Set net ban for west coast

The ministry of Fisheries is proposing a set net ban covering a large section of the west coast to protect the endangered Hectors Dolphin. The ban is being considered due to recent dolphin deaths resulting from set nets and lobbying from the World Wildlife Fund New Zealand to protect the 150 strong species.

The first option of the proposal covers an area from the southern head of the Manukau Harbour to Taranaki Point within four nautical miles of the coastline. A set netting ban is also proposed in the Manukau , Aotea and Kawhia Harbours.

Ministry of Fisheries spokesman Todd Sylvester also mentioned the use of voluntary devises such as logbooks, dolphin deterring pingers on nets, and a height limit would reduce the likelihood of mortalities and mentioned that these measure could be legally enforced if necessary.

The second option proposes banning all netting with four nautical miles of coast from Manganui Bluff to Pariokariwa point. The proposal does not cover netting inside west coast harbours or rivers.

Submissions to Ministry of Fisheries close on May 21