Option 2 and 3 of the proposed Threat Management Plan for protecting Pahu (Hector’s) and Maui Dolphins would see Te Waewae Bay closed to all trawling methods for commercial fishing completely. Currently gill nets are banned and trawling is allowed in the Te Waewae Marine Mammal Sanctuary if low headline gear is used. However it is impossible to know if the commercial fishers are using standard trawl or low headline gear. MPI have admitted they can’t tell either. During Operation Pahu patrols of the Te Waewae Bay Marine Mammal Sanctuary in January 2020 the crew of our Vessel Loki intercepted two commercial trawlers, the first on the south west edge of the sanctuary near Sand Hill Point and the second in the centre of the Sanctuary. On both occasions the trawl vessels changed direction and exited the Sanctuary. The crew was very happy to report that many Pahu calves and juvenile Hector’s were sighted in the Sanctuary. Operation Pahu Campaign Leader: Grant Meikle
