Paua lovers play the game

Recreational anglers on beaches are playing by the rules but wholesale paua poaching is not declining, fisheries officers say.

Ministry of Fisheries staff, paired up with honorary officers, have been checking beaches in the last couple of weeks.

Increased patrols this year have found a higher rate of compliance among anglers but a large haul of undersized paua was uncovered just five days before Christmas.

Ross Thurston, compliance manager for the Wellington to Wanganui district, said fisheries officers had been heartened by a higher level of compliance than last year among recreational fishers.

"The majority of hauls inspected on beaches have complied with fishing regulations, showing a marked improvement since 2003. Fishermen are to be congratulated," Mr Thurston said.

Fisheries officer Andy Sealey said he had been impressed with what he found.

"I've been really encouraged by anglers' increased knowledge and attention to the rules. It shows our job is really worthwhile when we start to see decimated paua populations starting to regenerate in some areas," Mr Sealey said.

Only eight people had been caught flouting the restrictions in paua size and number. They had received $250 instant fines.

"It has been very encouraging for fisheries officers to find that most people respect the regulations and realise that the resource has to be protected for future generations. Patrols carried out so far bode for a good season," Mr Sealey said.

However wholesale poaching rings were still active.

"It is disappointing that these large hauls are still being uncovered. If not found, they are moved on quickly and prepared for export from Wellington or Auckland."

- NZPA