Rockpool pillagers face infringements soon

People who break new rules aimed at protecting rockpools in and around Auckland and Coromandel will face infringement fees from this month, Oceans and Fisheries Minister Shane Jones says.

Last month I announced new protections for Auckland and Coromandel rockpools and intertidal areas to address overharvesting and help restore these important coastal habitats.

From November 26, Fishery Officers will be armed with a new tool – the ability to issue infringement notices, which carry a $250 penalty.

The new infringement regime gives Fishery Officers an option that sits between the current options of education of rule-breakers, and court action.

People who take more than they should, or take species protected under the rules of the closure, are on notice that they will feel it in their hip pockets, Mr Jones says.

More serious offenders will still face prosecution and risk having anything in the commission of the offence seized, including vehicles.

Kiwis told us clearly during consultation that stronger protections had to be backed by effective enforcement, and these changes will help ensure the rules are complied with.

The intertidal closure came into force on 1 November and will help stop the overharvesting of coastal shellfish and marine life across the Auckland and Coromandel coastlines.

To support the new rules, Fisheries New Zealand is placing signs in the relevant areas, educating people about the changes, and running an extensive six-week awareness campaign.

Full details on the new restrictions can be found on MPI’s website.