The decision of Supreme Court to accept an application to review the 2008 Appeal Court kahawai decisions has been welcomed by amateur fishing organisations. It is said that the apex court has granted leave to appeal against the Court of Appeal’s decision. The court asked for the clarification as to how the Minister of Fisheries is to properly allow for amateur fishing interests when setting catch limits in all, important fisheries.
It is believe that the Supreme Court’s decision will likely set a precedent for all future management decisions. Joint appellants to the Appeal Court decision, the New Zealand Big Game Fishing Council and the New Zealand Recreational Fishing Council, are now waiting for a hearing date to be set by the Supreme Court, likely to be early 2009. Richard Baker, President of the NZ Big Game Fishing Council, said that this is an historic day for all New Zealanders. He added that the Council appreciates the backing of option4 and our largest iwi, Ngapuhi, in trying to defend the inalienable right of all future Kiwis to fish and provide for their wellbeing.
The Council is pleased with the decision to allow the appeal but it was not surprised that the fishing industry had opposed the Supreme Court application. The Council was however very surprised and disappointed that the Ministry and Minister of Fisheries supported the fishing industry in opposing the Council’s application.
