Following consultation, the Minister for Oceans and Fisheries has made decisions on sustainability measures for the CRA 2 (Hauraki Gulf, Coromandel, and Bay of Plenty) and CRA 7 (Otago) rock lobster fisheries.

The summary of decisions are shown below:

CRA 2 (Hauraki Gulf, Coromandel, and Bay of Plenty)

Close the inner Hauraki Gulf to commercial and recreational rock lobster fishing. This encompasses waters south of a straight line extending from the southern boundary of the Cape Rodney-Okakari Point Marine Reserve to Port Jackson Bay, top of the Coromandel Peninsula (refer to the map).

Map showing closure to parts of the Hauraki Gulf for spiny rock lobster.

Retain the TAC at 173 tonnes.

Retain the allowance for all other mortality caused by fishing at 42.5 tonnes.

Retain the allowances for customary and recreational fishing at 16.5 tonnes and 34 tonnes, respectively.

Retain the TACC at 80 tonnes.

CRA 7 (Otago)

Increase the TAC from 134.5 tonnes to 137.5 tonnes.

Increase the allowance for all other mortality caused by fishing from 8 tonnes to 11 tonnes.

Retain the allowances for customary and recreational fishing at 10 tonnes and 5 tonnes, respectively .

Retain the TACC at 111.5 tonnes.

For more information, click here: https://www.mpi.govt.nz/consultations/review-of-sustainability-measures-for-fisheries-april-2025-round/

Ministry for Primary Industries