The Department of Conservation is reminding fishers to be mindful of marine reserve rules this summer after a spike in breaches over the season last year.
Last month, 1News reported new figures which revealed illegal fishing in New Zealand’s marine reserves is showing no sign of slowing.
Nationwide, DOC recorded 105 confirmed offences last summer, alongside 126 reported alleged incidents across the 44 no-take marine reserves — areas where fishing was completely banned to protect and restore sea life.
One of the worst cases last year involved claims that between 100-200 fish were taken from the Goat Island Marine Reserve in December.
Another breach involved a group which collected kina, rock cods and over 1000 shellfish from Cathedral Cove — ignoring warning signage and track closures.
Other incidents included crayfish pots just inside marine reserve boundaries, recreational trolling (towing lures), and more than 200 alleged incidents of people taking fish from marine reserves.
DOC urged all boaties, fishers and gatherers to take a few minutes to check where marine reserve boundaries are.
“Our rangers see countless fishers fishing close to or on the marine reserve boundary. Drifting, tidal changes, or momentary inattention can result in accidental fishing inside a marine reserve – resulting in a hefty fine.”
More serious breaches of marine reserve rules can result in prosecution and jail time.
Goodin said the location of marine reserves are freely available online or on the MarineMate app.
Signage is also available at boat ramps and wharves, and many reserves have physical markers which clearly show where the boundaries are.
Goodin said last year, 67% of all reported offences over the past five years occurred between October 1 and March 30. Notably, 16–27% took place during the Christmas break, December 25 to January 5.
On the best way to avoid accidentally breaking the rules, Goodin said to “give marine reserves plenty of space” and “fish well away from the boundaries”.
“It’s a win-win for yourself and marine life within the marine reserves.”
Goodin also asked those who get a friendly visit from a ranger to not take offence.
“We’d much rather educate fishers and boaties than take enforcement action.”
Those who witness or suspect illegal activity in a marine reserve can make a report by calling 0800 DOC HOT.
Goodin said valuable information would include details and descriptions of fishers, where and when it was seen, and the nature of the alleged activity.
“Information offered by the public is valuable, which includes photographs and videos. DOC treats all information provided in confidence.”
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