Tarakihi ruling upended

The High Court has shot down a tarakihi catch-limit decision by former minister for oceans and fisheries Stuart Nash in a ruling which could have major ramifications for the wider fishing industry. The court found Nash decided the limit inappropriately by taking commercial fisheries’ input over officials’ advice. His decision reduced the commercial catch by 10 per cent, less than the 31 to 35 per cent recommended by officials. The case was brought by Forest & Bird. The catch limit decision is set to be reviewed by new minister David Parker.