Latest updates


LegaSea newsletter #196 – Rescuing one fishery at a time

August 28, 2026 As Kiwis, many of us derive our wellbeing from fishing or enjoying someone’s catch. Whether that’s a fresh scallop, snapper, or a chunky butterfish. All of it is most welcome on the dinner plate. LegaSea is committed to keeping you updated on what’s happening in the world of fisheries management because we care about how much ... Read more.

Snapper discard mortality: putting the numbers in context

August 26, 2026 A recent report estimating that around 250 tonnes of snapper die annually when discarded by recreational fishers in northern waters has renewed calls for improved monitoring of recreational catch. Fisheries New Zealand (FNZ) published a report estimating release mortality due to recreational fishing in July 2026. A large proportion of released-fish mortality in the report ... Read more.

LegaSea newsletter #195 – Thank you for making a difference

August 12, 2026 Thank you. When we asked for donations two weeks ago, we weren’t sure what to expect. The response was better than we hoped, and it’s already making a difference – more resource behind the Kill the Bill campaign, more of the 40-plus fisheries reviews and consultations we track each year getting a proper response instead ... Read more.

Proportionality – the end to fishing as we know it

August 5, 2026 One of the biggest threats to recreational fishers is proportional allocation of the Total Allowable Catch. Commercial quota owners have spent more than 20 years pursuing this dream, and it was one of the most controversial elements of the recent Fisheries Amendment Bill. LegaSea and our partners remain determined to keep this sleeping giant at ... Read more.

Going, going, gone…

August 5, 2026 It’s been a big year for our fish. Communities around the country have lodged more than 10 applications to close local areas to harvest for some or all species. And there’s been widespread public opposition to the Fisheries Amendment Bill forcing the Minister to put it on hold until after the election. Most recently, we ... Read more.

Time out for tarakihi

August 1, 2026 Article originally published in The Adventurer magazine, August 2026. For generations, tarakihi has been a Coromandel staple. It feels like only yesterday we could head out and guarantee a couple of tarakihi in the chilly bin or a fillet or two to go with our Friday night fish & chips. That certainty is gone. Tarakihi ... Read more.

LegaSea newsletter #194 – Money and fish are running out

July 30, 2026 We need you more than ever right now because we’ve just emptied the tank responding to a raft of Fisheries New Zealand proposals that do not prioritise fish abundance. If we don’t have abundant fish stocks we cannot share the joy of fishing and feeding our families nutritious food.

LegaSea newsletter #193 – Last chance to have your say

July 23, 2026 Matariki is a time to reflect, reconnect and share. For many of us, that means gathering around a meal of fresh kaimoana with family and friends. It’s a reminder of what abundance looks like, and why it’s worth protecting. Here’s hoping that by next Matariki we’re talking about fish stocks on the road to recovery, ... Read more.

Have your say on tarakihi

July 15, 2026 Tarakihi populations around the country are in trouble. On the east coast, around 92% of the estimated adult population has gone, and 71% from the west coast. Commercial catch limits need to be drastically reduced so tarakihi numbers can rebuild. Have your say now on what needs to happen next.

LegaSea newsletter #192 – Take time out for tarakihi

July 15, 2026 The Quota Management System was supposed to rein in excessive commercial fishing and rebuild our fisheries. Instead, nearly 40 years on, we’re still cutting recreational bag limits, reviewing depleted stocks and asking Kiwis to accept less.