White gold fever will cause hundreds of New Zealanders to perch beside a river tomorrow morning in hope of landing some of our most sought after delicacy.
While the whitebait season, which opens at 5am, is forcast to be just average, it won't stop the enthusiasts heading out with their nets en mass.
And wildlife rangers have warned that strict catch rules must be adhered to.
Those who fall foul of the laws face hefty $5000 fines.
Department of Conservation (DOC) senior ranger for coastal Otago, Pete Ravenscroft, said sports shops have reported an increase in sales of whitebait nets on last season.