With summer coming up, Fisheries New Zealand is reminding everyone that the Kaikōura pāua fishery remains closed and harvesting pāua is illegal.
“Last month we invited people to have their say on proposed options to reopen the fishery for another season,” says Fisheries New Zealand’s Inshore Manager South, Allen Frazer.
“The consultation finished on 30 November, and covered options for when the fishery should open, what the catch and size limits will be, and whether there should be a new vehicle and vessel limit.
We also asked people for their views on reopening fishing for other species along the coast, such as shellfish and seaweeds, and if the commercial pāua fishery should be opened until the end of the fishing year.
The proposals looked at precautionary limits to ensure the fishery continues to be sustainable and provide kaimoana for future generations to enjoy.
Our fisheries analysts are working through the feedback to prepare advice to the Minister for Oceans and Fisheries for his consideration. The Minister will make a decision about opening the fishery in due course.
In the meantime, the fishery remains closed. MPI Fishery Officers will be keeping a close eye on the Kaikōura area to make sure no one is illegally gathering pāua while it remains shut,” says Allen Frazer.
As you head out and make your plans for fishing over the summer, stick to the rules and don’t risk ruining your holidays with a fine. There are other plenty of fish you can catch in the meantime.
To check out what they are and the limits for your area, download the NZ Fishing Rules App for free here: mpi. govt.nz/rules.
Once downloaded, the app will work offline so you don’t need to worry if you’re out of cell coverage.
Keep an eye on our website for updates on the Kaikōura pāua fishery. Information is available at mpi.govt.nz/2023-kaikourapāua.
You can also or sign up to our recreational fishing email list – details are available in the NZ Fishing Rules app.
