Protection for Hoiho Around Otago Peninsula to Be Made Permanent

Protection for hoiho around Otago Peninsula to be made permanent

A set net ban to protect hoiho off the Otago Peninsula will be made permanent to reduce the risk of fishing bycatch.

Protection for hoiho made permanent

Long-term measures to reduce risk from fishing to hoiho will come into force on 16 September 2026, Oceans and Fisheries Minister Shane Jones says. “Last year I established a temporary emergency ban of set-net fishing in a high-risk area around the Otago Peninsula to protect hoiho (yellow-eyed penguins). This allowed for a review of scientific evidence and public consultation before deciding next steps. “I have decided this closure will be made p…