Fisheries New Zealand is seeking public feedback on the Nga Hapū o Karangahape marae, Whānau pani, Ngāti Kaitangata, and Ngāti Kauwau proposal for a temporary (2 year) closure to the Whangaroa scallop fishery. The proposed closure will apply to commercial, recreational and customary harvest, refer to map.
The Mountains To Sea Conservation Trust Trustees recognise the importance of the Whanagaroa harbour, not just as a nursery ground for many fish, but also the importance to the local community and iwi. The trust acknowledges that the scallop beds have been depleted because of a combination of land based effects, such as sedimentation and overfishing, often by destructive bottom impacting methods like dredging. The Trust supports the local iwi and community and therefore supports the closure and is encouraging the public to write a submission. Submissions are due by the 10th May.
For more information check out https://www.mpi.govt.nz/consultations/proposed-temporary-closure-of-the-whangaroa-area-to-the-harvest-of-scallops/