Proposed Moeraki shellfish closure open for submissions
Fishers and coastal users are being invited to have their say on a proposed temporary fisheries closure at Moeraki on the Otago coast.
The consultation has been opened by Fisheries New Zealand after a request from Te Rūnanga o Moeraki to temporarily close part of the local coastline to shellfish harvesting.
The proposal would prohibit the taking of all shellfish, including crustaceans, within the defined area for a period of two years.
The request has been made under Fisheries Act 1996, specifically section 186B, which allows temporary closures when they support tangata whenua in exercising customary non commercial fishing rights.
Consultation opened on 4 March and written submissions will be accepted until 5pm on Monday 20 April 2026.
Why the Moeraki shellfish closure is being considered
The request is intended to reduce fishing pressure on local shellfish beds, particularly tuaki, commonly known as cockles.
Temporary closures are sometimes used when local populations decline or show signs of stress. By removing harvesting pressure for a defined period, stocks may have an opportunity to recover.
In this case, the proposal aims to allow shellfish numbers to rebuild while protecting customary gathering practices in the area.
For many coastal communities, cockles remain a culturally significant and locally valued food source. Temporary closures are one tool used to protect those resources when pressure becomes too high.
Area covered by the proposed Moeraki shellfish closure
The proposed closure area covers about 1.3 square kilometres of coastal fisheries waters.
It begins near the northern end of the Moeraki Boulders Kaihinaki Walk and extends south along Moeraki Beach.
The southern boundary reaches the headland at the eastern edge of Onekakara Bay.
The closure would apply to waters out to 500 metres offshore, effectively covering the main nearshore shellfish habitat in the area.
A detailed map of the proposed closure area has been released alongside the consultation documents.
How to make a submission
Fisheries New Zealand is inviting written submissions from anyone with an interest in the fishery or the potential impacts of the proposed closure.
Submissions can be emailed to FMSubmissions@mpi.govt.nz.
Local voices encouraged
Consultations like this often attract strong views from recreational fishers, local residents, and customary fishing interests.
For Boating New Zealand readers who visit the Otago coast, the consultation provides an opportunity to help shape how the fishery is managed in the coming years.
Submissions close at 5pm on 20 April 2026.
