Auckland authorities conduct major fishing crackdown

Fisheries New Zealand and the New Zealand Police conducted a joint maritime patrol across Auckland’s east and west coasts to inspect recreational fishers ahead of the summer season. A team of 28 fishery officers and Auckland Police Maritime officers performed 514 inspections during the weekend operation.

While officials reported a high level of overall compliance, 15 individuals were found to be breaking regulations. Violations included nine instances of catching undersized snapper on the East Coast, one instance of exceeding oyster limits, and three instances of taking undersized scallops on the West Coast.

Authorities are considering prosecution for two illegal set nets found joined together at Mill Bay, a west coast closure area. An unmarked set net was also discovered at Titirangi, resulting in a warning. Two infringement notices were issued for undersized snapper, while other offenders received formal warnings.