The fish were all around 30cm in length and larger, and appeared to have only been in the water a short time. The fisher estimated well over 400 fish were floating.
Fishery officers who examined the fish formed the view that they were not recreational catch as they bore no signs of being hook-caught, and due to the number and condition, concluded that the fish had come from a commercial vessel.
The Ministry’s Auckland District Compliance Manager Ian Bright said that the high grading or “dumping” of healthy fish was considered serious offending and penalties for fishers convicted of dumping included fines of up to $250,000 and forfeiture of vessels used in the offending.
“I am confident that all responsible fishers, both commercial and recreational deplore such waste and timely reporting can greatly assist in enabling the MFish to hold those who deliberately dump fish to account,” Mr Bright said.
