Closures continue to build on rāhui

New Zealand fisheries legislation supports rāhui (traditional closures for a set period) through regulated temporary closures, as well as fishing method restrictions and prohibitions.

In response to declining local stocks, the Minister of Fisheries has approved five temporary measures.

In North Island waters, the green-lipped mussel beds in Ohiwa Harbour remain closed until 20 July 2008. However, the tangata whenua have requested that these beds remain closed for a further two years.

The green-lipped mussel beds between Moturiki and Motuotau Islands at Mt Maunganui remain closed until 6 December 2009. The Kaipara Harbour scallop fishery is closed until 13 September 2008. Only hand-line fishing is allowed within Pukerua Bay until 7 June 2009.

In South Island waters, an area off Kaikoura – Whakatu Quay is closed to the taking of all fisheries resources until 17 August 2008. The tangata whenua have requested a renewal of the temporary closure for a further two-year period.

While the decline of these local fisheries has been largely because of fishing pressure, environmental conditions may also be playing a role