November 22, 2023
People are a vital part of the marine ecosystem. We have the ability to influence changes in both positive and negative ways. Conventional marine protection separates us from the environment, creating a disconnect between people and conservation efforts. In contrast, traditional techniques acknowledge the power that comes with engaging communities and believe people are a […]
November 22, 2023
The goal of marine protection is to help enhance and protect ecosystems for future generations. Our children’s children deserve to enjoy an abundant and diverse Hauraki Gulf. Marine reserves were initially created for scientific purposes, not as a fisheries management tool. So, how can we expect them to solve depleting abundance and declining biodiversity? Effective […]
November 21, 2023
An increase in extreme weather events, land run-off, and ineffective fisheries management means we need to embrace a variety of tools to restore our inshore marine environment. This summer you may come across a rāhui at your favourite beach or fishing destination. It’s important that you respect the rāhui because it has been put in […]
November 21, 2023
Pushing for change is not easy. It requires patience, knowledge and talking to the right person at the right time. But the most important part of it is public support. Without our supporters LegaSea is nothing. Everything we do is on account of the support and participation we get from you. So we want to […]
November 19, 2023
A battle is being fought between prioritising the health of the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park for future generations and degrading the seafloor for the short term gain of commercial interests. Fisheries New Zealand (FNZ) originally planned to close public consultation on the proposed ‘trawl corridors’ on 6 November. Four options were presented, all allowing for […]
November 13, 2023
It’s staggering to realise that the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park was established in 2000 to protect this maritime jewel for the benefit of the community, yet 23 years later it has become more degraded. The scallop fishery is closed, the crayfish population is described as functionally extinct, the invasive Caulerpa seaweed is spreading, and mushy […]
October 27, 2023
The Hauraki Gulf is more degraded now than when it was first established over 20 years ago. Over a century of damage caused by bottom trawling, followed by Danish seining and dredging, can be addressed by you saying no to this ongoing destruction. Most of us agree that a healthy marine environment is good for […]
October 27, 2023
It may come as a shock that the ocean is not a closed ecosystem. Fish don’t know boundaries, only we humans do. And, fish don’t stay in one place because it’s a marine reserve, they are born to migrate. If we want to improve biodiversity by increasing fish abundance then we have to think beyond […]
October 24, 2023
Introducing the kingi chopping board – a special collaboration between sustainable seafood restaurant kingi in The Hotel Britomart, plastics recycler CRITICAL, and LegaSea.
October 22, 2023
It’s fair to say the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park is turning to shit. Quite literally. Hundreds of litres of raw sewage entered the Waitematā Harbour every second after a 13-metre sinkhole caused the blockage of a main wastewater pipe in downtown Auckland. Do you think a marine reserve would be an effective way to solve […]
October 5, 2023
As advocates for change it’s concerning that officials recently admitted they dismiss form submissions if they say the same thing. Most of the submissions that LegaSea receives from passionate people have personal comments added to their submission and this feedback must not be ignored. Firstly, because these are grunty, heartfelt messages from people who care. […]
October 4, 2023
It’s almost a year since the High Court declared the Minister’s 2021 and 2022 decisions for the future management of Northland crayfish (CRA 1) were unlawful. The Court directed the Minister to review CRA 1 again. That review occurred earlier this year and the outcome was underwhelming. Firstly, Fisheries New Zealand (FNZ) provided the Minister […]
October 1, 2023
In good faith over the past decade we have engaged in discussions about improving the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park environment. We’ve advocated for a ban on bottom trawling, dredging and seining. The Park also needs to be designated as a separate fisheries management area so fish populations can be restored to more natural levels. After […]
September 29, 2023
Look out. Caulerpa may be coming to a bay near you this summer. It’s an invasive seaweed species that may stop you from fishing or anchoring in your favourite place. Underwater it looks like a green carpet of kikuyu grass and it’s already infesting the seabed in some areas at Aotea Great Barrier Island, Kawau […]
September 28, 2023
On 15 September we sent questions to the major political parties (ACT, Greens, Labour, Te Pāti Māori, National, and NZ First) about their Oceans and Fisheries Policies if they were in government. As of 28 September, we have received answers from ACT, Greens and National. The full questions and their answers can be read here. […]
September 28, 2023
Either coincidentally, or on purpose, there are two very important public consultations on Hauraki Gulf Marine Park issues running over the election and into November. A cynic might suggest that these were timed to keep the public focus away from these issues. It’s likely we will never find out if that’s true.
September 27, 2023
Media release: Horizon polling results With an election looming, a new survey has found conservative ocean fishing policies will be a top priority for many people casting their votes in the October general election. The nationwide survey by Horizon Research, found 68% of Kiwis believe conservative ocean fishing policies should have top priority, or be […]
September 20, 2023
Kina might not be on everyone’s list of favourite foods, yet when it comes to the marine environment they are significant indicators of how well our inshore marine ecosystem is functioning. Off the coast of east Northland down to the Bay of Plenty, the numbers of kina are increasing. This is bringing joy to people […]
September 19, 2023
Fisheries decisions have dominated the news over the past month. Many of us at LegaSea are still scratching our heads. The government needs to get serious about restoring the Hauraki Gulf. This starts by removing trawling and dredging so we can rebuild fish populations. Science has unequivocally proven the damage that trawling and dredging does […]
September 1, 2023
Normally the opening of scallop season generates a sense of excitement. After a long, cold, dark winter the 1st September was an opportunity to dust off the dive gear and christen the new Spring with a crisp September dive… but not this year! Late last year, Minister for Oceans and Fisheries, David Parker acknowledged the […]
September 1, 2023
It must be election season as we’ve seen a range of fisheries plans, legislation and proposals from the government in the last few weeks. On Tuesday Rachel Brooking, Minister for Oceans and Fisheries, launched public consultation for the Bottom Fishing Access Zones, or trawl corridors, in the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park. Then on Wednesday the […]
August 30, 2023
Hon Rachel Brooking Minister for Oceans and Fisheries Parliament Buildings, Wellington 28th August 2023 Re: Decision to allow bottom trawling and scallop dredging to continue in the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park Tēnā koe Minister Brooking, The Hauraki Gulf Alliance represents hundreds of thousands of members of the public who are deeply concerned about the state […]
August 24, 2023
In the last two months we have been deeply involved in the development of seven major submissions responding to fisheries management and policy proposals. The common theme is that excessive catches lead to demands for increased commercial quota. This is not new, but it’s frustrating given the greenwashing rhetoric from officials and industry captains about […]
August 9, 2023
The government is forging ahead with support for ongoing bottom trawling despite widespread public outrage at the damage it is causing to the marine environment. Two decisions within days of each other confirm the government is committed to allowing bottom trawling, dredging and seining in inshore waters. Both decisions are contrary to the government’s vision […]
August 9, 2023
News today that the government will allow bottom trawling to continue in large areas of the Hauraki Gulf is being met by strong opposition from an alliance of groups campaigning to get the destructive fishing method out of the marine park. Released today, the decision is part of the Hauraki Gulf Fisheries Plan, and while […]
August 8, 2023
Government approval for a plan that supports the ongoing use of destructive fishing methods along New Zealand’s coastline has been labelled an outrage by recreational fishing and environmental interests. “There’s no plan to provide New Zealanders who are already struggling to feed whānau with affordable kaimoana. There’s no plan to support the struggling regional economies […]
July 6, 2023
We’re in the depths of winter now, but our team are hotly anticipating important fisheries decisions from Minister Rachel Brooking. There’s sufficient information available to make precautionary decisions, so stand by. Will the Minister allow bottom trawling to continue in the Hauraki Gulf? Will New Zealanders have to subsidise a new trawl fleet? And does […]
June 22, 2023
Today, a diverse range of recreational fishing, environmental, law, corporate and business organisations have come together as the Hauraki Gulf Alliance to deliver a petition calling for bottom trawling, scallop dredging, and Danish seining to be banned from within the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park. The petition of 36,589 signatures will be presented to MPs outside […]
June 15, 2023
It may not be the busiest time for catching fish on the water in this mid-winter cold snap, but there’s lots going on with our fisheries. Public consultation on the draft Industry Transformation Plan closed on Sunday. Thanks to all of you that took the time to make a submission. 2800 submissions were made using […]
June 9, 2023
The government’s latest plan to transform the commercial fishing industry merely reinforces the status quo and proposes to subsidise the build of bigger, industrial fishing boats that will most likely be used for bottom trawling our inshore fishers. Have your say now and tell the minister that this is not OK. Submission close 5pm, 11 […]
May 24, 2023
It’s safe to say we’ve been busy here at LegaSea. We’ve just had a massive weekend at the Hutchwilco New Zealand Boatshow, with the LegaSea stand possibly the busiest we’ve ever seen. The event was organised incredibly well as per usual and it’s only fair we give a huge shoutout to the new owners XPO and the rest […]
May 22, 2023
A new artificial reef off Napier Port is set to become a flourishing environment thanks to the collaboration between mana whenua, LegaSea Hawkes Bay, Port of Napier, and the community. This collaboration has already produced two other artificial reefs in Hawke’s Bay, one north of Pania Reef and another at a shipwreck site. After only […]
May 15, 2023
In March over 7000 New Zealanders united to submit against the ongoing use of bottom trawling and scallop dredging in the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park. These submitters were responding to Fisheries New Zealand’s draft Hauraki Gulf Fisheries Plan, issued in January. Public consultation on the plan is now closed. The draft action plan is supposed […]
May 12, 2023
Next week sees the return of the biggest show in town for boaties and fishers – the Hutchwilco New Zealand Boat Show. After a period of uncertainty over the lease of the Auckland show grounds we are so pleased to see it continue with new owners, in the same location. LegaSea will be there again thanks […]
April 13, 2023
Another week and another Minister has been appointed to look after our fish and marine environment. Rachel Brooking is the new Minister for Oceans and Fisheries, sitting outside Cabinet. She replaces David Parker who was reappointed last month when Stuart Nash (a Minister for Fisheries in the last government) was stripped of his ministerial responsibilities. […]
April 3, 2023
At the LegaSea-led Kai Ika filleting station, we fillet fish for amateur fishers. We also collect and distribute unwanted fishheads and frames to marae and whānau around Auckland who revere these tasty morsels. In August 2022, before snapper spawning season even began, we noticed a large proportion of the fish coming through the Kai Ika […]
March 20, 2023
Coromandel scallops are now off the menu for the foreseeable future as the Minister has closed the last remaining commercial scallop beds. This is the end of a long process that began with a brave move by Coromandel iwi, Ngāti Hei, to place a rāhui across Opito Bay in 2020 to protect scallops. This was […]
March 20, 2023
Environmental, iwi and recreational fishing interests in the Hauraki Gulf are celebrating the Minister’s decision to close the Coromandel scallop fishery indefinitely. The Coromandel scallop fishery stretches from Leigh, Rodney in the north to Maketū in the Bay of Plenty. Ngāti Hei led the closure with a rāhui prohibiting the harvest of scallops on the […]
March 14, 2023
It’s time to look into the future of the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park. There is a growing awareness that we collectively need to be doing more to protect and enhance the waters of the Marine Park. So it’s unfortunate that Government plans for the future management of the Park include maintaining areas for trawling and […]
February 28, 2023
In April 2022 Tony Orton, from Offshore Adventures, was nominated to be a part of the Hauraki Gulf Fisheries Plan Advisory Group. In February 2023 he resigned in disgust. You can read his resignation letter below with details of his experience. — In early 2022, I was appointed to the advisory group helping to establish […]
February 27, 2023
It’s been a difficult time for many of us with the recent weather events and our hearts go out to everyone who is suffering from the aftermath. The good news is that our work across several fisheries carries on regardless and the deadlines for public consultation on critical issues, such as the Hauraki Gulf Marine […]
February 23, 2023
Kina, a shellfish known around the south as ‘spiky gold’, is still being dredged commercially in the Tory Channel. Recreational fishers and environmental interests are objecting to this archaic practice and are urging the Minister of Oceans and Fisheries to ban all dredging in the Tory Channel from April 2023. “It’s as if no lessons […]
February 1, 2023
A new year always brings change and new challenges, and 2023 has started with a real bang. Before we explore 2023 we want to share some big news and a video of how you helped us achieve so much in 2022.
December 21, 2022
After a massive year everyone has earned a good break. We started and finished the year talking about the loss of our precious taonga, our scallops. In between, our fisheries team has been flat out reacting to a whole bunch of important issues and some outrageous proposals for snapper, hāpuku, crayfish, paua and blue cod […]
December 14, 2022
Communities and fishers have welcomed Minister David Parker’s decision to use emergency powers to close the last two commercial scallop beds in New Zealand, in the Hauraki Gulf. The other scallop beds around Northland, Auckland and the Bay of Plenty, were closed earlier this year after a widespread community outcry at the disappearance of the […]
December 12, 2022
It’s officially summer, but someone needs to tell the weather gods as the unsettled, windy, spring-like weather continues. Pretty frustrating when you are trying to get out fishing! The end of the year is upon us and we’re trying to wrap things up, but issues like the Hauraki Gulf, Northland crayfish and Kaikōura pāua (read […]
December 6, 2022
Support for more protection of treasured Hauraki Gulf Marine Park waters continues to grow, so it’s interesting that recent Government proposals to increase no-fishing areas do not necessarily mean more fish in the water. In September 2022, the Department of Conservation asked for public feedback on a range of proposals, presenting 12 High Protection Areas […]
November 1, 2022
We’re celebrating Minister David Parker’s choice to drop controversial changes to fisheries legislation that would threaten sustainability of crucial fish species. The Oceans and Fisheries Minister has announced he will pull out pre-set decision rules from the Fisheries Amendment Bill currently sitting in Parliament. He cited one of the reasons why he pulled the pre-set […]
October 26, 2022
Marine protection for the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park is under review and the Department of Conservation is asking for your submission. The Department of Conservation is proposing 19 protected areas in the Hauraki Gulf. This means creating two new marine protection tools – High Protection Areas (HPAs) and Seafloor Protection Areas (SPAs). The 19 proposed […]
October 26, 2022
Spring has definitely sprung and the fishing is heating up. Labour Weekend saw some good weather across the country and a lot of boats were out taking advantage of the blue skies and calm waters. The Kai Ika filleting trailer has had record numbers number fish filleted and we hope to see this continue.
October 25, 2022
The Fisheries Amendment Bill passed into law today is welcome news to Kiwi fishers and environmental groups who are committed to restored abundance of our fisheries. “Oceans and Fisheries Minister David Parker is to be thanked for passing legislation that enables monitoring cameras aboard commercial fishing vessels and makes them land their catch instead of […]
October 7, 2022
The expression ‘when it rains it pours’ sums up the last few months. We’ve been flat out reacting to the Fisheries Amendment Bill, launching the expanding Hauraki Gulf Alliance through which we hope to finally see scallop dredging and bottom trawling removed from the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park and preparing our increasingly popular Kai Ika […]
September 29, 2022
The Government’s decision to drop controversial changes to fisheries legislation is welcome news to fishing and environmental groups concerned about threats to fish sustainability. Oceans and Fisheries Minister David Parker has announced he will progress the part of the Fisheries Amendment Bill that enables monitoring cameras aboard commercial fishing vessels from 1 November. But the […]
September 22, 2022
LegaSea founder, Scott Macindoe, speaks on the AM Show around issues in the proposed Fisheries Amendment Bill. Watch the clip below, courtesy of AM, Newshub.
September 21, 2022
Proposed changes to the laws governing fisheries will remove the current protections for fish sustainability and affect fishing rights for more than 600,000 fishers. Currently, the Minister of Oceans and Fisheries has a statutory duty to manage fish stocks to a level that provides for future generations’ needs, and to consider public input. The Minister […]
September 2, 2022
This year opening of the scallop season yesterday is cause for sadness rather than celebration this year as scallop beds across the country are closed. Years of intensive dredging from commercial and recreational fishers, combined with warming waters and land run off have decimated our scallop populations to the point that there are virtually no […]
September 2, 2022
By Andrew Johnson, New Zealand Sport Fishing Council. The opening of the scallop season historically a day of celebration, spring is here and the days are getting longer. This year, it’s more sobering. Restrictions on scallop harvest mean that scallops are now virtually inaccessible to most kiwis. We’ve all heard the lamenting cry ‘it’s […]
August 25, 2022
The Kai Ika Project, a kaupapa which shares previously unwanted fish heads and frames with appreciative Auckland communities, is marking a major milestone this week. Since starting in 2016, the Kai Ika Project has now recovered and donated more than 250,000 kgs of kai moana via Papatūānuku Kōkiri Marae and other distribution outlets. None of […]
July 28, 2022
Despite the stormy and cold weather that is keeping most of us on land and not out fishing, there is plenty going on in the fisheries space. We have the Fisheries Amendment Bill before parliament that may remove the public’s voice from fisheries management decisions. There is the proposed Waikato Regional Council Coastal Plan that threatens to stop […]
July 27, 2022
Thousands of Waikato people objected to the Waikato Regional Council’s Coastal Plan that proposes no-take fishing areas within 12 miles of the coastline. Submitters had until Friday 22 July to have their say on the draft Plan. In two days more than 2,700 people objected before submissions closed. The Council was seeking public views […]
July 27, 2022
By Derrick Paull I heard the term ‘Sustainable depletion’ a few years ago and it sticks in my mind as the best description of what fisheries managers with the commercial lobby driving them, are serving us up every year. Colin Moyle, the Minister responsible for the introduction of the Quota Management System stated “Government’s position […]
July 20, 2022
Once again we have a regional council looking to impose restrictions or closures in the marine space using the Resource Management Act (RMA), not the Fisheries Act. This is not acceptable. The Waikato Regional Council (WRC) is seeking the public’s views on whether they need to restrict particular recreational or commercial activities in some coastal […]
June 28, 2022
Last week was a busy one for LegaSea and the NZ Sport Fishing Council: deciphering the sneakily crafted Fisheries Amendment Bill, preparing our submission and drumming up public opposition to the bill.
June 23, 2022
In every Turkish Bread Thin Crispy Pizza Bases 3 pack with a GO FISH sticker you’ll find 3 Hī Ika | GO FISH cards PLUS a competition card with a unique code. Enter this code on the LegaSea website and you will go into the draw to WIN one of 5 fantastic prize packs, or a […]
June 21, 2022
Recently, coastal clubs, communities, and the public united to tackle a Fisheries Amendment Bill that is currently sitting before parliament, involving a number of changes with the potential of redefining sustainability of our fish populations. Our fear is that this is another attempt by officials to cater to commercial-only interests by encouraging more overfishing and […]
June 14, 2022
Environmental, fishing and marine conservation groups have joined to fight clauses in the Fisheries Amendment Bill. While seemingly harmless, they in fact smuggle through major changes that aim to remove public and ministerial oversight from future fisheries decisions. Instead it enables bureaucrats working closely with industry players to maximise their commercial fishing returns. The […]
June 14, 2022
Environmental, fishing and marine conservation groups have joined to fight clauses in the Fisheries Amendment Bill. While seemingly harmless, they in fact smuggle through major changes that aim to remove public and ministerial oversight from future fisheries decisions. Instead it enables bureaucrats working closely with industry players to maximise their commercial fishing returns. MAKE YOUR […]
May 27, 2022
In May 2022, the Government confirmed details of the roll-out of cameras onboard commercial fishing vessels. Details include a timeline and restrictions around what vessels have cameras, with the roll-out beginning and West Coast North Island inshore trawl and set net video footage becoming available from 30 November 2022. While it’s awesome to see a […]
May 27, 2022
With snapper season wrapping up and bluefin tuna marking the start of the cold season, it’s apt to think we would be slowing down into a steady pace for a while. Well, that is not the case, with our team busier than ever preparing for upcoming campaigns, submissions, and events. Keep your eyes and ears […]
May 6, 2022
Sailing into May is always an elevating time for us – we get our big opportunity to talk to you face to face at the Hutchwilco New Zealand Boat Show. We’ve got a lot to share and discuss this year. It’s been a massive year for scallops, hāpuku & bass, and community initiatives, and we […]
April 20, 2022
Media release April 20, 2022 Recreational fishers and marine conservationists are embracing revised bag limit rules for recreational fishers as a logical step toward sustainable fish populations. Under the revised rules, all finfish, except baitfish, including those with species limits like snapper, are now included in the daily recreational bag limit. This is a step […]
April 13, 2022
It’s been a hectic month with the recent closing of New Zealand’s last commercially viable scallop fisheries. Minister Parker announced the closure alongside several other conservative decisions for the future management of important species. We’ve been busy analysing these closures and what they actually mean for more fish in the water. As always it’s a mixed […]
March 9, 2022
Environmentalists and recreational fishing groups today heralded the guilty verdict delivered to a Talley’s-owned bottom trawler, the Amaltal Apollo, and its skipper, for illegally bottom trawling on seamounts in international waters. The groups repeated their call for the government to ban the destructive fishing practice on seamounts , and to refuse to issue high seas […]
March 8, 2022
Permits for New Zealand high seas bottom trawlers operating in the South Pacific are due for renewal in April. The New Zealand Government has previously issued permits to six bottom trawling vessels, all owned by companies with recent convictions for illegal fishing – and allowing them to trawl seamounts in international waters. New Zealand vessels […]
March 8, 2022
Most New Zealanders consider themselves be part of an environmentally aware country that has limited impact on the world’s marine environment. So it is shocking to learn that New Zealand is currently the ONLY country bottom trawling seamounts in the international waters of the South Pacific.
March 1, 2022
With scallop numbers in the Hauraki Gulf declining, support to protect the last remaining beds continues to grow. Many local organisations showed their support for a rāhui placed on all scallop harvesting by Ngāti Manuhiri down the east coast of North Auckland. The Ngāti Manuhiri rāhui area spans from Bream Tail down to Okura River […]
February 25, 2022
It’s 22 years since the government came out of hiding and into the public arena to snatch our fishing rights and interests. Thankfully there were a handful of people alert to the threats and two of them tower above them all, Paul Barnes and Bill Cooke. Paul and Bill were men of insight and principles. […]
February 20, 2022
When science and decision-making collide in the world of fisheries management, conservation is most often the loser. Fisheries New Zealand recently proposed a 5 to 15 percent cut to commercial catch limits in the northern crayfish fishery and catch increases in southern areas. LegaSea worked with our New Zealand Sport Fishing Council fisheries team and […]
February 11, 2022
Today we turn 10. 10 years of building teams, capacity, confidence, and competence. 10 years of encouraging New Zealanders that healthy and productive coastal fisheries will be positive for everyone – environmentally, socially, and economically. Launched on the 9th February 2012, LegaSea was started as, and remained the public outreach and fundraising arm of the […]
February 9, 2022
When science and decision-making collide in the world of fisheries management, conservation is most often the loser. Fisheries New Zealand recently proposed a 5 to 15 percent cut to commercial catch limits in the northern crayfish fishery and catch increases in southern areas. LegaSea worked with our New Zealand Sport Fishing Council fisheries team and […]
February 7, 2022
After nine years of resistance the government is on track to finally get cameras on-board commercial vessels to monitor fishing activity. Installations are expected to start at the end of 2022 and finish in 2024. We’re encouraging the Minister to initiate the camera rollout as soon as possible. We know from previous compliance reports and […]
January 25, 2022
LegaSea Hawke’s Bay has said an outright no to the proposal by their Regional Council to dump more than 50,000 cubic metres of dredge material onto the foreshore south of Napier. Instead, LegaSea Hawke’s Bay is urging the Council to dispose of the Clive River dredgings on land. And they are not alone in advocating […]
January 21, 2022
We hope you all had a great break full of good times, good weather and successful fishing (if that’s your thing!). 2022 is well underway now and we’re looking forward to a exciting year. There will be plenty going on with our oceans and fisheries and we will be keeping you up to date with the […]
December 20, 2021
Action is finally being taken to stop the sale of vulnerable marine fish not protected by maximum daily bag limits. Currently no bag limits apply to pink and blue maomao, grandaddy hāpuku, pigfish and wrasses. We’ve sent the Minister our recommendations for a 3-daily bag limit for each of those species and for the regulations […]
December 17, 2021
Today we’re celebrating one year since the successful launch of the Coromandel scallop restoration programme. On 17 December 2020 representatives from the Coromandel community, iwi and recreational fishing organisations all stood together at Opito Bay to call for protection of our scallop beds from the destructive practice of scallop dredging. The official launch was marked […]
December 14, 2021
LegaSea Hawke’s Bay has said an outright no to the proposal by their Regional Council to dump more than 50,000 cubic metres of dredge material onto the foreshore south of Napier. Instead, LegaSea Hawke’s Bay is urging the Council to dispose of the Clive River dredgings on land. And they are not alone in advocating […]
December 14, 2021
A gaping hole in the fishing regulations is about to be plugged to stop the exploitation of vulnerable reef fish and to address community concerns. Conflict arose in Tairua, Coromandel, earlier this year when hundreds of pink maomao were being landed and people realised no bag limits applied. MPI were powerless to respond because the […]
December 2, 2021
Media release 1 December 2021 Widespread support for Waiheke rāhui The Minister’s approval for a two-year temporary closure to fishing around Waiheke Island has drawn praise from divergent groups. The declining numbers of scallops, mussels, crayfish and pāua has prompted Ngāti Pāoa to declare a rāhui banning all harvest of these species around Waiheke Island […]
November 24, 2021
The most effective way to improve the long term productivity of our marine environment is to remove destructive fishing techniques such as bottom trawling, scallop dredging, Danish and purse seining from inshore waters. We don’t have to look far to see the benefits of removing bulk harvesting seining and bottom contact fishing methods from inshore […]
November 23, 2021
The Minister’s recent decision to cut the Total Allowable Commercial Catch (TACC) for gurnard around the top half of the North Island by 65% is recognition that this was one of the species that was over allocated when TACCs were set in 1986. These allocations are no longer appropriate. Many of those historic TACCs were […]
November 23, 2021
A Horizon Research poll published on Friday by the Hauraki Gulf Forum revealed that 84% of those living in the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park vicinity want destructive mobile contact fishing methods banned from the Gulf. This includes bottom trawling, scallop dredging and Danish seining. Only 3% wanted them to remain, with 13% with having no […]
November 21, 2021
Tarakihi and bluenose are important target species for people fishing on the east coast of New Zealand, between Northland to Southland. Having them abundant and available is important for our social and cultural wellbeing, with the added bonus that they taste great when eaten fresh with family and friends. Under the Quota Management System (QMS) […]
November 19, 2021
Media release: 19 November 2021 Conservation groups and recreational fishers have banded together for the first time to call for an end to destructive mobile bottom contact fishing methods that destroy the seabed in the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park. The move follows the release today of an Horizon Research poll, commissioned by the Hauraki Gulf […]
November 16, 2021
Fisheries NZ has issued a complex range of options to change daily bag limits for recreational fishers. Submissions are due by this Thursday, 18th November. We’re saying slow down. Have your say here.
November 15, 2021
Have your say on daily bag limits In June this year the Tairua community and local iwi Ngāti Hei were horrified to witness binfulls of pink maomao being taken from Coromandel waters under the guise of “recreational fishing”. Fisheries officers were powerless to prosecute the people responsible because bag limits and size limits do not […]
November 4, 2021
In these crazy times Kai Ika find itself busier than ever. Many Auckland whānau are needing more help than before, evident by the length of the queues waiting for pick up at the marae when kaimoana is available. Thankfully more suppliers are stepping up and we have more food to distribute than ever before.
October 27, 2021
The Hauraki Gulf is a biodiversity hot spot. It’s also in trouble, with well-documented declines in fish abundance and unrelenting run-off from urban centres and rural land. Support is growing for more comprehensive protection of the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park. This includes higher protection for marine biodiversity, by banning destructive bottom contact fishing methods such […]
October 21, 2021
It’s a pass mark for the Minister’s fisheries management decisions for the start of the October fishing year and a hurry-up for Fisheries New Zealand to gather vital data over the next 12 months. That pass is only valid if action is taken to do further work. Fisheries New Zealand need to be monitoring the […]
October 15, 2021
It’s great to be alongside Ngāti Hei celebrating the Minister’s recent approval for a 2-year rāhui banning all scallop harvesting around the eastern Coromandel until September 2023. On the flip side, it is ominous for the sustainability of other scallop beds that remain open around the Hauraki Gulf and Bay of Plenty. People around Omaha, […]
October 8, 2021
For those of us still in lockdown after 50 days, Wednesday’s easing of restrictions meant we could finally get back on the water and do some fishing! It’s a welcome respite after such a long time and we sure did take advantage of it. Let’s hope we all can get back to normal soon.
October 1, 2021
New commercial catch limits applying from October 1 show a considered, conservative approach by Minister David Parker to protecting fish. LegaSea Lead, Sam Woolford said: “A record number, more than 10,000 people sent in submissions to Fisheries Minister David Parker for this year’s fishing sustainability review. We are encouraged that people are starting to understand […]
September 28, 2021
We spoke up and the Minister listened. Last week David Parker, the Minister of Oceans and Fisheries, acknowledged the receipt of over 10,000 submissions in response to the recent reviews. If you were one of the submitters, Minister Parker and our future generations say thanks.
September 24, 2021
Hauraki Gulf communities are abuzz with the news that Ngāti Hei has successfully implemented a rāhui, a 2-year temporary closure to all scallop fishing from within their rohe on the eastern Coromandel coast. This will help protect the seabed and restore depleted scallop stocks. Ministerial approval for this rāhui was announced on 8 September and […]
September 24, 2021
In 2002 researchers surveying the Hauraki Gulf estimated only 24 tonnes of gurnard remained in Gulf waters. Since then there has been a succession of Hauraki Gulf Forum reports documenting continual decline of fish stocks and marine biodiversity. A crisis is looming yet there is no effective response from local or national government. The Hauraki […]
September 16, 2021
More than 10,000 people put their name to supporting our recent submissions to the Minister of Oceans and Fisheries calling for more conservative management of our precious marine environment. Many of these people are frustrated that the Minister still permits environmentally destructive acts such as dragging weighted chains and box dredges across seafloor habitats. Bottom […]
September 9, 2021
Yesterday the Minister of Oceans and Fisheries, David Parker, approved a rāhui or temporary closure of the scallop fishery off the east Coromandel coast, following a request by Ngāti Hei in February this year. The closure means no scallop harvesting by commercial, recreational and customary fishers for two years, from this Saturday September 11.
September 8, 2021
Groups that worked to save Coromandel scallop beds are delighted with David Parker’s decision to endorse the regional rāhui on scallops. But, at the same time, are concerned commercial fishers will now desecrate the already threatened scallop beds off Omaha, Great Barrier and Little Barrier. Ngāti Hei kaitiaki, Joe Davis welcomed the decision to ban […]
August 26, 2021
We are looking for someone to join our team in a full time position as the Kai Ika Operations Leading Hand. Someone motivated to help us manage this rapidly growing initiative. You will be responsible for overseeing the day to day operations across our multiple fish filleting sites. This includes managing the roster, recruiting filleters, […]
August 26, 2021
Bottom trawling, the act of dragging chains across the seabed, has an adverse effect on the marine environment. In our most recent submissions responding to government fisheries proposals we have emphasised the need for the Minister to take those adverse effects into account by setting lower catch limits for fish species taken mainly by trawling. […]
August 24, 2021
Support for our collective efforts to get rid of scallop dredging from New Zealand’s inshore waters is growing. It’s strange then that the government has come out with a plan to ban all recreational scallop dredging from the Hauraki Gulf yet allow commercial fishers to continue using the Victorian Box Dredge to gather scallops. This […]
August 23, 2021
With level 4 lockdown upon us again, The Kai Ika Project is once again stepping up to distribute kaimoana to whanau in need. Last year we distributed over 55 tonnes of previously unwanted kaimoana. Multiple lockdowns didn’t stop us then nor will it stop us now! Lockdown makes the logistics of food distribution very difficult […]
August 13, 2021
It’s been a busy period for our fisheries management team, with 12 fisheries up for review in the past two months. Public submissions have now closed, and if you were one of the thousands who had your say in support of more fish in the water – Thanks a bunch!
August 12, 2021
Commercial fishers who flagrantly dredged scallop beds while flying a pirate flag have undone the good work of communities who have tried to save the beds by observing a rahui. In December 2020, a voluntary rāhui was laid on the eastern Coromandel coastline to protect dwindling numbers of scallops from dredging and overharvest. In February […]
August 10, 2021
LegaSea is looking forward to talking about local issues with the Coromandel community at the upcoming Tairua Boat Show in mid-August. There is so much to discuss including Opito Bay scallops, the Ngāti Hei rāhui across the eastern coastline, and the ongoing struggle to ban trawling and dredging in the Hauraki Gulf. It was pleasing […]
July 26, 2021
Peter van Eekelen is the President of the Pegasus Bay Gamefishing Club, Canterbury. Q. What’s the problem? A. Blue cod is an iconic fishery providing for the social, economic and cultural wellbeing of thousands of South Islanders. There are around 35,000 people who fish for recreation and food off the east coast of the South […]
July 24, 2021
Back in the 90s when the Snapper 8 fishery was in deep trouble, recreational fishers voluntarily contributed efforts that would help bring back more snapper in the water. The first recreational daily bag limit set in 1985 was 30 per person per day, now it’s 10. In 1995, local west coast recreational fishers wanted to […]
July 23, 2021
Snapper stocks out west of the North Island have rebuilt to an abundance level beyond most people’s living memory. Fisheries New Zealand (FNZ) has proposed catch increases for commercial fishers, an increase to the overall allowances for recreational and Māori customary fishing interests, and no changes to recreational bag or size limits. Submissions are due […]
July 20, 2021
After 33 years of rebuilding, the Snapper 8 (SNA 8) fishery is finally in good shape, reaching an estimated biomass of 54% of the original population size. Fisheries NZ is proposing four potential options to increase the Total Allowable Commercial Catch (TACC) of 1300 tonnes. They propose to increase the TACC by either 25, 50, 75 or 100%. More commercial fishing in Snapper 8 means more bottom trawling, and this could jeopardise the recovery of snapper. LegaSea is supporting Option Zero. No TACC increase.
July 15, 2021
Local Hauraki Gulf communities are left feeling unheard after the Government has decided to take a cherry-picking approach in protecting and enhancing the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park. We are disappointed by the recent changes proposed in the Government (Revitalising the Gulf) response to the Sea Change plan which includes decisions which will only protect pockets […]
July 7, 2021
Trawling and its effects on fish, people and future livelihoods has been a subject of debate for more than a century. A succession of Ministers have heard submissions, held meetings, drawn lines on maps and even established a commission of inquiry in 1918, yet we still have bottom trawling in many productive nursery grounds. Even […]
July 5, 2021
The long awaited consultation for Snapper 8 (SNA8) is underway and we are busily working through the government’s proposed changes on . SNA8 is a fisheries area situated along the west coast of the North Island from North Cape to Kapiti (see map). The fishery was almost trawled to extinction during the 1970s and 1980s, […]
June 25, 2021
SeaChange announcement; Land all catch regulations; Tarakihi court case decision. It’s been a huge week with three major announcements impacting our fisheries. This week the Revitalising Our Gulf Sea Change strategy was released in response to the 2017 Sea Change Marine Spatial Plan aimed at restoring the health of the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park.
June 19, 2021
The High Court has ruled that in 2019 Stuart Nash, the then Minister of Fisheries, did not act legally when deciding on the management settings for tarakihi on the whole east coast. Tarakihi and the environment in which they live have been decimated by years of trawling, with the stock collapsing to just 16% of […]
June 19, 2021
A high court decision that protects tarakihi sets a precedent for protecting other fish populations and is a milestone in fisheries management, says marine conservation group LegaSea. “It’s a hugely important judgement that has run under the radar”, said LegaSea spokesperson Sam Woolford. “Firstly, the court affirmed that decisions made by the previous Minister of […]
June 18, 2021
After 5 long years the Kaikōura pāua fishery is set to reopen. It's been a hard wait for one of New Zealand's most enjoyed fisheries and there is plenty of excitement at the prospect of it reopening. Stocks are looking good, but as expected, there will be are plenty of changes being recommended for recreational harvest rules.
June 17, 2021
Limited time to submit on Kaikōura pāua reopening Kaikōura locals have lost access to their favourite fisheries due to natural disasters including earthquakes and unnatural disasters, through preference being given to commercial interests. Now it’s time for us to submit in support of recovering access to the pāua fishery. We have until 5 July to […]
June 1, 2021
To celebrate National Kahawai Day 2021, we ran a competition asking you to share your kahawai-related stories. Here are some beautiful stories below. Respect for kahawai – Andrew Penny “I will admit that it took some time to hold kahawai in the high regard that I do now. Growing up fishing in the Manukau, […]
May 28, 2021
LegaSea is celebrating May 28th as National Kahawai Day, in recognition of the community coming together in the early 2000s to save ‘the people’s fish’. The 4-year Kahawai Legal Challenge was the first time recreational fishers had taken the Minister of Fisheries to court since the Quota Management System was introduced 20 years prior. It […]
May 27, 2021
“But to see the kahawai at its best we have to go to New Zealand. There, huge shoals of these fish range the coast and work away up the inlets and rivers. One of these big bodies of fish on the move is a stirring sight.” – Wal Hardy, The Saltwater Angler (1966). Kahawai is […]
May 20, 2021
A healthy scallop population has provided for the social, economic and cultural wellbeing of mana whenua for centuries and coastal Coromandel communities for decades. There is growing concern by Ngāti Hei and local interests about the depletion of scallops in Opito Bay at the end of the Kūaotunu Peninsula on the eastern side of the […]
May 13, 2021
The Hutchwilco New Zealand Boat Show starts today and LegaSea will be there for the full 4 days. We are looking forward to talking with you face to face. There is certainly a lot to talk about, from the launch of Rescue Fish, the fight against bottom trawling and dredging, and where the heck all […]
May 12, 2021
A new report shows some scallop beds off the Coromandel coast are unlikely to recover from their current depleted state, and locals are concerned that ongoing dredging will threaten the future of the delicacy. The report summarises a dive survey commissioned by the New Zealand Sport Fishing Council in 2020. In some areas of Opito […]
May 5, 2021
As we head into May, fishers and boaties among us are only thinking about one thing – The Hutchwilco New Zealand Boat Show. With last year’s event being cancelled for Covid, we are more than looking forward to this year’s event. This is our chance to talk to you face to face, and there is […]
April 27, 2021
Trawling in the Hauraki Gulf has been a contentious issue for more than a century so the Hauraki Gulf Forum’s recent policy decision to remove all industrial bottom trawling and scallop dredging from the entire Marine Park is welcome news. The resolution is being celebrated by communities from north Auckland to Waihi, at the southern […]
April 26, 2021
New Zealand’s so-called world leading quota management system is an abject failure. That is the inconvenient truth. After 35 years we still have fisheries that are not abundant enough to meet people’s needs. Rebuilding depleted fish stocks to levels that are both sustainable for the ocean and the economy would mean great things for our […]
April 9, 2021
As international awareness for the plight of our ocean grows, local communities are taking action. We’ve seen a raft of communities joining forces and placing rāhui (temporary closures) around the coastline. Supporting these efforts has meant a busy start to the year for the LegaSea crew. We have also seen some topical and timely documentaries […]
April 9, 2021
Tom Hishon is the Executive Chef and co-founder of kingi, a sustainable seafood restaurant in downtown Auckland that focuses on supporting independent fishers from around New Zealand.
March 26, 2021
Whether there is a seafloor hardened by rock structures, a seafloor soft and sandy, or a seafloor teeming with coral life, a single pass of a scallop dredge can reduce the total number of creatures on the seafloor by around 60 percent. A countless number of sea creatures use the seafloor as their home or […]
March 25, 2021
Years of poor fisheries management by successive governments under the Quota Management System (QMS) has resulted in tarakihi populations along the east coast of both islands falling to just 15% of their original population size. In 2019, the previous Minister of Fisheries responded to this crisis with a token 10 percent cut in commercial catch […]
March 24, 2021
Fleur Sullivan is the owner of award-winning restaurant Fleur’s Place in Moeraki, a restaurant so renowned in the foodie scene, famous chef’s such as Rick Stein have come all the way to this little Southern abode to eat the seafood she has to offer. Her menu revolves around whatever is caught by her fishermen that day, providing a unique experience where her fish comes straight from water to plate. Quota owner, hunter-gatherer, food visionary - Fleur is true treasure.
March 23, 2021
The support for banning bottom contact fishing techniques is growing. Local community initiatives such as rāhui on shellfish species by Ngāti Hei and Ngāti Paoa, and the Coromandel Restoration Programme have only heightened the conversation of the urgency to ban destructive fishing methods that are destroying our seafloor habitats. And just today, public consultation has […]
March 23, 2021
Today the Hauraki Gulf Forum has confirmed its policy to remove all industrial bottom trawling and scallop dredging harvest techniques from the entire Hauraki Gulf Marine Park. This has come after a series of presentations around consequences and community actions of banning recreational dredging by LegaSea, Ngāti Hei, Ngāti Paoa and Revive Our Gulf. Years […]
March 18, 2021
On a cool summer’s morning a crew of 14 from LegaSea were standing on Oneroa Beach, Waiheke Island, watching the sun come up over the crowd gathered to celebrate the start of a rāhui. The rāhui means no harvesting of scallops, mussels, crayfish and pāua within one nautical mile of the Waiheke shoreline for at […]
March 7, 2021
As Kiwis we like to think we have it over our trans-Tasman neighbours yet in terms of fisheries management the Queenslanders are beating us hands down. The Queensland government has committed to managing their fish stocks at much higher abundance levels compared to New Zealand. If we don’t follow their lead there will be increasing […]
February 25, 2021
As we move towards late summer and fishing around our coastal waters reaches its zenith for the year, the state of our fisheries becomes a more heated topic. Whether around the BBQ or the boat ramps, now is a good time to reflect how our fish stocks have changed over the years. While many fish […]
February 25, 2021
Westies are a special bunch. Westie tradies are even more special. For the past 31 years the Fanatical Fishos fishing competition for plumbers has raised funds for Coastguard and recreational fishing. This year LegaSea is pleased to report that we have received $6000 from Grant Chester of Chesters Plumbing and Bathroom Centre New Lynn, Auckland. […]
February 25, 2021
This summer people of the Coromandel and Bay of Plenty have taken bold steps to address concerns about the depleted state of local scallop beds. The community and visitors have largely complied with a voluntary ban on taking scallops from Opito Bay on the eastern side of the Coromandel Peninsula, exceeding expectations over the busy […]
February 9, 2021
In January 2021, LegaSea Hawke’s Bay and the Napier Port team announced a second artificial reef has been constructed, located off Napier’s coastline at the ‘Gwen B’ shipwreck site. This second artificial reef follows on from the construction of a first larger artificial reef created last year, near Pania Reef with over 8000 cubic metres […]
February 4, 2021
As people become more frustrated with the lack of government action to protect our coastal marine environments, more communities are taking action. In the last two months two iwi have enacted rāhui to protect coastal sealife and rebuild abundance. LegaSea believes these community responses reflects problems with the way that Fisheries New Zealand and the […]
February 3, 2021
Do you fish for blue cod around the South Island? MPI wants your feedback on the traffic light system and new rules that apply to South Island blue cod fishing. Please have your say before the end of February.
January 30, 2021
The declining numbers of scallops, mussels, crayfish and paua has prompted Ngāti Pāoa to declare a rāhui banning all harvest of these species around Waiheke Island for two years and recreational fishers are supporting the initiative. Representatives of the largest organisations of recreational fishing interests will attend the customary rāhui ceremony at 5.30am on Sunday […]
January 29, 2021
A voluntary ban has been put in place to stop all take of scallops from Opito Bay on the eastern side of the Coromandel Peninsula. The Opito Bay community is asking the public to respect the ban over the summer of 2020-21. Signs have been installed at local boat ramps and information is available at […]
January 26, 2021
The clear, calm waters of Opito Bay hide the stark reality that very few scallops survive on the eastern side of the Coromandel Peninsula. Once prolific scallop beds are so few and far between we now have an untenable situation. LegaSea has received multiple reports of commercial interests prospecting on the western side of Coromandel, […]
January 20, 2021
Paul was a successful businessman who operated Paul’s Fishing Kites for 33 years, an inventor, a fisherman, and a conservationist. Paul and Peggy Barnes were the backbone of option4.co.nz. The 4 Principles that underpinned everything option4 stood for put us all on solid ground and made us safe to do the right thing. His advocacy […]
January 20, 2021
We’re into another year and I think we’re all hoping it’s going to be far less dramatic than 2020! But no guarantees. With a refreshed government committed to change and a new Oceans and Fisheries Minister, now is the time to push hard for fisheries management reform and that’s exactly what we’ll be doing. The […]
January 18, 2021
The past 12 months has been a rollercoaster ride for most of us, and on the fisheries front the year has been equally undulating. After a couple of ‘nearly there’ Coronavirus-interrupted moments we finally launched the Rescue Fish campaign in late May. What’s more, our New Zealand Sport Fishing Council fisheries team had a record-breaking […]
January 10, 2021
After an off-season of uncertainty, lockdowns and boat maintenance the rewards are taking family and friends out on the boat. There’s nothing quite like the squeals from kids as they hook up to their first fish, or the splutter as they see the underwater seascape for the first time. These good times depend on having […]
January 2, 2021
Reel Questions is a commentary series providing an insight to the opinions and experiences of individuals who have ties with our fish life and marine environment whether it be their livelihood, playground, creative influence, culture or simply a part of their lives. They all have a varied relationship with our coast and fish. Matt Watson […]
December 21, 2020
It can be quite scary when you realise that we don’t know much about what is happening at sea or the state of our fish stocks. That’s because there’s not enough onboard cameras or observers to monitor at-sea activity. What’s more, 56 percent of targeted fish stocks in the Quota Management System (QMS) have never […]
December 18, 2020
RNZ. A rapid decline in the scallop populations on the eastern side of the Coromandel Peninsula has seen LegaSea organise Coromandel locals place a rāhui on taking scallops this summer. Ngāti Hei kaumatua Joe Davis explains to Jesse why a lack of official action to address the situation has led to the locals stepping in.
December 17, 2020
Stuff: The decline in scallop numbers and a lack of action from government, has prompted a small Coromandel town to put a rāhui on scallop harvesting over the summer period. In September eight organisations co-wrote a letter to David Parker, the Minister of Oceans and Fisheries, calling for the Government to take action on depleted scallop […]
December 17, 2020
The decline in scallop numbers on the eastern side of Coromandel Peninsula has prompted Opito Bay locals to join forces and initiate a programme to restore stocks of the delicacy, starting with a survey to establish how many scallops actually remain in the Bay. The survey will be officially launched at a morning ceremony on […]
December 9, 2020
Fresh scallops are one of life’s pleasures, and if you gather them yourself there is untold satisfaction in sharing that kaimoana with your family and friends. The low numbers of scallops in many traditional gathering areas means people holidaying around the Coromandel Peninsula may miss out on a meal of scallops this summer. Reports from […]
December 4, 2020
In September the New Zealand Sport Fishing Council endorsed a policy encouraging recreational fishers to retire their scallop dredges. At a time when the community is increasingly concerned about the deteriorating state of our marine environment, it’s exciting to see this Council embracing progressive policy and encouraging change to their 36,000 affiliated members.
December 2, 2020
Divers, divers everywhere, not a scallop to be seen. We’ve had some grim reports recently about the lack of scallops in Opito Bay, on the eastern seaboard of the Coromandel Peninsula and on the western side of the Peninsula. Sadly, these are not isolated cases of depletion. They represent further examples of poor management of […]
November 26, 2020
The response to the coronavirus threat is proof that our government can go hard and fast when they commit to protecting the interests of all New Zealanders. There are plenty of good reasons why the new government must act with the same haste and financial commitment to rebuild our depleted inshore fish stocks. The Quota […]
November 16, 2020
Last month, Whitehaven Wine Company relaunched its Kōparepare wine brand with a commitment to donate 100 percent of the sales revenue to LegaSea from the first 125 cases sold.
November 12, 2020
Today’s good news is undermined by the fact that we know so little about our fish stocks. While a lack of information is supposed to lead to more precautionary management decisions, our reality is much different. Fisheries New Zealand continue to withhold a raft of reports, and bottom trawling in inshore waters is still killing […]
November 1, 2020
Recreational marine fishing groups including LegaSea and the New Zealand Sport Fishing Council are calling on the newly elected government to address serious issues such as fish dumping, environmental damage from bottom trawling, and the need to restore fish stocks to healthy levels.
October 26, 2020
Calls are getting louder for 30 percent marine protected areas out to 200 nautical miles, including a network of no-take zones. There are major concerns with this set-and-forget strategy. Applying MPA fishing closures to some of our most productive areas will inevitably displace effort, intensifying depletion and biodiversity loss in the other 70% of the […]
October 19, 2020
On Monday 19 October Whitehaven Wine Company will launch its refreshed Kōparepare wine brand. The company will acknowledge the relaunch with a campaign donating 100% of the revenue from the first 125 cases sold online at koparepare.co.nz to LegaSea. After that the family winery will continue to fund the work of LegaSea by donating $1 […]
October 1, 2020
We are officially in the election countdown now and it’s interesting to see how COVID-19 is affecting the political parties’ policies. Sadly, fisheries issues have largely been ignored as the big parties fight it out over the best way to recover from the economic and social impact of the pandemic. Given the interesting political landscape […]
September 25, 2020
“Before there were freezers, the fish were left in the ocean until they were needed.” An insightful comment from Dr Davianna Pomaika’i McGregor, director of the University of Hawaii’s Centre for Oral History. She has a deep interest in the indigenous Hawaiian ethos of only taking what you need. Closer to home Maori often express […]
September 23, 2020
Recreational groups have come out strongly in support of the need to ban fishing techniques that damage the seabed in coastal marine waters. Increasingly, science shows that damage to the seafloor caused by fishing is having an exponential impact on the overall health of our marine ecosystems. At the Annual General Meeting of the New […]
September 9, 2020
The process to get monitoring cameras on board commercial fishing vessels is a debacle according to public awareness group LegaSea. The reality, it’s another promise made weeks before an election that won’t be initiated until after the following election cycle. “Cameras on board fishing vessels have been promised by fisheries Ministers since 2014, and last […]
September 1, 2020
Rescue Fish is aimed at increasing the numbers and size of fish in our coastal waters, and in doing so, restoring biodiversity in the marine ecosystem. It will take a collective effort and behavioural changes by all of us to achieve success. A major change will be learning how to fish in an abundant fishery. […]
August 30, 2020
The New Zealand Underwater Association (NZUA) has signed an Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with LegaSea and the New Zealand Sport Fishing Council. The Association is the latest organisation to commit to working alongside LegaSea and the New Zealand Sport Fishing Council to create more abundant coastal fisheries. These groups have committed to working together to […]
August 29, 2020
Surely not. A trawler caught illegal fishing in a protected area can continue to operate even when the Court has ordered its forfeiture to the Crown. In late July Sealord Group was ordered by the Nelson District Court to forfeit a vessel worth $24 million. The company also forfeited the catch, and its crew were […]
August 28, 2020
It’s been a frustrating time with the return of COVID-19 to the community, especially for people who live in Auckland. No fishing, no sports, no socialising. But it’s a good time to get online. So if you haven’t watched The Price of Fish, watch it. If you haven’t signed the petition, sign it. If you […]
August 1, 2020
After seven years of meetings, planning and reports, officials have been told to start actioning improvements to the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park. The Park extends from Pakiri in the north to Waihi in the Bay of Plenty. These waters have been degraded by decades of use, abuse and management paralysis. In a joint submission to […]
July 31, 2020
We always knew Kiwis were passionate about their fishing. The reaction to the Rescue Fish policy has confirmed that we also care about prioritising the health of our marine environment. Rescue Fish – Ika Rauora is a policy developed by LegaSea and New Zealand Sport Fishing Council to remedy depleted fish stocks and address the […]
July 31, 2020
“It was like watching a train wreck. I didn’t want to see or hear it, but I couldn’t take my eyes off it”. That is just one reaction to the release of Mike Bhana’s film ‘The Price of Fish’ that screened on TV last weekend. The film highlights the broken state of the Quota Management System and […]
July 30, 2020
Reel Questions is a commentary series providing an insight to the opinions and experiences of individuals who have ties with our fish life and marine environment whether it be their livelihood, playground, creative influence, culture or simply a part of their lives. They all have a varied relationship with our coast and fish. Mike Bhana […]
July 29, 2020
Kiwis have had enough of indiscriminate bulk harvesting fishing methods and are refusing to tolerate the fish depletion and habitat destruction that follows. Bottom trawling and dredging in sensitive inshore waters damages important juvenile fish habitat and kills seabed creatures. Purse seining removes layers of life important to foraging seabirds and marine communities. Fundamental change is […]
July 15, 2020
Reel Questions is a commentary series providing an insight to the opinions and experiences of individuals who have ties with our fish life and marine environment whether it be their livelihood, playground, creative influence, culture or simply a part of their lives. They all have a varied relationship with our coast and fish. Matt von […]
July 15, 2020
For years we have been limited to raising awareness of the issues affecting our fisheries and coastal waters so it’s a real buzz to share with you our reform package – Rescue Fish. Rescue Fish is our best endeavour to inspire change so our fisheries can become more abundant and we can enjoy a healthier […]
July 15, 2020
A report to the international Sea Around Us project in 2016 found New Zealand dumped an estimated 14 million tonnes of fish between 1950 and 2010. That’s enough fish to feed New Zealand for 125 years. While much of the dumping occurred in the deep water fisheries, it is still occurring in the inshore fisheries […]
July 14, 2020
Public support is swelling for reforms to fisheries management. The New Zealand Underwater Association (NZUA) being the latest organisation to join the New Zealand Sport Fishing Council and LegaSea in their efforts to create abundance in our coastal fisheries. Together these groups are seeking an overhaul to the existing fisheries management policy which begins by scrapping the Quota Management […]
July 1, 2020
Small scale fishermen are the tradies of the sea. These guys and girls head out to sea, rain or shine, to bring back fresh fish. Many of these small scale fishermen don’t own any quota so they end up leasing access rights, fishing for someone else’s benefit. Quota is king under the Quota Management System […]
June 26, 2020
One of the first things you learn when you’re starting your working career is that managers hate problems. ‘Just bring me a solution’ is a common response. These days most people are acutely aware of the problems facing our coastal fisheries. While public concern grows it often fails to translate into meaningful discussions about solutions. […]
June 26, 2020
Angela Clifford is chief executive of Eat New Zealand, a collective of some of the country’s best producers, chefs, media, event organisers and tourism operators. Their mission is to connect people to our land (and ocean) through our food by highlighting the quality and vast array of edible resources available in New Zealand. It provides a forum to encourage and enable collaboration between all levels of the culinary chain and move towards more sustainable food systems.
June 17, 2020
Let’s rescue our fish The common definition of insanity is doing the same thing repeatedly and expecting a different result. Equally bizarre is the expectation that bulk harvesting our precious fish stocks will deliver the wealth and prosperity we need to get our economy back on its feet. A radical change is required. LegaSea and […]
June 8, 2020
Karl Warr is a life long commercial fisherman operating out of Napier. He has been recognised as an innovator as he utilises a stainless steel cage system for fishing which he invented himself.
June 2, 2020
As fish stocks deplete and the inshore environment degrades the calls for marine protection grow louder. Most often this translates into a demand for more marine reserves. However, a reserve is no protection against wider biodiversity loss, as we have witnessed with Goat Island marine reserve. There are now fewer crayfish in the reserve than […]
June 2, 2020
Rescue Fish requires the Crown to buy back existing commercial quota shares in the inshore fisheries at fair value. The combination of the initial buy-back and an equally large ongoing revenue stream from selling fishing permits with attached resource rentals means this would be at least fiscally neutral to the Crown over the long term. […]
June 2, 2020
The management and governance of our fisheries is in crisis. There is widespread concern about declining fish stocks and biodiversity loss in our marine environment. The Fisheries Act 1996 has not been adequately applied to achieve its primary purpose of sustainable use of fisheries resources to provide for our collective well-being. Management has descended into […]
June 1, 2020
Recent court decisions concerning waters around Motiti Island in the Bay of Plenty have surprised the recreational fishing public. The Court has essentially approved the ability for Regional Councils to control fishing under the Resource Management Act (RMA), to protect indigenous biodiversity. These decisions mean there is potential to close many fishing areas in the […]
June 1, 2020
Kiwis care about fish depletion and habitat destruction. Concerns about these problems have been a driving force behind the development of the Rescue Fish policy. LegaSea and the New Zealand Sport Fishing Council have released the policy to generate public discussion and consensus on the need for reform of fisheries management in New Zealand. The […]
May 30, 2020
“Only a crisis – actual or perceived – produces real change.” Milton Friedman. The oft quoted definition of insanity is doing the same thing repeatedly and expecting a different result. Equally bizarre is the expectation that bulk harvesting our precious fish stocks will deliver the wealth and prosperity we need to get our economy back […]
May 28, 2020
Media release 28 May 2020 Plan released to restore fish stocks and revitalise New Zealand’s commercial fishing sector Sweeping changes proposed to fisheries policy to benefit future generations and pump much needed cash into the regions Restoring abundance to New Zealand’s coastal fisheries and stimulating regional economies are two objectives of the ‘Rescue Fish’ policy […]
May 15, 2020
New Zealand has a world class yellowtail kingfish fishery. Out of the 37 International Game Fish Association claimed world records for southern yellowtail, 35 have been captured in New Zealand and two captured in Australia. Popular with travelling international fishers, they are also a highly prized sport fish for Kiwis. The economic and social value […]
May 7, 2020
Reel Questions is a commentary series providing an insight to the opinions and experiences of individuals who have ties with our fish life and marine environment whether it be their livelihood, playground, creative influence, culture or simply a part of their lives. They all have a varied relationship with our coast and fish. We ask […]
April 24, 2020
Serious concerns have been raised after revelations that some donations to political parties are going unreported. The spotlight has been on New Zealand First Party in particular due to its funding by the New Zealand First Foundation. Of broader concern is the influence that donations may be having on policy and decision making. LegaSea’s research […]
April 23, 2020
Reel Questions is a commentary series providing an insight to the opinions and experiences of individuals who have ties with our fish life and marine environment whether it be their livelihood, playground, creative influence, culture or simply a part of their lives. They all have a varied relationship with our coast and fish. We ask […]
April 23, 2020
Over the last four years 60,000kg of fish parts have been collected and shared with South Auckland Families via our project partner Papatūānuku Kōkiri Marae. This was during relatively prosperous times. Then, COVID-19 hit. Overnight, The Kai Ika Project became an ‘Essential Service’. The country was locked down, the numbers of unemployed skyrocketed and being […]
April 23, 2020
Restricting fishing during the Covid-19 lockdown may have short-term benefits for some fish stocks. The restrictions are unlikely to make a measurable difference to depleted stocks. Depleted fish stocks will only rebuild if meaningful catch reductions are applied and the productivity of the marine environment is restored, by banning destructive bulk harvesting fishing methods from […]
April 16, 2020
Reel Questions is a commentary series providing an insight to the opinions and experiences of individuals who have ties with our fish life and marine environment whether it be their livelihood, playground, creative influence, culture or simply a part of their lives. They all have a varied relationship with our coast and fish. We ask […]
March 27, 2020
Locals in the northern Bay of Islands have succeeded in getting legal protection for mussels around the Black Rocks and out to the Ninepin. The Minister of Fisheries Stuart Nash has approved a bylaw that prohibits anyone taking green-lipped, blue and black mussels from within the Te Puna Mataitai, from March 23rd, 2020. The bylaw […]
March 20, 2020
If diamonds are a girl’s best friend then crayfish must be a diver’s best friend. And no matter where you go around the country crayfish is a significant species for environmental, customary, recreational and commercial fishing interests. Recently our fisheries team submitted in response to proposals for the future management of crayfish in Northland, Gisborne, […]
March 19, 2020
Recent court decisions concerning waters around Motiti Island have surprised the recreational fishing public. The Court has essentially approved the ability for regional council’s to control fishing under the Resource Management Act (RMA). These decisions mean that there is potential for the closure of fishing areas in the Territorial Sea all around New Zealand. The […]
March 19, 2020
Sustainable inshore commercial longliner, Gavin Perry, demonstrates the principles of Iki Jime and how it is done in a commercial environment.
March 10, 2020
Poaching of fish is not new, it goes back centuries. In old England landlords refused to allow starving peasants to fish in the rivers and streams running through their properties. The peasants took their chances under the cover of darkness if they wanted to feed their family fish. Nowadays poaching operations are a lot more […]
February 28, 2020
In just two generations we have managed to pillage our crayfish stocks to such historic low levels that in many areas there are few, if any, left for locals to enjoy. Taking more than 80 per cent of the original crayfish stock size then sustaining it at that low level is inviting disaster, by altering […]
February 26, 2020
A huge majority of New Zealanders think fishing industry donations to Members of Parliament at the last election have the potential to “strongly influence” decisions the MPs make according to a poll conducted by Horizon Research. The poll, which asked more than 1,000 people how much they felt donations by companies with large fishing investments […]
February 25, 2020
UPDATE 2: Rules applying to recreational catch of rock lobster in CRA2 have changed as of 1 July 2020. We await information from Fisheries New Zealand and will advise details when these are available. UPDATE: MPI has advised LegaSea that the decision to change the crayfish bag limits in CRA2 not yet been ratified by […]
February 17, 2020
Snapper, kahawai and blue cod are the most popular saltwater finfish caught and kept by recreational fishers in New Zealand. As you would expect, snapper is the most common fish taken, representing nearly half of the national finfish landings. We now have two reliable surveys of recreational harvest using the same methods so the results […]
February 15, 2020
When times are tough it’s great to have good friends around and Lily Alexander is one of those. For her 10th birthday, in late 2019, she decided to do something remarkable. Lily decided to forgo birthday presents. Instead of presents she asked all her friends to bring money so she could donate it to LegaSea. […]
February 10, 2020
After years of bearing witness to declining fish stocks and inshore trawling a Maori Trust in the Bay of Plenty has taken the initiative to protect indigenous biodiversity. As a result of a complex legal process the Court of Appeal recently ruled that Regional Councils are obliged to actively protect indigenous biodiversity in the marine […]
February 4, 2020
Local Kaitiaki [guardians] held a hui in December to discuss putting a ban on taking mussels from the northern area in the Bay of Islands, until they regrow. Consultation with the local community was largely supportive and now we await a Ministerial decision. LegaSea attended the December hui and expressed support for this initiative as […]
February 1, 2020
In 2013 the government committed to 100% camera or observer coverage of all trawl vessels on the northeast coast, by October 2015. In June 2019 the present government promised us that 28 at-risk vessels on the west coast of the North Island would have cameras and monitoring by November. The roll-out to the remaining commercial […]
January 26, 2020
LegaSea is celebrating the courage of Karl and Sarah Warr from Hawke’s Bay who have installed cameras on their trawler to livestream their fishing activity 24/7. This Napier couple wants the public to see for themselves how their fish is caught. They are hopeful that consumers will start asking their suppliers if the food they […]
January 16, 2020
From The Kai Ika project to Fishcare to the events we attended and the submissions we made… it was definitely a big year. A huge thank you to you, our supporters, to enable us to get closer to our goal of a healthy marine environment and having more fish in the sea. Watch the 2019 […]
December 22, 2019
A few months ago for her 10th birthday, Lily Alexander decided to do something remarkable. She decided to forgo birthday presents. Instead of presents, she asked all her friends to bring money which she promptly donated to LegaSea. Being a passionate fisher, Lily loves being out on the water with her family and felt […]
December 19, 2019
Thanks to a raft of support from many organisations and funders the Kai Ika project is ramping up to a new level. The Kai Ika project is facilitated by LegaSea, the Outboard Boating Club of Auckland (OBC) and Papatuanuku Kokiri Marae. Its success can be attributed to the commitment of all the volunteers involved in […]
December 19, 2019
Reports that snapper have been caught in waters around Fiordland and Dunedin have raised a few eyebrows, and the prospect that warming waters may be affecting fish distribution. We don’t know how environmental changes will affect spawning success or how many juveniles will eventually make it to adulthood in these changing environments. In an effort […]
December 19, 2019
Fishing tends to bring out the best in us so whether you are at home or away this summer there is an easy way to share your unwanted fish parts with someone who would relish the gift. There are thousands of people who have registered online to receive fish heads, frames or even the wings, […]
December 19, 2019
Questions remain around the mass of dead fish floating around the Hauraki Gulf and landing on the beaches of Kawau Island over the past week. Ministry for Primary Industries advise they received a report of the “accidental loss” of 1,000 kilos of mackerel from a commercial vessel fishing outside Kawau Island. Another report suggests the […]
December 18, 2019
At this time of year we often hear wailing about recreational fishers taking too many fish and how that threatens overall sustainability. The good news is twofold. One, we still have good access to fisheries that thousands of Kiwis enjoy over summer. Secondly, we have new national survey results that show that recreational harvest is […]
December 9, 2019
Let’s get real, LegaSea is not anti-commercial fishing. We want small-scale, low impact commercial fishing to be successful. LegaSea is against the Quota Management System and an inadequate Fisheries Act that fails to protect our fish stocks for future generations. Far from being innovative, over the past 30 years the QMS has been a backward […]
November 30, 2019
A recent government report on the state of our marine environment raises legitimate concerns about the lack of information on fishing levels, the impacts of fishing, and that fishing has become more industrialised. The report, Environment Aotearoa 2019 was a joint initiative by the Ministry for the Environment and Stats NZ. The report authors make […]
November 29, 2019
Prime fishing areas in the Bay of Plenty have been targeted for closure and LegaSea along with local fishers are pushing back. The closures of some reefs and islands in the area around Motiti are supported by Court decisions, although subject to appeal. The New Zealand Sport Fishing Council has registered as an “interested party” […]
November 22, 2019
From October 1st Stuart Nash has reduced the commercial catch of tarakihi on the east coast of the North and South Islands by 10 percent. LegaSea was calling for a 40 percent reduction. The arguments for minimal cuts were bolstered by an economic report commissioned by Fisheries New Zealand describing the impacts of any changes […]
November 20, 2019
In the Bay of Plenty we don’t have to look far for evidence that the Quota Management System is not working. LegaSea is concerned that the failure of the QMS is having major consequences. Moreover, the inaction by Fisheries New Zealand and the Minister of Fisheries Stuart Nash to address the serious issues of depletion […]
November 15, 2019
There is a growing call that the Quota Management System has to go. It is not fit for purpose because it is not delivering on its goals of resource sustainability and economic efficiency. Our fisheries managers need to start applying the environmental and precautionary principles in the Fisheries Act 1996 otherwise Regional Councils will step […]
November 10, 2019
In the same week that our Prime Minister is explaining the Maori concept of kaitiakitanga, guardianship, to the United Nations her fisheries Minister is at home setting catch limits way too high for some fish stocks. Stuart Nash announced his decisions for 20 fish stocks four days before they were due to come into effect […]
November 6, 2019
LegaSea is clear that decisive action needs to be taken now to protect our fish stocks from collapse. That means putting the handbrake on catch increases until we know more about how many fish are in the water. No such restraint is evidenced in the latest management proposals from Fisheries New Zealand. FNZ has just […]
November 5, 2019
There are a lot of things people did in the 1900s that are not acceptable today. One of those unacceptable behaviours is bottom trawling in inshore waters. Science shows us that bottom trawling catches fish indiscriminately and it impacts on the seabed, killing the three dimensional structure that supports essential organisms. Those organisms attract small […]
November 5, 2019
In 2017 MPI openly admitted that bottom trawling and dredging are the most destructive fishing methods, causing damage to seabed habitats and reducing the density and diversity of the species that live there. So why is trawling and dredging still permitted inshore? Mitigating the effects of fishing on the marine environment is a core function […]
October 31, 2019
What is trawling? A trawl is a tunnel shaped fishing net which is towed through the water by a vessel on the surface of the water. As the net is towed through the water strains out through the mesh entrapping the fish and retaining them in the cod end of the trawl bag. The […]
October 31, 2019
Bottom trawling is an indiscriminate fish harvesting process, capturing all in its path and scraping vital marine growth off the seabed. The damage is unseen as it’s underwater and out of sight. The environmental impacts from the agricultural sector is attracting increasing attention and public concern about the damage caused by some commercial fishing methods […]
October 30, 2019
Bottom trawling is an industrial fishing method that involves dragging a large, weighted net along the seafloor with the intention of mass collection. In this short video, Dr Simon Thrush, a marine scientist from Auckland University, discusses how bottom trawling works and why it is so destructive. LegaSea believes bottom trawling needs to be stopped […]
October 17, 2019
Seventy percent of New Zealanders want the commercial fishing quota for tarakihi cut dramatically to help the country’s fish and chips favourite to recover, a new survey has revealed. The survey conducted by Horizon Research for LegaSea, a not-for-profit organisation raising awareness of issues affecting the marine environment, found 70% want a cut of between […]
October 8, 2019
LegaSea is intrigued by MPI’s reaction to the most recent report of recreational harvest estimates. Since 2012 total recreational catch of finfish is down by 19% and shellfish and other non-finfish species catch has reduced by 41%. On the day the harvest estimate report was released MPI ignored those details and instead made out that […]
October 4, 2019
There have been several government-led attempts in the past to force recreational fishing into the Quota Management System, all have failed. More ominous are the recent catch share proposals funded by big business interests, local and international. The common theme is that recreational fishing is an out of control sector requiring “management” via a fixed […]
September 30, 2019
Fishing on the west coast is not for the faint-hearted and future prospects are about to change for many people. There are some disturbing aspects to the recent joint proposal by Sanford, Moana fisheries and WWF-New Zealand to protect Maui dolphin on the west coast of the North Island. We all agree on the need […]
September 27, 2019
A ten per cent cut to commercial catch limits of tarakihi will not be enough to save the species from its depleted state, says LegaSea. On September 27th the Fisheries Minister Stuart Nash announced his management plan to restore the East Coast tarakihi fishery by applying a ten per cent cut to commercial catch limits […]
September 13, 2019
Decisive action needs to be taken to protect our fish stocks from collapse. That means putting the handbrake on catch increases until we know more about how many fish are in the water. No such restraint is evidenced in the latest management proposals from Fisheries New Zealand for several South Island stocks including gurnard, rig […]
August 28, 2019
LegaSea recently worked with the New Zealand Sport Fishing Council’s fisheries management team and the New Zealand Angling & Casting Association to develop and submit eight responses to proposals from Fisheries New Zealand. These submission are briefly summarised below. Tarakihi East coast North and South Islands. Minister’s decision – decrease the Total Allowable Commercial Catch […]
August 22, 2019
Tarakihi are a popular table fish for good reason. They have nice flaky, white flesh which makes them suitable for a variety of dishes when eaten fresh. Sadly, good catches are becoming few and far between and that can be put down to the poor state of east coast tarakihi stocks. This is a concern […]
August 12, 2019
The mere mention of fishing in the Marlborough Sounds incites a range of responses, from happy memories to deep concern for the environment. These reactions are a reflection of how passionate people are about the Sounds. That passion was evident at the recent Annual General Meeting of the Marlborough Recreational Fishers Association held in Blenheim. […]
August 6, 2019
Dining at a food court in the city guarantees a range of flavours and types of food to suit your appetite. On the dark side, at some of these eateries there are small fish legally available for sale. Often these fish are surrounded by a tasty sauce and gleefully consumed by hungry customers with little […]
July 24, 2019
Fisheries New Zealand has released management proposals that will affect 13 inshore finfish and shellfish stocks, and seven deepwater stocks. If changes are approved, they will apply from October this year. FNZ information is available online. Changes to the reporting regime for charter boat operators are also proposed. Since 2010 charter vessels have been required […]
July 19, 2019
Tarakihi management is under review and we need you to get stuck in and support the Minister to make a precautionary decision aimed at rebuilding depleted stocks on the east coast between Otago and Northland. Last year over 9000 of us signed LegaSea’s Time Out for Tarakihi petition calling for the Minister to cut commercial […]
July 18, 2019
The Quota Management System has short-changed fish, mana whenua and the public since it was established in 1986. The system was set up with the quota owners having to pay resource rentals. This only lasted a few years. For the past 30 years the commercial fishing industry has not paid for the use of these […]
July 15, 2019
Anyone fishing from shore knows that it’s a tough gig. So many elements such as the tide, wind, and swell have to be right before you even get your line wet. As fish stocks decline so do your chances of success. Some days it comes down to a choice between buying burley to increase your […]
June 27, 2019
“One of the best ever” is how Sam Woolford, LegaSea Project Leader, describes the recent Hutchwilco New Zealand Boat Show in Auckland. Thanks to the generosity and support of show organisers LegaSea was at the 4-day event in May signing up new LegaSea Legends, acknowledging existing supporters, and spending time with our much valued Partners. […]
June 15, 2019
Allowing commercial fishers to land fish of any size is not good fishers management. That was the response from recreational fishers when Fisheries New Zealand suggested removing the minimum size limits for commercially caught fish such as snapper, tarakihi, trevally and flounder. In the Bay of Plenty some of these species are well below sustainable […]
June 3, 2019
When it comes to blue cod fishing most of the rule changes over the past 10 years have applied to recreational fishing. These changes have had major impacts on the social, economic and cultural wellbeing of people and businesses in some areas of the South Island. So, it’s bizarre that after a decade of changes […]
May 30, 2019
Tribute by Tony Orman The recent passing of Lloyd Hanson will be felt far and wide. An estimated 500 people attended his funeral in Blenheim, reflecting his influence in many outdoor related causes and the high esteem of the man. Lloyd loved being in the great outdoors, whether it was saltwater or trout fishing, or […]
May 15, 2019
New Zealand’s leading environmental organisations have today joined with recreational fishers to call on the Government to ban bottom trawling on seamounts. The Deep Sea Conservation Coalition (DSCC), ECO, Forest and Bird, Greenpeace, LegaSea and WWF-New Zealand are urging the public to sign a petition to the Minister of Fisheries, Stuart Nash, and the Minister […]
April 28, 2019
For people like us invested in improving the management of our taonga, our marine treasures, it is frustrating times. Four years after the Ministry for Primary Industries signalled it was reviewing aspects of the Quota Management System all we have is a watered down electronic reporting system for commercial catch and ongoing confusion over the […]
April 20, 2019
In mid-March our team sent a comprehensive submission to Fisheries New Zealand calling for a broad look at fisheries management, to better understand why the Government has decided that electronic monitoring of commercial fishing activity is an unacceptable intrusion into fishing practices. It is important to know the reasons for this stance because other countries […]
April 18, 2019
It has been a strange start to 2019 and the coalition government has contributed to the weirdness, especially in terms of fisheries management. On the one hand we have Labour Party policy supporting an independent inquiry into the Quota Management System, and on the other we have a coalition partner stonewalling the installation of cameras […]
April 6, 2019
Cyclones are a regular feature of summers in Aotearoa, and while we haven’t experienced a direct hit this summer many events have been affected by activity in the Pacific. One of those events was the long-standing Fanatical Fishos fishing tournament organised by Chesters Plumbing and Bathroom Centre in New Lynn, Auckland. As the forecasters were […]
March 29, 2019
In February the Ministry for Primary Industries held a series of public meetings to discuss their latest proposals for the future management of commercial fishing. The Fisheries Change Programme is being welcomed by large quota owners who clearly expect the Minister to increase catch limits. However, if the proposals are pushed through commercial fishers on […]
March 28, 2019
In February the Ministry for Primary Industries issued a discussion paper Your fisheries – your say that proposed a range of measures to “simplify” the rules around discarding fish from commercial vessels. These included removing the minimum legal size limits for most species, paving the way for a land-all catch policy for commercial vessels and […]
March 27, 2019
Are you concerned about the degradation of our marine environment? Conservation is all about shifting people’s expectations, attitudes, behaviours and beliefs. At LegaSea, we’re leading the charge and we’re looking for a Digital Comms Supernova with a major sprinkling of website and CRM management experience. A passion for our marine environment is vital. We are […]
March 15, 2019
In early February the Minister Stuart Nash released proposals to incentivise good fishing practices and provide better information. Feedback to Ministry on the ‘Fisheries Change Programme’ is required by mid-March. On the surface the proposals seem okay, but when you pull up the blankets there are loopholes for commercial interests to slide through with no […]
March 8, 2019
Crayfish are an important species in the marine ecosystem so when we hear stories from experienced divers in the eastern Bay of Plenty who have only taken three crays in two years it’s pretty scary for all of us. Over January and February we worked with Spearfishing New Zealand to develop a submission responding to […]
March 3, 2019
Stuart Nash the Minister of Fisheries has issued the ‘Fisheries Change Programme’ to tweak the way commercial fishing is managed. He awaits public feedback by mid-March. Meanwhile, we wait for meaningful changes that will rebuild abundance in our fisheries and restore the health of our marine environment. Fiddling around the margins of a broken Quota […]
February 28, 2019
The governance of our marine fisheries is under increasing scrutiny because maintaining highly productive ecosystems has given way to transactional advocacy targeting every possible fish that can be justified. Local depletion and inter-tidal reefs stripped bare sees coastal communities and Kaitiaki [guardians] crying out for effective restraints. Clearly the current system is not working and […]
February 27, 2019
The world of fisheries management, research and advocacy has become increasingly complex. So, it’s encouraging for LegaSea and our parent body the New Zealand Sport Fishing Council that there is a growing number of organisations willing to step up and help resource the necessary work. In the past year LegaSea has worked on five new […]
February 26, 2019
Toby and Venita Simcox have been at the forefront of LegaSea Hawke’s Bay since its inception in 2014. They are your typical volunteers, willing to take on any task that needed doing just to get the job done and make it better for everyone else. They remain passionate about the cause, but after five year’s […]
February 26, 2019
Kiwis are naturally offended by wastage and fish dumping is at the top of the pile. It is particularly offensive when commercial fishers are involved while their industry leaders continue to bombard us with messages of guardianship. Dumping is illegal and a blatant waste of our collective, precious marine resources. We must do better if […]
February 22, 2019
Senseless waste and dumping of commercial catch has been in the spotlight since 2013. Electronic monitoring of at-sea activity is underway but the rollout of onboard cameras to monitor fishing and discards has been stymied by fishing industry opposition. The latest proposals in MPI’s Fisheries Change Programme seeks to “simplify” the rules applying to commercial […]
February 15, 2019
Talk is cheap. On the one hand we have fisheries managers and companies espousing value creation yet all we can see is the Quota Management System being used to benefit the supply chain while paralysing fisheries management and innovation. After 30 years of this QMS experiment we now realise quota control ought to have remained […]
January 25, 2019
Fake news is fiction no matter how it is spun in print, online or via flash television adverts telling us how great the commercial fishing industry is at restraining themselves. At the same time, they are resisting cameras on boats because of privacy issues – yeah right. In contrast, when it comes to knowing what […]
January 20, 2019
There are growing calls to ban purse seining in our coastal waters. There have been numerous attempts to keep the seiners away from areas important to recreational fishers, to reduce conflict and protect forage species for seabirds and predatory fish. The New Zealand Sport Fishing Council has called on Fisheries New Zealand to better manage […]
January 15, 2019
Here’s a quick review of LegaSea’s activities in 2018. A big year of campaigns, events attended and submissions, all thanks to your contributions and support. Take a look.
December 24, 2018
As we lurch our way into the silly season it is only natural that our thoughts turn to fishing and diving for the delicacies we have dreamt about all year. Crayfish is on the top of many people’s wish list, to say thanks to someone special, for sharing with the whanau or as a holiday […]
December 23, 2018
What are we talking about? The amount of pressure or time it takes to crush the barb on your hook with a pair of pliers. In FishCare – The school of best practice LegaSea describes how one little squeeze with the pliers can have a profound effect on the success of your catch and release […]
December 22, 2018
In just two years the Kai Ika project in Auckland has gone from being a simple exchange of food and cultures, to a full-on waste minimisation effort that has seen over 22,000 kilos of unwanted fish parts repurposed as nutritious kai and organic fertiliser. It is so successful that people and organisations from around Aotearoa […]
December 5, 2018
When it comes to putting on a show Hawke’s Bay knows when to turn it on, and they did that to the max on Labour Weekend. The sun shone on Hawke’s Bay Anniversary Day and into the long weekend enabling our LegaSea Hawke’s Bay crew to engage with the locals at the annual A & […]
December 2, 2018
It is not very often we get to celebrate good news in fisheries management but it’s worth popping the corks for this conservation initiative. In September the 34,000 strong New Zealand Sport Fishing Council announced it was promoting a voluntary reduction of the recreational crayfish bag limit in the Hauraki Gulf and Bay of Plenty. […]
November 23, 2018
In cyberspace we can lay claim to as many virtual friends as we like, but you soon find out who your real friends are when you hit troubled waters. And so it was for recreational fishers back in mid-2000. In July that year the Minister of Fisheries delivered Soundings, a package of proposals that would, […]
November 10, 2018
Mentioning purse seining and depleted bait schools in the same sentence instantly raises the heckles of many fishers. There could be some good news on the horizon. Recently the Cook Island’s Court of Appeal upheld a challenge by locals to the way the Cook’s government permits purse seining in their waters. The Court said the […]
October 26, 2018
When two worlds collide the results can be catastrophic, when it comes to the Kai Ika project it is an outright success. In just two years over 19,000 kilos of fish parts that were previously wasted have been rescued and shared with needy families in South Auckland. Kai Ika is so successful that LegaSea and […]
October 15, 2018
As part of the recent tarakihi review corporate commercial interests supported the shelving of tarakihi catch in lieu of the Minister reducing the Total Allowable Commercial Catch. We submitted against the shelving proposal. It is pleasing to report that Stuart Nash has rejected the proposal and applied cuts to commercial catches in the stock spanning […]
September 30, 2018
A positive to come out of the latest round of stock reviews is the Minister’s commitment to change or revisit some long-standing practices that we have objected to for many years. These include truncated consultation timeframes, the inconsistency in setting aside allowances for fishing related mortality, and recognising that current fishing practices need to change. […]
September 28, 2018
LegaSea is bitterly disappointed that Stuart Nash has ignored more than 9000 of us calling for decisive cuts to commercial catches of tarakihi on the east coast of New Zealand. From October 1st the Minister of Fisheries has applied a 20% cut to commercial catches, while LegaSea has been campaigning for a 65% reduction. LegaSea […]
September 27, 2018
New Zealand’s recreational harvest surveys have been internationally recognised as being high quality. Experts have agreed that the methods used are robust, producing reliable results suitable for use in management decisions. LegaSea is pleased the peer-reviewed science has now been published, leaving no excuses for anyone to be spreading the old adage that ‘we don’t […]
September 26, 2018
LegaSea is and never has been anti-commercial fishers, we just want to reduce the environmental impacts of bulk harvesting so we can have a more sustainable fishing future. That means getting rid of trawling, seining and dredging from inshore waters so fish populations are free to reproduce and thrive in a healthy marine environment. It […]
September 26, 2018
The recreational advocacy group LegaSea is bitterly disappointed the Minister of Fisheries has deferred making decisive cuts to commercial catches of tarakihi on New Zealand’s east coast for at least another year. In October Stuart Nash will apply a 20% cut to the commercial catch, while LegaSea has been campaigning for a 65% reduction. LegaSea […]
September 20, 2018
We did it. In just 18 working days our fisheries team developed responses to nine fisheries management proposals, including a comprehensive and pragmatic solution to rebuild the east coast tarakihi stock. The latest science shows that decades of trawling from Northland to Otago has reduced the stock to 17% of its original size, below acceptable […]
September 18, 2018
This article was written prior to release of the Minister’s tarakihi decision. Thanks to a collective effort, LegaSea has gathered over 8000 signatures supporting the Minister to make a bold decision to rebuild tarakihi to abundant levels. Together we have called on the Minister to act decisively. Stuart Nash needs to cut commercial catches of […]
September 15, 2018
This article was written prior to the release of the Minister’s tarakihi decision on 19th September 2018. LegaSea’s Time Out for Tarakihi campaign has closed with over 8000 people signing the petition urging the Minister to heed the best available science and cut commercial catches by 65%, so east coast stocks can rebuild to healthy […]
September 2, 2018
Crayfish on the northeast coast is just one of a litany of fish stocks well below what ordinary Kiwis would consider abundant and available. This dissatisfaction was evidenced during LegaSea’s recent Crayfish Crisis campaign when so many divers, fishers, and the New Zealand Underwater Association stood up and had their say. LegaSea was grateful for […]
August 27, 2018
In less time than it took to implement the Quota Management System and see its virtual demise, the public service has morphed into an array of government agencies operating on skin-tight budgets and answering primarily to corporate leaders. Fisheries is not immune. A rebranded Fisheries New Zealand (FNZ) is now just one layer of many […]
August 25, 2018
This article was written prior to the release of the Minister’s tarakihi decision on 19th September 2018. LegaSea is celebrating the ongoing willingness of recreational fishers to conserve fish. On the flip side when we do volunteer conservation we need to make sure our collective efforts are effective and not used as a weapon against […]
August 14, 2018
LegaSea and the New Zealand Sport Fishing Council welcome the prosecution of Hawke’s Bay Seafood after the longest running district court case on record. The prosecution was brought against Antonino, Giancarlo and Marcus D’Espositofor falsifying catch records and exporting more fish to Australia than the company had reportedly caught. The Ministry for Primary Industries need […]
August 7, 2018
A draft report, ‘The Future Catch – Preserving recreational fisheries for the next generation’ was released on August 1st, 2017. The report is authored by Randall Bess, supported by The New Zealand Initiative, and funded by the US-based Aotearoa Foundation (Julian Robertson) and the late Sir Douglas Myers. This report follows a visit to Western […]
July 30, 2018
Tarakihi is a mealtime favourite for people who fish and those who buy it retail because it is notoriously good for cooking when fresh. Things are about to change between Otago and Northland. The main stocks on New Zealand’s east coast are severely depleted so substantial cuts to commercial catches are required to rebuild the […]
July 27, 2018
Tarakihi stocks on the eastern coasts of both islands are so depleted that the Minister of Fisheries must implement a rebuild plan before October 2018, and recreational fishing is in the firing line. Decades of trawling, dumping and high grading have taken their toll. Major catch reductions are required between Otago and North Cape if […]
July 26, 2018
This article was written prior to the submission being completed and sent to Fisheries New Zealand. To see the current discussion on changes to recreational daily bag limits please read the submission in full here. Without exception, recreational fishers attending meetings with LegaSea have strongly supported conserving fish for future generations. Tarakihi management is currently […]
July 19, 2018
The east coast population of one of New Zealand’s favourite fish, tarakihi, has fallen by over 80% in the past 50 years and the stock is now overfished. LegaSea, the recreational fishing lobby group, is urging the Minister of Fisheries to drastically cut catches to rebuild the tarakihi population. Tarakihi is one of New Zealand’s […]
July 6, 2018
Stuart Nash, Minister of Fisheries In just one week 48 separate items of news appeared in the media pointing to leaked reports identifying mass fish dumping, years of non-compliance, blatant under-reporting of thousands of tonnes of New Zealand fish and MPI senior officials turning a blind eye. How much more can we and our fisheries […]
June 29, 2018
Employing the right techniques in how we fish is the first step to reducing our impact on our fishery and the marine environment. All users of the resource, commercial, recreational and customary must fish in a responsible manner. The purpose of selective techniques is to avoid catching fish you don’t want e.g. undersized specimens. This […]
June 28, 2018
It is a common refrain from many of the older recreational fishers we meet, “Fish stocks are not what they used to be”. This year large cuts to tarakihi catch will be proposed for the whole east coast of the North and South Islands. It has taken several years for a stock assessment to be […]
June 28, 2018
After years of Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) inaction over fishing regulation breaches, over-fishing, fish dumping and more, now it appears MPI has been asleep at the wheel on land as well. News this morning of yet another appalling breach of animal rights show the terrible state some of the nation’s animals are kept in, […]
June 27, 2018
In early May the Minister, Stuart Nash, announced an in-season increase to the Southern Bluefin tuna recreational allowance of 12 tonnes and an increase in the commercial annual catch entitlement (ACE) of 76 tonnes. A fresh decision on changing the Total Allowable Catch will need to be made before October. In the meantime, LegaSea and […]
June 13, 2018
For the second year running LegaSea have been invited to exhibit on the ITM stand at the National Fieldays. An integral part of this invitation is the construction and facilitation of the LegaSea ITM Sea Wall as a descriptive and engaging way for ITM to promote their support of LegaSea and the goal to rebuild […]
June 12, 2018
The industry’s unwillingness to take observers on board fishing vessels is just the latest in a long line of examples of commercial fishers operating in bad faith and flouting the laws as if they own New Zealand’s fisheries. Forest and Bird has obtained information under the Official Information Act and say the refusals to take […]
June 6, 2018
The recent Hutchwilco New Zealand Boat show in Auckland was our most successful yet and LegaSea is grateful to the organisers and Dave Gibbs in particular for his, and their ongoing generosity. LegaSea simply couldn’t afford to be at the show in such a fulsome manner without their support. If you were one of the […]
May 26, 2018
Stuart Nash, Minister of Fisheries, has decided not to close the crayfish fishery between the Hauraki Gulf and Bay of Plenty, known as the CRA 2 region. Instead, annual catch limits for commercial and recreational fishers were reduced as of April 1st. The new Total Allowable Commercial Catch has been reduced from 200 to 80 […]
May 24, 2018
We’ve seen the Heron Report on failures in our fishing industry, the Achilles and Hippocamp reports paint a devastating picture of the Ministry of Primary Industries working hand in glove with industry to avoid accountability, more recently we’ve seen the decimation of our crayfish stocks and now we’re told MPI and industry have been fudging […]
May 20, 2018
Since the establishment of LegaSea the organisers of the Hutchwilco New Zealand Boat Show have gifted LegaSea stand space at the event. The show is run by Premiere Exhibitions Limited under the management of Dave Gibbs. Year on year the LegaSea stand space has grown with better and better locations provided each year. The outcome […]
May 6, 2018
We welcome Brad Dannefaerd, Managing Director of CERT Systems to LegaSea and appreciate his contribution to LegaSea as a recent Building Sponsor. A number of CERT Systems staff have a strong interest in fisheries related issues having come from a former Fishery / Fisheries Officers from both NZ and Australia. CERT (Compliance, Enforcement and Regulatory […]
May 1, 2018
The Environmental Defence Society (EDS) has written a compelling tale of the destruction being wrought on our seas and fisheries and this must be a call to arms for the government. Voices from the Sea: Managing New Zealand’s Fisheries documents the devastation caused by commercial fishing to our marine bird life and mammals. The recreational […]
April 28, 2018
The old chestnut of ‘we don’t know what recreational fishers catch’ can finally be put to bed. New Zealand’s methods of estimating recreational marine harvest are internationally recognised as being robust and reliable. A scientific paper has been published in the international peer-reviewed journal, Fisheries Research, highlighting the high-quality work being undertaken in Aotearoa. The report, […]
April 26, 2018
Stories of tussling with bluenose as big as our grandfather’s dreams were common in days past. And bluenose recipes to delight the taste buds of everyone around the table were passed down through the generations. As stocks decline bluenose have retreated to small pockets of abundance, limiting our chances of getting a feed and consigning […]
April 23, 2018
In March the Minister of Fisheries Stuart Nash announced a raft of management changes for four crayfish stocks between the Hauraki Gulf and Southland. From April 1st there were commercial catch reductions in two stocks and increases for the Wellington-Hawke’s Bay region and the Southern – Fiordland fish stock. The joint submission from recreational fishers […]
April 4, 2018
If you were one of the thousands of people who completed the LegaSea Crayfish Crisis survey in the past few months, thanks a lot. LegaSea appreciates your time and the information you shared to help us build a picture of what has changed in the cray fishery between Pakiri in the north and East Cape. […]
April 3, 2018
Over seven weeks in February and March 2018 LegaSea conducted a survey to measure people’s perceptions of the state of CRA 2, the crayfish stock between Te Arai Point, Northland, and East Cape. Over 4000 responses were received from both fishers and non-fishers, reflecting wide public interest in the management of New Zealand’s crayfish stocks, […]
March 29, 2018
Crayfish play an important role in the marine ecosystem. They are a target species for many people and a taonga, a treasure, that is important to the social, economic and cultural wellbeing of all New Zealanders. An alliance of the largest representative recreational fishing organisations in New Zealand has responded to the Ministry for Primary […]
March 27, 2018
LegaSea and the New Zealand Sport Fishing Council welcome the decision by the Minister of Fisheries Stuart Nash to reduce the allowable catch for crayfish in the Hauraki Gulf and Bay of Plenty, known as the CRA 2 region. The Minister has set the new limits for commercial fishing at 80 tonnes per year, set […]
March 22, 2018
It’s competition time and the LegaSea team has been attending a raft of events around the country, presenting the FishCare programme and gathering responses to the Crayfish Crisis campaign. In the first seven weeks after the holiday break LegaSea has been involved in activities enabling us to engage with more than 2000 people. The opportunity […]
March 10, 2018
It is encouraging that so many recreational fishers have expressed a strong desire to conserve their crayfish catch in the interests of rebuilding the CRA 2 fishery between Te Arai Point in the north and East Cape. The MPI review of four crayfish management areas is now over and we await the Minister’s decisions that […]
February 28, 2018
LegaSea awaits the Minister’s decision for the future management of four crayfish stocks by the end of March. The new catch levels for two North Island and two South Island stocks will apply from April 1st. In February our submission to the Ministry supported a major catch reduction in CRA 2, the status quo in […]
February 16, 2018
Recreational fishing group LegaSea is calling on Minister of Fisheries Stuart Nash to stand firm against industry pressure to dump the introduction of cameras and electronic monitoring on commercial fishing boats. LegaSea is challenging industry claims that it is engaging in best practice fishing endeavours, and that cameras and other forms of monitoring are not […]
February 5, 2018
Crayfish stocks are in crisis and recreational fishers are calling for an independent review of the fisheries management system. Currently, crayfish in the CRA 2 region (which extends from Pakiri through the Hauraki Gulf to the East Cape) are at an all-time low. The latest official assessment shows that the crayfish population has been in […]
January 27, 2018
January 27 at Toll Stadium, Whangarei. LegaSea was provided an excellent position at the 2018 Ngapuhi Festival event held on Saturday 27th January and attended by Sam Woolford and Pieter Battaerd. Thank you to organisers for the opportunity to be present and engage with the local community. The response from the people who visited our […]
January 24, 2018
Minister’s crayfish decision Stuart Nash, Minister of Fisheries, has announced there will be commercial catch reductions in two crayfish stocks including CRA 2, from April 1st 2018. There will also be commercial catch increases for the Wellington-Hawke’s Bay region (CRA 4) and the Southern – Fiordland (CRA 8) fish stock. Recreational fishers did not support […]
January 24, 2018
“There are none so blind as those who will not see. The most deluded people are those who choose to ignore what they already know”. This quote from John Heywood (1546) nicely sums up where we are at with crayfish management particularly on the northeast coast of the North Island. The CRA 2 fishery from […]
January 20, 2018
LegaSea is pleased that the Minister Stuart Nash has agreed to review the crayfish fishery on the northeast coast after years of lobbying by thousands of individuals, the New Zealand Underwater Association, and the New Zealand Sport Fishing Council. Having the CRA 2 fish stock, between Waipu and East Cape, deplete to the point where […]
January 5, 2018
Fisheries is one of the few management areas where the Minister has sole responsibility to apply discretion when making sustainable catch and allocation decisions. This discretionary power is currently under threat by those wanting to privatise our fisheries and LegaSea is pushing back.Our fisheries are a publicly owned national treasure that must be properly managed […]
January 5, 2018
When LegaSea was first invited to have input into The Future Catch project by Dr Randall Bess we were excited because the project was described as a well funded study to improve recreational fishing. It didn’t take long to realise that this was yet another attempt to upgrade commercial rights to our fisheries and remove […]
December 31, 2017
As we close in on another year of fishing LegaSea is celebrating that in 2017 we have collectively spent about one billion dollars chasing our dreams. This recreational activity generated over one and a half billion dollars of economic activity in New Zealand. This is big bucks when you consider we take less than 3% […]
November 29, 2017
After 30 years of neoliberal free-market policies there are few public resources left that we can call our own, fresh water and fisheries are two that are currently under threat. Privatisation of freshwater aquifers for minimal returns has been one of 2017’s hot topics. The conversation around further privatisation of New Zealand’s saltwater fisheries has […]
November 24, 2017
For a long time we suspected that seagrass meadows were important to the life-cycle of fish, we just didn’t know how significant. A large-scale survey across New Zealand found regional differences in the species and numbers of juvenile fish hiding in amongst the seagrass beds. Undoubtedly further research will reveal more secrets over time. What […]
November 23, 2017
LegaSea welcomes the new government’s decision to appoint Stuart Nash as Minister of Fisheries, the first step in breaking apart the monolith that is the Ministry for Primary Industries. All the signals so far point to a fresh approach to fisheries management, more meaningful engagement and potentially the inclusion of recreational interests in future decision-making […]
November 14, 2017
A pilot scheme involving an Auckland boating club and local marae is drawing widespread acclaim for its conservation gains and the coming together of people from different walks of life. The joint project is underpinned by principles of sharing and caring for our environment and each other, and could easily be replicated in other parts […]
October 28, 2017
Two important surveys are under way to measure harvest by marine recreational fishers. LegaSea encourages you to cooperate with the researchers if they phone you or approach you on the boat ramp. Over the next 12 months NIWA will be measuring and counting fish landed by recreational anglers at popular boat ramps. This large-scale survey […]
October 27, 2017
LegaSea held its Annual General Meeting in mid-September and the presentation of the Annual Report was well received by over 100 attendees. It has been a year of growth and outreach for LegaSea. Outreach It is exciting and encouraging to have Yachting New Zealand and the New Zealand Underwater Association stepping up to support our […]
October 27, 2017
LegaSea was honoured to receive a thousand dollar donation from the Hauraki Gulf Sportfishing Club recently. This is a club of less than a hundred members, all of whom are committed to ensuring a better fishing experience in the future. Club representative Peter Stewart took the opportunity to hand the $1000 cheque over to the […]
October 26, 2017
A question we hear every year Spawning success depends on a range of environmental factors ranging from the weather to water temperature or even just the currents. These factors can hugely influence the spawning success. Research indicates a season with warmer waters may increase the survival of these eggs and juvenile snapper by 10-20 times. […]
October 25, 2017
LegaSea welcomes the creation of a new separate portfolio for Fisheries and wishes the new Minister of Fisheries, Stuart Nash, good luck as he tackles what has become a highly contentious portfolio. Fisheries has been lumped in with forestry and farming under the Ministry for Primary Industries banner since 2012 but it has never sat […]
October 4, 2017
Between July and September LegaSea ran a campaign – the ‘Crayfish Crisis’. It highlighted the collapse of the Crayfish 2 (CRA 2) stock and the need for a Royal Commission of Inquiry into the Quota Management System. This campaign was developed following the March 2017 survey of more than 800 CRA 2 fishers and divers. […]
October 4, 2017
It’s been difficult finding anyone who believes the propaganda appearing on our screens that extols the virtues of the Quota Management System. Fishing corporates have spent millions in an effort to convince us that they are looking after our marine resources for our kids and grandkids and all is well. Nothing could be further from […]
September 11, 2017
Labour and the Green Party have both come out in support of an inquiry into the management of New Zealand’s fisheries, leaving National as the only party which has declared itself unwilling to look into the issue in the lead up to the election. ACT, TOP and Mana have not responded to requests for a […]
September 8, 2017
LegaSea asked the Labour Party to provide comment on their party’s fisheries policy. The Labour Party provided this statement. Abundant, sustainable fisheries in a healthy marine environment Labour’s primary focus will be on ensuring that our fisheries are sustainable and abundant and that ocean habitats are protected from the impacts of terrestrial and marine activities. […]
September 8, 2017
LegaSea asked the Green Party to provide comment on their party’s fisheries policy. The Green Party of Aotearoa New Zealand provided this statement. Abundant fisheries and sustainable seas Eugenie Sage, Green Party fisheries spokesperson The Green Party stands for protecting our oceans and ensuring healthy ecosystems and abundant fisheries. Sadly, under the National government, our […]
September 6, 2017
Weeks before the last election the National Party announced the creation of two marine parks, one in the upper South Island and another in the inner Hauraki Gulf. The announcement was enough to sway swinging voters to vote National on the promise of improved recreational fishing in these areas. As another election looms the parks […]
September 4, 2017
Four political parties have joined LegaSea and the New Zealand Sport Fishing Council’s call for an inquiry into the state of New Zealand’s fisheries management practices. New Zealand First, the Māori Party, United Future and the New Zealand Outdoors Party have all agreed New Zealand’s fisheries management needs an overhaul and cannot continue the way […]
September 3, 2017
LegaSea asked New Zealand First to provide comment on their party’s fisheries policy. New Zealand First provided an overview statement and later updated its fisheries policy. New Zealand First Fisheries Policy has been updated ahead of the election in September, and will be released shortly. [Updated policy is now online here] Our 2014 policy was […]
September 3, 2017
LegaSea asked the Maori Party to provide comment on their party’s fisheries policy. The Maori Party provided this statement. The Māori Party is committed to ensuring Aotearoa’s natural resources and environment is healthy for everyone. We also support the health and wellbeing of our people and this requires that environmental degradation is addressed. As Māori, […]
September 3, 2017
LegaSea asked National to provide comment on their party’s fisheries policy. National has provided this recreational fishing policy. National believes in healthy, sustainable and shared fisheries for all New Zealanders including the recreational, commercial and customary sectors. We support dedicated recreational fishing parks in the Hauraki Gulf and the Marlborough Sounds. Most forms of commercial […]
September 3, 2017
LegaSea asked the New Zealand Outdoors Party to provide comment on their party’s fisheries policy. The New Zealand Outdoors Party provided this summary. Marine Fisheries Policy – The Situation Depletion of our inshore fisheries affects both the marine environment and the people who rely on the sea for fishing, for their livelihoods, leisure and sustenance. […]
September 3, 2017
LegaSea asked United Future to provide comment on their party’s fisheries policy. United Future provided this statement. UnitedFuture believes recreational fishing must come before commercial profits because it is the birth right of every New Zealander to head to the beach to catch kahawai or snapper to feed their family. Kiwis’ birth right to catch […]
August 26, 2017
There has been a mixed reaction since we launched the Crayfish Crisis campaign in July. Commercial fishers argue there are abundant crayfish between Pakiri and East Cape of the North Island, and we are creating an issue in CRA 2 where none exists. The Ministry for Primary Industries consider the CRA2 stock is well above […]
August 21, 2017
Kaitiakitanga means guardianship or management and traditionally it’s applied to conservation efforts. It’s a matter dear to the hearts of the recreational fishing sector as well. We of all people get to see when there’s abundance and plenty for all, and when there’s a desert, a dearth of life in our oceans. No longer is […]
August 8, 2017
A new approach to managing New Zealand’s fisheries is needed The New Zealand Sport Fishing Council has released its Manifesto and calls on New Zealand’s political parties to consider a new approach to setting policy. The Council has consulted with its members over what they want to see in terms of stewardship of New Zealand’s […]
August 1, 2017
The New Zealand Initiative, a consultancy that is paid to produce reports of a right wing nature, has produced a report that says recreational fishers need to be licensed because of a massive problem in the fishing sector. There is a massive problem in the fishing sector – recreational fishers are not it. The report’s […]
July 25, 2017
Another chapter in the series of failures by the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) was uncovered in an MPI report. This report suggested that the cameras being installed to monitor commercial fishing activity are not up to the task. The report stated that the cameras were unable to reliably distinguish species and sizes of fish, […]
July 20, 2017
A media storm erupted last year with the release of Glen Simmons’ Catch Reconstruction Report. This report outlined the unprecedented levels of unreported catch to the United Nations by New Zealand Officials and was accompanied by internal Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) reports that revealed knowledge of widespread commercial dumping. MPI’s Director of Fisheries, Dave Turner, […]
July 14, 2017
It is a concern for all of us that the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) has once again shown they are unwilling or unable to show the public how they are carrying out their statutory duties. This time, in the form of a blanket refusal to share more than 100 reports requested under the Official […]
July 13, 2017
Starting on 15th July a NIWA trawler will be testing a new net designed to reduce both the catch of small fish and environmental impacts. The Kaharoa will be working inshore between Whangaroa, East Northland, and Tairua in the eastern Bay of Plenty. The Kaharoa is 28 metres long with a blue hull and white […]
July 11, 2017
Despite overwhelming evidence that the CRA2 fishery off Auckland’s east coast and Bay of Plenty is in critical condition the Minister for Primary Industries Nathan Guy says there’s no problem, and he has no intention of doing anything about the declining number of crayfish until at least April 2018. Recreational fishers wrote to the Minister in […]
July 5, 2017
Pirates illegally fishing in Pacific waters have been busted and fined almost a million dollars after taking more than a hundred tonnes of southern bluefin tuna. Two Chinese-flagged vessels were involved in this case, which experts suspect is just a drop in the ocean compared to the illicit exploitation occurring on the high seas. Thankfully […]
June 27, 2017
It’s with great delight that LegaSea congratulates its partner organisation, the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron, on the Team New Zealand win this morning in the America’s Cup. LegaSea and the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron are committed to New Zealand’s waterways, and to ensuring generations of New Zealanders as yet unborn can continue to […]
June 8, 2017
The Environment and Conservation Organisations (ECO) have condemned the Marine Stewardship Council’s (MSC) decision to award three New Zealand orange roughy fisheries a certification of meeting the international standard for sustainable fishing. LegaSea agrees with ECO’s views. Orange roughy was fished down to near extinction in the 1990’s. In 2006, it was listed as a […]
June 7, 2017
News that the Ministry for Primary Industries has failed to ensure cameras being installed on fishing boats are fit for purpose is just the latest in a series of failures by the ministry in overseeing New Zealand’s fisheries. Newshub’s Michael Morrah has uncovered an MPI report that suggests the cameras being installed to monitor fishing […]
June 6, 2017
In May, the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) released a consultation document proposing a continued closure of the southern scallop fishery at the top of the South Island, until 2018. This comes after surveys have shown that the current closure failed to restore the fishery to abundant levels. This important scallop fishery was closed in […]
June 1, 2017
LegaSea is developing a new programme called FishCare – The school of best practice. FishCare is an educational guide for recreational fishers offering simple tips on how to minimise the impacts of fishing on the marine environment. FishCare was publicly launched at the Hutchwilco New Zealand Boat Show from May 18th to 21st, 2017. The […]
May 30, 2017
Always one of the highlights of our year, the Hutchwilco New Zealand Boat Show in Auckland never fails to impress, and 2017 was no exception. The LegaSea team love to be amongst the buzzing atmosphere the show creates, talking with the public and getting their views. The messages of support from people is inspiring and […]
May 24, 2017
Until recently members of the Outboard Boating Club (OBC) discarded their fish heads and frames, while others in the community prize these parts of the fish for their sweet flesh. Hence the creation of the Kai Ika Project. The OBC now collects the unwanted fish heads and frames and Papatuanuku Marae collects them and shares […]
May 18, 2017
For over 60 years the Hutchwilco New Zealand Boat Show has been the biggest and most popular boat show in the country so it was the obvious place for LegaSea to launch its FishCare programme to the public. “FishCare – The school of best practice”. This is a bold and ambitious initiative being undertaken by […]
May 17, 2017
In a recent survey, more than three quarters of the 822 respondents said they felt that the size and availability of crayfish rated poorly, just a one or two on a scale of 1-7. The survey, targeting people who collect crayfish between Pakiri and East Cape, produced results in stark contrast to the Ministry for Primary […]
May 16, 2017
Recreational fishers have a pivotal role to play in the health of our fisheries. Not only do we need to speak with one voice in the policy management arena we also need to act responsibly when we operate in the marine environment. LegaSea has developed an educational programme; FishCare – the school of best practice […]
May 11, 2017
Over time various government functions have been passed over to Crown institutes and established researchers. This hand-over is acceptable if stakeholders have had a say, and if the transfer is to accredited parties. However, the passover of more fisheries management functions and administrative powers to FishServe, a company owned and operated by the fishing industry […]
April 14, 2017
When the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) failed to prosecute industrial fishing boat captains for dumping catch it blamed legal advice for the decision. Now we are told that legal advice never existed. Instead, MPI used misleading information and misdirected both the Minister and the public as to why blatant dumping of fish recorded on […]
April 12, 2017
What’s going on in our fisheries? In the past week there has been claims and counter-claims about the cosy relationships between fisheries officials and corporate commercial interests. For years these dealings have been shaded from public view. Thanks to your support LegaSea and others have put the spotlight on these arrangements and we are now […]
April 6, 2017
LegaSea has responded to the Ministry for Primary Industries’ (MPI) annual review of rock lobster sustainability measures. MPI’s January discussion paper proposed the following changes to the Total Allowable Commercial Catch (TACC) – 9% decrease to the commercial catch level in CRA 3 (East Cape, Gisborne) 23% or 27% reduction to the commercial catch level […]
April 5, 2017
At LegaSea we are regularly asked, “What is the story with everyone reporting their recreational catch?” and “do you support individual reporting?” Short answer, no. We prefer an independent assessment of all catch to avoid any bias that may arise from self-reporting. We currently have internationally acclaimed, robust and reliable recreational estimation method designed by […]
April 4, 2017
After the Kaikoura earthquake in November, the Minister for Primary Industries enacted his emergency powers under the Fisheries Act 1996 to close off fishing in the Kaikoura area. This was in light of shocking photos that emerged of large areas of seabed being forced from the water, with all the sea life still attached. There […]
April 3, 2017
Recreational catch reporting is often touted as the missing link in the fisheries management equation. Truth is New Zealand has a world-leading method of estimating recreational catch. It is highly independent to avoid the bias associated with self-reported catch that often plagues estimates of commercial catch, and licensing requirements. More information does not always equal […]
March 31, 2017
New Zealand Sport Fishing Council March 2017 Between January and March 2017 a survey was conducted to measure people’s perceptions of the state of the rock lobster (crayfish) fishery on the northeast coast of the North Island, known in management terms as CRA 2. Over 800 responses were received, with many respondents having dived or […]
March 31, 2017
A big shout out to Chester’s Plumbing and Bathroom Supplies, New Lynn, for their ongoing support of LegaSea. Chester’s donated $5000 to LegaSea during their annual Fanatical Fishos competition at the end of February. Chester’s has donated several thousand dollars annually for the past 21 years and this makes them one of the longest serving […]
March 20, 2017
A landmark survey of people who pot and dive for crayfish on the northeast coast between Pakiri and East Cape defies Ministry for Primary Industries’ assurances that the fishery is doing well. More than three quarters (78.6%) of the 822 survey respondents described the size and availability of crayfish in this popular fishery as 1 […]
March 3, 2017
A new initiative to restore abundance and diversity in the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park was presented in early December. The Sea Change Tai Timu Tai Pari, Marine Spatial Plan is the result of three years of collaboration by a wide range of stakeholders from within the Marine Park. This bold new plan proposes the complete […]
March 3, 2017
LegaSea has responded to the Ministry for Primary Industries’ annual review of rock lobster sustainability measures. The MPI discussion paper proposed the following changes to the Total Allowable Commercial Catch from April 1st this year: 9% decrease to the commercial catch level in CRA3 (East Cape, Gisborne) 23% or 27% reduction to the commercial catch […]
February 28, 2017
In December 2016 the Environment Court made a landmark ruling over the right to make fisheries restrictions through the Resource Management Act (RMA). After the MV Rena ran aground on Astrolade Reef in 2011, spilling oil, the Bay of Plenty community, hapu and iwi raised their concerns about the risks to the local environment. They […]
February 28, 2017
At LegaSea we often hear, “You guys are doing an amazing job, what can I do to help?” Until now, we haven’t had a decent answer. Now we have. We would like to take this opportunity to explain how you can make a real difference to our future fishing prospects: You can become a LegaSea […]
February 28, 2017
As recreational fishers become more environmentally aware there is a growing willingness and desire to fish more sustainably. The ability to go out and catch a reasonable feed and enjoy some time on the water with friends and family is precious to many of us, no one wants to lose this. Due to this we […]
February 22, 2017
As part of the Ministry for Primary Industries’ (MPI) newly proposed initiative, Future of our Fisheries (FOOF), video surveillance is planned to be installed on all commercial fishing vessels. The east coast North Island snapper fishery (SNA 1) was chosen as a trial for these cameras. Somewhat prematurely, MPI has decided that this means it […]
February 14, 2017
LegaSea and the New Zealand Sport Fishing Council have responded strongly to proposals from the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) relating to the future management of three rock lobster fisheries around the coast from East Cape to Wellington and up to Foxton, and Otago in the south. Unfortunately, MPI wants to allow increased commercial fishing […]
February 9, 2017
On 6th December, the SeaChange Tai Timu Tai Pari, Marine Spatial Plan for the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park was presented for public review. This three-year planning process is a collaboration by representatives of a wide range of stakeholders from within the Marine Park and its catchments. The principal organisations behind the planning process, Auckland Council […]
February 9, 2017
As we fish through another summer of mixed success we’ve had lots of time to think about our fisheries and wonder how we’ve got it so wrong. Our fishing is not the same as what our forefathers had and it’s pretty scary to think what we have to pass onto our next generations. Thankfully the […]
January 18, 2017
“New Zealand has a world-leading quota management system”. A line the people of New Zealand hear all too often. Usually in response to a cry from the public about how something has gone amiss in our fisheries. But let’s stop and think about this. Firstly, for arguments sake, let’s say we are “world leading”. Why […]
January 18, 2017
The sun hasn’t even peaked over the horizon, yet you find yourself rolling over to silence that obnoxious alarm. Exhausted from a restless night, plagued by anticipation of the day to come. Despite this you spring out of bed and slip into those old clothes tucked away in your bottom draw, that musty, fishy smell […]
January 13, 2017
WIN one of two tackle packs each valued at $250! Staunch LegaSea supporters Black Magic have put up a tackle bag and pack of fish catching terminal tackle worth $250 for a prize in our subscriber promotion. Open to current subscribers/Legends and new subscribers. How to enter: Tag a mate on the Facebook post, subscribe to […]
December 23, 2016
On 11th November, the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) announced their new programme, Future of Our Fisheries (FOOF). Consultation opened, requesting submissions and planning a number of meetings around the country. LegaSea believed this was the perfect opportunity to implement policy similar to that of “Moyle’s Promise”. Hon. Colin Moyle was Minister of Fisheries 1972-1977 […]
December 21, 2016
Snapper is the North Island’s favourite inshore species and are hotly pursued by both recreational and commercial fishers. The Bay of Plenty has sometimes been labelled ‘the Bay of Empty’ when fishing efforts have been consistently poor. The question many people ask themselves – is it over fishing and a result of poor fishery management […]
December 21, 2016
On the 23rd August, Trans-Tasman Resources Ltd (TTR) applied to the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) to obtain a permit to mine the seabed on the South Taranaki Bight. This application would give TTR permission to excavate 50 million tonnes of sediment from the seabed per year, for the next 35 years with 90% of it […]
December 8, 2016
Win one of six Spot X Game Fishing books with LegaSea. Each copy is signed by game fishing guru and Spot X contributor; Graeme ‘Bonze’ Fleet. Bonze is a well-known and successful fisherman in the game fishing fraternity – you’re guaranteed some good reading and hot tips for the holidays! To win simply enter your […]
December 6, 2016
In late September the Ministry for Primary Industries asked for public feedback on the health of the crayfish stock in the Gisborne area, officially referred to as CRA 3. There are mixed views on the stock status. Commercial interests, the Ministry, and scientists all advocate the fishery is in fine fettle. Meanwhile, for people around […]
December 6, 2016
A recent survey shows that 83% of New Zealanders feel that the current approach to fisheries management is average to very poor when it comes to limiting catch and rebuilding our fish stocks to a suitable level. LegaSea is surprised by the depth of dissatisfaction amongst the general public to the way our fisheries are […]
November 25, 2016
Achilles disaster, preference for public fishing, your support for LegaSea Achilles keeps on turning out to be a disaster Good news! We put cameras on boats to see what industrial fishers get up to. Bad news! We found them doing bad things. Good news! There’s proof positive in the footage so we can prosecute. Bad […]
November 25, 2016
Ever since the news broke that officials had failed to prosecute fishers caught dumping up to 100% of their trawl catch LegaSea has been calling for an independent Commission of Inquiry into the Quota Management System (QMS) and overall fisheries management. We need to get to find out why after 30 years of a neo-liberal […]
November 18, 2016
Kaikoura, seabed mining, Christmas is coming. Kaikoura The earthquake has really messed things up for central New Zealand and in particular for boaties and fisher folk heading out to sea. While the tsunami risk has gone for now, it’s never a bad time to make sure your planning is up to scratch. Let someone know […]
November 18, 2016
New Zealanders are growing more concerned about the way our fisheries are being managed. Far from having a “world-leading” fisheries management system, nearly 70% of those surveyed in a new nationwide study believe an independent inquiry into the Quota Management System (QMS) is warranted. Only 5% felt it was not. Just over 2000 respondents from […]
November 18, 2016
In September Trans-Tasman Resources submitted their second application to excavate 50 million tonnes of sediment each year from the South Taranaki Bight seabed. Two years ago the first application was denied due to insufficient information about the potential environmental impacts of the mining operation. We were pleased with that outcome, but TTR are back. Their […]
November 11, 2016
Win for KASM, show us your snapper, the biggest show in town. Win for KASM Well done to the Kiwis Against Seabed Mining who have secured a court victory in their quest to halt seabed mining. KASM had asked for information from Trans-Tasman Resources (TTR), the company that has re-applied for a licence to mine […]
November 10, 2016
LegaSea and South Taranaki locals are pleased the Environment Court has upheld a challenge by Kiwis Against Seabed Mining (KASM), local Maori and fishing interests, against a foreign owned seabed mining company Trans-Tasman Resources (TTR). On Monday 7th November, the Environmental Court heard the case brought by KASM, asking the court to order TTR to […]
November 9, 2016
“Oh! What a tangled web we weave, when first we practice to deceive”, Sir Walter Scott, 1808. This quote refers to how complex life can get if you don’t tell the truth. It is derived from a play about a love triangle and yet it is so applicable to what is happening in fisheries circles […]
November 9, 2016
In September Trans-Tasman Resources Ltd submitted a new application to mine iron sand from the seabed off the South Taranaki Bight. Their first application was rejected two years ago. Now they are confident they have addressed the environmental issued raised in 2014. Our submission team at the New Zealand Sport Fishing Council swung into action […]
November 4, 2016
A complete moratorium on commercial trawling within the inshore waters of Hawke Bay and surrounding waters is the only way the depleted fish stocks can rebuild was the very clear and primary message the public gave to the officials of LegaSea Hawkes Bay at the Hawke’s Bay Royal A&P Show held at the Hastings Showground over Labour weekend. Spokesman for LegaSea […]
November 4, 2016
Survey results, stinging attack on MPI, the future of recreational fishing. Snapper 1 survey results Last month we asked you to take part in the Snapper 1 survey and thanks to all those who took the time to respond. More than 2500 of you took the 12-question survey. A summary has been fed back to […]
November 3, 2016
November 2016 During October 2016 LegaSea ran an online survey to gauge recreational fishers’ reaction to the proposed Snapper 1 Management Plan, released for public comment on 2 September. The 12-question survey attracted 2596 responses in a week. LegaSea thanks all respondents for their prompt feedback. SNA1 Management Plan In 2013 there was unprecedented media […]
October 28, 2016
5pm deadline for LegaSea snapper survey, concerning news for our marine environment, more support for an Inquiry. The future of our snapper – LegaSea survey closes at 5pm today. Here’s something you can do to help better inform the Ministry for Primary Industries and the policy makers: take this survey on snapper and let them […]
October 25, 2016
If the quota system is working so well why is the illegal and unreported dumping of fish still so prevalent? Several Ministry for Primary Industries’ investigations have revealed widespread dumping. Operation Achilles revealed that up to 100% of some quota fish were being discarded during every haul aboard trawlers. MPI has acknowledged this activity is impacting […]
October 25, 2016
In May Dr Glenn Simmons released a shocking report highlighting New Zealand authorities had, for 60 years, knowlingly under reported total fish catch to the United Nations. The report also exposed the excessive and deliberate waste of our fish by commercial fishers. It was accompanied by leaked Ministry for Primary Industries’ reports revealing that MPI […]
October 21, 2016
Snapper 1 survey, getting ready for the long weekend, seabed mining, vote in our poll Snapper fishing – Your opinion matters In 2013 there was unprecedented media coverage of the recreational snapper fishery. This highlighted problems with the fisheries management system and the need for more inclusive decision making. A Snapper 1 management plan has been […]
October 14, 2016
Seabed mining, LegaSea needs your help, remember crayfish? The KASM Around 1.6 tonnes of seabed could be extracted every second under new proposals to mine the seabed off the Taranaki coast. That seabed, rich in nutrients, home to many of our favourite species, gets pulped and then 90% of it is squirted back into the […]
October 7, 2016
LegaSea needs your help, a clever way to avoid jandal accidents on boat ramps, orca whales up close, Sir Graham Henry’s fishing success, latest news. LegaSea needs your help Our poll asking if you support a full Commission of Inquiry into this fisheries management is still online. If you haven’t already voted, please do so. It […]
September 30, 2016
Independent inquiry, conspiracy of silence, LegaSea poll, a baby blue whale feeding and seabed mining. MPI – time to cut the chain? John Key and Minister Nathan Guy must be starting to wonder when is the best time to cut their losses and jettison fisheries matters into a new ministry, as far from the Primary […]
September 29, 2016
Startling evidence confirming gross under reporting of total catch from our fisheries came to light with the release of a report by Dr. Glenn Simmons earlier this year. The research, spanning 60 years of reporting to the United Nations, was accompanied by the leaking of two draft reports from the Ministry for Primary Industries. It […]
September 29, 2016
Crayfish numbers are so low in the Hauraki Gulf and surrounding northeast coast that University of Auckland researchers are referring to them as “functionally extinct”. This means they are no longer fulfilling their role in the marine ecosystem. This is dire news for both the environment and the public. In 2014 the New Zealand Sport […]
September 28, 2016
Nathan Guy, the Minister for Primary Industries, has announced his decisions for the future management of five South Island fish stocks including bluenose, snapper, paua, John dory and jack mackerel. The decisions are a mixed bag, with cuts to commercial catch limits for bluenose, jack mackerel and paua, and increases for John dory and snapper. […]
September 28, 2016
Nathan Guy’s recent decision to close the Scallop 7 fishery around the top of the South Island is welcome news. The closure applies to all scallop fishing, commercial and non-commercial. New management measures will be discussed and hopefully agreed before the start of the next season, in July 2017. LegaSea is pleased with this outcome, […]
September 28, 2016
After two years and 26 joint meetings, the proposed management plan for Snapper 1 on the northeast coast has been released. Given the substantial investment of time and money from recreational fishers the plan is a disappointment, mainly because only issues that could be agreed by all parties were included in the document. We have […]
September 23, 2016
Welcome to the FryUp – a regular look back at the week of fishing in the news. MPI flounders and confounds The Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) has had a turgid seven days. It kicked off this time last week with the release of the Heron Report into the decision why no prosecutions would be […]
September 21, 2016
Leaked documents show the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) has been aware of widespread fish dumping for years yet not acted to prosecute the offending commercial fishers. These papers highlight deeply rooted problems with the management of fisheries. Now recreational fishing and environmental interests are calling for a Commission of Inquiry into the Quota Management […]
September 21, 2016
There is increasing public outrage over the decision by the Ministry for Primary Industries to not prosecute commercial fishers who admitted dumping fish. Video footage reveals between 20 and 100% of some quota fish were being discarded during every haul aboard trawlers off the east coast of the South Island. A media storm broke out […]
September 16, 2016
The Heron Report into why the Ministry for Primary Industries did not prosecute fish dumping paints a picture of an incompetence. The Report, which follows revelations that the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) has filmed fishing boats engaging in illegal activity over a period of several years, says the decision not to prosecute was “flawed” […]
September 16, 2016
Welcome to the FryUp – a regular look back at the week of fishing in the news. It’s official. It’s all our fault. That’s right – never mind the trawlers, the overfishing and the dumping. Apparently the biggest risk to our fisheries future is recreational fishers and we need to regulate them at once. That’s […]
September 10, 2016
LegaSea is calling for a Commission of Inquiry into the Quota Management System and how our fisheries are managed. Do you support LegaSea’s call for a Commission of Inquiry into the Quota Management System? There is increasing public outrage over the decision by the Ministry for Primary Industries to not prosecute commercial fishers who admitted […]
September 9, 2016
Welcome to the FryUp – a regular look back at the week of fishing in the news. Crayfish ‘functionally extinct’ Crayfish numbers in the Hauraki Gulf have dropped to such a low level they’ve now being called “functionally extinct” by the director of a research marine ecology consultancy company eCoast, Dr Tim Haggitt. Haggitt and […]
September 2, 2016
Welcome to the FryUp – a regular look back at the week of fishing in the news. Quality over quantity The Quota Management System (QMS) is either world class and the envy of other countries or it’s a con, perpetuated on a people who would have had the wool pulled over their eyes. According to […]
August 31, 2016
The opinion piece in Monday’s Dominion Post (We’re catching fish but not value: why the QMS needs reforming) is critical of New Zealand’s Quota Management System (QMS) and with good reason. The academics who authored the piece used the context of a lack of value creation and capture to frame their point. If the New […]
August 26, 2016
Bottom trawling is an indiscriminate method of fishing which has been around for hundreds of years, more or less unchanged. For centuries people worldwide have scoured the sensitive ecosystems from the bottom of the seas. What were once beautiful environments, are now little more than barren wastelands. New Zealand is lucky in that our country […]
August 26, 2016
Welcome to the FryUp – a regular look back at the week of fishing in the news. Slipping through the net? Radio New Zealand has asked the Ministry for Primary Industries about its prosecution rate in light of the damning report from Auckland University into fish dumping. Fewer than 1% of its prosecutions related to […]
August 26, 2016
An Official Information Act request by Radio New Zealand has revealed that less than one percent of all fisheries prosecutions are related to fish dumping. That’s despite evidence showing five out of six industrial fishing boats were dumping fish during Operations Achilles and Hippocamp. Inspectors estimated that crews were dumping anywhere between 20% and 100% […]
August 25, 2016
In June the Ministry for Primary Industries announced exports would need to grow by an average of 9.5 percent per annum if it was to meet its goal of doubling exports by 2025. It is not clear what this means for us, but from a public perspective our inshore fish stocks are already fully exploited […]
August 25, 2016
Many people have been asking why it is so hard to have commercial catch limits reduced. It’s a valid question that deserves a good answer. We need to know how and why the Quota Management System has failed to provide a flexible system despite millions of our taxpayers’ dollars being spent on science, monitoring and […]
August 25, 2016
Misdirected growth targets can have unintended consequences. Our fisheries are still recovering from Government policies implemented 40 years ago. A comprehensive review of the Quota Management System will hopefully reveal areas that can be fixed so our fisheries can be restored to abundant levels. Having enough fish to sustain the environment and provide for people’s […]
August 19, 2016
Welcome to the FryUp – a regular look back at the week of fishing in the news. I’d like to be under the sea… If you, like me, have always wanted to see the Great Barrier Reef in all its technicolor glory, you’d best get in sooner rather than later. This year the Reef suffered […]
August 12, 2016
Welcome to the FryUp – a regular look back at the week of fishing in the news. Scallops It takes something dramatic to happen to get the Ministry for Primary Industries to agree with LegaSea but sadly that’s the point we’ve reached with the Scallop 7 (Marlborough-Tasman area) fishery. Minister Nathan Guy has closed the […]
August 12, 2016
Scallop numbers have declined so much around the top of the South Island that the Minister for Primary Industries, Nathan Guy, has agreed with LegaSea and closed the Scallop 7 fishery until a rebuild occurs. The fishery has been closed for the 2016/17 and new management measures will be worked out between now and July […]
August 5, 2016
Welcome to the FryUp – a regular look back at the week of fishing in the news. The future of fishing We’re all concerned with just how many fish are taken from the oceans each year and what that means for the future of fishing. Will we see an abundant future where our children and […]
July 29, 2016
Welcome to the FryUp – a regular look back at the week of fishing in the news. Submit It’s been a busy-old time of it at LegaSea and the NZ Sport Fishing Council because it’s open season on submissions – or something like that. This month we’ve put together submissions supporting the temporary closure of Maunganui […]
July 28, 2016
If ever there was a need to ban inshore trawling to better allow for recreational fishing, then Hawke’s Bay is a prime example. A 10-year boat ramp survey shows dramatic declines in landings. There is unconstrained trawling inshore. All parties agree recreational fishing in the Bay needs to improve. Yet after almost two years of […]
July 26, 2016
In 2014 the people of Hawkes Bay said “enough”, then they took the bold step of committing their time, energy and resources to rebuilding the depleted Bay’s fish stocks. To achieve that outcome they formed LegaSea Hawkes Bay to raise funds, political and public awareness. Two years on they are focused on engaging with their […]
July 26, 2016
How many millions of snapper are being wasted every year due to commercial fishing? That’s a simple question. After the 2013 controversy Minister Nathan Guy and commercial interests agreed to a raft of measures to estimate the weight of undersized snapper returned to the sea in the northeastern fishery, Snapper 1. After numerous requests, some […]
July 25, 2016
The scallop fishery at the top of the South Island is at its lowest recorded level, it continues to decline, and there are doubts about the future growth of young scallops. Nathan Guy’s recent decision to close part of Southern scallops to all fishing for the upcoming season may enable some regrowth, but is only […]
July 22, 2016
Welcome to the FryUp – a regular look back at the week of fishing in the news. Marlborough Council calls to ban trawling and dredging Interesting news from the Marlborough District where bottom trawling and dredging is to be banned in certain sensitive areas of the Sounds under the Resource Management Act. The Council wants […]
July 21, 2016
The commercial fishing industry has recently taken a battering by an in-depth study of under reporting and wasteful dumping of fish in New Zealand waters over the last 60 years. For Karl Warr, a commercial fisherman in Hawke’s Bay, this wasn’t a surprise – he has seen the issue throughout his 15-year commercial career. But […]
July 15, 2016
Welcome to the FryUp – a regular look back at the week of fishing in the news. A bold move to protect sharks Campaigning to protect shark stocks along the Great Barrier Reef has been stepped up a notch with WWF buying a commercial shark fishing licence. The conservation group says they will be retiring […]
July 8, 2016
Welcome to the FryUp – a regular look back at the week of fishing in the news. Abundantly clear We’re all about the fish here at the Fryday FryUp. They’re just so tasty! But as you know we have concerns about making sure we can all go fishing and that includes our children and grand-children. […]
July 7, 2016
Gurnard are a special treat so it is concerning that increasing numbers of people are highlighting the scarcity of this prized fish on the eastern seaboard. For years they have been a rare catch in the Hauraki Gulf. Now it seems Bay of Plenty fishers are starting to feel the bite. Decades of inshore trawling […]
July 1, 2016
Welcome to the FryUp – a regular look back at the week of fishing in the news. Fishing for answers The University of Auckland’s catch reconstruction report continues to upset officials across the country and you’ve got to wonder why. Have a look at the fishing section on the MPI website and you’ll find an […]
June 25, 2016
Threats of compensation claims over the years have heavily influenced Ministerial decisions, even when the need for a catch reduction was obvious. Now we have a litany of fish stocks with uncatchable Total Allowable Commercial Catches (TACCs) and no prospects of precautionary management in sight. It is time we clarified the nature of quota so […]
June 24, 2016
Welcome to the FryUp – a regular look back at the week of fishing in the news. Call to ban all fishing in Hawke’s Bay Grim news from the Hawke’s Bay where concerned fishers are pushing to have all industrial fishing pushed out beyond the 50m depth contour. Last week we reported on local MP […]
June 23, 2016
There is an ongoing furore over the revelations in two official reports that Ministry for Primary Industries officials knew commercial trawl fishers were illegally dumping, discarding and high grading fish but did nothing to stop the crimes or perpetrators. Our New Zealand Sport Fishing Council fisheries team has submitted several Official Information Act requests to […]
June 23, 2016
Paul Henry might have been exaggerating when he said recently that all fishermen are liars, but for New Zealand authorities to be caught red-handed under reporting total catch by half to the United Nations for the past 60 years, that’s in another league. The strident denials then ‘shoot the messenger’ reactions from the Minister for […]
June 17, 2016
Welcome to the FryUp – a regular look back at the week of fishing in the news. Double the primary exports It’s Fieldays time again and so the Ministry for Primary Industries is talking up the future of all things edible. The goal – to double primary exports to $64 billion a year by 2025. Currently, […]
June 15, 2016
What a shambles our fisheries management is in, claim and denial met by counter claim and more strident denial. The public relations outfits must be licking their lips and counting the dollars. The average New Zealander just wants to know the truth, so here is the start. Of course fishermen dump fish over the side. […]
June 15, 2016
For 30 years New Zealanders have been sold the line that our Quota Management System is a world leader when it comes to both protecting fish stocks and encouraging a culture of stewardship. Kiwis and the world have been sold a pup.
June 3, 2016
Revelations there have been no prosecutions after investigations into blatant fish dumping, catch misreporting, and high grading aboard coastal and deep sea trawlers are alarming. Even more disturbing is the refusal of officials to acknowledge and address the underlying problems embedded in the Quota Management System (QMS). Realistically, the Ministry for Primary Industries is never […]
May 24, 2016
The Prime Minister once famously said that New Zealanders care more about snapper than the GCSB spying on Kiwis – and he may be right. The freedom to go out fishing, to bring home your catch and share the experience with family, friends and whanau is an essential part of New Zealand’s way of life. […]
April 25, 2016
A central theme to the four recent management submissions to the Ministry for Primary Industries is the need for more precautionary management of our fish stocks. The Minister’s decisions, announced on March 17th, are a mixed bag, with cuts to commercial catch limits for selected scallop and crayfish stocks, and significant increases in surf clam […]
April 25, 2016
From a fisheries perspective it is very frustrating to watch the marine protection cum reserves debate occur without any intention to address the root causes of depletion – excessive fish catches, mobile bottom contact harvesting methods degrading habitats, and contaminants entering waterways choking nursery areas. LegaSea supported the recent submission by the New Zealand Sport […]
April 25, 2016
After two years of planning and research we now know what recreational fishing is worth to the New Zealand economy. Kiwis spend a billion dollars a year on recreational fishing but the benefits don’t stop at the fish on the end of the line. This expenditure ripples through the economy generating 1.7 billion dollars in […]
March 20, 2016
Recent government proposals to create recreational fishing parks in the Hauraki Gulf and Marlborough Sounds as a solution to enhancing recreational fishing are curious given that none of the measures will restore fish abundance or catchability. These recreational fishing parks have drawn attention away from the three other types of Marine Protected Areas proposed for […]
March 1, 2016
Report on the economy of recreational fishing in New Zealand. Report: Holdsworth, John; Rea, Trish; Southwick, Rob. Produced for the New Zealand Marine Research Foundation.
February 12, 2016
A recreational fishing park has been proposed for both the Hauraki Gulf and Marlborough Sounds. It is important to examine this proposition to test if it is affordable and if it sets a precedent for the future. The Government has signaled it has around $20 million to pay compensation claims from displaced commercial fishing interests. […]
February 11, 2016
A document discussing four types of Marine Protected Areas, including recreational fishing parks, has been released for consultation. This consultation process is a joint effort between the Ministers for Primary Industries, Conservation and Environment. Deadline for submission is March 11th, 2016. The New Zealand Sport Fishing Council team is working through the discussion document and […]
September 24, 2015
In Australia, a recent study found recreational fishers contribute an estimated $2.56 billion to the nation’s economy. But what’s fishing worth in New Zealand? The truth is, no one knows. So the New Zealand Marine Research Foundation has commissioned a full-scale research project to find out. They want to know how much recreational fishers contribute […]
September 1, 2015
Before we embark on a high value project to determine the significance of recreational fishing in New Zealand it’s important to do our homework. Similar overseas research by Southwick Associates has produced some positive outcomes for recreational fishing interests and their national economies. Southwick Associates has over 25 years international experience in examining the value […]
August 29, 2015
The “What’s Fishing Worth?” fundraising campaign is looking to produce more abundant fisheries, a thriving marine environment, and a robust recreational fishing industry. The campaign is raising funds for the New Zealand Marine Research Foundation’s recreational fishing research project. This project seeks to quantify the economic contributions per kilo of fish harvested by recreational fishers. […]
August 29, 2015
In Australia, a recent study found recreational fishers contribute an estimated $2.56 billion to the nation’s economy. But what’s fishing worth in New Zealand? The truth is, no one knows. So the New Zealand Marine Research Foundation has commissioned a full-scale research project to find out. They want to know how much recreational fishers contribute […]
August 27, 2015
Recreational fishing advocacy group LegaSea is pleased to hear the Primary Industries Minister Nathan Guy announce a major review of the Fisheries Act, but spokesman Scott Macindoe says the government needs to broaden its focus to take into account the value of recreational fishing. “We congratulate Minister Nathan Guy for having the courage and clarity […]
August 19, 2015
Recreational perspective on shared fisheries and developing trust Address to the Seafood New Zealand Conference. Grant Dixon, Editor. New Zealand Fishing News magazine. Thank you for the opportunity to give my perspective on the fishery and building trust between industry and the public/recreational fishers. When Tim Pankhurst contacted me and explained the brief, I was a […]
July 29, 2015
Blue cod is an iconic Marlborough Sounds fishery so any mention of management changes evokes a raft of claims and counter-claims. LegaSea is pleased to have recently worked on a submission with four other national or local groups to promote an abundant fishery and improvements to regulations applying to both commercial and recreational blue cod […]
July 28, 2015
A draft management plan for the northeastern snapper stock is underway and expected to be with the Minister, Nathan Guy, later this year. 18 months of hard work has brought us to this point. It is unclear when the Minister will release the management plan for public discussion. However, recreational interests are keen to get […]
July 26, 2015
New Zealand is fast becoming world renowned for trophy sized kingfish and lots of them. This is no accident. Management changes a decade ago, Mother Nature and the care shown by recreational fishers who release much of their kingfish catch have all contributed to the stock rebuild. Annual monitoring of kingfish length during the Bay […]
June 29, 2015
Recreational fishing is more popular now than in 2007 and interest is growing. Results from the 2013/14 Active New Zealand survey ranks fishing as the second most popular recreation for men and ninth for women. Despite its popularity, no one knows how much our recreational fishing contributes to the national economy but that is about […]
June 29, 2015
There has been a Ministry for Primary Industries review of two Blue cod populations in the South Island recently, one in Fiordland and the other in the Marlborough Sounds. Deadline for submissions on the proposal to reopen Doubtful Sound, Fiordland, to recreational Blue cod fishing has now passed. There was also a simultaneous process to […]
June 28, 2015
Prior to last year’s election, National surprised us when they announced a policy to introduce two recreational fishing parks, one in the inner Hauraki Gulf and the other in the Marlborough Sounds. The promise was to exclude most commercial fishing and enhance fishing opportunities for Kiwi families. There was a mixed response. The lack of […]
June 27, 2015
Snapper is the species most often targeted by recreational anglers in New Zealand. In 2012 nationwide amateur harvest of snapper was estimated to be 4811 tonnes. This is more than the combined harvest of nine other popular species. Clearly, snapper is a resilient species, but stock levels are below where they should be and fishing […]
June 26, 2015
Prior to last year’s election National surprised us when they announced a policy to introduce two recreational fishing parks, one in the inner Hauraki Gulf and the other in the Marlborough Sounds. The promise was to exclude most commercial fishing and enhance fishing opportunities for Kiwi families. There was a mixed response. The lack of […]
June 26, 2015
There are two outcomes from the recent crayfish management review process; both are bad news for non-commercial interests. Firstly, the Minister followed industry advice to maintain or increase commercial catch limits, and secondly, that under the current regime we are unlikely to see a rebuild of crayfish numbers along our coastline any time soon. Amongst […]
May 28, 2015
Recreational fishers are celebrating the sixth anniversary of the Supreme Court ruling that changed the fisheries management landscape in New Zealand. In a landmark decision in 2009, the Supreme Court confirmed the Minister for Primary Industries, Nathan Guy, can apply discretion and government policy when allocating the available fisheries resource between sectors. Fresh management decisions […]
May 25, 2015
One of the most encouraging aspects of the recent Hutchwilco New Zealand Boat Show was the willingness of people to talk with our team and share their fishing experiences with us. If you were one of those people that visited our stand between the 14th and 17th May thanks for the stories, your support and […]
April 28, 2015
For the first time in four years management of Marlborough Sounds Blue cod is being reviewed and LegaSea is encouraging recreational fishers to have their say on the future of this most prized fishery. A multi-stakeholder group, the Blue Cod Management Group, is seeking people’s views now before they develop potential management options to be […]
April 26, 2015
Given the state of tuna stocks, it is incredible that regional authorities have allowed more than 6,000 industrial fishing vessels to target tuna in the western and central Pacific Ocean. Fishing boats have flooded into this area over the last 20 years as stocks have declined in other oceans. At the same time, New Zealand’s […]
March 28, 2015
There are ongoing issues related to the management of our crayfish stocks that need to be addressed this year. Crayfish are a prized shellfish, a taonga, and we need to be sure that the public’s long-term interests are protected and we have reasonable access to our crayfish. In our recent submission responding to the latest […]
March 12, 2015
Fish dumping and unnecessary wastage in our fisheries has to stop, and many of you have the handiest tool to address it – your cellphone camera. Several trawlermen have revealed that dumping happens on every trawl. One skipper estimates 10-15 bins of undersized fish were thrown back dead after every trawl. The crew is required […]
March 12, 2015
Over 4.5 million snapper, 1.1 million kahawai, and 680,000 blue cod were caught and kept by recreational fishers during 2011-12. These are the three most popular marine species, by number, in New Zealand. Around 5.4 % of all finfish was taken from charter vessels. These estimates and harvest figures for other popular species have been detailed […]
March 5, 2015
It seems that yellowfin tuna are not gone forever from New Zealand waters. Dare we hope that this season is just the start of their return, or is this just a painful reminder of the superb fishery that has been lost? The Bay of Plenty was once our yellowfin ‘tuna capital’ over summer. For most […]
March 1, 2015
Crayfish might not be on everyone’s catch list but they are a treasured meal when shared with family and friends. Not surprisingly they are also a valuable commercial species so when it comes to management there is always high interest in any catch increases. Management of five crayfish stocks is under review. These stocks extend […]
February 21, 2015
More species of seabirds breed in New Zealand than anywhere else in the world. Seabirds are good indicators of what is below the water’s surface, this makes them an angler’s best friend. But when seabirds get close to the boat they can easily tangle in our fishing lines or get caught on baited hooks. This can […]
February 17, 2015
Over 4.5 million snapper, 1.1 million kahawai and 680,000 blue cod were caught and kept by recreational fishers during 2011-12. These are the three most popular marine species, by number, in New Zealand. Around 5.4 percent of all finfish was taken from charter vessels. These estimates and harvest figures for other popular species have been […]
February 15, 2015
Since last year’s rule changes, there has been an increase in the numbers of gut hooked snapper being released. These fish will most likely die. This outcome goes against all notions of conservation and makes us feel bad when we watch these wasted fish floating away or being eaten by birds. However, this is a […]
February 10, 2015
Summer is a hectic time of year for the LegaSea team as there are so many fund raising events, fishing contests and community gatherings to attend. It is such a buzz to see people enjoying the fishing, the camaraderie with their mates, and spending quality time amongst family. And this is just a snapshot of […]
January 30, 2015
Crayfish are a prized catch and important ecologically so it is critical we protect the fishery from over-exploitation. The Ministry for Primary Industries has just issued proposals for the future management of several fisheries, including the northern crayfish stock called CRA1. LegaSea again objects short consultation timeframes, this time we only have 18 working days […]
January 29, 2015
One of LegaSea’s 5 Principles is to value recreational fishing. Our fishing supports a vast array of businesses, from charter boat operations, boat builders, tackle dealers, bait and ice suppliers and the assortment of fishing media. Many coastal communities rely on the summer influx of tourists, including fishing families, to maintain their accommodation, fuel and […]
January 16, 2015
There has been widespread discussion about the number of small snapper being caught in close off the northeast coast and whether the new 30cm minimum size limit is good for the fishery. There is some suggestion the size needs to return to 27cm, or have no minimum and land everything. There are downsides to that […]
January 10, 2015
After a hard-out year many of us look forward to time on the water catching a fish, sharing that catch with family and friends, and importantly, enjoying the experience with our kids. To achieve success we need fish in the water. LegaSea has developed 5 Principles to help rebuild our depleted fisheries. If you want […]
December 29, 2014
As the spotlight turns on fisheries and marine protection issues people are questioning current management practices and seeking solutions. LegaSea has summarised a few snapper FAQs. Are trawlers allowed in the Hauraki Gulf? Trawling and Danish seining are banned from the inner Hauraki Gulf, from around the bottom end of Kawau Island across to the […]
December 5, 2014
Strategies to rebuild marine ecosystems and local fisheries around the northeast coast, Gisborne and Hawkes Bay were confirmed during a recent meeting held at the Gisborne Tatapouri Sports Fishing Club. Delegates to this year’s New Zealand Sport Fishing Council Annual General Meeting endorsed three policies. Each policy outlines a range of measures designed to rebuild […]
November 10, 2014
A popular misconception is that all fishing is managed via quota and the Quota Management System. Truth is, quota is used to manage commercial fishing. Recreational fishing is managed outside the QMS, and daily bag and minimum size limits are used to control each individual’s catch. LegaSea is committed to ensuring public fishing remains free […]
November 10, 2014
This year we set out to promote the need for good quality fisheries policy from all political parties. By election day more than 17,000 people had registered support for LegaSea’s Tip the Scales campaign. If you were one of those people, thank you. It was your support for the 5 principles that influenced the political […]
November 1, 2014
One of the major talking points during the snapper campaign in 2013 was the assertion that recreational catch had increased exponentially and that effort needed to be reined in through bag limit reductions. Fact is, management of Snapper 1 had not been reviewed for 16 years and the recreational allowance made in 1997 did not […]
September 9, 2014
Last year’s snapper debate proved that fisheries management is indeed political and that the outcome of decisions can be heavily influenced by how many of us stand up for ourselves. This year we have a prime opportunity to advocate for improved fisheries management. That chance is available at the ballot box on September 20th. Make your […]
August 30, 2014
Five meetings of the Snapper 1 Strategy Group have now been held. There has also been a number of meetings between the Ministry for Primary Industries and representatives of the various stakeholder groups. Our dedicated team has been flat out developing reference documents that present a best-case scenario for future management of our fisheries, not […]
August 30, 2014
On 7 August the Hokianga Accord will be hosting its 16th hui, venue is the legendary Bay of Islands Swordfish Club in Paihia. All are welcome to attend. LegaSea is keen to participate in a wide-ranging discussion on the Fish Forever proposal for two marine and one “scientific” reserve in the Bay of Islands. A […]
August 30, 2014
Fisheries management decisions are political so our dedicated team of experts has carefully crafted five policy recommendations that promote productive fisheries and a healthy marine environment. We have sent these recommendations to political parties so they can adopt them in their fisheries policies. Then we will give them points out of 20 for each of […]
August 30, 2014
Blue moki is a popular table fish taken by shorebased anglers, set netters and spear fishers around the South Island and lower North Island. An estimated 36,000 blue moki were taken in 1999 by recreational anglers fishing off the east coast of the South Island (Area 3). That’s around 53 tonnes. Fishers caught another 130 […]
August 28, 2014
Addressing wastage was a big issue during our 2013 SOS Save Our Snapper campaign. LegaSea is concerned that proposed new measures have done little to reduce the unnecessary waste caused by trawling inshore. But who knows? The Ministry for Primary Industries is stonewalling requests for data from trials that measure how much fish is being […]
August 25, 2014
LegaSea received a real boost last month from a group of Whangarei based companies. In mid July around 50 people representing 20 businesses with links to the construction industry gathered for a Building LegaSea presentation. Warren and the crew from Warren Hay Marine were superb hosts. They have to be rated as one of the […]
August 25, 2014
LegaSea is advocating a bottom-up approach to rebuilding our fisheries. That is because mortality on small fish can be reduced at minimal cost and yet it has the greatest benefit to the rate of rebuild. Snapper caught in trawl and Danish seine nets need to have a strict maximum juvenile mortality rate applied to the […]
August 9, 2014
Since the beginning of the year there have been five meetings of the multi-stakeholder Snapper 1 Strategy Group. Our recreational representatives are ready to discuss the important issues of management targets to increase overall biomass in Area 1, but it is slow going. Increasing biomass means having a thriving population of more and bigger fish. […]
August 8, 2014
LegaSea has developed 5 principles to help Tip the Scales towards more abundant fisheries and fairer management decisions. Our team has sent these principles and specific policy recommendations to all of the political parties. We have asked them to adopt these principles and deliver more public friendly fisheries policy. But, they will only be swayed […]
July 30, 2014
Frustrated recreational representatives in the Marlborough Sounds are pleased Nathan Guy has acknowledged their management concerns, but are dismayed it has taken eight months to receive a response from the Minister for Primary Industries. After sending two letters and a delegation to Wellington the Marlborough Recreational Fishers Association’s (MRFA) concerns were seemingly ignored until May […]
July 30, 2014
“To rebuild our fishery we need qualified tradesmen” This sums up LegaSea’s new engagement campaign that is targeted at New Zealand’s construction industry. Statistics reveal that Kiwis involved in all aspects of construction whether in materials supply, plumbing, building, electrical, machinery and even design, love to fish. Fishing is as much the subject of conversation […]
July 30, 2014
The multi-stakeholder Snapper 1 Strategy Group has had three meetings, with the fourth due in mid-June. Our recreational representatives are keen to get stuck into discussing the important issues of management targets to increase overall biomass in Area 1, but it is slow going. Increasing biomass means having a thriving population of more and bigger […]
July 21, 2014
Recent Ministerial decisions for crayfish and southern scallops have proven how unbalanced our fisheries management regime has become, in favour of commercial interests. Setting unrealistic commercial catch limits just invites vigorous fishing effort for diminishing fish stocks. It also deprives us, as recreational fishers, the opportunity to enjoy a reasonable catch for a day’s effort. […]
July 1, 2014
It was good to see many of you at the Hutchwilco New Zealand Boat Show in Auckland. Sharing information and getting your feedback during the 4-day show made the team’s effort worthwhile. Your thoughts on our future plans are most welcome so please stay in touch. A big thanks to the Hutchwilco New Zealand Boat […]
June 20, 2014
LegaSea is promoting a rebuild of our inshore fisheries, to a minimum target level of 40% of their virgin biomass, or unfished stock size. That’s B40. B40 means more fish get to grow to a decent size. B40 also means our fisheries will be more robust and able to cope with any dramatic events, like […]
May 15, 2014
Time has once again been used as a weapon against us, this time to limit our response to outrageous proposals that will keep Bay of Plenty crayfish stocks at all-time low levels. By now the new regime will be in place and our northeastern cray fishery could be another casualty in the race to the […]
April 4, 2014
Snapper lovers will be pleased to know the planned strategy group discussions are underway, with all sectors getting a say in how they want to have the northern fishery managed in the future. Our objectives have been shaped around the many thousands of submissions made during last year’s SOS – Save Our Snapper campaign. LegaSea […]
March 28, 2014
Recreational fishing advocacy group LegaSea is calling on amateur fishers to comply with the new snapper bag and size limits that will come into effect on April Fool’s day, even though many believe they are unfair. From April 1st the individual snapper daily bag limit will be seven, down from nine each. The minimum legal […]
March 20, 2014
For young and old crayfish are a taonga, a treasure, so recent Ministerial decisions to keep some stocks at all-time lows to meet export orders is abysmal. Nathan Guy announced his decisions for the future management of crayfish on March 20th and these will apply from April 1st. Crayfish can retail up to $150 per […]
March 10, 2014
In last months column, we talked about changes to crayfish coming our way. In early December 2013 the Ministry for Primary Industries advised us of potential management changes in CRA 2 (Bay of Plenty and Hauraki Gulf) and CRA 9 (West Coast). Consultation documents were due out before Christmas. Quota increases were likely to be […]
March 3, 2014
This is the time of year that many fishers dream of, warm water, fish on the bite and competitions galore. Whatever your fishing fancy, there is an event that caters to your taste. A really pleasing aspect is the number of events that are donating the proceeds to LegaSea. Every cent counts and is spent […]
February 1, 2014
In December the Ministry released proposals for management of crayfish in area 2 that runs from Waipu in the north to Waihi, Bay of Plenty. It’s an important fishery yet is the worst performing of the crayfish fisheries. I’m sure many of you have experienced first hand the effects of struggling stocks. Apart from the […]
January 20, 2014
I’d like to reflect on some of the major positives for fisheries to come out of 2013. Groups with a common cause worked hard to strive for a better future, with dedicated support from people like you. Let’s start with tuna. Greenpeace had been fighting corporates for two years to stop FAD fishing for yellow […]
January 10, 2014
Hard work by passionate advocates turned the tide on four iconic fish species in 2013. If you supported any of these causes you should feel proud, thank you. Yellowfin tuna stocks globally have retracted due to international commercial fishing pressure and Greenpeace led the charge campaigning to stop the sale of yellowfin tuna caught using […]
December 12, 2013
After the snapper decision, we reviewed hundreds of pages of Ministry reports and documents and we’ve planned our next steps to continue to improve the future of Snapper 1. Increased release mortality is one issue that will need to be addressed sooner rather than later, because as of 1st of April 2014 recreational fishers will […]
December 1, 2013
Warm weather means more fishing, but in the Bay of Plenty there’s still concerns to be addressed for snapper. Stocks are classified as “collapsed” and so LegaSea will be calling for specific action to be taken in the Bay. This is one of a few focus areas for LegaSea as a result of Nathan Guy’s […]
November 29, 2013
One thing that has struck me in recent months is how people from all walks of life enjoy fishing. New Zealand is a wonderful melting pot of different cultures and people with varying backgrounds – but there is something wonderfully unifying in the form of a fishing rod. During the recent Save Our Snapper campaign […]
November 10, 2013
Allegations of greed have been made against those fishers who wanted to retain the existing snapper bag and size limits of nine snapper at 27cm. This highlights a couple of points. The first is that some people still don’t fully understand the bigger picture of the proposed changes to Snapper 1 (and it is complex), the […]
October 2, 2013
Are private profits and export dollars really more important than the people of New Zealand? Nathan Guys decision on the Snapper 1 fishery will tell us loud and clear where this governments allegiance lies – people or profits. Any day now (if not already) his decision will be announced. 48,000 submissions and 365,000 emails sent […]
September 30, 2013
This month Nathan Guy, the Minister for Primary Industries is due to announce his decision that will determine the future of our snapper fishing through the Bay of Plenty, Coromandel, Hauraki Gulf and East Northland. Thank you to everyone who joined with LegaSea to make a stand and sent a submission to the Ministry to […]
September 18, 2013
Media release Recreational fishing advocacy group LegaSea, say recreational fishers are rightfully angry that their daily bag limits have been cut from nine to seven and the minimum legal size has been increased, from 27 to 30cm, when there is no change to commercial catch limits. Most of the snapper quota in Area 1 is […]
August 29, 2013
It is shocking that the Ministry for Primary Industries has proposed to slash snapper bag limits while the commercial sector is largely unaffected! The time has come for action. We are rallying support to fight for the future of our snapper fishery, fight for our voice to be heard, and fight against commercial greed and […]
August 29, 2013
The time has come for action. Right now we are rallying support to fight for the future of our snapper fishery, fight for our voice to be heard, and fight against commercial greed and government mismanagement. It’s on! At the time of writing this we wait with baited breath for the Ministry for Primary Industries […]
July 28, 2013
Recreational fishers may be forced to take bag limit cuts of up to 40% to make way for commercial quota. That’s because there’s simply not enough snapper in the area from North Cape to Cape Runaway to sustain demand. Our information reveals that the snapper stock level in the Bay of Plenty is much worse […]
July 28, 2013
It’s been a busy and exciting time for LegaSea. We’ve had great conversations and support from the many passionate fishers at the Hutchwilco Boat Show, during the successful Marlin campaign and people entering our “Money Can’t Buy” competition. The support has been fantastic. On our stand at the Hutchwilco Boat Show we talked to lots […]
June 28, 2013
Snapper is a renowned favourite. It’s this little beauty that lots of us Kiwi fishers target, catch, cook and eat. Our snapper fishery is near and dear so keeping it in good health is really important to LegaSea – for all of us. That’s why we’ll be paying special attention to snapper this year. It’s […]
May 28, 2013
In case you missed it, there was an uproar in recent news over Sealords new TV advert hailing their yellowfin tuna in a can a “Smart Choice” premium product. And rightly so! Matt Watson calls Sealords latest TV advert “incredibly arrogant or ignorant… just ignorant of the state of the yellowfin tuna fishery”. Sadly yellowfin […]
May 22, 2013
Regulations protecting striped marlin as a recreational-only fishery are under threat by commercial fishermen who want to keep and sell marlin. The Ministry for Primary Industries appears to be wavering in their support for the existing regulations. They will be advising the Minister, Nathan Guy, who will then decide whether to retain the status quo. […]
May 1, 2013
Recently you may have seen or heard about a photo of three dead marlin that were dumped by a commercial fishing boat off the Manukau Harbour. There was outrage and rigorous discussion on Facebook about it because it was such a sad sight. For most of us catching a marlin is a challenging feat, where skill, […]
April 4, 2013
It’s a pretty harsh statement, however Sealords latest TV ad is all about buying canned yellowfin tuna with the tag line “Smart Choice”. Now that’s dumb! Yellowfin tuna are almost extinct in New Zealand waters. Yes, that’s right… extinct! This statement may be fuel for debate -‐ and hopefully it is. Scientists, governments, and companies […]
February 2, 2013
Free Fish Heads is a new innovation aimed at getting Kiwis to make the most of what they catch. Instead of whipping off the fish fillets and dumping the rest, people can now share the heads and frames with others who welcome the succulent bits of meat tucked in amongst the bones. LegaSea is supporting […]
October 24, 2012
LegaSea is a cause working for ‘more fish in the water for future generations’. To achieve that vision we need at least 20,000 people to get on board and make a contribution towards protecting our fishing interests, for now and the future. We have cracked the first ton. Now we are depending on broad-minded Kiwis […]
September 10, 2012
In Aotearoa we have four million residents, soon that will be six; more fish in the water will be needed to provide for future generations’ needs. Aside from northern kahawai, we have few examples of fisheries being managed with our kids’ interests in mind. Hence the need for LegaSea! As recreational fishers, we neither have […]
September 1, 2012
LegaSea has been launched to achieve the vision of ‘more fish in the water for future generations’. It’s a bold plan that supports the people campaigning for less wasteful fishing practices, protection of sensitive marine habitats and to ensure fish conserved today are available for tomorrow’s generation of fishers. All it takes is a simple […]
January 1, 2012
Also specialist meetings to discuss specific species such as rock lobster, and the development of research projects to estimate recreational harvest in New Zealand. This unprecendented level of engagement is invaluable in producing detailed reports and technically sound submissions on fisheries sustainablity and management measures. This is ongoing.
August 22, 2010
The New Zealand Sport Fishing Council has been engaged and participating in all relevant fisheries management, planning and science processes for many years. For a comprehensive record of this work please visit this Index Page and then refer to the species or area of interest.
April 26, 2007
The New Zealand Big Game Fishing Council advocates that the QMS Introduction Standard needs to include a mechanism that clarifies non-commercial species are not eligible for management within the QMS. View submission here
December 1, 2005
Since 1992 the New Zealand the rock lobster fisheries have been managed by a national-level, multi-stakeholder group called the National Rock Lobster Management Group (NRLMG). A variety of interests are involved in this forum including commercial quota owners, commercial fishers, customary fishers, the New Zealand Recreational Fishing Council, and representatives from environmental and conservation groups. […]
