Reprint as at 20 December 2015

Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Regulations 2001

(SR 2001/253)
Silvia Cartwright, Governor-General

Order in Council

At Wellington this 17th day of September 2001
Present:Her Excellency the Governor-General in Council

Note

Changes authorised by subpart 2 of Part 2 of the Legislation Act 2012 have been made in this official reprint.
Note 4 at the end of this reprint provides a list of the amendments incorporated.
These regulations are administered by the Ministry for Primary Industries.

Pursuant to section 297 of the Fisheries Act 1996, Her Excellency the Governor-General, acting on the advice and with the consent of the Executive Council, makes the following regulations.

Contents

1
Title

2
Commencement

3
Interpretation

4
Certain other regulations prevail over these regulations

Part 1 New Zealand fishing vessels and foreign-owned New Zealand fishing vessels

Administrative matters

5
Change of name of vessel

6
Changes of information must be notified

7
Certificate of registration, certificate of notification, and fishing permits must be produced

8
Alteration and replacement of certificate of registration, certificate of notification, or fishing permit

Marking of vessels

9
Name of vessel

10
Marking of vessels with registration number

11
Marking of vessels with international call sign

12
Colour of letters and figures

13
Letters and figures must be maintained

14
Display of false or misleading letters or figures

15
Alternative position for marking vessels

16
Marking of tenders

Part 2 Conditions applying to foreign-owned New Zealand fishing vessels and registered fish carriers

Conditions of general application to certificates of registration

17
Reporting obligations

18
Carriage and transfer of fishing equipment

19
Transhipment of fish

20
Communications

21
Boarding procedures

22
Helicopter transfer

23
Facilities for observers

Additional conditions applying to particular types of fishing vessels: Tuna longline fishing

24
Areas closed to longliners

25
Tagging of billfish caught by tuna longliners

26

Application for approval for southern bluefin tuna longlining [Revoked]

Skipjack tuna purse seiners

27
Conditions applying to skipjack tuna purse seiners

28
Returns required in relation to skipjack tuna purse seining

Squid jiggers

29
Conditions applying to squid jiggers

Part 3 Restrictions on commercial fishing for certain species

Marlin

30
Restrictions on taking marlin

Finfish

31
Minimum finfish length and net mesh size

Shellfish

32
Size limits on shellfish

33
Restrictions on opening shellfish

34
Restrictions on taking oysters

35
Restrictions on taking and possessing scallops

36
Taking and possessing toheroa prohibited

Rock lobster

37
Size limit on rock lobster

38
Method of measurement of spiny rock lobster tail

39
Instruments used for measuring spiny rock lobster

40
Method of measurement of packhorse rock lobster

41
Taking, possessing, processing, and sale of certain rock lobsters prohibited

42
Rock lobsters must be landed and processed alive

Salmon

43
Taking or possession of salmon prohibited

Black coral

44
Taking and possession of black coral prohibited

Marine turtles

45
Taking and possession of marine turtles prohibited

46
Uninjured turtles must be immediately returned to waters from which taken

47
Injured turtles

48
Circulars relating to marine turtles

49

Turtle catches must be reported [Revoked]

Eels

50
Maximum legal weight for eels taken from New Zealand fisheries waters

51
Minimum weight for eels taken from New Zealand fisheries waters

52

Use of fyke nets to take eels in South Island fisheries waters [Revoked]

Brown bullhead catfish

52A
Sale of live brown bullhead catfish prohibited

Shark finning

52B
Shark finning prohibited

52C
Circulars relating to shark finning

Part 4 Conditions relating to fishing equipment

Labelling of fish containers

53
Labelling of containers

Marking of fishing gear

54
Longlines, static fishing gear, and set nets

55
Fyke nets

56
Pots

57
Gear not associated with vessel must be marked

Seabird scaring devices

58
Seabird scaring devices required for tuna longlining

Avoidance or mitigation of fishing-related seabird mortality

58A
Circulars may authorise or require seabird mitigation measures

58B
Responsibility for compliance

58C

Responsibilities of vessel operator or master in relation to seabird scaring devices [Revoked]

General provisions relating to nets

59
Measurement of net mesh size

60
Restrictions on nets in channels

61
Stalling prohibited

62
Use of poles or stakes

63
Use of specified nets prohibited

64
Use of net-sonde monitor cables prohibited

Set nets

65
Length of set net

66
Set net soak time

Drag nets and beach seine nets

67
Length of drag net or beach seine net

68
Method of hauling drag net or beach seine net

Danish seine nets

69
Danish seine net restrictions

70
Danish seining prohibited near South Island coast

Trawl nets

71
Trawl net restrictions

72
Trawling by vessels over 46 m long prohibited in territorial sea

73
Trawling prohibited in closed seamount areas

74

Other methods of fishing prohibited [Revoked]

Fyke nets

75
Tubes must be incorporated in fyke nets

Underwater breathing apparatus

76
Restrictions relating to underwater breathing apparatus

76A
Underwater breathing apparatus allowed when taking certain species

77
Underwater breathing apparatus allowed in certain circumstances

Shellfish dredges

78
Shellfish dredge design and size

Pots

79
Apertures required in rock lobster pots

79A
Requirements for pots used for taking blue cod or octopus

Spears

80
Use of spears prohibited

Wire traces and shark lines

80A
Use of wire traces and shark lines by commercial tuna and billfish fishers prohibited

Part 5 Authorised stocks
[Revoked]

81

Declaration of authorised stocks [Revoked]

Part 6 Fees, offences, and penalties

Fees

82
Fees

83
Chief executive may waive or remit certain fees

Offences

84
Offences

Penalties

85
Penalties

Revocation

86
Revocation

Schedule 1 Diagrams relating to method of measurement of spiny rock lobster

Schedule 2 Fees

Schedule 3 Measurement of net mesh size

Schedule 4 Provisions relating to marking of New Zealand fishing vessels and foreign-owned New Zealand fishing vessels

Schedule 5 Authorised stocks
[Revoked]

Gazette Information

Reprint notes

Regulations

1 Title


These regulations are the Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Regulations 2001.

2 Commencement

(1)
Except as provided for in subclause (2), these regulations come into force on 1 October 2001.

(2)
Part 5 of Schedule 2 comes into force the day after the date these regulations are notified in the Gazette.

3 Interpretation



In these regulations, unless the context otherwise requires,—
Act means the Fisheries Act 1996
albacore means a fish of the species Thunnus alalunga
anchovy means a fish of the species Engraulis australis
artificially attached, in relation to shark fins, means attached to the corresponding body of the shark through some artificial means, for example, the fins are stitched, tied, or stapled to the body of the shark or secured in a bag with the body of the shark
automatic location communicator has the same meaning as in regulation 2 of the Fisheries (Satellite Vessel Monitoring) Regulations 1993

beachcast seaweed, for the purposes of these regulations, means any beachcast seaweed except,—

(a)

in all fishery management areas, beachcast seaweed of the class Rhodophyceae (red seaweed); and

(b)

in fishery management areas 3 to 7, beachcast seaweed of the genera Durvillea (rimurapa), Ulva (sea lettuce), and Porphyra (karengo)

billfish means marlin, sailfish, and spearfish
black coral means the coelenterate of the order Antipatharia
blue cod means a fish of the species Parapercis colias
blue mackerel means a fish of the species Scomber australasicus
blue moki means a fish of the species Latridopsis ciliaris
blue shark means a shark of the species Prionace glauca
box net or teichi net means a trap net capable of taking finfish; but does not include a fyke net
brown bullhead catfish (commonly known as catfish) means a fish of the species Ameiurus nebulosus
butterfish means a fish of the species Odax pullus and Odax cyanoallix
catch landing return has the same meaning as it has in regulation 6 of the Fisheries (Reporting) Regulations 2001
certificate of notification means a certificate issued by the chief executive on the approved form under section 104 of the Act

certificate of registration means either—

(a)

a certificate issued by the chief executive on the approved form under section 103 of the Act; or

(b)

a certificate issued by the chief executive on the approved form under section 105 of the Act

channel, river, or stream includes all waters that are contained by natural or artificial banks
cockle means a shellfish of the species Chione (Austrovenus) stutchburyi

cod-end means—

(a)

the part of a net that is normally closed during fishing and is capable of holding fish while in the water; and

(b)

includes, in respect of a net—

(i)

carried on a vessel not exceeding 10 m in overall length, not less than the last 3 m of net:

(ii)

carried on a vessel 10 m or more but less than 20 m in overall length, not less than the last 5 m of net:

(iii)

carried on a vessel 20 m or more but less than 30 m in overall length, not less than the last 10 m of net:

(iv)

carried on a vessel 30 m or more but less than 40 m in overall length, not less than the last 15 m of net:

(v)

carried on a vessel 40 m or more in overall length, not less than the last 20 m of net

commercial fisher, for the purposes of these regulations, means a person who has a fishing permit issued under section 91 of the Act entitling that person to take a species or class of fish, aquatic life, or seaweed; and includes—

(a)

a person who is engaged in any capacity on a New Zealand fishing vessel or a foreign-owned New Zealand fishing vessel; and

(b)

a person, whether or not on board a fishing vessel, who takes fish, aquatic life, or seaweed for the purposes of sale

Danish seine net means a net or part of a net (including a warp, rope, chain, material, or device used in conjunction with, or attached to, the net) that—

(a)

has a buoyancy system on the top edge; and

(b)

is weighted on the bottom edge; and

(c)

is operated without the use of a horizontal net opening device by surrounding fish and being drawn over the bed of waters, or through waters, to 1 or more vessels

Danish seining means the use of a Danish seine net
deepwater clam means a shellfish of the species Panopea zelandica

drag net or beach seine net means a net or part of a net (including a warp, rope, chain, material, or device used in conjunction with, or attached to, the net) that—

(a)

has a buoyancy system on the top edge; and

(b)

is weighted on the bottom edge; and

(c)

is operated by surrounding fish and being drawn over the bed of waters, or through waters, to the shore

dredge means a device towed on or over, or capable of being towed on or over, the seabed primarily for the collection of shellfish; and includes a box dredge or ring device
dropline or dahn line means a weighted line to which a number of hooks are attached to the bottom portion that is placed vertically for the purposes of taking fish
eel, for the purposes of regulations made under the Act, means freshwater eel
elephant fish means a fish of the species Callorhynchus milii
Fisheries Communication Centre means the Communication Centre of the Ministry of Fisheries in Wellington
fishing gear includes a net, line, pot, trap, dredge, apparatus, device, or thing that is used, or is capable of being used, for the purpose of taking fish
fishing method means the way in which fishing gear is used to take fish or any other practice that may reasonably be expected to result in fish being taken

flatfishes include the following species:

(a)

Rhombosolea plebia (sand flounder, also known as dab, white, diamond, or square flounder):

(b)

Pelotretis flavilatus (lemon sole):

(c)

Peltorhamphus novaezeelandiae (New Zealand sole):

(d)

Rhombosolea leporina (flounder, also known as yellow belly):

(e)

Colistium guntheri (brill):

(f)

Colistium nudipinnis (turbot):

(g)

Rhombosolea retiaria (black flounder):

(h)

Rhombosolea tapirina (greenback flounder)

foreign fishing vessel means a foreign fishing vessel licensed under section 84 of the Act

fyke net means a trap net (set with or without leaders or wings) if—

(a)

the trap section has single or multiple throats and is supported by hoops or rings; and

(b)

the leaders or the net are held in position by poles or anchoring devices, or by both poles and anchoring devices

garfish means a fish of the species Hyporhamphus ihi (also known as piper)
groper includes fish of the species Polyprion oxygeneios and Polyprion americanus (formerly known as Polyprion moeone)
hinaki means a trap capable of taking eels
jack mackerel means fish of the genera Trachurus spp
kahawai means a fish of the species Arripis trutta
kina means a shellfish of the species Evechinus chloroticus (also known as the sea egg); and includes the shellfish of the species Centrostephanus rodgersii (also known as the purple urchin)
kingfish means a fish of the species Seriola lalandi
koheru means a fish of the species Decapterus koheru
koi means a fish of the species Cyprinus carpio

length, unless otherwise specified, means,—

(a)

in relation to finfish, the length from the tip of the nose to the posterior end of the middle ray of the tail fin:

(b)

in relation to scallops, the greatest diameter of the shell:

(c)

in relation to paua, the greatest overall length of the shell measured on a plane parallel to the ventral surface of the paua

longline means a line to which a hook or hooks (whether baited or not) are attached

marine turtle means a reptile of the following species:

(a)

Caretta caretta (logger head turtle):

(b)

Chelonia mydas (green turtle):

(c)

Eretmochelys imbricata (hawksbill turtle):

(d)

Lepidochelys olivacea (olive ridley or pacific ridley turtle):

(e)

Dermochelys coriacea (leatherback or leathery back or luth turtle)

marlin means a fish of the following species:

(a)

Tetrapturus audax (striped marlin):

(b)

Makaira nigricans (blue marlin):

(c)

Makaira indica (black marlin)

mullet includes a fish of the species Mugil cephalus (also known as the grey mullet) and Upeneichthys lineatus (also known as the goatfish or red mullet); but does not include yellow-eyed mullet

mussel means a shellfish of the following species:

(a)

Perna canaliculus (green-lipped mussel):

(b)

Mytilus edulis aoteanus (blue mussel):

(c)

Atrina zelandica (horse mussel)

naturally attached, in relation to shark fins, means attached to the corresponding body of the shark through some portion of uncut skin
net means a net or part of a net used, or capable of being used, to take fish; but does not include a whitebait net

net mesh size means the size ascertained by measuring the greatest diagonal distance within a mesh when measured—

(a)

using a certified gauge provided by a fishery officer that corresponds to the mesh size to be measured; and

(b)

in accordance with Part 2 of Schedule 3

net-sonde monitor cable—

(a)

means a continuous cable or wire that—

(i)

is operated from a winch located on the aft or stern of a fishing vessel; and

(ii)

leads directly from the aft or stern of the vessel to an electronic recorder or monitor attached to the headline, headrope, or meshes of a trawl net; but

(b)

does not include an acoustically linked net monitor system that is a paravane or a hull-mounted transducer system

New Zealand authorities includes harbour and port authorities, Maritime New Zealand, Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, New Zealand Customs Service, New Zealand Defence Force, and New Zealand Police
New Zealand fishing vessel, for the purposes of these regulations, means a fishing vessel registered under section 103(3) or section 105 of the Act; but does not include foreign-owned New Zealand fishing vessels registered with consent under section 103(4) of the Act
New Zealand Government aircraft means an aircraft that belongs to the New Zealand Government; and includes an aircraft set aside for, or used by, the New Zealand Defence Force
New Zealand Government ship, for the purposes of these regulations, means a ship that belongs to the New Zealand Government; and includes a ship that is set aside for, or used by, the New Zealand Defence Force
notified user means a person named in a certificate of notification issued under section 104 of the Act
octopus means a shellfish of the species Octopus maorum
overall length means the length of a vessel measured by a straight middle line from the extreme forward end to the extreme aft end of the hull of the vessel

oyster includes a shellfish of the species—

(a)

Saccostrea glomerata (formerly known as Crassostrea glomerata or Saxostrea glomerata and also known as the rock oyster):

(b)

Crassostrea gigas (also known as the Pacific oyster):

(c)

Tiostrea chilensis (formerly known as Ostrea lutaria and also known as the dredge oyster)

packhorse rock lobster means a crustacean of the species Jasus verreauxi (also known as the green rock lobster); and includes any part of that fish
paddle crab means a shellfish of the species Ovalipes catharus

paua means a shellfish of the following species:

(a)

Haliotis iris (ordinary paua):

(b)

Haliotis australis (yellow foot paua):

(c)

Haliotis virginea (virgin paua)

permit means a fishing permit issued under section 91 of the Act
pilchard means a fish of the species Sardinops sagax
pipi means a shellfish of the species Paphies australis
prawn killer means a shellfish of the species Ibacus alticrenatus
purse seine net or lampara net means a net that is operated from a vessel to encircle fish and that is drawn together at the bottom to enclose the fish
red cod means a fish of the species Pseudophycis bachus
red moki means a fish of the species Cheilodactylus spectabilis
rig means a fish of the species Mustelus lenticulatus
ring pot, hoop net, or pullpot means a circular frame across which netting is attached
rock lobster pot means a pot, whether baited or not, that is capable of catching and holding or storing rock lobsters; and includes other devices capable of catching, holding, and storing rock lobsters
sailfish means fish of the genera Istiophorus spp

salmon means fish of the following species:

(a)

Salmo salar (Atlantic salmon):

(b)

Oncorhynchus tshawytscha (chinook salmon, previously known as quinnat or king salmon):

(c)

Oncorhynchus nerka (sockeye salmon)

saury means a fish of the species Scomberesox saurus
scallop, for the purpose of these regulations, means a shellfish of the species Pecten novaezelandiae

seabird mitigation measure means a measure or device carried, used, or adopted (as the case may require) for the purpose of avoiding or mitigating the effect of fishing-related seabird mortality, such as (but not limited to)– –

(a)

using, adopting, or avoiding a particular fishing practice:

(b)

using or carrying a seabird scaring device

set net includes a gill net or other sort of net that acts by enmeshing, entrapping, or entangling fish; but does not include a fyke net or hinaki
shark means a fish of the class Chondrichthyes, but excludes Batoidea
shark finning means the removal of the fin of any shark and the return of the body of that shark to the sea
shark line means a line deployed directly off longline floats or directly off droplines
skipjack tuna means a fish of the species Katsuwonus pelamis
soft shell stage means the state of a rock lobster following moulting where the exoskeleton has not reached full hardness
snapper means a fish of the species Pagrus auratus (formerly known as Chrysophrys auratus)
South Island fisheries waters, in these regulations, means all New Zealand fisheries waters in the area to the south of a line commencing at the intersection with the boundary of the New Zealand exclusive economic zone at 38°09′S and 169°32′E; then proceeding in a generally easterly direction to a point at 40°02′S and 173°00′E; then proceeding in a south-easterly direction to a point offshore from Kapiti Island at 40°42′S and 174°40′E; then proceeding in a generally southerly direction to a point offshore from Cape Terawhiti at 41°13′S and 174°31′E; then proceeding in a generally southerly direction to a point in Cook Strait at 41°26′S and 174°23′E; then proceeding in an easterly direction to a further point in Cook Strait at 41°32′S and 174°28′E; then proceeding in a generally south-easterly direction to a further point in Cook Strait at 41°35′S and 174°36′E; then proceeding in a generally easterly direction to a point south of Sinclair Head at 41°39′S and 174°58′E; then proceeding in a generally south-easterly direction to a point on the southern side of the Chatham Rise at 44°26′S and 178°26′E; and then proceeding in a generally south-easterly direction to a point that intersects the boundary of the New Zealand exclusive economic zone at 47°46′S and 175°57′W
southern bluefin tuna means a fish of the species Thunnus maccoyi; and includes a fish of the species Thunnus thynnus
spat means a lifecycle stage or size-range of fish, aquatic life, or seaweed that is declared by the chief executive by notice in the Gazette to be spat
spear means a device or implement capable of puncturing the flesh or exoskeleton of fish; but does not include a gaff or similar device used solely for the landing of finfish
spearfish means a fish of the genera Tetrapturus spp
spiny rock lobster means a crustacean of the species Jasus edwardsii (also known as the red rock lobster); and includes any part of that fish
stalling means the process of setting a net so that fish enclosed or entangled by the net are left stranded by the falling tide or are enclosed or entangled so that, at any stage of the tide, there is an insufficient depth of water at either end of the net to enable the fish to pass from the waters above the net to the waters below the net
static fishing gear means fishing gear not drawn through the water by mechanical means or by hand
tailing means the process of removing the 6 abdominal segments and the tail fan from the cephalothorax or head or body of a rock lobster
tarakihi means a fish of the species Nemadactylus macropterus and Nemadactylus sp (also known as king tarakihi)
toheroa means a shellfish of the species Paphies ventricosa
trammel net means a net with more than 1 section of mesh, each section of which is attached to a common frame rope, and that catches fish by enmeshing, entrapping, or entangling them

trawl net means—

(a)

a net or part of a net (including any warp, rope, chain, material, or device used in conjunction with, or attached to, that net) that—

(i)

has a buoyancy system on the top edge; and

(ii)

is weighted on the bottom edge; and

(iii)

is operated by being drawn over the bed of waters, or through waters, by 1 or more vessels underway; but

(b)

does not include a Danish seine net

trawling means the use of a trawl net
trevally means a fish of the species Pseudocaranx dentex (previously known as Caranx georgianus)

tuatua means a shellfish of the species—

(a)

Paphies subtriangulata; and

(b)

Paphies donacina (also known as southern tuatua)

underwater breathing apparatus means apparatus capable of being used for providing breathable gases underwater; and includes part of that apparatus; but does not include a snorkel
wet, in relation to shark fins, means fins that have not undergone any drying
whitebait net means a net, contrivance, instrument, or device used or capable of being used to take fish commonly known as whitebait
wire trace means a line that is made from, or includes, 1 or more metal strands
yellow-eyed mullet means a fish of the species Aldrichetta forsteri (also known as herring)
yellowfin tuna means a fish of the species Thunnus albacores.

Regulation 3 artificially attached: inserted, on 1 October 2014, by regulation 4 of the Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations (No 2) 2014 (LI 2014/279).
Regulation 3 automatic location communicator: inserted, on 21 February 2014, by regulation 4(1) of the Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations 2014 (LI 2014/17).
Regulation 3 blue shark: inserted, on 1 October 2014, by regulation 4 of the Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations (No 2) 2014 (LI 2014/279).
Regulation 3 brown bullhead catfish: substituted, on 1 April 2007, by regulation 4 of the Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations 2007 (SR 2007/32).
Regulation 3 deepwater clam: inserted, on 1 October 2006, by regulation 4 of the Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations (No 2) 2006 (SR 2006/235).
Regulation 3 naturally attached: inserted, on 1 October 2014, by regulation 4 of the Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations (No 2) 2014 (LI 2014/279).
Regulation 3 New Zealand authorities: amended, on 1 July 2005, by section 11(4) of the Maritime Transport Amendment Act 2004 (2004 No 98).
Regulation 3 pilchard: amended, on 21 February 2014, by regulation 4(2) of the Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations 2014 (LI 2014/17).
Regulation 3 prawn killer: inserted, on 1 October 2007, by regulation 4 of the Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations (No 2) 2007 (SR 2007/252).
Regulation 3 seabird mitigation measure: inserted, on 1 October 2009, by regulation 4 of the Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations (No 2) 2009 (SR 2009/243).
Regulation 3 seabird scaring device: revoked, on 1 October 2009, by regulation 4 of the Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations (No 2) 2009 (SR 2009/243).
Regulation 3 shark: inserted, on 1 October 2014, by regulation 4 of the Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations (No 2) 2014 (LI 2014/279).
Regulation 3 shark finning: inserted, on 1 October 2014, by regulation 4 of the Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations (No 2) 2014 (LI 2014/279).
Regulation 3 shark line: inserted, on 20 December 2015, by regulation 4 of the Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations 2015 (LI 2015/268).
Regulation 3 wet: inserted, on 1 October 2014, by regulation 4 of the Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations (No 2) 2014 (LI 2014/279).
Regulation 3 wire trace: inserted, on 20 December 2015, by regulation 4 of the Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations 2015 (LI 2015/268).

4 Certain other regulations prevail over these regulations


These regulations apply subject to other regulations made under the Act that relate to commercial fishing in a specified area of New Zealand fisheries waters.

Part 1 New Zealand fishing vessels and foreign-owned New Zealand fishing vessels

Administrative matters

5 Change of name of vessel

(1)
Except as expressly provided, this regulation and regulations 6 to 15 apply to New Zealand fishing vessels and to foreign-owned New Zealand fishing vessels.

(2)

The name of a vessel must not be changed unless—

(a)

the operator of the vessel has made written application to the chief executive; and

(b)

the chief executive gives written authority for the change of name of the vessel.

(3)
When considering an application under subclause (2), the chief executive must be satisfied that a change of name of the vessel will not cause undue confusion.

(4)
Despite subclause (3), if a vessel is registered under the Ship Registration Act 1992, its name must not be altered except in accordance with that Act.

Compare: SR 1986/215 r 6

6 Changes of information must be notified


Not later than 1 calendar month after the information provided in an application for a permit, authority, approval, permission, licence, or certificate, has changed, the holder of the permit, authority, approval, permission, licence, or certificate must give notice in writing to the chief executive of the new information.

7 Certificate of registration, certificate of notification, and fishing permits must be produced



The operator, notified user, or master of a vessel must ensure that the certificate of registration, certificate of notification (if any), and all relevant fishing permits are—

(a)

kept on board the registered vessel; and

(b)

maintained in a legible condition; and

(c)

produced immediately on the request of a fishery officer.

Compare: SR 1986/215 r 11

8 Alteration and replacement of certificate of registration, certificate of notification, or fishing permit

(1)
No person may alter, deface, or make illegible a certificate of registration, certificate of notification, or fishing permit, or a replacement of any of those documents issued under subclause (3).

(2)
Despite subclause (1), the chief executive may alter a certificate of registration, certificate of notification, or fishing permit, or a replacement of any of those documents issued under subclause (3).

(3)
If a certificate of registration, certificate of notification, or fishing permit is lost, destroyed, or so damaged as to make it illegible, the holder of the certificate of registration, certificate of notification, or fishing permit (as the case may be) must apply to the chief executive for a replacement, with the prescribed fee (if any).

Compare: SR 1986/215 r 12

Marking of vessels

9 Name of vessel



An operator of a vessel must ensure that, within 7 days after the registration of the vessel or before the vessel is used for fishing, whichever is the earlier, the name of the vessel is marked in contrasting colours on both sides of the hull with clear and legible letters and figures, as appropriate, that are not less than—

(a)

250 mm in height; and

(b)

125 mm across; and

(c)

25 mm stroke width; and

(d)

50 mm from any other letter or figure.

Compare: SR 1986/215 r 13

10 Marking of vessels with registration number

(1)
This regulation does not apply to foreign-owned New Zealand fishing vessels or to vessels registered under section 105 of the Act.

(2)

Subject to subclause (1), an operator of a vessel that is less than 28 m in overall length must ensure that, within 7 days after the registration of the vessel or before the vessel is used for fishing, whichever is the earlier,—

(a)

the vessel is marked with figures showing the registration number of the vessel; and

(b)

those figures are painted on both sides of the forward plane of the hull in accordance with Schedule 4.

(3)
If a vessel other than a vessel described in subclause (1) ceases to be registered, the operator must, within 7 days of its registration ceasing, remove from the vessel the registration number required by subclause (2).

Compare: SR 1986/215 rr 14(1), 19

11 Marking of vessels with international call sign

(1)
The operator of a foreign-owned New Zealand fishing vessel, a vessel registered under section 105 of the Act, or a vessel that is 28 m or more in overall length must ensure that, within 7 days after the registration of the vessel or before the vessel is used for fishing, whichever is the earlier, the vessel is marked with the vessel’s international call sign.

(2)
The markings must be painted amidship on both sides of the hull immediately below the gunwale in accordance with Schedule 4.

(3)
If a vessel described in subclause (1) ceases to be registered, the operator must, within 7 days of its registration ceasing, remove from the vessel any letters or figures that identify that vessel as a vessel registered under the Act, but must not remove the international call sign required by subclause (1).

Compare: SR 1986/215 rr 14(2), 19

12 Colour of letters and figures


The figures of the registration number and, if required, the letters and figures of the international call sign must be painted on the vessel in white on a black background or in black on a white background, whichever produces the greater contrast with the colour of the hull.

Compare: SR 1986/215 r 15

13 Letters and figures must be maintained



An operator, notified user, or master of a vessel must ensure that, while the vessel is registered,—

(a)

the letters and figures of the name, registration number, and any international call sign are not removed, obscured, or obliterated from the vessel; and

(b)

the appropriate letters and figures are maintained in accordance with regulations 10 to 12 and Schedule 4.

Compare: SR 1986/215 r 17

14 Display of false or misleading letters or figures

(1)
No person may display on a vessel any letter, figure, or combination of letters and figures that is intended to cause, or that may reasonably cause, any person to believe that the vessel is any other vessel or is not a New Zealand fishing vessel or foreign-owned New Zealand fishing vessel.

(2)
No person may display on a vessel that is not registered under section 103 or section 105 of the Act any letter, figure, or combination of letters and figures that is intended to cause, or that may reasonably cause, any person to believe that the vessel is registered or is any other registered vessel.

Compare: SR 1986/215 r 20

15 Alternative position for marking vessels

(1)
It is sufficient compliance with regulations 10 to 13 and Schedule 4 if the operator of a vessel described in subclause (2) ensures that the letters and figures are marked and maintained on both sides of the hull or superstructure of the vessel in the position and as nearly as practicable to the size and manner approved in writing by a fishery officer.

(2)

The vessels covered by subclause (1) are—

(a)

a vessel used for squid or any other type of fishing on which any letters or figures required by regulations 10 to 13 and Schedule 4 are likely to be quickly obscured or obliterated; or

(b)

a vessel with a hull shaped so that any letters or figures required by regulations 10 to 13 and Schedule 4 are likely to be obscured or obliterated.

Compare: SR 1986/215 r 18

16 Marking of tenders

(1)

All tenders must—

(a)

be marked on both sides of the hull with clear and legible letters and figures in accordance with Schedule 4; and

(b)

have the number on the tender preceded by the letter “T” with a hyphen (“T-”); and

(c)

have the figures and letters of the tender number painted in a colour that produces the greatest contrast with the colour of the hull; and

(d)

if a registered vessel operates more than 1 tender, have a number on the tender between the letter “T” and the hyphen to denote the number of the tender (for example, “T1-”, “T2-”, etc).

(2)
A tender must not be simultaneously marked as the tender of more than 1 registered vessel.

(3)
A tender must not be simultaneously marked as a tender and as a registered vessel.

(4)
The operator of a registered vessel must ensure that, in relation to any tender used in support of that vessel, the required figures and letters are maintained and are not removed, obscured, or obliterated.

(5)
A person must not display on any tender any figure, letter, or combination of letters or figures in a way that is intended to cause, or that may reasonably cause, a person to believe that the tender is not a tender or that the tender is another New Zealand fishing vessel or tender.

(6)
The operator of a vessel must ensure that tenders used in support of that vessel do not display the markings required for tenders under this regulation if the vessel is no longer registered under the Act.

Part 2 Conditions applying to foreign-owned New Zealand fishing vessels and registered fish carriers

Conditions of general application to certificates of registration

17 Reporting obligations

(1)

Unless otherwise specified, this regulation and regulations 18 to 23 apply to the following fishing vessels:

(a)

foreign-owned New Zealand fishing vessels; and

(b)

fish carriers registered under section 105 of the Act.

(2)
Unless otherwise specified, the obligations under this regulation and regulations 18 to 29 fall on the operator, notified user, or master of a vessel, whichever is appropriate in the circumstances.

(3)

A ship’s log, in English, must be maintained on board a vessel at all times when it is in New Zealand fisheries waters to record—

(a)

every instruction, direction, or requirement communicated to the vessel by New Zealand authorities; and

(b)

events on board, or in relation to, the vessel or its operation.

(4)
A copy of every report supplied to the Fisheries Communication Centre by a vessel must be kept in a permanent and legible form on board the vessel for a period of not less than 6 months after the end of the fishing year to which the report relates and must be noted in English in the ship’s logbook.

(5)
If a company in whose name a vessel is registered no longer has an interest in the vessel, the company must retain the reports for the remainder of the 6-month period referred to in subclause (4).

(6)
A person must be available at all times to act as an interpreter from English to the language of the operator, notified user, or master of the vessel and from that other language to English.

(7)

Once a vessel is registered under the Act, and before commencing fishing for the first time in New Zealand fisheries waters, the operator, notified user, or master of the vessel must—

(a)

notify the Fisheries Communication Centre; and

(b)

be cleared to fish by a fishery officer, who may undertake a port inspection before giving that clearance.

(8)
Except where subclause (9) applies, a vessel intending to leave New Zealand fisheries waters must first be given a clearance to leave New Zealand fisheries waters by a fishery officer and the vessel must then proceed directly to the high seas.

(9)
If the registration of a vessel under the Act expires or is cancelled, the vessel must be given a clearance to leave New Zealand fisheries waters by a fishery officer and the vessel must then proceed directly to the high seas.

(10)

A vessel cleared to leave New Zealand fisheries waters under subclause (8) or subclause (9) must, as it leaves the port from which it obtained clearance, notify (in New Zealand Standard Time) the Fisheries Communication Centre of—

(a)

its intended time and position of departure from New Zealand fisheries waters; and

(b)

its time of departure from the port.

18 Carriage and transfer of fishing equipment

(1)
When a fishing vessel is within an area where it is not permitted to fish, all fishing gear must be stowed so that it is not readily available for fishing.

(2)

Before fishing gear, supplies, services, or personnel may be transferred to or from a foreign-owned New Zealand fishing vessel, a fish carrier, or a foreign fishing vessel,—

(a)

the prior approval of the chief executive must be obtained through the Fisheries Communication Centre; and

(b)

the transfer, if approved, must comply with the conditions of the approval.

19 Transhipment of fish

(1)

This regulation applies to a fishing vessel if fish are—

(a)

transhipped at sea under section 110 of the Act; or

(b)

transhipped at port to another vessel; or

(c)

landed but not delivered to a licensed fish receiver and loaded aboard another vessel or aircraft for export from New Zealand.

(2)

The operator, notified user, or master of a vessel must—

(a)

obtain prior approval for a transhipment or landing from the chief executive; and

(b)

comply with this regulation and any conditions that the chief executive sees fit to impose.

(3)

Advance notice must be given to the Fisheries Communication Centre as follows:

(a)

not less than 10 days, in the case of an intention to carry out a transhipment at sea; or

(b)

not less than 3 days, in the case of an intention to carry out a transhipment at a port; or

(c)

not less than 3 days, in the case of an intention to land and load fish for export.

(4)
A transhipment or landing must be supervised by an observer or fishery officer.

(5)

Before a transhipment or landing commences, 3 cargo plans must—

(a)

be completed on the approved forms and in accordance with the explanatory notes; and

(b)

be made available to the supervising observer or fishery officer prior to the commencement of the transhipment or landing; and

(c)

be supplied with a diagram of the vessel, depicting the holds of the vessel, in accordance with the explanatory notes.

(6)
All cartons containing fish being transhipped must be legibly marked, either directly or with a label, in accordance with the requirements of the Industry Agreed Inspection Standard (IAIS) 004.1.

(7)
In a transhipment or landing, each sling load must be consistent as to the number of fish cartons it carries unless a change in the number of cartons in a sling load is first approved by the supervising observer or fishery officer.

(8)
All fish in each carton of a sling load must be of the same size, weight, and species, and in the same state, unless otherwise approved by the supervising observer or fishery officer.

(9)
No vessel may fish or process fish during transhipment or until the transhipment or a catch landing return is completed, whichever is the sooner.

(10)
A transhipment of fish from a foreign-owned New Zealand fishing vessel to a licensed foreign fish carrier must be carried out within the exclusive economic zone, but only within that part of the exclusive economic zone that lies outside the territorial sea, as defined in the Territorial Sea, Contiguous Zone, and Exclusive Economic Zone Act 1977.

(11)
In a transhipment or landing, all embarkation and disembarkation, accommodation, and food costs of the Ministry observer or fishery officer must be supplied free of charge to the Ministry, and the operator must pay the transhipment supervision fee specified in Schedule 2.

20 Communications

(1)
If a New Zealand Government ship approaches a fishing vessel, the vessel must set watch on HF SSB frequency 2182 kHz or VHF channel 16.

(2)
A New Zealand Government ship may also communicate by a flag hoist or with a flashing light.

(3)
If a New Zealand Government aircraft flies past a vessel at low altitude and parallel to the vessel’s track, with its undercarriage extended and landing lights on, the vessel must set watch on HF SSB frequency 2182 kHz or VHF channel 16.

(4)
A New Zealand Government aircraft may also communicate with a flashing light.

(5)
If a helicopter approaches by hovering alongside the stern of a vessel, the vessel must set watch on HF SSB frequency 2182 kHz or VHF channel 16.

(6)
If radiocommunication is unavailable in the case of a helicopter approach, the helicopter must communicate its requirement that the vessel prepare for helicopter transfer by circling the vessel once, hovering alongside the stern of the vessel, and hovering over the particular area where the transfer is to take place.

(7)
A vessel must reply when called by a New Zealand Government ship or aircraft, or by a helicopter.

21 Boarding procedures

(1)
The operator, notified user, or master of a fishing vessel must comply with this regulation when requested to prepare for the vessel to be boarded by an observer or fishery officer.

(2)

The vessel must be manoeuvred by any or all of the following means as may be appropriate to facilitate the boarding:

(a)

by stopping the vessel:

(b)

by providing a lee:

(c)

by heading into the sea:

(d)

by proceeding downwind and into the sea.

(3)
If the vessel is in motion while being boarded, its speed must be commensurate with the weather conditions so as to permit the vessel to be boarded in a safe and professional manner.

(4)
The vessel must provide a ladder, fenders, securing lines, and adequate lighting for persons boarding the vessel, with the ladder secured so that it is free of all discharge outlets, and the lighting must not hinder the manoeuvring of the vessel or the boats from which the boarding is taking place.

(5)
The master must provide any assistance that is required by persons boarding or leaving the vessel.

(6)
Consideration for the safety of the vessel must not compromise the safety of persons boarding or leaving the vessel.

22 Helicopter transfer

(1)
The operator, notified user, or master of a fishing vessel must comply with this regulation when requested to prepare for a helicopter transfer.

(2)

The transfer operation must be carried out,—

(a)

if the stern area is free from obstruction and is suitable for a helicopter transfer, in the stern area of the vessel; or

(b)

if the stern area is not clear, in the bow area, which must be prepared for a helicopter transfer.

(3)
Before a transfer operation begins, the transfer area must be cleared of all loose material and particles, including tarpaulins, winch covers, cloths, light packing, papers, and objects that may be lifted from the deck or surrounding structures by a helicopter downdraught and all rigging on the transfer area must be secured.

(4)
The vessel must turn into the wind and proceed at a speed of approximately 5 knots on a steady course prior to and during the transfer.

(5)
The helicopter winch cable must never be attached or secured to a part of the fishing vessel or to equipment or a structure on the vessel.

(6)
Consideration for the safety of the vessel must not compromise the safety of persons involved in a helicopter transfer.

23 Facilities for observers


Observers must be provided with on-board facilities that comply with the requirements of section 223 of the Act and regulation 33 of the Fisheries (Foreign Fishing Vessel) Regulations 2001.

Additional conditions applying to particular types of fishing vessels: Tuna longline fishing

24 Areas closed to longliners

(1)
This regulation and regulation 25 apply to foreign-owned New Zealand fishing vessels that are used for any tuna longline fishing.

(2)

Vessels of the kind referred to in subclause (1) must not—

(a)

fish in the New Zealand territorial sea at any time:

(b)

fish in the Auckland Fisheries Management Area between 1 October of any year and 31 May of the following year.

25 Tagging of billfish caught by tuna longliners



The operator, notified user, or master of a vessel used for tuna longline fishing must—

(a)

first tag and then release—

(i)

marlin taken alive in New Zealand fisheries waters; and

(ii)

sailfish and spearfish taken alive in the Auckland Fisheries Management Area; and

(b)

provide information on tagged and dead billfish to the chief executive in accordance with the Ministry’s tagging programme.

26 Application for approval for southern bluefin tuna longlining

[Revoked]
Regulation 26: revoked, on 1 October 2004, by regulation 3 of the Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations (No 2) 2004 (SR 2004/284).

Skipjack tuna purse seiners

27 Conditions applying to skipjack tuna purse seiners

(1AA)
This regulation and regulation 28 apply to foreign-owned New Zealand fishing vessels that are used as skipjack tuna purse seiners.

(1)
The operator, notified user, or master of a foreign-owned New Zealand fishing vessel that is a skipjack tuna purse seiner must provide notice to the Fisheries Communication Centre 24 hours in advance of an intention to enter or leave New Zealand fisheries waters.

(2)
A skipjack tuna purse seiner must not fish in the New Zealand territorial sea or in the area between a line due east of Cape Brett (at 3510.46′S and 17420.05′E) and a line due north of North Cape (at 3424.80′S and 17302.80′E), extending an additional 6 nautical miles beyond the outer limits of the New Zealand territorial sea.

Regulation 27(1AA): inserted, on 11 July 2002, by regulation 3 of the Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations 2002 (SR 2002/157).

28 Returns required in relation to skipjack tuna purse seining

(1)
The operator, notified user, or master of a skipjack tuna purse seiner must maintain a daily purse seine log, a copy of which must be returned to a representative of the Ministry of Fisheries before the vessel leaves New Zealand fisheries waters.

(2)
A helicopter or fixed wing aircraft pilot flying in conjunction with a skipjack tuna purse seiner must complete a return of aerial sightings on the approved form for each flight undertaken in support of fishing operations and return the completed forms to the chief executive before the vessel leaves New Zealand fisheries waters.

Squid jiggers

29 Conditions applying to squid jiggers



Foreign-owned New Zealand fishing vessels that are squid jiggers must not fish in the following areas:

(a)

the New Zealand territorial sea; and

(b)

the area of Tasman Bay enclosed by a line commencing at a point at 40°19.4′S and 173°00.5′E; and then proceeding in a south-easterly direction to a point at 40°27.8′S and 174°00′E; and then proceeding in a south-westerly direction along the outer limits of the territorial sea of New Zealand to the first-mentioned point.

Part 3 Restrictions on commercial fishing for certain species

Marlin

30 Restrictions on taking marlin

(1)
This regulation applies subject to regulation 25.

(2)
Except as provided in this regulation, commercial fishers must not possess marlin taken from New Zealand fisheries waters.

(3)
No person may sell or possess for sale marlin taken from New Zealand fisheries waters.

(4)

Commercial fishers who take marlin—

(a)

may tag them with a tag supplied by the chief executive, but must return them to the sea; or

(b)

if the marlin has been tagged already, may retain and land the marlin, but must surrender them to a fishery officer; or

(c)

in other cases, must return them, whether alive or dead, to the sea.

(5)
A fishery officer who receives tagged marlin under subclause (4) must dispose of them as directed by the chief executive.

Compare: SR 1986/215 r 20A

Finfish

31 Minimum finfish length and net mesh size

(1)
Commercial fishers must not use or possess nets whose mesh size is smaller than that specified for each species in the table in subclause (6), measured in accordance with the requirements of Part 2 of Schedule 3.

(2)
The restriction in subclause (1) does not apply if purse seine or lampara nets are used by commercial fishers to take albacore, anchovy, blue mackerel, jack mackerel, garfish, kahawai, koheru, pilchard, saury, skipjack tuna, trevally, or yellowfin tuna.

(3)
Despite subclause (1), commercial fishers may take koi or brown bullhead catfish with fyke nets, so long as the mesh of the nets is not less than 12 mm.

(4)
[Revoked]

(5)
No person may sell, possess for sale, or process for sale finfish that are smaller than the length specified in the table in subclause (6) for those species.

(6)

Commercial fishers must not take or possess finfish that are smaller than the length specified in the following table for each species:

Species of fish

Minimum net mesh size (mm)

Minimum fish length (cm)

Blue cod
-
33

Blue moki
115
40

Butterfish
108
35

Elephant fish
150
-

Flatfishes (except sand flounder)
100
25

Garfish (piper)
25
-

Kahawai
85
-

Kingfish
100
65

Mullet
85
-

Pilchard
25
-

Red cod
100
25

Red moki
115
40

Rig
150
-

Sand flounder
100
23

Snapper
100
25

Tarakihi
100
25

Trevally
100
25

Yellow-eyed mullet
25
-

All others
100
-

(7)
This regulation does not apply in relation to eels.

Compare: SR 1986/215 r 21

Regulation 31 heading: amended, on 20 December 2015, by regulation 5(1) of the Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations 2015 (LI 2015/268).
Regulation 31(4): revoked, on 20 December 2015, by regulation 5(2) of the Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations 2015 (LI 2015/268).
Regulation 31(5): amended, on 20 December 2015, by regulation 5(3) of the Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations 2015 (LI 2015/268).
Regulation 31(6) table Eels: revoked, on 1 October 2004, by regulation 4(2) of the Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations (No 2) 2004 (SR 2004/284).
Regulation 31(7): inserted, on 20 December 2015, by regulation 5(4) of the Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations 2015 (LI 2015/268).

Shellfish

32 Size limits on shellfish

(1)

Commercial fishers must not take or possess species of shellfish if the shell, whether entire, chipped, or broken, is less than the length specified for that species in the following table:

Species

Minimum length (mm)

Paua
(ordinary)
125

(yellowfoot)
80

Scallops
100

(2)
Commercial fishers must not take or possess dredge oysters that may be passed through a rigid circular metal ring with a clear inside diameter of 58 mm.

(3)
No person may sell, possess for sale, or process for sale shellfish or dredge oysters less than the length or size respectively specified for the species.

Compare: SR 1986/215 r 22

33 Restrictions on opening shellfish

(1)
Commercial fishers taking or possessing shellfish must ensure that they remain unshelled until they are delivered either to the first point of sale after being taken or to a processing factory.

(2)
Commercial fishers or persons engaged in the business of fish processing must not land or begin shelling, shucking, or processing dead shellfish.

Compare: SR 1986/215 r 23

34 Restrictions on taking oysters


Commercial fishers must not take or possess oysters taken from South Island fisheries waters between 1 September in any year and the last day of February in the following year (both days inclusive).

Compare: SR 1986/215 r 24

35 Restrictions on taking and possessing scallops


Commercial fishers must not take or possess scallops taken between 15 February and 14 July in any year (both days inclusive).

Compare: SR 1986/215 r 25

36 Taking and possessing toheroa prohibited

(1)
Commercial fishers must not take or possess toheroa.

(2)
No person may sell, or possess for sale, or process for sale toheroa.

Compare: SR 1986/215 r 26

Rock lobster

37 Size limit on rock lobster

(1)
Commercial fishers must not take or possess undersize rock lobsters or the tails of undersize rock lobsters.

(2)
No person may sell, possess for sale, or process for sale undersize rock lobsters or the tails of undersize rock lobsters.

(3)

A rock lobster, whether alive, dead, cooked, frozen, or chilled, is undersize for the purposes of this regulation if the tail is—

(a)

less than 60 mm wide, in the case of a female spiny rock lobster, when measured in accordance with regulation 38:

(b)

less than 54 mm wide, in the case of a male spiny rock lobster, when measured in accordance with regulation 38:

(c)

less than 216 mm long, in the case of a packhorse rock lobster of either sex, when measured in accordance with regulation 40.

Compare: SR 1986/215 r 27

38 Method of measurement of spiny rock lobster tail

(1)
For the purposes of these regulations, the width of the tail of a spiny rock lobster is the distance measured in a straight line from the tip of one primary pleural spine on the second abdominal segment of the tail to the tip of the other primary pleural spine on that segment.

(2)

In a dispute as to whether or not a spiny rock lobster is undersize, the matter must be determined by measuring the width of the tail—

(a)

in accordance with this regulation; and

(b)

using the tail-width measuring device described in subclause (3) and depicted in Schedule 1.

(3)

The tail-width measuring device must be a device—

(a)

supplied by the chief executive and must bear the letters “DSIR”, “MAF”, or a Ministry mark and an identifying number; and

(b)

consisting of a handle with an attachment comprising 2 sets of rigid caliper-type arms, as follows:

(i)

each set of arms must have one arm with a raised projection (the measuring bar); and

(ii)

the second arm must be marked with a line 2 mm away from, and parallel to, the projected edge of the central column of the device, and be marked with either—

(A)

the expressions “60” and “F”, for measuring the tail of a female spiny rock lobster; or

(B)

the expressions “54” and “M”, for measuring the tail of a male spiny rock lobster.

(4)

In every case, the tail width must be measured with the relevant set of caliper-type arms in the following manner:

(a)

the spiny rock lobster or tail must be held with the ventral side uppermost:

(b)

the tip of one of the primary pleural spines on the second abdominal segment must be brought into contact with the inside face of the longer section of the measuring bar (in this position the measuring bar being used will not normally be visible to the person measuring):

(c)

with the tip of the spine in this position, the measuring device must be rotated to determine whether or not there is a position in which the tip of the other primary pleural spine on the second abdominal segment will reach that part of the inside edge of the other arm of the device that extends from the line referred to in subclause (3)(b)(ii) to the unattached end of the arm (the measuring edge).

(5)
No more pressure must be applied to the tail or to the measuring device than is necessary to make the measurement specified in subclause (4).

(6)
The spiny rock lobster will be undersize if, when the tip of one spine is in contact with the inside face of the longer section of the measuring bar, the tip of the other spine fails to reach the measuring edge of the other relevant arm of the measuring device.

Compare: SR 1986/215 r 28(1), (2)
Regulation 38(2)(a): amended, on 1 June 2009, by regulation 4 of the Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations 2009 (SR 2009/94).

39 Instruments used for measuring spiny rock lobster

(1)
Measurement of the tail width of a spiny rock lobster does not comply with regulation 38 if the tail-width measuring device is altered, added to, or adapted so that it decreases the distance between the relevant measuring bar and measuring edge after the device was supplied by the chief executive.

(2)

Measurement of the tail width of a spiny rock lobster by a tail-width measuring device described in regulation 38(3) does not comply with this regulation unless the device is referred to in a report—

(a)

issued by either the Measurement Standards Laboratory of New Zealand (as defined in regulation 2 of the National Standards Regulations 1976) or by an inspector or an accredited person (as those terms are defined in section 2 of the Weights and Measures Act 1987); and

(b)

certifying the device as an accurate tail-width measuring device.

(3)
The diagrams in Schedule 1 depict the tail-width measuring device and the parts of the body of the spiny rock lobster (other than the exoskeleton), and the physical features by which male and female spiny rock lobsters may be distinguished.

Compare: SR 1986/215 r 28(5), (5A), (6), Schedule 1

40 Method of measurement of packhorse rock lobster

(1)
For the purposes of this regulation, the length of the tail of a packhorse rock lobster is the distance measured in a straight line, with the tail laid flat, from the posterior side of the calcified bar on the underside of the first abdominal segment of the tail to the posterior edge of the telson of the tail fan.

(2)
In a dispute as to whether a packhorse rock lobster is undersize, the matter must be determined by measuring the length of the tail with a tail-length measuring device in accordance with this regulation.

(3)

The tail-length measuring device must—

(a)

be supplied by the chief executive; and

(b)

consist of a rigid metal bar with a pin set in it.

(4)

The tail length must be measured in the following manner:

(a)

the pin of the measuring device must be placed against the mid-point on the posterior side of the calcified bar on the first abdominal segment of the tail:

(b)

with the pin in that position and the tail laid flat, the measuring device must be brought into line with the posterior edge of the telson of the tail fan:

(c)

when measuring that distance, no more pressure must be applied to the tail and the measuring device than is necessary to—

(i)

cause the calcified bars on the ventral surface of the tail to just touch the measuring device; and

(ii)

bring the pin and the bar of the device into contact with the relevant points of measurement.

(5)
The length of the tail is the distance indicated on the bar of the measuring device from the pin to the posterior edge referred to in subclause (4)(b).

Compare: SR 1986/215 r 28(3), (4)

41 Taking, possessing, processing, and sale of certain rock lobsters prohibited

(1)

This regulation applies to a rock lobster if—

(a)

that rock lobster is carrying external eggs; or

(b)

external eggs have been removed from that rock lobster by artificial means; or

(c)

an egg-bearing appendage or pleopod or a part of it has been removed from that rock lobster or the tail is in such a state that the sex of the rock lobster cannot be determined; or

(d)

that rock lobster is in the soft-shell stage; or

(e)

the calcified bar or a part of the exoskeleton (the outer shell of the tail) of the first abdominal segment of the tail is fractured; or

(f)

that rock lobster is in such a state that its tail cannot be properly measured as required under these regulations; or

(g)

in the case of a spiny rock lobster, the calcified bar or a part of the exoskeleton (the outer shell of the tail) of the second abdominal segment of the tail is fractured or a part of a primary pleural spine of the second abdominal segment is broken.

(2)
Commercial fishers must not take or possess rock lobsters to which this regulation applies.

(3)
No person may sell, possess for sale, or process for sale rock lobsters to which this regulation applies.

Compare: SR 1986/215 r 29

42 Rock lobsters must be landed and processed alive

(1)

Commercial fishers must not—

(a)

land rock lobsters unless the rock lobsters are alive; or

(b)

tail rock lobsters on board a vessel.

(2)
A person processing rock lobsters for sale must not tail or begin to process them unless the rock lobsters are alive.

Compare: SR 1986/215 r 30

Salmon

43 Taking or possession of salmon prohibited

(1)
Commercial fishers must not take or possess salmon.

(2)
Despite subclause (1), commercial fishers who take tagged salmon must retain and land the salmon and surrender them to a fishery officer.

(3)

Subclause (1) does not apply if—

(a)

a commercial fisher takes salmon as an inevitable consequence of the lawful taking of other fish; and

(b)

the salmon, when taken, are dead or so damaged as to be unlikely to survive being returned to the water; and

(c)

the commercial fisher notifies a fishery officer as soon as practicable of the taking of the salmon; and

(d)

the commercial fisher surrenders ownership of the salmon to the Crown and disposes of the fish in accordance with the directions of a fishery officer.

(4)
No person may sell or possess salmon for sale.

(5)
Despite subclause (4), a licensed fish receiver may sell or possess for sale salmon surrendered to the Crown and disposed of under subclause (3)(d).

Compare: SR 1986/215 r 30A

Black coral

44 Taking and possession of black coral prohibited

(1)
Commercial fishers must not take or possess black coral.

(2)
No person may sell, possess for sale, or process for sale black coral.

Compare: SR 1986/215 r 31

Marine turtles

45 Taking and possession of marine turtles prohibited

(1)
Commercial fishers must not take marine turtles from New Zealand fisheries waters or possess marine turtles taken from those waters.

(2)

Subclause (1) does not apply if—

(a)

marine turtles are accidentally taken; or

(b)

an authority or permit has been given to take or possess marine turtles either—

(i)

under section 53 or section 56 of the Wildlife Act 1953; or

(ii)

under section 14 of the Trade in Endangered Species Act 1989.

Compare: SR 1986/215 r 31A
Regulation 45(2)(a): amended, on 1 April 2008, by regulation 4 of the Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations 2008 (SR 2008/26).

46 Uninjured turtles must be immediately returned to waters from which taken


Any marine turtle taken by a commercial fisher that is not injured must immediately be returned to the waters from which it was taken.

Regulation 46: substituted, on 1 April 2008, by regulation 5 of the Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations 2008 (SR 2008/26).

47 Injured turtles


Injured or drowning marine turtles must be treated in accordance with standards and specifications issued by the chief executive from time to time.

Regulation 47: substituted, on 1 April 2008, by regulation 5 of the Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations 2008 (SR 2008/26).

48 Circulars relating to marine turtles

(1)
The chief executive, by notice in the Gazette, may issue, amend, or revoke a circular specifying the standards and specifications that commercial fishers must comply with in handling injured or drowning marine turtles that they have accidentally taken.

(2)
Before issuing, amending, or revoking a circular, the chief executive must consult, to the extent that is practicable in the circumstances, with any persons or organisations considered by the chief executive to be representative of the classes of persons or organisations likely to be substantially affected by the circular.

Regulation 48: substituted, on 1 April 2008, by regulation 5 of the Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations 2008 (SR 2008/26).

49 Turtle catches must be reported

[Revoked]
Regulation 49: revoked, on 1 October 2008, by regulation 6(2) of the Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations 2008 (SR 2008/26).

Eels

50 Maximum legal weight for eels taken from New Zealand fisheries waters

(1)
Commercial fishers must not take or possess any shortfinned or longfinned eel weighing more than 4 kg.

(2)
No person may sell, possess for sale, or process for sale any shortfinned or longfinned eel weighing more than 4 kg.

Regulation 50: substituted, on 1 April 2007, by regulation 5 of the Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations 2007 (SR 2007/32).

51 Minimum weight for eels taken from New Zealand fisheries waters

(1)
Commercial fishers must not take or possess any eel weighing less than 220 g.

(2)
No person may sell, possess for sale, or process for sale any eel weighing less than 220 g.

Regulation 51: replaced, on 20 December 2015, by regulation 6 of the Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations 2015 (LI 2015/268).

52 Use of fyke nets to take eels in South Island fisheries waters

[Revoked]
Regulation 52: revoked, on 1 October 2013, by regulation 4 of the Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations 2013 (SR 2013/325).

Brown bullhead catfish

Heading: inserted, on 1 April 2007, by regulation 6 of the Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations 2007 (SR 2007/32).

52A Sale of live brown bullhead catfish prohibited


No person may sell live brown bullhead catfish.

Regulation 52A: inserted, on 1 April 2007, by regulation 6 of the Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations 2007 (SR 2007/32).

Shark finning

Heading: inserted, on 1 October 2014, by regulation 5 of the Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations (No 2) 2014 (LI 2014/279).

52B Shark finning prohibited

(1)
Commercial fishers must not undertake shark finning in New Zealand fisheries waters.

(2)
Commercial fishers must not land the fins of any species of shark unless the fins are landed naturally attached.

(3)

Despite subclause (2), commercial fishers may—

(a)

land any blue shark with its fins artificially attached:

(b)

land any species of shark approved by the chief executive as being able to be landed with its fins separate from its body if the ratio of the weight of the landed fins to the greenweight of the shark does not exceed the ratio approved by the chief executive.

(4)

If subclause (3)(b) applies, the fins must—

(a)

be stored in separate receptacles according to species; and

(b)

be landed wet.

Regulation 52B: inserted, on 1 October 2014, by regulation 5 of the Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations (No 2) 2014 (LI 2014/279).

52C Circulars relating to shark finning

(1)

The chief executive may, by notice in the Gazette, issue, amend, or revoke a circular that—

(a)

specifies the species of shark for which fins may be landed separately from the body of the shark; and

(b)

sets the fin to greenweight ratio for the landing of fins and bodies for each species of shark specified under paragraph (a); and

(c)

specifies the primary fins associated with each species of shark specified under paragraph (a).

(2)
Before issuing, amending, or revoking a circular, the chief executive must consult, to the extent that is practicable in the circumstances, with any persons or organisations considered by the chief executive to be representative of the classes of persons or organisations likely to have an interest in the circular.

Regulation 52C: inserted, on 1 October 2014, by regulation 5 of the Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations (No 2) 2014 (LI 2014/279).

Part 4 Conditions relating to fishing equipment

Labelling of fish containers

Heading: amended, on 1 October 2008, by regulation 4 of the Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations (No 2) 2008 (SR 2008/272).

53 Labelling of containers

(1)

The operator, notified user, or master of a New Zealand fishing vessel must ensure that all cockles, kina, mussels, octopuses, oysters, paddle crabs, paua, pipi, scallops, tuatua, rock lobsters, or rock lobster tails landed from the vessel or transferred from the vessel to another vessel are held in containers that are clearly and legibly labelled on the outside with—

(a)

the name and registered number of the fishing vessel from which the shellfish were taken; and

(b)

the date on which the shellfish were taken; and

(c)

except in the case of rock lobsters, the area from which the shellfish were taken; and

(d)

the signature of the operator, notified user, or master of the vessel from which the shellfish were taken; and

(e)

the client name and number of the permit holder under whose permit the shellfish were taken.

(2)

A fishing permit holder who operates otherwise than from a registered fishing vessel must ensure that all cockles, kina, mussels, octopuses, oysters, paddle crabs, paua, pipi, scallops, tuatua, rock lobsters, or rock lobster tails that are taken are held in containers that are labelled on the outside with—

(a)

the permit holder’s initials and surname; and

(b)

the permit holder’s fishing permit number; and

(c)

the date on which the shellfish were taken; and

(d)

except in the case of rock lobsters, the area from which the shellfish were taken; and

(e)

the permit holder’s signature.

(2A)
A commercial fisher must ensure that all eels that are taken are held in containers that are clearly and legibly labelled on the outside with the initials, surname, and client number of the permit holder under whose permit the eels were taken.

(3)

If subclause (1), (2), or (2A) applies, no person may—

(a)

possess containers that are unlabelled, partly labelled, or incorrectly labelled; or

(b)

deliver to a person, sell, or otherwise dispose of, receive, or accept containers that are unlabelled, partly labelled, or incorrectly labelled; or

(c)

remove the labels from the containers before the processing of the contents is commenced.

Compare: SR 1986/215 r 32

Regulation 53(2A): inserted, on 1 October 2008, by regulation 5(1) of the Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations (No 2) 2008 (SR 2008/272).
Regulation 53(3): amended, on 1 October 2008, by regulation 5(2) of the Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations (No 2) 2008 (SR 2008/272).

Marking of fishing gear

54 Longlines, static fishing gear, and set nets

(1)
Commercial fishers must not use for fishing, or have on board a fishing vessel, longlines, set nets, or other static fishing gear without surface floats at each end.

(2)
Each surface float must be clearly, permanently, and legibly marked with the registration number of the fishing vessel from which it was or will be set, or is being transported.

(3)
Despite subclause (1), trot lines, droplines, and dahn lines may be marked at one end only.

Compare: SR 1986/215 r 33

55 Fyke nets


Commercial fishers must not use for fishing, or have on board a fishing vessel, fyke nets unless surface floats are securely attached that are clearly, permanently, and legibly marked with the registration number of the vessel from which it is set or transported.

Compare: SR 1986/215 r 34

56 Pots

(1)
Commercial fishers must not use for fishing, or have on board a fishing vessel, pots (including holding pots) without their own surface buoys or floats.

(2)
Each pot and surface buoy or float must be clearly, permanently, and legibly marked with the registration number of the vessel from which it is set or transported.

Regulation 56: substituted, on 1 June 2009, by regulation 6 of the Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations 2009 (SR 2009/94).

57 Gear not associated with vessel must be marked


If commercial fishers use gear covered by regulations 54 to 56, other than in conjunction with a fishing vessel, the gear must be marked as required under regulations 54 to 56, but with the permit number of the commercial fisher using the gear.

Compare: SR 1986/215 r 36

Seabird scaring devices

58 Seabird scaring devices required for tuna longlining

(1)

Commercial fishers taking tuna by using longlines from a vessel must ensure that, for the purpose of avoiding or mitigating the effect of fishing-related seabird mortality,—

(a)

seabird scaring devices approved by the chief executive are carried on a vessel whenever the vessel is being used to take tuna by longline fishing; and

(b)

seabird scaring devices are used in accordance with specifications (if any) issued by the chief executive.

(2)
Commercial fishers must permit inspection of seabird scaring devices at any reasonable time by a fishery officer or an observer appointed under section 223(2) of the Act.

Compare: SR 1986/215 r 36A
Regulation 58(1): amended, on 1 October 2009, by regulation 5 of the Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations (No 2) 2009 (SR 2009/243).

Avoidance or mitigation of fishing-related seabird mortality

Heading: inserted, on 1 October 2009, by regulation 6 of the Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations (No 2) 2009 (SR 2009/243).

58A Circulars may authorise or require seabird mitigation measures

(1)

The chief executive may, by notice in the Gazette, issue, amend, or revoke a circular—

(a)

authorising or requiring a particular seabird mitigation measure to be carried, used, or adopted (as the case may require) in relation to any specified vessel or class of vessel, if that measure is reasonably necessary to avoid or mitigate the effect of fishing-related seabird mortality:

(b)

specifying the standards and requirements (if any) applying in respect of any seabird mitigation measure authorised or required under paragraph (a).

(2)
Before issuing, amending, or revoking a circular the chief executive must consult, to the extent that is practicable in the circumstances, with any persons or organisations that the chief executive considers to be representative of the classes of persons or organisations likely to be substantially affected by the circular.

(3)

A circular may specify different standards and requirements in respect of different types of seabird mitigation measure, including, in relation to any specified vessel or class of vessel,—

(a)

a specified fishing practice or method:

(b)

a specified fishery or area.

Regulation 58A: substituted, on 1 October 2009, by regulation 6 of the Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations (No 2) 2009 (SR 2009/243).

58B Responsibility for compliance

(1)
The operator or master of a vessel to which this regulation applies must comply with any seabird mitigation measure authorised or required by any circular issued under regulation 58A(1)(a).

(2)

The operator or master must also ensure that a seabird mitigation measure—

(a)

complies with any standards and requirements specified under regulation 58A(1)(b); and

(b)

is carried, used, or adopted (as the case may require) in accordance with those standards and requirements.

(3)
The operator or master must permit a fishery officer or observer to inspect at any reasonable time any seabird mitigation measure that is authorised or required by circular to be carried, used, or adopted (as the case may require) in relation to that vessel.

Regulation 58B: substituted, on 1 October 2009, by regulation 6 of the Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations (No 2) 2009 (SR 2009/243).

58C Responsibilities of vessel operator or master in relation to seabird scaring devices

[Revoked]
Regulation 58C: revoked, on 1 October 2009, by regulation 6 of the Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations (No 2) 2009 (SR 2009/243).

General provisions relating to nets

59 Measurement of net mesh size



A certified gauge used for measuring the net mesh size must—

(a)

have the configuration of 1 or more of the gauges depicted in Part 1 of Schedule 3; and

(b)

bear an identifying mark and the letters “DSIR”, “MAF” or a Ministry mark, and a number, as recorded in the report referred to in paragraph (c); and

(c)

be certified as an accurate net mesh measuring gauge for the purposes of these regulations by reference to the mark and number recorded in a report issued—

(i)

by the Measurements Standards Laboratory of New Zealand (as defined in the National Standards Regulations 1976); or

(ii)

by an inspector or an accredited person (as those terms are defined in section 2 of the Weights and Measures Act 1987).

Compare: SR 1986/215 r 37

60 Restrictions on nets in channels

(1)
Commercial fishers must not use or set nets that, either by themselves or together with, or in conjunction with, another net, wing, leader, or other item attached to the net, extend more than one-quarter of the way across the width of a channel, river, or stream.

(2)
Commercial fishers must not use nets that, either by themselves or together with, or in conjunction with, another net, wing, leader, or other item attached to the net, extend more than one-quarter of the width of an arm of the sea, including an estuary, inlet, bay, or sound.

(3)
For the purposes of subclause (1), the width of a channel, river, or stream is the distance between the bank of the channel, river, or stream, measured at right angles at that place and at that time.

(4)
For the purposes of subclause (2), the width of an arm of the sea, including an estuary, inlet, bay, or sound, is the distance between a point on the water’s edge and a point on the opposing water’s edge that at some point intersects the net, or a wing, leader, or other item attached to the net.

Compare: SR 1986/215 r 38

61 Stalling prohibited


Commercial fishers must not set nets so that stalling occurs and must ensure that stalling does not occur while the nets are set.

Compare: SR 1986/215 r 39

62 Use of poles or stakes



Commercial fishers must not erect poles or stakes for use with fishing nets, or use them in conjunction with fishing nets, except if the poles or stakes—

(a)

are used in conjunction with fyke nets; and

(b)

are clearly visible at all stages of the tide; and

(c)

are removed when fishing stops.

Compare: SR 1986/215 r 40

63 Use of specified nets prohibited

(1)
Commercial fishers must not use Danish seine nets, trawl nets, box or teichi nets, trammel nets, purse seine nets, or lampara nets in rivers, streams, lakes, lagoons, or estuaries.

(2)
Commercial fishers must not set, use, or possess baited nets other than ring pots, fyke nets, hoop nets, or pullpots.

(3)
Commercial fishers must not use or possess trammel nets.

Compare: SR 1986/215 r 41
Regulation 63(2): amended, on 2 October 2003, by regulation 3 of the Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations (No 2) 2003 (SR 2003/222).

64 Use of net-sonde monitor cables prohibited


Commercial fishers must not operate net-sonde monitor cables from New Zealand fishing vessels or foreign-owned New Zealand fishing vessels.

Compare: SR 1986/215 r 41A

Set nets

65 Length of set net

(1)
Commercial fishers must not use set nets or a combination of set nets if the total length of a net or a combination of nets, whether attached together or otherwise, is more than 1 000 m.

(2)
Subclause (1) does not apply if all of the upper edge of each set net is more than 2 m below the surface of the water.

(3)
Commercial fishers must not use set nets or a combination of set nets in New Zealand fisheries waters if the total length of a net or a combination of nets, whether attached together or otherwise, is more than 3 000 m.

(4)
Subclause (3) does not apply if the chief executive authorises the use of the net or nets under subclause (5).

(5)
The chief executive may, in writing, authorise a commercial fisher to use a set net or a combination of set nets in New Zealand fisheries waters, whether attached together or not, with a total length of not more than 6 000 m.

(6)
In subclauses (3) and (5), New Zealand fisheries waters does not include a river, stream, lake, lagoon, or estuary.

(7)
Before issuing an authorisation under subclause (5), the chief executive must be satisfied that the commercial fisher has previously used a set net or a combination of set nets, whether attached together or otherwise, whose total length was not less than 3 000 m.

(8)
Commercial fishers must not use or possess set nets with a total length of more than 500 m if, when the nets are set, they have part of their upper edge more than 2 m from the surface of the water unless the nets have surface floats attached at intervals of 500 m or less.

(9)

Commercial fishers must not, in rivers, streams, lakes, lagoons, or estuaries,—

(a)

use set nets or a combination of set nets if the total length of a net or a combination of nets, whether attached together or otherwise, exceeds 1 000 m; or

(b)

set a set net within 60 m of another set net.

Compare: SR 1986/215 r 42

66 Set net soak time


Commercial fishers must not leave set nets in the water for more than 18 hours without under-running the net and removing fish that have been caught.

Compare: SR 1986/215 r 42A

Drag nets and beach seine nets

67 Length of drag net or beach seine net

(1)
Commercial fishers must not use or have drag nets or beach seine nets that are longer than 165 m.

(2)
In this regulation, drag net and beach seine net do not include a warp, rope, or chain attached to the net.

Compare: SR 1986/215 r 43

68 Method of hauling drag net or beach seine net


Commercial fishers must not use beach seine nets or drag nets unless the nets are pulled or hauled by hand, without the aid of a pulley, other mechanical device, or vessel.

Compare: SR 1986/215 r 44

Danish seine nets

69 Danish seine net restrictions

(1)
Commercial fishers must not use for fishing, or have on board a fishing vessel, Danish seine nets.

(2)

Subclause (1) applies only if the mesh of the net—

(a)

is less than 125 mm in the cod-end; or

(b)

has more than 1 layer of mesh; or

(c)

has liners, sleeves, or flappers of any material; or

(d)

has a form of strengthening with centres less than 1 m.

Compare: SR 1986/215 r 45

70 Danish seining prohibited near South Island coast


Commercial fishers must not use Danish seine nets within 3 nautical miles seaward of the mean high-water mark of the coast of the South Island.

Compare: SR 1986/215 r 46

Trawl nets

71 Trawl net restrictions

(1)
Commercial fishers must not use for fishing, or have on board a fishing vessel, trawl nets.

(2)

Subclause (1) applies only if the trawl net has—

(a)

more than 1 layer of mesh:

(b)

liners, sleeves, or flappers of any material:

(c)

a method of strengthening with centres less than 1 m:

(d)

mesh less than 100 mm unless a fishing permit authorises the use or possession of the mesh.

(3)

Subclause (1) does not prohibit the use of chafer gear on the underside of a trawl net if the after end of the chafer or chafing gear—

(a)

is, and remains, detached from the trawl net; and

(b)

is attached in a manner that will readily allow the escape of small fish through the mesh of the cod-end.

(4)

Subclause (1) does not prohibit a commercial fisher from having trawl nets on a vessel if—

(a)

the nets may lawfully be used by the commercial fisher from that vessel in another area of New Zealand fisheries waters; and

(b)

the vessel is to be used or has been used on that voyage to fish in that area.

(5)

Subclause (1) does not prohibit a commercial fisher from using for fishing or possessing on a vessel trawl nets with a mesh not less than 80 mm in the body of the net, and not less than 55 mm in the cod-end of the net, if the fisher—

(a)

is fishing for or intends to fish for scampi or prawn killer; and

(b)

has notified the chief executive in writing of the fisher’s intention to fish for scampi or prawn killer in that fishing year.

Compare: SR 1986/215 r 47

Regulation 71(5): added, on 1 October 2004, by regulation 3 of the Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations (No 3) 2004 (SR 2004/329).
Regulation 71(5)(a): amended, on 1 October 2007, by regulation 5 of the Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations (No 2) 2007 (SR 2007/252).
Regulation 71(5)(b): amended, on 1 October 2007, by regulation 5 of the Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations (No 2) 2007 (SR 2007/252).

72 Trawling by vessels over 46 m long prohibited in territorial sea


Commercial fishers must not use New Zealand fishing vessels or foreign-owned New Zealand fishing vessels over 46 m in overall length for trawling in the territorial sea.

Compare: SR 1986/215 r 47A

73 Trawling prohibited in closed seamount areas

(1)
No person may use a trawl net for fishing in a closed seamount area.

(2)
In this regulation, closed seamount area means all waters within an area identified by regulations as a seamount area in which fishing by use of a trawl net is prohibited.

Compare: SR 1986/215 r 47B

74 Other methods of fishing prohibited

[Revoked]
Regulation 74: revoked, on 12 May 2011, by clause 3 of the Fisheries Regulations Revocation Order 2011 (SR 2011/96).

Fyke nets

75 Tubes must be incorporated in fyke nets



Commercial fishers must not use fyke nets unless—

(a)

2 escapement tubes are incorporated between the last trap or throat and the last part of each net that is capable of holding finfish while in the water; and

(b)

the escapement tubes are—

(i)

not less than 31 mm in inside diameter (except that the inside diameter of both ends of the tube must be at least 32 mm); and

(ii)

not less than 35 mm in length; and

(iii)

placed so as to project inside the net not more than 10 mm.

Compare: SR 1986/215 r 49

Regulation 75: amended, on 1 October 2013, by regulation 5(1) of the Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations 2013 (SR 2013/325).
Regulation 75(b)(i): amended, on 1 October 2013, by regulation 5(2) of the Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations 2013 (SR 2013/325).
Regulation 75(b)(i): amended, on 1 October 2013, by regulation 5(3) of the Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations 2013 (SR 2013/325).

Underwater breathing apparatus

76 Restrictions relating to underwater breathing apparatus



Except as provided in regulations 76A and 77, commercial fishers must not—

(a)

use or have underwater breathing apparatus when taking fish, aquatic life, or seaweed; or

(b)

have underwater breathing apparatus while in possession of fish, aquatic life, or seaweed; or

(c)

have underwater breathing apparatus on board New Zealand fishing vessels or foreign-owned New Zealand fishing vessels.

Compare: SR 1986/215 r 51
Regulation 76: amended, on 1 October 2006, by regulation 5 of the Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations (No 2) 2006 (SR 2006/235).

76A Underwater breathing apparatus allowed when taking certain species

(1)

This subclause applies to—

(a)

deepwater clam:

(b)

horse mussel:

(c)

sea cucumber:

(d)

kina, if taken from quota management area SUR4:

(e)

paua, if taken from quota management area PAU4.

(2)

If a commercial fisher is carrying and operating an automatic location communicator on board a New Zealand fishing vessel that is being used for fishing for any of the species to which subclause (1) applies (the specified species), the commercial fisher may—

(a)

use or have underwater breathing apparatus when taking the specified species:

(b)

have underwater breathing apparatus when in possession of the specified species:

(c)

have underwater breathing apparatus on board the vessel for the purpose of taking the specified species.

(3)

Nothing in subclause (2) allows a commercial fisher—

(a)

to use or have underwater breathing apparatus when taking fish, aquatic life, or seaweed other than the specified species; or

(b)

to have underwater breathing apparatus on board a vessel from which fish, aquatic life, or seaweed, other than the specified species, is taken.

(4)

In this regulation,—
horse mussel means a shellfish of the species Atrina zelandica
quota management area PAU4 has the meaning set out in Part 3 of Schedule 1 of the Act
quota management area SUR4 means the area defined as fishery management area 4—South East (Chatham Rise) in Part 1 of Schedule 1 of the Act
sea cucumber means a holothurian of the species Stichopus mollis.

Regulation 76A: replaced, on 1 October 2013, by regulation 6 of the Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations 2013 (SR 2013/325).

77 Underwater breathing apparatus allowed in certain circumstances

(1)

Underwater breathing apparatus may be carried on board and used from a New Zealand fishing vessel if the underwater breathing apparatus is sealed on the fishing vessel by a fishery officer and only carried or used—

(a)

to retrieve lost fishing gear that cannot effectively be recovered by another means; or

(b)

for emergencies involving the preservation of life or the safety of the vessel or other vessels.

(2)

If underwater breathing apparatus has been used for a purpose specified in subclause (1), the operator, notified user, or master must,—

(a)

as soon as practicable, inform a fishery officer, by some form of communication from the vessel, of the circumstances involving the use of the apparatus; and

(b)

not permit the vessel to put to sea again after entering a port or refuge until the apparatus has been resealed by, or under the direction of, a fishery officer.

(3)

Underwater breathing apparatus may be carried on board and used from a registered fishing vessel if—

(a)

the apparatus is not used for commercial fishing; and

(b)

the chief executive authorises the apparatus to be carried and used; and

(c)

it is carried and used in accordance with conditions specified by the chief executive.

Compare: SR 1986/215 r 52

Shellfish dredges

78 Shellfish dredge design and size

(1)

Commercial fishers who fish for shellfish other than surf clams must not use—

(a)

more than 1 dredge with a bar or bit that is more than 2.5 m long; or

(b)

more than 2 dredges, either of which has a bar or bit that is more than 1.4 m long.

(2)
However, commercial fishers fishing for surf clams may use 1 or more dredges that have a bar or bit of any length.

Compare: SR 1986/215 r 53

Regulation 78(1): amended, on 1 April 2008, by regulation 7(1) of the Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations 2008 (SR 2008/26).
Regulation 78(2): added, on 1 April 2008, by regulation 7(2) of the Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations 2008 (SR 2008/26).

Pots

Heading: substituted, on 1 June 2009, by regulation 8 of the Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations 2009 (SR 2009/94).

79 Apertures required in rock lobster pots

(1)
Commercial fishers must not use or have rock lobster pots on board fishing vessels unless the pots have at least 2 rectangular apertures (other than the mouth) through which undersize rock lobsters are able to escape.

(2)

An escape aperture must not—

(a)

be included in either the top or the bottom of a pot; or

(b)

have inside dimensions of less than 200 mm long and 54 mm wide.

(3)

Rock lobster pots that are required to have escape apertures must be constructed so that—

(a)

there are escape apertures in at least 2 opposite faces of the pots; and

(b)

if the escape apertures are placed vertically, the total inside length of the escape aperture or apertures on 1 face of the pots is not less than 80% of the total height of the face of the pots on which the aperture or apertures are placed; and

(c)

if the apertures are not placed vertically, the total inside length of the escape aperture or apertures on 1 face of the pots is not less than 80% of the total length of the face of the pots on which the aperture or apertures are placed.

(4)

Despite subclauses (1) and (3), commercial fishers must not use round rock lobster pots, or have them on board fishing vessels, unless—

(a)

the pots have at least 3 rectangular apertures (other than the mouth) through which undersize rock lobsters are able to escape; and

(b)

each aperture has inside dimensions of not less than 200 mm long by 54 mm wide.

(5)

This regulation does not prohibit the use or possession of rock lobster pots without escape apertures on board fishing vessels if—

(a)

the pots are constructed entirely of spot welded rectangular mesh with inside dimensions of not less than 140 mm long by 54 mm wide; and

(b)

the pots are used—

(i)

without covers or liners; or

(ii)

with covers or liners that leave unencumbered at least 80% of the surface area of each of 2 opposite sides.

(6)
This regulation does not prohibit the use of rock lobster pots for holding rock lobsters if the pots are not capable of being used for taking rock lobsters.

(7)
To avoid doubt, this regulation does not prohibit the use or possession of pots without apertures for taking species other than rock lobster.

Compare: SR 1986/215 r 54

Regulation 79(5): substituted, on 2 October 2003, by regulation 4 of the Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations (No 2) 2003 (SR 2003/222).
Regulation 79(7): added, on 1 June 2009, by regulation 9 of the Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations 2009 (SR 2009/94).

79A Requirements for pots used for taking blue cod or octopus

(1)
Commercial fishers must not use or have on board a fishing vessel any pot used to take blue cod unless the pot is constructed entirely of square steel mesh with inside dimensions of no less than 48 mm in width.

(2)
Commercial fishers must not use or have on board a fishing vessel any pot used to take octopus unless the entrance to the pot is covered and secured by a latch or similar device so that an octopus must force its way into the pot.

Regulation 79A: inserted, on 1 June 2009, by regulation 10 of the Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations 2009 (SR 2009/94).

Spears

80 Use of spears prohibited


Commercial fishers must not use spears to take fish and must not possess fish that have been speared.

Compare: SR 1986/215 r 55

Wire traces and shark lines

Heading: inserted, on 20 December 2015, by regulation 7 of the Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations 2015 (LI 2015/268).

80A Use of wire traces and shark lines by commercial tuna and billfish fishers prohibited

(1)
Commercial fishers who fish for tuna or billfish must not fish using wire traces or have wire traces on board the fishing vessel.

(2)
Commercial fishers who fish for tuna or billfish must not fish using shark lines.

Regulation 80A: inserted, on 20 December 2015, by regulation 7 of the Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations 2015 (LI 2015/268).

Part 5 Authorised stocks

[Revoked]Part 5: revoked, on 1 October 2004, by section 65(1) of the Fisheries Amendment Act (No 3) 2004 (2004 No 76).

81 Declaration of authorised stocks

[Revoked]
Regulation 81: revoked, on 1 October 2004, by section 65(1) of the Fisheries Amendment Act (No 3) 2004 (2004 No 76).

Part 6 Fees, offences, and penalties

Fees

82 Fees


Fees must be paid as specified in Schedule 2.

Compare: SR 1986/215 r 56

83 Chief executive may waive or remit certain fees


The chief executive may waive or remit, in whole or in part, all fees payable under these regulations, if he or she considers that the waiver or remission is in the public interest.

Compare: SR 1986/215 r 56A

Offences

84 Offences

(1)
A person commits an offence who contravenes or fails to comply with regulation 6.

(2)
A person commits an offence who contravenes or fails to comply with regulations 5, 7, 8(1), 16(1) to (6), 17(4) to (6), 18, 19(3), (7), (8) or (10), 20(1), (3), (5) or (7), 21(1), 22, 25, 42(1) or (2), 43(1), (2) or (4), 52A, 53 to 57, 58B(2) or (3), 62, 76, 77, 80, or 80A.

(3)
A person commits an offence who contravenes or fails to comply with regulations 9, 10(2) or (3), 11 to 13, 14, 17(3) or (7) to (10), 19(2), (4) to (6) or (9), 23, 24(2), 27 to 29, 30(2) to (4), 31(1), (5) or (6), 32(1) to (3), 33(1) or (2), 34, 35, 36(1) or (2), 37(1) or (2), 41(2) or (3), 44(1) or (2), 45(1), 46 to 48, 50(1) or (2), 51(1) or (2), 52B, 58, 58B(1), 60, 61, 63, 64, 65(1), (3), (8) or (9), 66, 67(1), 68, 69(1), 70, 71(1), 72, 73, 74, 75, 78, 79(1) to (4), or 79A.

Regulation 84(2): amended, on 20 December 2015, by regulation 8(1) of the Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations 2015 (LI 2015/268).
Regulation 84(2): amended, on 1 October 2013, by regulation 7 of the Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations 2013 (SR 2013/325).
Regulation 84(2): amended, on 1 October 2009, by regulation 7(1) of the Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations (No 2) 2009 (SR 2009/243).
Regulation 84(2): amended, on 1 June 2009, by regulation 11(1) of the Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations 2009 (SR 2009/94).
Regulation 84(2): amended, on 1 October 2008, by regulation 6(1) of the Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations (No 2) 2008 (SR 2008/272).
Regulation 84(2): amended, on 1 April 2007, by regulation 7 of the Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations 2007 (SR 2007/32).
Regulation 84(2): amended, on 1 October 2004, by regulation 7(a) of the Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations (No 2) 2004 (SR 2004/284).
Regulation 84(2): amended, on 1 October 2004, by regulation 7(b) of the Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations (No 2) 2004 (SR 2004/284).
Regulation 84(3): amended, on 20 December 2015, by regulation 8(2) of the Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations 2015 (LI 2015/268).
Regulation 84(3): amended, on 20 December 2015, by regulation 8(3) of the Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations 2015 (LI 2015/268).
Regulation 84(3): amended, on 1 October 2014, by regulation 6 of the Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations (No 2) 2014 (LI 2014/279).
Regulation 84(3): amended, on 1 October 2009, by regulation 7(2) of the Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations (No 2) 2009 (SR 2009/243).
Regulation 84(3): amended, on 1 June 2009, by regulation 11(2) of the Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations 2009 (SR 2009/94).
Regulation 84(3): amended, on 1 October 2008, by regulation 6(2) of the Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations (No 2) 2008 (SR 2008/272).
Regulation 84(3): amended, on 14 January 2005, by regulation 3 of the Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations (No 5) 2004 (SR 2004/443).

Penalties

85 Penalties

(1)
A person who commits an offence against a regulation listed in regulation 84(1) is liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding $10,000.

(2)
A person who commits an offence against a regulation listed in regulation 84(2) is liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding $20,000.

(3)

A person is liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding $100,000 if—

(a)

that person has been convicted of 2 or more offences against the regulations specified in regulation 84(1) or (2); and

(b)

the offences were committed on more than 1 occasion within a period of 3 consecutive years.

(4)
Any person who commits an offence against a regulation listed in regulation 84(3) is liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding $100,000.

Regulation 85(1): amended, on 1 July 2013, by section 413 of the Criminal Procedure Act 2011 (2011 No 81).
Regulation 85(2): amended, on 1 July 2013, by section 413 of the Criminal Procedure Act 2011 (2011 No 81).
Regulation 85(3): amended, on 1 July 2013, by section 413 of the Criminal Procedure Act 2011 (2011 No 81).
Regulation 85(4): amended, on 1 July 2013, by section 413 of the Criminal Procedure Act 2011 (2011 No 81).
Regulation 85(4): amended, on 31 March 2003, by regulation 3 of the Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations 2003 (SR 2003/29).

Revocation

86 Revocation


The Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Regulations 1986 (SR 1986/215) are revoked.

Schedule 1 Diagrams relating to method of measurement of spiny rock lobster

r 39

1

Tailwidth measuring device

2

Male and female spiny rock lobster

Male (ventral view)

Female (ventral view)

Schedule 2 Fees

r 82

Part 1 Preliminary provisions

1 Interpretation


In this schedule, 1983 Act means the Fisheries Act 1983.

2 Fees GST inclusive


Unless otherwise provided, all fees are inclusive of goods and services tax.

Part 2 Fishing permit fees

3 Application fees for fishing permits



The fees payable in respect of an application for a fishing permit are as follows:

Type of application
$

(a)

for the issue of a permit under section 91 of the Act for a 1-year term

112

(b)

for the issue of a permit under section 91 of the Act for a term longer than 1 year (the fee is payable for each whole or part subsequent year for which the permit is issued)

27

(c)

for the approval of an agreement under section 89(4)(a) of the Act

36

(d)

for the approval of an agreement under section 89(4)(b) of the Act

36

(e)

for the approval of a variation of an agreement under section 89(6) of the Act

36

(f)

for the issue of a permit under section 93A of the Act

112

(g)

for the issue of a duplicate fishing permit

18

Schedule 2 Part 2 clause 3: substituted, on 1 April 2007, by regulation 8(1) of the Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations 2007 (SR 2007/32).

4 Application fees for special permits



The fees payable in respect of an application for a special permit under section 97 of the Act are as follows:

Type of application

$

(a)

for the issue of a special permit (for each hour taken to process the application)

133.88 per hour or part hour

(b)

for the issue of a duplicate special permit

15

(c)

for the amendment or alteration to conditions of a special permit at the request of the permit holder (for each hour taken to process the application)

133.88 per hour or part hour

(d)

for the amendment or alteration to conditions of a special permit in another case

15

Schedule 2 Part 2 clause 4(a): amended, on 2 December 2004, by regulation 3(a) of the Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations (No 4) 2004 (SR 2004/381).
Schedule 2 Part 2 clause 4(c): amended, on 2 December 2004, by regulation 3(b) of the Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations (No 4) 2004 (SR 2004/381).

5 Application fee for section 110(1) approval

The fee payable in respect of an application for approval by the chief executive under section 110(1) of the Act
190.79

6 Application fee for section 113(1)(a)(ii) approval

The fee payable in respect of an application for approval by the chief executive under section 113(1)(a)(ii) of the Act
190.79

7 Application fee for section 191(2) approval

The fee payable in respect of an application for approval by the chief executive under section 191(2) of the Act
18

8 Application fee for section 192(7) approval

The fee payable in respect of an application for approval by the chief executive under section 192(7) of the Act
18

Part 3 Controlled fisheries fees

Application fees

9 Application fees under section 29 of 1983 Act



The fees payable on an application under section 29 of the 1983 Act are as follows:

Type of application
$

(a)
to inspect the Register of Controlled Fishery Licences
3

(b)
to obtain a copy of a specified entry in the Register of Controlled Fishery Licences—

(i)

if the fee under paragraph (a) has been paid

5

(ii)

if the fee under paragraph (b) has not been paid

8

(c)
for a licence under section 32(1) of the 1983 Act
75

(d)
for the renewal of a permit under section 37(1) of the 1983 Act
75

(e)
for a temporary licence issued by the chief executive under section 38 of the 1983 Act
75

(f)
another application under Part 3 of the 1983 Act that is made to the chief executive
75

Boat authority fees

10 Annual licence fee


The holder of a licence granted under Part 3 of the 1983 Act must pay, in respect of every boat authority issued for the vessel specified in the licence, a fee of $200 for every year or part of a year for which the licence is current.

11 No extra fee payable if new boat authority issued for contiguous fishery



No further fee is payable for the cancellation of the original boat authority or the issue of an appropriate new boat authority if—

(a)

the holder of a licence granted under Part 3 of the 1983 Act is also granted a licence under that Part to fish in another controlled fishery contiguous to the first for the same species of fish; and

(b)

a vessel for which a boat authority has been issued is to be used in both controlled fisheries by the licensee.

Part 4 Other fees

12 Conversion factor certificates



$

(1)

The fee payable by the operator of a vessel in respect of which a greenweight conversion factor certificate is given under section 188(2) of the Act

(2)

No fee is payable under this clause if the conversion factor certificate increases the greenweight conversion factor that applies to the vessel

(3)

The chief executive may waive the fee payable under this clause if the conversion factor certificate is issued for the purpose of making minor amendments to a previous certificate that applies to the vessel

27

13 Supervision by observers



A fee of $571.65 (excluding GST) per observer, per day or part of a day, is payable by the vessel operator for the supervision by observers of the following:

(a)

conversion factors

(b)

transhipments. If more than 1 person is liable to pay a fee under this clause in respect of the period during which an observer is on board a vessel, the chief executive may divide the total fee payable between those persons on a proportionate basis, having regard to the percentage of total transhipment hours taken up by each relevant transhipment

(c)

in port unloads

(d)

high-risk and medium-risk foreign charter vessels

(e)

vessels fishing under special permits issued under section 97 of the Fisheries Act 1996

(f)

vessels fishing under high seas fishing permits issued under Part 6A of the Fisheries Act 1996

(g)

vessels in benthic protection areas as defined in the Fisheries (Benthic Protection Areas) Regulations 2007

(h)

vessels where observer supervision has been requested by the owner or operator of a vessel

Schedule 2 Part 4 clause 13: substituted, on 1 June 2009, by regulation 12(1) of the Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations 2009 (SR 2009/94).

14 Supervision of transhipments

[Revoked]
Schedule 2 Part 4 clause 14: revoked, on 1 June 2009, by regulation 12(1) of the Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations 2009 (SR 2009/94).

15 Supervision of dumping at sea

[Revoked]
Schedule 2 Part 4 clause 15: revoked, on 20 December 2015, by regulation 9 of the Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations 2015 (LI 2015/268).

16 Automatic location communicators



$

(1)

The fee payable in respect of the grant of a type approval for an automatic location communicator must be calculated as follows:

(a)

labour supplied by the Ministry in respect of the approval must be charged at the rate of $50 per hour; and

(b)

the actual and reasonable costs of the Ministry for equipment and materials supplied or used in relation to the approval must be added to the amount payable under paragraph (a)

(2)

[Revoked]

Schedule 2 Part 4 clause 16(2): revoked, on 1 October 2007, by regulation 6 of the Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations (No 2) 2007 (SR 2007/252).

17 Marine farming permits and spat catching permits



$

(1)

The fee payable for an application for a marine farming permit under section 67J of the 1983 Act

2,008.20

(2)

The fee payable for an application for a spat catching permit under section 67Q of the 1983 Act

2,008.20

(3)

The fee payable for an application by the holder of a marine farming permit or a spat catching permit for a change to the conditions of that permit under section 67K of the 1983 Act

669.40

(4)

The fee payable for the notification under section 67M of the 1983 Act of a transfer of an interest in a marine farming permit

133.88

Schedule 2 Part 4 clause 17(1): amended, on 2 December 2004, by regulation 3(c) of the Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations (No 4) 2004 (SR 2004/381).
Schedule 2 Part 4 clause 17(2): amended, on 2 December 2004, by regulation 3(c) of the Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations (No 4) 2004 (SR 2004/381).
Schedule 2 Part 4 clause 17(3): amended, on 2 December 2004, by regulation 3(d) of the Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations (No 4) 2004 (SR 2004/381).
Schedule 2 Part 4 clause 17(4): amended, on 2 December 2004, by regulation 3(e) of the Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations (No 4) 2004 (SR 2004/381).

18 Inspection of marine farming register



$

(1)

The fee payable to inspect the register of marine farming permits that is kept under section 67J(12) of the 1983 Act

(2)

The fee for a photocopy of the register of marine farming permits is 20 cents for each page photocopied

133.88

Schedule 2 Part 4 clause 18(1): amended, on 2 December 2004, by regulation 3(f) of the Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations (No 4) 2004 (SR 2004/381).

18A Aquaculture matters

(1)

The fee payable in relation to the following matters is $2,008.20:

(a)

obtaining and analysing information for the purpose of making an aquaculture decision from the time of receipt of the application for a coastal permit to occupy space in the coastal marine area for an aquaculture activity:

(b)

an aquaculture decision:

(c)

preparing for, and making aquaculture decisions in relation to, changes to the conditions of coastal permits (whether the changes are initiated by the holder of the coastal permit or the consent authority that issued it).

(2)

The fee payable in relation to the following matters is $276 plus $24.15 for each additional stock involved:

(a)

a decision whether to register a pre-request aquaculture agreement:

(b)

registering a pre-request aquaculture agreement:

(c)

a decision whether to register an aquaculture agreement or a compensation declaration:

(d)

registering an aquaculture agreement or a compensation declaration:

(e)

any administration associated with registering an aquaculture agreement, a compensation declaration, or a pre-request aquaculture agreement.

Schedule 2 Part 4 clause 18A: inserted, on 1 October 2011, by section 27(1) of the Fisheries Amendment Act 2011 (2011 No 68).

19 Freshwater fish farming licences

[Revoked]
Schedule 2 Part 4 clause 19: revoked, on 2 December 2004, by regulation 3(g) of the Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations (No 4) 2004 (SR 2004/381).

20 Remission of fees and additional fees



If the cost of processing an application or a matter (in respect of which a fee is prescribed in clause 17, 18, or 18A(1) of this Part or in the Schedule of the Freshwater Fish Farming Regulations 1983) at the rate of $133.88 per hour or part of an hour—

(a)

is less than the prescribed fee, the chief executive must remit the balance of the prescribed fee; or

(b)

is more than the prescribed fee, the applicant must pay the additional amount.

Schedule 2 Part 4 clause 20: amended, on 1 October 2011, by section 27(1) of the Fisheries Amendment Act 2011 (2011 No 68).
Schedule 2 Part 4 clause 20: amended, on 2 December 2004, by regulation 3(h) of the Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations (No 4) 2004 (SR 2004/381).
Schedule 2 Part 4 clause 20: amended, on 2 December 2004, by regulation 3(i) of the Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations (No 4) 2004 (SR 2004/381).

Part 5 Transitional fees

21 Application fee for notified user

$

The fee payable for an application made before 1 October 2001 to become a notified user under section 104(1) of the Act
38

22 Application fee to register forward transfer

$

The fee payable for an application made before 1 October 2001 to register a forward transfer of annual catch entitlement under section 133(1) of the Act,—

(a) for the first 10 lines of transfer information

78.75

(b) for a further 10 lines or part of 10 lines

78.75

Schedule 3 Measurement of net mesh size

r 59

Part 1 Diagrams of certified gauges

Part 2 Method of net mesh size measurement using certified gauge

Use of certified gauge

1

The net must be stretched in the direction of the long diagonal of the meshes.

2

A certified gauge must be inserted by its narrowest extremity into the mesh opening at right angles or perpendicular to the plane of the net.

3

The gauge must be inserted into the mesh opening, either by manual force or by using a weight described in clause 15 or clause 16, until it is stopped at the tapering edges or parallel edges by the resistance of the mesh.

Selection of meshes to be measured

4

Despite clauses 5 and 6, a series of 20 consecutive meshes must be chosen to be measured, in the direction of the longest dimension of the net.

5

Mesh that has been mended or broken or has attachments fixed to the net must not be included for measurement.

6

The meshes to be measured under clause 4 need not be consecutive if the application of clause 5 prevents it.

Measurement of each mesh

7

Each mesh must be the width of the gauge at the point where the gauge is stopped, in accordance with clauses 1 to 3.

Determination of the mesh size of net

8

The mesh size of the net is the arithmetical mean in millimetres of the measurements of the total number of meshes selected and measured, as provided for in clauses 4 to 7 (the arithmetical mean being rounded up to the next millimetre).

9

The total number of meshes to be measured is provided for in clauses 10 to 13.

Sequence of measuring procedure

10

A fishery officer must measure a series of 20 meshes, selected in accordance with clauses 4 to 6, by inserting the gauge manually without using a weight.

11

The mesh size of the net must be determined in accordance with clause 8.

12

If the calculation of the mesh size shows that the mesh size does not appear to comply with the requirements of these regulations, then 2 additional series of 20 meshes selected in accordance with clauses 4 to 6 must be measured.

13

The mesh size must be recalculated in accordance with clause 8, taking into account the 60 meshes already measured.

14

Subject to clauses 15 to 18, this is the mesh size of the net.

Procedure to be used when measurement contested

15

If the operator of the vessel or any other person contests a determination of mesh size made in accordance with clauses 10 and 11, the net must be remeasured by using the appropriate weight specified in clause 16 or clause 17 and by measuring a series of 20 meshes that have not previously been measured. This will be the net mesh size when calculated in accordance with clause 8.

16

For remeasurement, a weight must be attached to the gauge, affixed to the hole in the narrowest extremity of the gauge by means of a hook.

17

For nets with a mesh size of 35 mm or less, as determined in accordance with clauses 10 and 11, and for all beach seine nets, drag nets, and set nets, a force of between 19.59 N and 19.63 N (equivalent to a mass of 2 kg) must be applied by using a weight of 2 kg.

18

For nets with a mesh size of more than 35 mm, as determined in accordance with clauses 10 and 11, a force of between 48.97 N and 49.07 N (equivalent to a mass of 5 kg) must be applied by using a weight of 5 kg.

19

A weight must not be used for the purposes of this schedule unless it—

(a)

bears an identifying mark including the letters “MAF”, and a number referred to in a report referred to in paragraph (b); and

(b)

is certified by reference to the mark and number referred to in a report issued either by the Measurements Standards Laboratory of New Zealand (as defined in the National Standards Regulations 1976) or by an inspector or an accredited person (as those terms are defined in section 2 of the Weights and Measures Act 1987) as being accurate for the purposes of these regulations.

Schedule 4 Provisions relating to marking of New Zealand fishing vessels and foreign-owned New Zealand fishing vessels

rr 10, 11, 13

1 Lettering

Block lettering and figures must be used.

2 Height

The height of the letters and figures must be in proportion to the size of the vessel.

3 Marks

The height of letters and figures placed on the hull, superstructure, or inclined surfaces must be as specified in the following table:

Overall length of vessels (m)

Minimum height of letters and numbers (m)

28 or over
1.0

20 or over but less than 28
0.8

15 or over but less than 20
0.6

12 or over but less than 15
0.4

5 or over but less than 12
0.3

Less than 5
0.1

4 Hyphen length

The length of the hyphen must be half the height of the letters and figures.

5 Stroke width

The width of the stroke for all letters and the hyphen must be one-sixth of their height.

6 Spaces between letters and numbers

The space between letters and between figures and between letters and figures must not exceed a quarter of their height nor be less than one-sixth of their height.

7 Spaces between adjacent letters with sloping sides

The space between adjacent letters that have sloping sides must not be more that one-eighth of their height nor less than one-tenth of their height.

Schedule 5 Authorised stocks

[Revoked]r 81
Schedule 5: revoked, on 1 October 2004, by section 65(1) of the Fisheries Amendment Act (No 3) 2004 (2004 No 76).

Martin Bell,Acting for Clerk of the Executive Council.

Issued under the authority of the Legislation Act 2012.
Date of notification in Gazette: 20 September 2001.

Reprints notes

1 General

This is a reprint of the Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Regulations 2001 that incorporates all the amendments to those regulations as at the date of the last amendment to them.

2 Legal status

Reprints are presumed to correctly state, as at the date of the reprint, the law enacted by the principal enactment and by any amendments to that enactment. Section 18 of the Legislation Act 2012 provides that this reprint, published in electronic form, has the status of an official version under section 17 of that Act. A printed version of the reprint produced directly from this official electronic version also has official status.

3 Editorial and format changes

Editorial and format changes to reprints are made using the powers under sections 24 to 26 of the Legislation Act 2012. See also http://www.pco.parliament.govt.nz/editorial-conventions/.

4 Amendments incorporated in this reprint

Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations 2015 (LI 2015/268)
Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations (No 2) 2014 (LI 2014/279)
Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations 2014 (LI 2014/17)
Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations 2013 (SR 2013/325)
Criminal Procedure Act 2011 (2011 No 81): section 413
Fisheries Amendment Act 2011 (2011 No 68): section 27(1)
Fisheries Regulations Revocation Order 2011 (SR 2011/96): clause 3
Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations (No 2) 2009 (SR 2009/243)
Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations 2009 (SR 2009/94)
Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations (No 2) 2008 (SR 2008/272)
Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations 2008 (SR 2008/26)
Fisheries (Commercial Fishing Amendment Regulations (No 2) 2007 (SR 2007/252)
Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations 2007 (SR 2007/32)
Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations (No 2) 2006 (SR 2006/235)
Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations (No 5) 2004 (SR 2004/443)
Maritime Transport Amendment Act 2004 (2004 No 98): section 11(4)
Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations (No 4) 2004 (SR 2004/381)
Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations (No 3) 2004 (SR 2004/329)
Fisheries Amendment Act (No 3) 2004 (2004 No 76): section 65(1)
Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations (No 2) 2004 (SR 2004/284)
Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations (No 2) 2003 (SR 2003/222)
Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations 2003 (SR 2003/29)
Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Amendment Regulations 2002 (SR 2002/157)