Environment court ruling updates no-take/no fishing regulations in Deep Water Cove to Oke Bay, and Mimiwhangata plus trawling and seining bans around Cape Brett
In a significant move, the Environment Court finalised its decision on marine protection measures for three of Northland's coastal areas: Mimiwhangata, Deep Water Cove to Oke Bay and Cape Brett.
As of 31 July 2023, the Northland Regional Council (NRC) has made these rules fully operative under its Regional Plan. The following press release and maps provides an overview of the new regulations, the areas they cover, and the steps NRC will be taking to ensure public awareness and compliance.
From the Northland Regional Council
MARINE PROTECTED AREAS UNDER THE NORTHLAND REGIONAL PLAN
In May 2023 the Environment Court issued its final decision on new marine protection rules for Mimiwhangata and Rakaumangamanga (Cape Brett), directing Northland Regional Council (NRC) to implement the rules through its Regional Plan. The Regional Plan and the marine protection rules became fully operative on 31 July 2023.
The rules applicable to the marine protected areas are as follows:
- Maunganui Bay (Deep Water Cove) to Oke Bay – no-take/no fishing;
- Mimiwhangata – no-take/no fishing;
- Rakaumangamanga (Cape Brett) – commercial fishing restrictions (no bottom trawling, bottom pair trawling, danish seining or purse seining).
NRC will be taking steps to educate the public about the new marine protected areas. Signage will be placed at boat ramps in the area, and staff will have on-water surveillance and presence at boat ramps leading into the summer period.
A map of the marine protected areas and co-ordinates is attached. The boundaries have been loaded on MarineMate. The Regional Plan and further information about the new rules can be found on NRC’s website at www.nrc.govt.nz/marineareas.
Please contact Nicola Hartwell, Kaiwhakahaere Moana Ora (Manager of Ocean Health) on the number below if you have any queries.
