great stress.
The problem is made worse because
many of the under-sized fsh caught
while trying to catch the big one
die, even when they are returned to
the water.
We all need to protect the small fsh because they
are the future breeding stock. If we reduce the
number of breeding fsh there will be fewer fsh
to replace those which are caught, and this would
mean a decline in the stocks of blue cod.
Here are a few handy hints on how you can enjoy
fshing for blue cod today and still help ensure
there is more left for tomorrow, and tomorrow, and
tomorrow!
Blue cod facts
Did you know that blue cod:
Are only found in New Zealand, where they are >
more common the further south you go?
Can live 17 years, reach a length of 60 cm and >
weigh up to 4 kgs? (Wouldnt you like to catch
one of these?)
Begin spawning once they reach 20-25 cm >
(3-5 years old)?
Are brown as juveniles? Around 20 cm they turn >
a mottled grey and later on a green colour. Older
males are coloured blue which gives them their
name.
Can change sex from females to males? >
How to fsh for blue cod
Lines:
Use only enough line to reach the bottom - this >
keeps tension on the line so youll know when
youve caught a fsh
Use only one hook per line >
Once youve hooked a fsh, check the line >
immediately
Hooks
Hook type is important. Blue cod bite the hook and
then twist. If hooks are swallowed, they are likely
to damage the throat or gills, which almost certainly
results in death. To improve survival, blue cod
should be hooked around the lips. To do this use:
Large hooks (size 6 and larger). This is most >
important as large hooks catch fewer under-
sized fsh, are not easily swallowed, and still
catch the same number of legal size blue cod.
Guidelines for blue cod fshing in the
Challenger Fishery Management Area (East)
91
Recommended hooks are:
Wide gap hooks or circle hooks e.g. Kahle hooks. >
Flasher rigs or jigs (one hook only). >
To further reduce hook damage to under-sized fsh
use:
Barbless hooks. You can easily crimp the barbs >
on ordinary hooks with pliers or fle the barbs
off. Barbed hooks can tear the fesh when
being removed, which can lead to infection and
possibly death. Barbless hooks also add to the
sport of catching fsh (but make sure you keep
tension on the line).
Make sure you know the fsheries regulations for
blue cod in the Challenger Fishery Management
Area (East):
The minimum size limit is 30cm >
The amateur daily bag limit is 3 blue cod per >
person per day
Using under-sized fsh for bait is illegal - they >
should be returned to the water dead or alive
No fshing is permitted in Double Cove, the Long >
Island Marine Reserve in Queen Charlotte Sound,
and the Tonga Island Marine Reserve
Returning to the sea previously caught dead fsh >
when bigger fsh are caught is illegal.
For further information
If you require further information on fshing
regulations, or see someone breaking the
regulations, you can contact a Fisheries Offcer:
Nelson - 118 Vickerman St, Nelson
(03) 548 1069
Blenheim Office - State Highway 1, Main Road
(03) 579 1088
IF YOU CATCH AN
UNDER-SIZED BLUE
COD, REMEMBER TO
DO THESE THINGS
Remove fsh from the water only if you have to
Wear cotton or rubber gloves or at least wet
your hands
Lie fsh on a soft wet surface if you need to
handle them out of the water
Minimise the time fsh are out of the water
Remove the hook carefully from lip-hooked fsh
Return fsh gently to the sea
PLEASE DO NOT
Hold fsh by inserting your fngers inside the
gill covers
Poke or touch the eyes, and never hold fsh by
the eye sockets
Use a gob stick on fsh you will release
Squeeze the gill covers or gut area hard
Lift fsh by the tail as this can dislocate the
spine
Drop or place fsh on a hot, dry deck or on
rocks
If you are on a jetty or the side of the boat is
too far above the water you can use a bucket
of water to lower the fsh down. Another good
way is to use a length of wet PVC pipe.
Submerge one end and slide the fsh down into
the water.
These methods are particularly useful when shags
are feeding nearby. By releasing under-sized blue cod
under the water you reduce their chances of being
eaten by shags.
For further information, please contact your nearest
Ministry of Fisheries offce or vist www.fish.govt.nz
Temporary
closures/method
restrictions
Temporary closures and method
restrictions are designed to assist,
protect and maintain our marine
resources.
The temporary closure provision of the Fisheries
Act seeks to do this by improving the availability or
size of fsh in an area, or by recognizing customary
fshing practices. Temporary closures and method
restrictions are designed to help manage the
impact of commercial and recreational fshing on
customary practices.
Temporary closures/method restrictions
Section 186A of the Fisheries Act allows the
Minister of Fisheries (in the South Island and under
section 186B it is the Ministrys Chief Executive)
to temporarily close an area to fshing, or to
temporarily restrict a method of fshing, to provide
for the use and management practices of tangata
whenua in the exercise of their non-commercial
fshing rights. Closures and restrictions assist in
improving the availability and size of fsh in an area.
Temporary closures and method restrictions give
legal support to voluntary rahui (bans) that have
always been used by tangata whenua to manage
their fsheries. Section 186 is designed to respond
to local depletion of fsheries resources affecting the
ability of tangata whenua to catch fsh for customary
purposes.
Who would a temporary closure or
method restriction apply to?
Temporary closures and method restrictions are
made by either the Minister of Fisheries or the
Ministrys Chief Executive and apply equally to
everyone, including customary, recreational and
commercial fshers. There are no exceptions to this
rule. Closures are not permanent, lasting no more
than two years, but have the potential for
two-year extension.
Who can ask for a temporary closure or
method restriction?
Anybody can suggest to the Ministry of Fisheries
that a temporary closure or method restriction
should be put in place. However, before closing
an area or restricting the use of a fshing method,
the Minister of Fisheries or the Ministrys Chief
Executive must be satisfed the measure will help
tangata whenua exercise their non-commercial
fshing rights.
Is consultation required?
Yes. Before putting a temporary closure or method
restriction in place, either the Minister of Fisheries
or the Ministrys Chief Executive must consult
with representatives of those that have an interest
in the fshery. This may include environmental,
commercial, recreational and local community
interests as well as tangata whenua.
93
Auckland Offce
PO Box 19-747, Auckland 1746
608 Rosebank Road, Avondale, Auckland 1026
Phone: (09) 820 1990
Fax: (09) 820 1980
Blenheim Offce
PO Box 1007, Blenheim 7240
State Highway 1, Main Road, Blenheim 7201
Phone: (03) 579 1088
Fax: (03) 579 5208
Chatham Islands Offce
PO Box 72, Waitangi 8942
Phone: (03) 305 0004
Fax: (03) 305 0411
Christchurch Offce
PO Box 8324, Christchurch 8440
Unit 2, 585 Wairakei Road, Christchurch 8024
Phone: (03) 339 3662
Fax: (03) 339 3667
Dunedin Offce
Private Bag 1926, Dunedin 9054
1st Floor, 45 Filleul Street, Dunedin 9016
Phone: (03) 474 0333
Fax: (03) 474 2229
Gisborne Offce
142 Peel Street, Gisborne 4010
Phone: (06) 869 0870
Fax: (06) 869 0871
Hamilton Offce
Private Bag 3123, Hamilton
Ruakura Research Centre, East Street, Hamilton 3240
Phone: (07) 859 3126
Fax: (07) 859 3142
Head Offce
PO Box 1020, Wellington 6140
ASB Bank House, 101-103 The Terrace,
Wellington 6011
Phone: (04) 470 2600
Fax: (04) 470 2601
Invercargill Offce
PO Box 1065, Invercargill 9840
1st Floor, 137 Spey Street, Invercargill 9810
Phone: (03) 211 0060
Fax: (03) 2111 969
Kaitaia Offce
PO Box 404, Kaitaia 0441
Braidwood House, 5 Allen Bell Drive, Kaitaia 0410
Phone: (09) 408 6024
Fax: (09) 408 6039
Ministry of Fisheries Offces
94
Masterton Offce
75-77 Ngamutawa Road, Masterton 5810
PO Box 344, Masterton 5840
Phone: (06) 370-3590
Fax: (06) 370-3594
Napier Offce
PO Box 12-034, Napier 4144
Waghorne Street, Ahuriri, Napier 4110
Phone: (06) 835 1065
Fax: (06) 831 0069
Nelson Offce
Private Bag 14, Port Nelson, Nelson 7042
118 Vickerman Street, Port Nelson, Nelson 7010
Phone: (03) 548 1069
Fax: (03) 545 7767
New Plymouth Offce
PO Box 344, New Plymouth 4340
Police Station, 31 Wynyard Street,
Bell Block, New Plymouth 4312
Phone: (06) 755 9311
Fax: (06) 755 9131
Opotiki Offce
PO Box 65, Opotiki 3162
23 Church Street, Opotiki 3122
Phone: (07) 315 5232
Fax: (07) 315 6973
Tauranga Offce
Private Bag 12031, Mt Maunganui 3143
11 Nikau Crescent, Mt Maunganui 3116
Phone: (07) 571 2820
Fax: (07) 571 2821
Wellington District Compliance Offce
PO Box 38 090, Petone 5045
40 Bouverie Street, Petone 5012
Phone: (04) 576 8040
Fax: (04) 576 8041
Whangarei Offce
Private Bag 9013, Whangarei 0148
32 Herekino Street, Whangarei 0110
Phone: (09) 470 0580
Fax: (09) 470 0569
Whitianga Offce
Private Box 267, Whitianga 3542
29 Moeurai Road, Whitianga 3591
Phone: (07) 866 0549
Fax: (07) 866 0546
Customary Fisheries Inquiries
Kaitiaki appointment or Mataitai applications
North: 0800 626 313
Central: 0800 313 626
South: (09) 474 0333
Internet
Homepage: www.fsh.govt.nz
Email address: comms@fsh.govt.nz
0800 4 POACHER
95
96
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RECREATIONAL FISHERS

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