Summer set net control takes force
Set netters are being reminded the practice has been restricted at Omaha beach from Labour Weekend by Auckland Council.
Set netting on Omaha beach will be restricted within 200 metres seaward of the mean high water spring tide from Saturday until the end of Easter weekend 2017 (Monday 17 April), under a new bylaw passed by Auckland Council’s Regulatory and Bylaws Committee.
The decision in July this year was hailed a victory for common sense by residents at the popular beach concerned over swimmer safety. The seasonal control does not affect customary fishing rights exercised in accordance with the Fishing (Kaimoana Customary Fishing) Regulations 1998.
The council will review the bylaw within 12 months of it being implemented, to consider the impact of any changes resulting from the Sea Change – Tai Timu Tai Pari Hauraki Gulf Marine Spatial Plan.
While the ban doesn’t include crab fishing which has also been causing angst for beach goers there are plans for closer monitoring of the crabbers over the summer with multiple warrant officers in the area. The summertime control is supported by the Rodney Local Board and is intended to address public safety concerns during peak recreational water use in the summer.