New lobby group for SI recreational fishers

A new lobby group for South Island recreational fishing says it plans to be a unified voice at a national level for the sector.

Public meetings were held in Blenheim and Nelson this week to discuss Fish Mainland Inc, a recently established non-profit organisation to represent the interests of South Island and Stewart Island marine recreational fishers to the Government and others.

The purpose of the meetings was to discuss the benefits of establishing Fish Mainland, and to hear public responses and suggestions.

The lobby group, which relies on donations and was officially launched in January, also launched its website to promote its policies and encourage membership.

Designed to support existing fishing clubs, boat clubs and related organisations in achieving their own outcomes, the organisation said its aim was to ‘‘restore and sustain fisheries resources to maximise recreational fishers’ experiences and opportunities’’.

To achieve its purpose, Fish Mainland said it would support local initiatives to improve recreational fishing and maintain a healthy marine environment that was crucial to the wellbeing of all fishers and interests.

Chairman Jim Crossland said recreational fishers could raise issues and have input into fishing management processes, knowing that the group would look after their interests.

‘‘However, for Fish Mainland’s voice to be effective, it must demonstrate the ability to work respectfully and collaboratively with the Government, iwi and the other fishing sectors and interests to find workable solutions to challenges in shared fisheries that provide the best public outcomes.’’

Crossland said the group was supported by nine South Island iwi, as well as commercial fishing interests.

‘‘The level of support for Fish Mainland shows that its establishment is long overdue,’’ he said.

‘‘Fish Mainland needs a show of support, especially while we work with government and others on the best way to secure adequate longterm funding.’’

Anyone can sign up to join the group and make a donation, but voting rights are restricted to members in the South Island and Stewart Island.