"Overall, red rock lobster populations around the country are performing well. For some, projections suggest this could change over the next four years, so we are taking a cautious approach by proposing small to medium reductions to catch to ensure these stocks remain sustainable."
The proposed changes affect the Northland, Gisborne, Wellington, Hawke's Bay, Canterbury, and Marlborough regions (CRA 1, 3, 4 & 5).
"Similar management measures are working well in the Hauraki Gulf and Bay of Plenty (CRA 2) fishery, which has been under a formal rebuild plan since 2018, with recent information telling us stock levels are increasing in those areas."
For packhorse lobster, an overall catch limit which includes customary and recreational sectors is proposed for the first time, and a small increase is proposed for the commercial catch limit.
"New science suggests packhorse populations have increased in recent years which means more can be sustainably harvested."
This consultation forms part of the regular reviews to ensure New Zealand's fisheries are sustainable and follows last week's announcement of consultation on proposals for a range of catch limit changes for other fisheries across the country.
"We encourage everyone who has an interest in these fisheries to have their say by putting in a submission via our website."
The consultation page on the Fisheries New Zealand website has more information about the proposals and how to have your say. Find out more at https://www.mpi.govt.nz/consultations/review-of-sustainability-measures-2021-april-round/. Consultation closes on February 5, 2021.