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Conservation will be better considered when Kiwis seek to gather kaimoana, new proposals to safeguard the sustainability of shellfish and other marine species in Auckland and Coromandel.
People are being encouraged to have their say, Auckland Minister Simon Watts says.
“Aucklanders are rightly proud of our harbours and coastlines. However, in many places, shellfish beds aren’t recovering, and there is a lot at stake for the future of this resource.
“We are seeking feedback on proposed targeted protections – designed alongside local communities – to give these areas time to recover while also tackling pollution and runoff. We want input on how to get this right.”
The review of management of intertidal species follows a two-year ban on gathering sea life from rockpools and other intertidal areas in the northern Hauraki Gulf, which took effect on March 12.
Concerns have been expressed about the quantity and types of marine life being taken throughout Auckland and Coromandel, Fisheries under-secretary, Jenny Marcroft, adds.
“There have been reports of intensive harvesting of an increasing range of species found in and around rock pools. Auckland’s extensive coastline is close to a large urban population and beaches can be easily accessed, making kaimoana in the intertidal zone vulnerable to over-harvesting,” she says.
“I have spent a lot of time speaking to locals and we share the communities’ concerns. Officials have prioritised proposals to better manage shellfish and other sea life in these regions.
“Intertidal shellfish and other invertebrates are an important part of coastal ecosystems and it’s clear that people care deeply about their coastlines and the diverse marine life found there.”
Further options for area closures and additional restrictions will now be considered as part of the proposals, Minister of Oceans and Fisheries, Shane Jones, says.
“The restrictions already placed on shellfish-gathering north of Auckland have been welcomed by the community and there’s been a high level of compliance. In considering potential changes to the harvesting rules, it’s important that we get the balance right so people can continue to enjoy our coastlines for generations to come.”
See www.mpi.govt.nz/consultations for more information about the proposals and how to submit feedback.
