63946 (2024). Teanau Tuiono to the Minister for Oceans and Fisheries

63946 (2024). Teanau Tuiono to the Minister for Oceans and Fisheries: Will the Minister consider a permanent expansion of the Otago set net ban area, since two Hector’s dolphins have been captured by set nets within seven months of each other in the same location, and if not, why not?

Hon Shane Jones: I am not currently considering a permanent expansion of the set net ban area in Otago. As outlined in the Hector’s Dolphin Bycatch Reduction Plan, should fishing-related mortalities in the Otago area approach the limit set for this area, I will consider further regulatory or voluntary measures to ensure the limit is not exceeded.