[19 March 2011] The Government announced that "commercial butterfish set netting has been reinstated along parts of the South Island's East Coast".

...However, the recreational set netting ban remains in place.

One strong united recreational fishing voice and adequate funding would have seen both sectors back harvesting butterfish.

On 10 March 2011 Hon Peter Dunne announced new United Future policy for recreational fishing:

......"Firstly there needs to be work done in conjunction with the recreational sector to establish a statutory management organisation to better represent and protect the interests of recreational fishing".

Secondly, a review needs to be conducted, and if necessary the Fisheries Act amended, to ensure that the recreational user's share of the quota is not further undermined by the unsustainable activities of the commercial sector"........

Older news....

[08 January 2011] Goes Live! Now providing a presence on the internet, marine recreational fishers can now download the proposal and provide feedback.

Thanks in advance for your feedback