This reduction is part of a joint management response to halt the decline in the Stewart Island paua stock. I have reduced the commercial take for PAU5B to address the immediate sustainability concerns in the fishery. My objective is to reduce commercial removals from the fishery over a two-year time frame. This will prevent any further decline in stock levels.
Work is also underway to develop a strategy to rebuild the stock.
A phased reduction will give fishers a chance to adjust their business activities.