A Fiordland fishing charter company has been fined $60,000 for illegally serving crayfish to customers, highlighting a serious breach of fishing regulations. The company, Fiordland Cruises Limited, was prosecuted by the Ministry for Primary Industries for catching and serving an estimated $250,000 worth of crayfish during 162 amateur fishing charters between January and October 2023. Despite the fine, the company's vessel, Southern Secret, will remain operational if a redemption fee of $47,000 is paid.
The incident was uncovered through multiple complaints about charter vessels operating in the Fiordland Marine Area, with allegations that seafood meals were used to entice paying passengers. An investigation revealed that Fiordland Cruises Limited served 1630 crayfish to passengers, a practice that would have cost an estimated $239,610 to $244,500 on the domestic market. This is a clear violation of the rules, as only recreationally caught fish can be served to passengers, and commercial fishing is prohibited.
Garreth Jay, the Fisheries New Zealand compliance regional manager, emphasized the importance of adhering to fishing regulations. He stated that all charter operators are provided with clear information on the rules, which include the prohibition of commercial fishing for serving customers. When fishery officers boarded the Southern Secret, they found passengers being served crayfish for lunch, despite not participating in fishing activities. The skipper and chef were observed lifting cray pots while passengers watched, a clear breach of the law.
This case serves as a reminder of the strict regulations governing the fishing industry and the consequences of non-compliance. It also highlights the need for vigilance and adherence to rules to ensure the sustainability and integrity of New Zealand's marine resources.
