Fishery Officer patrols will be stepped up over summer to curb illegal gathering and black-market trade of abalone, Oceans and Fisheries Minister Shane Jones says, warning the problem spikes at this time of year.

“People in and around the ocean can expect to see more Fishery Officers this summer with patrols being stepped up, including in some of our more remote areas,” Jones says.

Jones says people can help disrupt illegal trade by reporting rule-breaking to Fisheries New Zealand via the 0800 4 POACHER line.

He also warns buyers to be cautious about suspiciously cheap deals.

Legally caught abalone usually sells for about $100 per kilogram, he says, and Fishery Officers have seen an increase in sales on social media in recent years, especially in December and January.

For Hibiscus Coast locals heading into summer on the water, the message is simple.

Follow the rules, and report what does not look right.

Fisheries New Zealand is also encouraging people to download the NZ Fishing Rules App to check local rules around the country.

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