New Two-Year Ban to Protect Marine Life in East Coast Rockpools North of Auckland
The Government has approved a two-year ban starting March 12, 2026, on harvesting various invertebrates and seaweed from rockpools and coastlines north of Auckland to protect fragile marine ecosystems from over-collection. This temporary closure, supported by the Ngāti Manuhiri Settlement Trust’s traditional rāhui, excludes species with existing restrictions and aquaculture activities, while allowing continued kina harvesting to manage their populations. Officials are also developing educational materials and broader proposals for sustainable intertidal fisheries management, with public consultations planned for Auckland and Coromandel.