“We seized their vehicle and fishing equipment, and the four people are likely to be prosecuted. Inquiries are continuing.”
Police supported with enforcement action against suspected poaching.
They said a 29-year-old man was charged with driving with a suspended licence.
The man will appear in the Hastings District Court on April 22.
Sutton said Mangakuri Beach was a common place for shellfish gatherers.
He said the daily limit for pāua was five per person at a minimum size of 125mm.
Sutton said a useful tip for seafood gatherers was to download the NZ Fishing Rules mobile app before heading outdoors.
“It will provide you with the latest fishing rules for the area you are fishing in. This includes closures and gear restrictions.”
Michaela Gower joined Hawke’s Bay Today in 2023 and is based out of the Hastings newsroom. She covers Dannevirke and Hawke’s Bay news and loves sharing stories about farming and rural communities.