A two-year ban on the collection of marine life from rockpools and coastal waters has come into force along a stretch of north Auckland's coastline, covering the Whangaparāoa Peninsula as well as Kawau Bay and Ōmaha Bay further north.
The restriction followed an application from local iwi, the Ngāti Manuhiri Settlement Trust, which sought the closure across those areas. Fisheries Minister Shane Jones granted the application in February.
Anyone taking seaweed, shellfish, or other coastal sea life from the affected areas is now breaking the law. The prohibition covers creatures including sponges, starfish, sea anemones, and sea cucumbers.
Minister Jones confirmed that fines range from $5,000 to $100,000, and any equipment used in an offence may be confiscated. In more serious cases, vehicles are also liable to forfeiture. "Fishery Officers will be at key locations to provide information to members of the public about the closure," he said.
Minister Jones also noted that Ngāti Manuhiri would place a traditional rāhui over the closed areas and the same species.
Kina (sea urchin) are excluded from the ban and may still be taken within current recreational fishing limits. Restrictions on spiny rock lobster and scallops were already in place before this closure came into effect.
The new rules are available through the free NZ Fishing Rules App and the Ministry for Primary Industries website.
