Fisheries New Zealand seeks feedback on further amendments proposed by the Fiordland Marine Guardians to recreational and commercial fishing rules for the Fiordland Marine Area under the Fisheries (Amateur Fishing) Regulations 2013, the Fisheries (Southland and Sub-Antarctic Areas Commercial Fishing) Regulations 1986 and the Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Regulations 2001.

About the proposed changes

Following consultation between August and September 2022 and ministerial decisions on proposed changes to recreational fishing rules, the Fiordland Marine Guardians have added further amendments based on feedback received. Given these matters were not specifically proposed in the previous consultation, the Minister for Oceans and Fisheries has instructed Fisheries New Zealand to publicly consult on the further proposals. We now invite feedback on the following proposals:

1. Recreational vessel limits: Implement a vessel limit for recreational fishing vessels in the Fiordland Marine Area of 4 times the daily species and combined bag limits.
2. Restrictions of bulk harvesting methods: Prohibition of a selection of bulk harvesting methods including cod potting, longlines, and setlines for recreational and commercial fishers landward of the fishing lines (fiord headlands).

The consultation closes at 5pm on Monday 28 August 2023. 

For more information see the Fisheries New Zealand website.