Public assistance praised in paua apprehension

Northland Fishery Officers are praising the assistance of the public after successfully apprehending a man suspected of the illegal sale of paua.

Fishery Officers apprehended a Whangarei man at an Onerahi address and seized his vehicle on Wednesday morning as a result of information supplied by members of the public.

An investigation into the illegal sale of paua on Monday established that the man and two associates had approached four local food vendors and members of the general public offering paua for sale at four dollars each. Enquires are continuing to identify the man’s associates.

The man apprehended now faces serious charges relating to breaches of the Fisheries Act and faces penalties of maximum fines up $250,000 and the forfeiture of his vehicle.

The public are reminded that fish can only be purchased from legitimate commercial premises or a commercial fisherman and purchasing illegal fish is a serious offence with fines of up to $250,000 and the seizure of property used in the commission of the offence.

Darren Edwards, Northland District Compliance Manager says, “This apprehension was greatly assisted by the public and the ministry would continue to encourage the public to report suspicious or illegal activity to Fishery Officers as this is a key element in protecting the fishery and ensuring its sustainability for future generations.”

Mr Edwards says members of the public who see any unlawful activity (including suspected poaching and / or offering seafood for sale on the black-market) are urged to phone the Ministry’s freephone hotline: 0800 4 POACHER (0800 4 76224) in confidence.

You can also take advantage of the free mobile services. Text ‘app’ to 9889 to download the New Zealand fishing rules smartphone app. Or text the name of the species you are fishing for (e.g. crayfish, paua) to 9889 and you’ll receive the size and limit number by return text. Texts are free.

ENDS

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