Tutukaka & Ngunguru temporary closure 2023-24
DECISION: APPROVED
Introduction
In December 2022, tangata whenua o Ngāti Takapari, Te Waiariki, and Ngāti Korora “Whangai Mokopuna,” wrote to the Minister for Oceans and Fisheries, requesting approval for a 2-year temporary closure to the harvest of certain species, and a netting ban around Tutukaka Harbour and Ngunguru Bay & River, Northland.
The request for 2-year temporary closure applies to the harvest of all shellfish (except kina), seahorses, and garfish/piper, as well as the use of scoop, gill, drag and set nets. The request was made under section 186A of the Fisheries Act 1996.
On 22 March 2023, Fisheries New Zealand (FNZ) advised the Minister had received this application. Submissions in response to the application were due with FNZ by 8 May 2023.
On 11 January 2024 FNZ released the Minister for Oceans and Fisheries Shane Jones’ approval for the temporary closure. Effective 5 February 2024 until February 2026.
Submission
On 8 May 2023 the New Zealand Sport Fishing Council, New Zealand Angling & Casting Association, NZ Underwater, and LegaSea, submitted in support of the application.
The temporary closure would be a placeholder for an anticipated mātaitai application. Over the past few years, Zone 1 representatives of the New Zealand Sport Fishing Council have been actively involved in positive discussions about establishing a mātaitai in the area.
The submitters believe the temporary closure and netting ban would provide the opportunity for much-needed restoration of sea life and habitats in the areas.
Relevant information
2024
Minister’s Decision
Tutukaka 186A Minister's decision. 11 Jan 2024
Ministerial approval for the 2-year temporary fisheries closure in Tutukaka Harbour, Ngunguru River, Horahora River and surrounds. Applies to selected species and fishing methods. Gazette notice signed 19 Dec 2023. Minister’s decision released 11 January 2024. Effective from 5 February 2024 until February 2026.
2023
Gazette Notice
Tutukaka s186A Gazette notice. 19 Dec 2023
Official gazette notice advising details of the area, species and fishing methods affected by the 2-year temporary closure of the Tutukaka Harbour, Ngunguru and Horahora Rivers. Approved by the Minister for Oceans and Fisheries Shane Jones on 19 December 2023. Released by Fisheries NZ on 11 January. Effective 5 February 2024 until February 2026.
Submission
Tutukaka s186A submission. Joint recreational. 8 May 2023.
Submission supporting the application for a temporary (s186A) 2-year closure in Tutukaka Harbour and Ngunguru Bay and River, Northland. Joint submission by NZSFC, LegaSea, NZ Angling & Casting Association, and NZ Underwater. 8 May 2023.
2022
Proposal
S186A application. Ngāti Takapari & Korora & Te Waiariki. 11 Dec 2022.
Application from by tangata whenua o Ngāti Takapari, Te Waiariki, and Ngāti Korora “Whangai Mokopuna” to the Minister requesting approval for a 2-year temporary closure of Tutukaka Harbour, Ngunguru Bay and River, to the harvest of all shellfish (except kina), crayfish, seahorses, piper/garfish, stingrays, and a netting ban. 11 December 2022.
Supporting document. Te Wairua O Te Moananui. 19 Dec 2022.
A supporting document by Te Wairua O Te Moananui – Ocean Spirit Charitable Trust, attached with the application by tangata whenua o Ngāti Takapari, Te Waiariki, and Ngāti Korora “Whangai Mokopuna” for a 2-year temporary closure and netting ban around Tutukaka Harbour and Ngunguru Bay & River, Northland. 19 Dec 2022.