Skip Navigation LinksHome > Recreational

Recreational fishing - Know the limits

Fishing is one of New Zealand's most popular recreational activities. Every year a large number of finfish, rock lobster and shellfish are taken by recreational fishers, which can seriously affect local fisheries. This means it is important for all fishers to act responsibly and help conserve the resource.


Effective from 1st October 2009. Subject to change without notice.

Choose the region where you want to fish for all the rules in that area.

Auckland and Kermadec Fishery Management Area.
Auckland and Kermadec Fishery Management Area

Central Fishery Management Area.
Central Fishery Management Area

South East Fishery Management Area.
South East Fishery Management Area

Southland Fishery Management Area.
Southland Fishery Management Area

Challenger Fishery Management Area.
Challenger Fishery Management Area

Fiordland Marine Area.
Fiordland Marine Area

Previous | Next
Updated : 30 September 2009

Report a Poacher
0800 4 Poacher
(0800 4 76224)

Poaching Poster.
Click on image to see a larger version

Free Recreational Fisher's Handbook and Poster

Recreational Fisher's Handbook.

Popular Recreational Fish Poster.

Should you wish to obtain copies of the Recreational Fisher’s Handbook or Species Poster, Please contact your local MFish Office or order a copy from comms@fish.govt.nz 

See Also:

Commercial and Recreational Potting for Species other than Rock Lobster - Fact Sheet 

Rock Lobster Hand-Operated Lassoes