From 1 November, it will be against the law to take most sea creatures out of rockpools along large parts of Auckland and the Coromandel coastline.
The new rule covers the area between the high-tide mark and where the water is about 2 metres deep, known as the intertidal zone. It applies to Auckland’s east and west coasts, Waiheke Island, and the Coromandel.
Creatures like cat’s eyes, mussels, limpets, chitons and periwinkles can no longer be collected from these rockpools. Some other sea life, like crabs, octopus, pāua and rock lobster, can still be taken elsewhere, but only in smaller amounts than before.
Oceans and Fisheries Minister Shane Jones said the ban was needed because a “selfish few” had been taking far more than their fair share, leaving rockpools empty of life.
“This behaviour is endangering these fragile ecosystems and putting at risk our beloved coastal areas,” he said.
Under-secretary Jenny Marcroft said rangers will focus on people who are clearly stripping rockpools bare out of “greed and selfishness,” rather than families having a look around.
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