Fisheries New Zealand is inviting public feedback on a proposal to establish the Puketeraki mātaitai reserve near Karitāne, just north of Dunedin. The application, lodged by Kāti Huirapa Rūnaka ki Puketeraki, seeks to protect a traditional fishing ground of cultural significance to local tangata whenua.
The proposed reserve would cover 47.5 square kilometres of coastal waters, stretching between Cornish Head (Ōhineamio) and Purehurehu Point, extending seaward to the East Otago Taiāpure–Local Fishery boundary. Its southern edge runs from Potato Point to Purehurehu Point along the mean high-water mark.
While commercial fishing is generally prohibited in mātaitai reserves, this application proposes several exceptions. Activities such as anchoring, fish processing, and the commercial harvest of rock lobster, paddle crab, Undaria seaweed, and some finfish species would continue. However, fishing for blue cod, butterfish, and moki would be banned.
Recreational fishing rules remain unchanged, though local Tangata Tiaki/Kaitiaki may later propose new bylaws to manage the area but any such changes would be consulted on separately and require approval from the Minister of Oceans and Fisheries.
Fisheries New Zealand is seeking submissions from anyone who fishes or owns quota and believes their interests may be affected. The consultation closes 5 pm Friday, 5 December 2025.
Submissions can be emailed to FMSubmissions@mpi.govt.nz or mailed to:
Fisheries Management – Spatial Allocations, Fisheries New Zealand, PO Box 2526, Wellington 6140.
