I've read with interest over the last couple of weeks, the very different thoughts some locals have about sharing, not sharing and protecting our koura resource.
While I don't doubt their number is declining, I don't believe just one race can take all the blame. I feel it is more so factors such as draining our wetlands which act as a natural sponge and filter before the rain run-off from our buildings, streets and carparks enters our waterways.
Another factor is the modern equipment used to harvest koura. This equipment includes masks, snorkels, motor-powered boats and large plastic or metal trays which are placed under the bundles of baited branches used to attract and hold the koura, as they are lifted from the water into the boat.
Maybe a return to the more skilful traditional methods of harvesting might also slow the decline. Has any thought been given to a total ban during their breeding season, like the ban in place for scallops?
As a fifth-generation New Zealander who married a Maori lady, will this proposed ban now prevent me from taking my moko koura gathering and sharing our kai with my elderly Maori neighbours, as we do with fish, fruit, veges, and meat when there is spare?
