Northland Rock Lobster Fishery to Close as Govt Moves to Rebuild Stocks

Minister Jones said he is acting in response to clear concerns about low rock lobster numbers across Northland’s east coast.

The Government has announced a sweeping closure of Northland’s spiny rock lobster (CRA 1) fishery, aimed at rebuilding declining lobster stocks and restoring balance to the region’s marine ecosystem. Oceans and Fisheries Minister Shane Jones confirmed that both commercial and recreational fishing will face major new restrictions from 1 April 2026.

Major Closure to Protect Vulnerable Spiny Rock Lobster

Minister Jones said he is acting in response to clear concerns about low rock lobster numbers across Northland’s east coast.

“This fishery is a priority for me and I’m aware people have concerns about low spiny rock lobster numbers,” he said. “Rock lobsters play an important role in the marine ecosystem by helping keep kina numbers in check. The changes I am making will help restore balance by increasing the numbers and size of spiny rock lobsters.”

The closure will cover a large and ecologically important stretch of coastline, reflecting significant scientific and community concern about depleted lobster populations.

Key Changes to Fishing Rules

The new measures include:

• Major closure of the CRA 1 fishery, from Ohao Point (including Pārengarenga Harbour) down to Cape Rodney at the southern edge of the Hauraki Gulf.

• Recreational daily bag limit reduced to two spiny rock lobsters per person in CRA 1 — covering both the east and west coasts of Northland.

• Additional CRA 2 closure between Te Ārai Point and the inner Hauraki Gulf.

• Continuation of the existing inner Hauraki Gulf closure, which was introduced earlier this year.

• A nationwide recreational daily limit of three packhorse rock lobsters (PHC 1) to prevent fishers shifting pressure to another vulnerable species.

These combined changes will form a near-continuous chain of restrictions stretching from Northland to the Coromandel Peninsula, significantly reducing fishing pressure on the region’s lobster stocks.

Commercial Industry Actions and Further Measures

Most commercial fishing in CRA 1 had already ceased under a voluntary industry-led closure. Minister Jones acknowledged this effort but said stronger measures were needed to ensure full recovery.

“I commend the industry on taking action to support this fishery. However, I consider that further measures for both commercial and recreational fishers are needed to give the fishery the best opportunity for recovery.”

Public Input and Ecological Importance

Between August and September, Fisheries New Zealand received more than 600 submissions during public consultation. Submitters expressed a wide range of views, reflecting strong public interest in the cultural, economic, and ecological significance of rock lobster.

Spiny rock lobster are considered a keystone species. Without them, kina can overpopulate, leading to urchin barrens that devastate kelp forests—key habitats for marine biodiversity. The Government says the closures will help reverse this degradation and rebuild a healthier ocean environment.

Path Toward Fishery Recovery

The sweeping restrictions are part of a long-term plan to rebuild the fishery so future generations can enjoy a sustainable and resilient lobster population. Officials will continue to monitor stock levels and ecological indicators over the coming years.

The new rules will be implemented from 1 April 2026, providing time for fishers, communities, and industry to adapt.