A Whangarei man who claimed he did not know the area of Whangarei Harbour where he was fishing was a marine reserve has been fined $800 and had his fishing gear forfeited.
David Henry Pelham, 47, appeared in Whangarei District Court this month where he pleaded guilty to two charges relating to offences under the Marine Reserves Act 1971 - without lawful excuse took marine life from a marine reserve and giving a false name to a DoC ranger - that were laid by the Department of Conservation.
Pelham was fined $800, ordered to pay $130 court costs and had the Bonito fishing rod and Shimano reel he used forfeited to the Crown.
Pelham was seen by a member of the public fishing on Reotahi beach, well within the reserve, on March 28, 2016, who informed DoC. A DoC ranger then went to investigate and approached Pelham.
The summary of facts on the case said in order to get to the fishing spot Pelham had to have passed two signs warning that the area was a marine reserve and showing its boundaries and a large triangular marine reserve sign.
When spoken to by the ranger Pelham said he was not aware that the area was a marine reserve and initially gave a false name to the ranger.
DoC said it is taking a tough stance on compliance around marine reserves.
"DoC has a duty of care to protect public conservation reserves and the safety of DoC staff, and the law gives DoC the right to warn, charge and prosecute people breaching these laws," DoC Whangarei District Operations Manager Geoff Woodhouse said.
"People breaking laws can expect a tougher stance from DoC and we will be working closely with police when needed. We encourage members of the public to report any offences to DoC offices with as much information as possible for follow up by DoC and or the police."
The Marine Reserves Act 1971 provides for the protection of representative areas that contain underwater scenery, natural features or marine life of such unique quality, or so typical that their continued preservation is in the national interest. Marine Reserves are administered by DoC, and all forms of fishing are prohibited.
The Whangarei Harbour Marine Reserve covers 236 hectares, or about 3 per cent of the harbour.
Anyone breaking the reserve rules can face penalties of up to three months' imprisonment and/or a $250,000 fine. The vessel, fishing, or diving equipment used and any marine life taken can be seized by a warranted enforcement officer.