Warning as scallop season ends

The northern scallop season closes today and the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries is warning people not to take it upon themselves to extend the season.

Shellfish gatherers who ignore the rule can be fined up to $500 per offence. Serious breaches can result in penalties up to $250,000 plus confiscation of diving gear, boats and vehicles.

The areas affected by the closure also includes Northland, Auckland, Waikato, Coromandel and the Bay of Plenty.

The next scallop season starts on September 1.

- NEWSTALK ZB