For many locals and visitors in the popular Taupo area, the traditional "day out fishing" has turned into a nightmare.
Children and adults, seeking to catch dinner or just have a day out trying to catch anything, have been stunned and frustrated at the new regime which the Department of Conservation (DoC) has put in place, which has turned an easy day out and fun for the family into a stressful process, leaving many unhappy at what should be the happiest time of the year.
DoC has recently changed the previous, simple paper-based fishing licence system to an online licence purchase system.
The move was criticised at the time due to lack of consultation and rapid implementation and now those concerns have come home to roost.
The change was a move by DoC to save money in their cash-strapped environment. But the cost to the pleasure of holidaymakers, local and overseas visitors, is an embarrassment to an area touting itself as a great tourist destination.
