PAUA SEIZED IN COVERT OPERATION NEAR WAINUIOMATA (05 AUGUST 1999)

Wellington Fishery Officers last night (August 4) recovered 112kg of paua from a group they observed diving around the Turakirae Head near Wainuiomata.

District Compliance Manager, Dave McCulloch said a total of four people were apprehended, including one who was arrested in connection with the Operation Iceblock paua poaching investigation just a few weeks ago.

"It was really disappointing to see this reoffending occurring so soon after that operation," said Mr McCulloch.

A total of 1120 paua were recovered of which approximately 30 percent were undersized. A vehicle, dive gear and back packs were also seized.

Mr McCulloch said fishery officers had undertaken covert operations around the Wainuiomata coastline following enquiries stemming from the earlier Operation Iceblock and information from the public. Enquiries into possible outlets for the black market paua were continuing.

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