Whitebait season is upon us - here are DOC's regulations

With the whitebait season upon us, here is a reminder of the and regulations courtesy of DOC:

The Department of Conservation is responsible for managing New Zealand’s whitebait fisheries. Observe the regulations and conserve our species.

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Download this information in a brochure: The whitebaiter's guide to whitebaiting (PDF, 4,380K) (opens in new window)

Whitebait fishing regulations 

These are a few key points from the Whitebait Fishing Regulations 2021. It’s a guide only, has no legal standing, and does not contain all the rules. Familiarise yourself with the full regulations.

These whitebait regulations do not affect Māori fishing rights. No changes have been made to provisions that affect customary fishing rights.

Fishing season and times

Fishing is only allowed during the season and from:

The taking of whitebait at all other times is prohibited.

Fishing season dates 2022

  • All of New Zealand except Chatham Islands: 1 September to 30 October inclusive.
  • Chatham Islands: 1 December to the last day of February inclusive.

Where you can fish

Whitebait fishing is only allowed where water levels are affected by the tide. Back pegs will mark this limit in some rivers.

Fishing is not allowed within 20 m of any:

  • tide gate
  • floodgate
  • confluence
  • culvert
  • weir
  • groyne
  • outfall structure, or
  • unlawful diversion.

You’re also not allowed to fish from any bridge or vessel.

Check, Clean and Dry between waterways logo.
Clean, Check, Dry to help prevent the spread of didymo and other freshwater pests

Check, Clean, Dry

Stop the spread of didymo and other freshwater pests.

Didymo is an exotic alga that invades waterways. To prevent the spread of freshwater pests such as didymo, always Check, Clean, Dry all footwear (including waders), vehicles, fishing equipment and other items before entering, and when moving between, waterways.

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For more information and specific cleaning guidelines, visit MPI biosecurity (external site) or stop the spread.

Contact

Contact any DOC office for more information. 

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