Rockpool pillagers face infringements soon

New Zealand’s Oceans and Fisheries Minister Shane Jones announced infringement fees for breaking rockpool protection rules in Auckland and Coromandel, effective from November 26. Fishery Officers will issue $250 penalties to those who overharvest or take protected species, providing an enforcement tool between education and prosecution. The new regime targets overharvesting and aims to restore coastal habitats damaged by excessive shellfish and marine life collection.

Serious offenders will still face prosecution and potential seizure of vehicles or other items used during violations, according to the minister. The changes follow public consultation that highlighted the need for stronger enforcement to ensure compliance with the new rules. Fishery Officers now have an additional enforcement mechanism to address rule-breakers directly.

The intertidal closure, which began on November 1, prohibits overharvesting of coastal shellfish and marine life along Auckland and Coromandel coastlines. Fisheries New Zealand is supporting the rules with signage, education campaigns, and a six-week awareness initiative to inform the public about the restrictions. Full details are available on the Ministry for Primary Industries’ website.

The government’s announcement follows public feedback emphasizing the importance of effective enforcement to protect vulnerable coastal ecosystems. The infringement notices are designed to act as a deterrent while maintaining a balance between education and legal consequences for violations.