A man suspected of illegally selling paua to food vendors in Northland could face a fine of up to $250,000 under the Fisheries Act.
The suspect, from Whangarei, was stopped by Fishery Officers after information was supplied from members of the public.
Officers caught the man at an Onerahi address and seized his vehicle on Wednesday morning.
An investigation found he and two associates approached four food vendors and members of the public offering paua for sale at $4 each.
Northland District Compliance Manager Darren Edwards said: "This apprehension was greatly assisted by the public and the ministry would continue to encourage the public to report suspicious or illegal activity to Fishery Officers."
