The Kaikōura Marine Area rock lobster fishery will close for three months from 1 July as part of efforts to protect stocks and improve the long-term sustainability of the fishery.
The temporary closure, which runs until 30 September, will apply to both recreational and commercial fishing. A rāhui will also be placed on customary harvest by Te Rūnanga o Kaikōura, said Fisheries Minister Shane Jones. The measure was requested by the rūnanga and the Kaikōura Marine Guardians over concerns about the number of large rock lobsters in the area.
Officials say the closure is intended to strengthen the fishery ahead of the busy spring and summer season by reducing disturbance to egg-carrying female lobsters and allowing smaller animals more time to grow.
Fisheries New Zealand plans to undertake a stock assessment of the Kaikōura rock lobster fishery later this year. The results could lead to a review of catch limits across the wider fishery.
The decision follows a public consultation process conducted in April, which attracted strong support for the temporary closure. Authorities say the measure is designed to help maintain healthy lobster stocks and support future fishing opportunities in the region.
