Debate over proposed Northland marine reserve

Recreational fishing and harvesting of seafood may be banned at Mimiwhangata Marine Park on Northland's east coast.

A discussion document from the Department of Conservation (DoC), supported by kaumatua of Te Uri O Hikihiki hapu, proposes that the marine park become a fully protected marine reserve.

Mimiwhangata, about 48km northeast of Whangarei, has enjoyed limited protection as a marine park since 1984.

However studies funded by DOC during the past three years have shown the area's marine life , including snapper, has not recovered.

Recreational fisherman Warren Hay described the document as a "load of rubbish".

Snapper moved from area to area feeding, mainly on kina, he said.

"It depends on the time of the year you go to the area."