Hauraki Gulf shellfish harvesting ban extended for two years

Shellfish harvesting closures across parts of the Hauraki Gulf have been extended for two years, effective Friday 7 August. The bans cover mussels, pāua, packhorse rock lobster, cockles, oysters and pipi at sites including Waiheke Island, Umupuia Beach and Coromandel's Te Mātā and Waipatukahu. Oceans and Fisheries Minister Shane Jones approved the extension at the request of three iwi to help replenish local shellfish populations.