New Zealand fisher sentenced for poaching 1,869 pāua

Jorden Cedric Paul, 43, has been sentenced to 10 months of home detention and 300 hours of community work following a guilty plea to three charges under the Fisheries Act. The sentencing follows a successful prosecution by the Ministry for Primary Industries regarding the poaching of 1,869 pāua near Titahi Bay in Porirua.

Authorities stated that Paul used his fishing boat, Aria Maree, and prohibited underwater breathing apparatus to harvest the shellfish. An investigation revealed that 222 of the pāua were undersized. Officials noted the theft was likely motivated by financial gain and intended for sale, as the shellfish had been shucked.

Fisheries New Zealand regional manager central, Phil Tasker, highlighted the environmental impact, stating that the loss of the shellfish means it will take years for the fishery to recover. Tasker also warned that poaching in the Wellington region threatens the long-term sustainability of the species.