Date:  24 August 2026

DOC Compliance Officer Evan Davies observed the three people fishing from a vessel in the Reotahi section of the marine reserve during a routine patrol on 12 June 2026.

At about 3 pm, Evan saw the vessel inside the protected area. All three occupants were actively fishing when first seen.

The vessel’s location was confirmed using GPS coordinates taken from DOC vessel Rako while it was alongside the fishermen’s boat. During subsequent interviews, all three men admitted they had been fishing within the marine reserve.

Between them, they’d caught one snapper from inside the marine reserve boundaries. Each man was issued with a $600 infringement notice, which has since been paid.

The fishers were cooperative throughout the DOC investigation and accepted responsibility. Those were key factors in the decision to issue infringement notices rather than pursue prosecution through the courts.

DOC Whangārei Operations Manager Rob Akuhata says marine reserves provide important protection for marine ecosystems and are areas where fishing and the taking of marine life are prohibited.

“Marine reserves help protect marine habitats and allow fish and other marine species to thrive free from fishing pressure,” he says.

“Although most people follow the rules, it's important anyone heading out on the water understands where marine reserve boundaries are and what activities are permitted within them.”

DOC encourages anyone out naturing on the water to familiarise themselves with marine reserve boundaries before heading out and to use available charts, mapping tools and signage to avoid inadvertently entering protected areas.

Chart plotting tools should be updated regularly to ensure boaties and fishers have the latest information.

Information on marine reserves and protected areas can be found on the DOC website.

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