New Zealand Boosts Paua Poaching Patrols for Summer Season

Increased Patrols Target Illegal Paua Trade

New Zealand's Oceans and Fisheries Minister Shane Jones has announced a substantial increase in fishery officer patrols throughout the upcoming summer months. The intensified surveillance aims to curb the illegal gathering and illicit trade of paua, a highly valued marine snail. Minister Jones stated that while overall paua stocks are in good health, poaching remains a growing concern, particularly during the peak summer period.

'Summer is always the worst time of year for it,' Minister Jones said, highlighting that illegal harvesting and black-market activities, some of which are linked to gangs, pose a significant threat to the resource.

Focus on High-Risk Areas and Public Involvement

Fishery Officers will enhance their presence in and around coastal areas, including more remote locations, to detect and deter offenders. Data indicates that while national fisheries compliance rates are approximately 94 percent, compliance in the Wellington and Wairarapa regions has dropped to around 74 percent. This means that roughly one in five inspections in these specific areas reveal illegal activity, such as exceeding daily limits or possessing undersized paua.

The public is encouraged to assist in combating illegal trade by reporting suspicious activities to Fisheries New Zealand through the 0800 4 POACHER hotline. Minister Jones also warned against purchasing paua at prices that seem 'too good to be true,' noting that legally caught paua typically sells for about $100 per kilogram. Fishery Officers have observed a rise in social media sales of paua, especially prevalent during December and January, which often involves illicitly obtained shellfish.

Understanding Paua and Penalties for Poaching

Paua, known scientifically as Haliotis iris (blackfoot paua) and Haliotis australis (yellowfoot paua), are large sea snails that hold significant cultural and economic value in New Zealand. They are cherished by Māori, recreational fishers, and the commercial fishing industry. Strict regulations are in place to ensure the sustainability of paua populations, including minimum legal sizes and daily catch limits, which vary by region.

Penalties for illegal paua gathering are severe and designed to act as a deterrent. Individuals found breaching regulations can face:

• Substantial fines
• Community-based sentences, such as community work
• Imprisonment for serious or repeat offenses
• Forfeiture of equipment, including boats and vehicles used in the commission of the crime

The Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) emphasizes that paua poachers are 'thieves that take from all of us and cut across the legitimate catch of recreational, customary and commercial fishers.' The increased patrols underscore the government's commitment to protecting this precious natural resource for future generations.