The New Zealand Defence Force patrolled the Hawke's Bay coastline last month.
The New Zealand Defence Force patrolled the Hawke's Bay coastline last month.
Whanau are not the only ones interested in the paua population, so are poachers.
The New Zealand Defence Force caught six groups taking paua illegally along Hawke's Bay coastline at the end of last month.
A team combined from the Royal New Zealand Air Force and the Ministry of PrimaryIndustries completed patrols along Akitio right through to Mahia Peninsula, covering off 300km of coastline.
"Several individuals appeared to be flouting the paua regulations so MPI was very happy that we were able to catch them in the act," said aircraft captain Flight Lieutenant Sam Estall.
Their efforts will hopefully lead to three prosecutions and five infringement notices have been issued.
"This sends a very clear message to the poachers that they can be hit at any time from the land, sea and from the skies. They have nowhere to hide," said Air Commodore Kevin McEvoy.
