August 06, 2021
New rules in place for whitebait season
New regulations have been set for the 2021 whitebaiting season.
The season starts on August 15 except on the West Coast, where it kicks off on September 1.
Whitebait fishing is now only allowed where water levels are affected by the tide.
New refuges have been created within and near Abel Tasman and southern Fiordland National Parks where fishing for whitebait is prohibited.
Screens are limited to 3 metres, except when used from stands, and there must be a minimum distance of 20 metres between fixed fishing gear, except when used from stands.
Conservation Minister Kiri Allan says the new regulations aim to create a more equitable fishery and ease the pressure on whitebait species while providing consistency across the country,
She says whitebait are taonga, mahinga kai for Māori and a valuable part of Aotearoa New Zealand's indigenous biodiversity, but four of the six species are now threatened or at risk of extinction.
Tougher rules will come next year, including a shorter season.
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