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Fishing & shellfish gathering
Enjoy > Fishing & shellfish gathering
Fishing, shellfish gathering and whitebaiting are three of the most popular activities in and around the harbour. Fish and shellfish are still plentiful but some fish stocks have been heavily exploited so there are rules to protect them for all to enjoy.
Ōhiwa Harbour is in the Auckland and Kermadec Islands' fishing region. Wise up about the local fishing regulations. It’s easy. Download up-to-date regulations or get the NZ Fishing Rules app.
Shellfish gathering
Several rāhui (bans) have stopped the collection of mussels in the past as mussel numbers had declined to alarmingly low levels, possibly due to storms, sedimentation and overfishing. Recent investigations have found that mussels are also being predated by seastar (Coscinasterias muricata); research is underway to find out more about the problem and possible solutions. Pipi are still plentiful but they too are at risk from overfishing.
Floundering
If poorly done, set netting can result in fish wastage, by-catch of unwanted fish species, capture of seabirds and lost or abandoned nets. Find out how to 'do it right':
Whitebaiting
Whitebait season is open between 1 September and 30 October at Ōhiwa Harbour. However, it’s important to know that these small migratory fish are under threat and in decline. If you really want to go after this fragile delicacy, it’s important to know the rules.
Important: Find out about closures (rāhui) of Ōhiwa Harbour here.
