Locals on the Hibiscus Coast should be aware of a recent case involving an Auckland man who was fined $15,000 for illegally trading fish.

Timothy William Frost, 30, was convicted in the North Shore District Court after a Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) investigation uncovered his involvement in the illegal sale of recreationally caught seafood.

The investigation revealed that Frost sold or attempted to sell high-end species like crayfish, pāua, and snapper, along with grey mullet and kahawai, on 35 occasions in 2022.

These transactions involved approximately eight regular clients, with some paying up to $480 for 60kg of fish.

The illegal sales generated hundreds of dollars for Frost, whose activities spanned from January to November last year.

Fisheries New Zealand's regional manager for fisheries compliance, Phil Tasker, emphasised the seriousness of Frost's actions.

"Selling or attempting to sell recreationally caught seafood undermines the legitimate seafood market," Tasker stated.

He urged locals to avoid purchasing seafood at prices that seem too good to be true, as it is likely to have been illegally harvested.

The Ministry for Primary Industries encourages anyone who suspects illegal fishing activity to report it through their dedicated 0800 4 POACHER hotline.