Articles tagged with Commercial Fishing

Northland Closes East Coast to Rock Lobster Fishing to Boost Stocks from 2026

1 week ago | 134 views

Northland’s east coast spiny rock lobster fishery will be largely closed to both commercial and recreational fishing, with reduced recreational daily limits, to help restore lobster stocks and maintain marine ecosystem balance. These measures, including extended closures from Ohao Point to Cape Rodney and a nationwide limit on packhorse lobster catches, follow a voluntary commercial closure and aim to prevent fishers from shifting pressure to other species. After public consultation with over 600 submissions, the new regulations will take effect from April 1, 2026.

Tags: Shane Jones Northland Oceans and Fisheries Minister spiny rock lobster rock lobster fishery recreational fishing commercial fishing Hauraki Gulf CRA 1 CRA 2

New Proposals Seek Feedback to Protect Hoiho from Commercial Fishing Risks

1 month ago | 235 views

Oceans and Fisheries Minister Shane Jones is seeking public feedback on proposals to reduce commercial fishing risks to the northern hoiho (yellow-eyed penguin) population, following an emergency three-month set-net fishing closure around Otago Peninsula. Proposed measures include extending the closure long-term, banning set-netting between Karitāne and Hampden, and implementing a Fishing-Related Mortality Limit with an escalating response framework to minimize bycatch. The consultation, open until 12 December 2025, aims to balance hoiho conservation with the interests of commercial fishers and other stakeholders.

Tags: Shane Jones hoiho Otago Peninsula Karitāne Hampden New Zealand MPI commercial fishing yellow eyed penguins Stewart Island