Marine reserve incidents prompt call for public information

Source: NZ Department of Conservation

Date:  01 December 2025

Motueka-based DOC Marine Ranger Stew Robertson says the first incident involves a 14 m launch spotted anchored in the Horoirangi Marine Reserve, northeast of Nelson, on 5 November.

The white launch was detected on a recently installed camera which monitors the marine reserve.

“The vessel was anchored for 90 minutes, which is unusual and suspicious boating activity for this marine reserve,” Stew says.

The name of the vessel is unknown.

Stew has urged for the skipper of that vessel to make contact, or for anyone who saw it in the marine reserve to get in touch with DOC and quote CLE Works number CLE-10533.

The second incident occurred on 16 November, when a member of the public alerted DOC staff to a 6.5 m Stabicraft in the Tonga Island Marine Reserve – northwest of Nelson.

“The Stabicraft’s occupants were seen catching fish in the marine reserve at about 12:45 pm,” Stew says.

“DOC was supplied with video and a still image of the vessel and its occupants.”

Marine reserves are “no take” areas and any kind of fishing is strictly prohibited.

The name of the Stabicraft vessel is not known – but Stew says it is black, with a distinctive blue trim.

Anyone who can identify the vessel, its skipper – or saw it in the marine reserve on 16 November – is urged to contact DOC and quote number CLE-10534.

Any information shared with DOC is treated confidentially and can be provided anonymously. Stew says there are now more people keeping an eye on the two marine reserves, through the launch of a new Coastwatch group comprising staff from several central and local government agencies and local residents.

The call for public information on the two incidents coincides with DOC issuing a reminder of the marine reserve rules. Newly released data shows offences in marine reserves spike during summer. Marine reserves in the Nelson-Tasman area feature prominently in the data on rule breaches.

DOC has a range of enforcement tools available for breaches of the marine reserve rules. The most serious breaches can result in prosecution and even jail sentences.

“If you’re naturing in our marine reserves, it’s vital you follow the rules,” Stew says.

Anyone who sees or suspects illegal activity in a marine reserve should call 0800 DOC HOT. Information valuable to DOC includes details of any fishers on land, or any boat involved, descriptions of those aboard, where and when it was seen – and the nature of the alleged activity. Any information offered by the public is valuable, including photographs and videos.

Background information

For more information on the benefits of marine reserves: Purpose and benefits of marine reserves

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