Hibiscus Coast App

Coasties Urged to Speak Up on Fishing

Hibiscus Coast App

Staff Reporter

24 June 2025, 8:53 PM

Coasties Urged to Speak Up on FishingProposed blue cod and snapper changes coming.

Local fishers across the Hibiscus Coast are being encouraged to have their say as Fisheries New Zealand proposes changes to catch limits for nearly 30 fish stocks nationwide.


The review, which runs until 23 July, includes favourites like blue cod and snapper.





Recreational daily limits for blue cod could be cut, along with commercial quotas, following new stock assessments.


Snapper on the South Island’s west coast is also under review, while blue mackerel on the North Island’s west coast may see catch increases due to healthy numbers.


“These are just a small portion of the fish stocks in the review,” says Fisheries New Zealand’s Emma Taylor.


“They’re important to Kiwis economically, socially and culturally. It’s vital we hear from people before changes are made.”


The final decisions will be made by Fisheries Minister Shane Jones before the new fishing year starts on 1 October 2025.





For Coasties heading out from Gulf Harbour, Army Bay or Tindalls, these changes could impact what you’re allowed to bring home.


Submissions are now open online and locals are being asked to share their views.


Full proposals and submission info are available on the Fisheries New Zealand website.



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