Set net fishing rules, restrictions and bans

Restrictions under the Public Safety and Nuisance Bylaw

We may prohibit or restrict recreational activities like set netting under the Public Safety and Nuisance Bylaw. We do this to ensure public safety of other beach users, swimmers and kayakers.

Set netting bans by location

Arkles Bay and Little Omaha Bay (Omaha beach) seasonal ban

Set netting is banned from the beginning of Labour Day weekend to the end of Easter annually.

The prohibited area extends 200m offshore.

Te Haruhi and Army Bay beaches in Shakespear Regional Park seasonal ban

Set netting is banned from 20 December to 31 March annually. The prohibited area extends 200m offshore.

Tents, shelters and sleeping in cars is not allowed.

When set netting is allowed

Set netting during the season is allowed if:

• it follows the Fisheries (Kaimoana Customary Fishing) Regulations 1998, which covers customary fishing practices
• set nets are marked, more than 60m apart and less than 60m in length
• there is a maximum of one net and one bait net per vessel
• no person has or uses more than one set net
• the net is not staked
• no bait is used.

When we take action

Set netters must not breach the Public Safety and Nuisance Bylaw by obstructing the beach.

We will take action if set netting:

• is placed or used aggressively or threateningly
• creates a physical obstruction on the beach
• presents immediate danger to public safety
• uses vehicles that are not moving a boat in or out of the water.

If such a breach is reported, an on-call bylaws officer will attend within three hours.

Contact us for more information.

Managing fisheries and protecting wildlife

The Ministry for Primary Industries manages fisheries and protects wildlife.

They enforce the Auckland and Kermadec Recreational Fishing Rules, which include rules for using set nets and crab pots.