Every Fish Counts in Northland this summer
7 January 2010
The Ministry of Fisheries has been actively patrolling Northland’s beaches and other popular fishing areas over the holiday period, making sure that everyone is aware of the regulations, staying within the catch limits, and passing on the important message that “Every Fish Counts”.
“A large number of fishers have been inspected by Fishery Officers, with most acting responsibly and adhering to the limits,” said Northland Field Operations Manager Darren Edwards.
In the worst offending detected to date, a Kaitaia man was apprehended at Taputaputa, just south of Cape Reinga, with 60 paua all of which were undersize. His boat was seized and he will face court action.
In the Ruakaka area a number of people have been inspected gathering paddle crab, with most fishers adhering to daily limits. A few have been issued with infringement notices for having unmarked crab pots.
On Ripiro Beach in Dargaville, several inspections have been conducted with excellent levels of compliance being recorded.
In the worst instance of offending on Ripiro Beach, a 19-year-old Whangarei man was arrested after he was found with 45 toheroa and refused to supply Fishery Officers with his name and address.
“Members of the public are reminded that the fisheries regulations are there for a reason and Fishery Officers will make sure all fishers adhere to the daily limits and size restrictions,” Mr Edwards said. “Anyone caught flouting the rules will be dealt with appropriately.”
Fishery Officers cannot be everywhere and fishers are reminded to only take what they need, or enough for a feed.
If members of the public see any activity they think may be suspicious, they are encouraged to contact the Ministry of Fisheries on 0800 4 POACHER (0800 476 224).
For the latest recreational fishing rules, see www.fish.govt.nz/en-nz/Recreational/default.htm
For the original release on the summer campaign by Fisheries Minister and Whangarei MP Phil Heatley, see
www.beehive.govt.nz/release/quotevery+fish+countsquot+summer