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Let’s talk about scallops

October 29, 2025 This article was originally published in Local Matters. 28 October 2025. It’s hard to believe it’s been three years since we were last able to gather and savour fresh scallops from our own backyard. For many of us, sharing a feed of scallops was woven into our coastal lifestyle, connecting friends and family. Decades of ... Read more.

LegaSea newsletter #172 – Fishing – enjoy it while you can

October 28, 2025 Labour Weekend always feels like the start of summer – the unofficial kick-off to fishing season across NZ. The days get longer, the water warms up, and Kiwis start planning those early missions out wide. Before it all gets into full swing, it’s worth taking a moment to check your gear. Make sure your lifejackets ... Read more.

Why not 100 percent protection?

October 22, 2025 We’ve been scammed. New legislation to protect six percent of the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park is being hailed as a success, yet we could have had 100 percent of the seabed protected if politicians were bold enough.  The Hauraki Gulf Tīkapa Moana Marine Protection Act 2025 became a reality on 10 October, 2025. It authorises ... Read more.

Radical changes not in our interests

October 22, 2025 None of us had a say in it yet the Coalition agreement has become the excuse to drive radical change. Even in the face of overwhelming public opposition.  In terms of fisheries, the Coalition agreement reads –  “Deliver longer durations for marine farming permits and remove regulations that impede the productivity and enormous potential of ... Read more.

Wave of support for restricting commercial fishing in Coromandel

October 20, 2025 Locals, business leaders and interest groups unite against destructive fishing methods Lack of action from central government has resulted in a bold move by the Waikato Regional Council (WRC) to restrict commercial fishing in Coromandel waters. Scott Macindoe, President of the New Zealand Sport Fishing Council (NZSFC), says the decision highlights that local communities will ... Read more.

LegaSea newsletter #171 – A mixed bag of news worth reading

October 10, 2025 It was encouraging to see more than 500 people who care about the marine environment, diving, and fishing make a submission on the future management of crayfish along the upper east coast of the North Island. Thank you to everyone who took the time to write a submission on these important issues. LegaSea and the ... Read more.

Minister’s proposal weakens fisheries law

October 1, 2025 Shane Jones, the Minister for Oceans and Fisheries, wants to change the rules that govern how we manage our fish stocks. On the surface, it sounds fairly tidy – he says he wants to “clarify roles” and “separate functions.” But if you dive into the details, the real intention becomes clear. This is about watering ... Read more.

Reform of fisheries, is licensing next?

October 1, 2025 Shane Jones, the Minister for Oceans and Fisheries, is pushing fisheries reform. Around 70 percent of New Zealanders also want reform, but their reasons couldn’t be further apart. A majority of Kiwis want fisheries reform fit for the 21st century. They want changes so fish populations can grow more abundant. No surprise, as more fish ... Read more.

Have your say about to changes to crayfish management

September 17, 2025 Crayfish populations along the North Island’s east coast are under review. We’ve made it simple for you to add your voice to the process. Use our quick submission form to learn more about what’s being proposed and to share your thoughts directly with decision-makers.

The gloves are off

September 16, 2025 You know you must be getting close to the truth when officials propose to change the law to reduce accountability. So it is with crayfish. After losing a string of court cases challenging recent Ministerial decisions, Shane Jones has arbitrarily decided to amend the Fisheries Act to severely limit the public’s time and ability to ... Read more.