The Government is introducing sweeping new fishing restrictions across Auckland and the Coromandel in a bid to stop the widespread removal of marine life from rockpools and protect fragile coastal ecosystems.
Oceans and Fisheries Minister Shane Jones and Parliamentary Under-Secretary Jenny Marcroft have announced that new rules will take effect from 1 November 2026, restricting the collection of a wide range of shellfish and other marine species from rocky shores, beaches and tidal pools.
The restrictions will cover Auckland’s east and west coasts, Waiheke Island and the Coromandel, extending from the high-water mark to offshore areas where the water reaches two metres deep.
Species including mussels, limpets, cat’s eyes, chitons and periwinkles will be protected from harvesting within the restricted intertidal zone. Some species, including kina, pāua, pipi, cockles, crabs, rock lobster and squid, may still be collected subject to existing or new catch limits.
Jones says the changes respond to growing community concerns about excessive harvesting, with some coastal areas experiencing significant pressure from people removing large quantities of kaimoana and other marine life.
The Government is also tightening daily catch limits across the wider Auckland–Coromandel area. Green-lipped mussel limits will fall from 25 to 10 per person, while new limits will include 10 crabs, one octopus, five sea cucumbers and 10 squid per day.
Fishery Officers will begin educating the public about the restrictions from 1 November, with prosecution available for breaches. The Government is also developing an infringement system that would allow officers to issue instant fines for breaking the intertidal rules.
Marcroft says enforcement will focus on deliberate overharvesting rather than punishing tamariki exploring rockpools. Officers will retain discretion when responding to breaches.
The changes follow public consultation in which the Government says most submitters supported stronger protections. Existing fisheries closures, including restrictions in the Hauraki Gulf, will remain in place.
For coastal communities and whānau who gather kaimoana, the announcement means checking local fishing rules before heading to the shoreline. The Government says the restrictions are intended to protect marine biodiversity and ensure future generations can continue enjoying Aotearoa’s coastal environments.
The measures will remain in place until revoked, with ongoing monitoring to assess their effectiveness.
Full fishing rules and area-specific restrictions are available through the Ministry for Primary Industries.
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