Do You Need a Fishing License in New Zealand? Your Guide to Regulations and Licenses for 2024

If you’re planning to go fishing in New Zealand, it’s essential to understand the licensing requirements. Whether you’re a local or an international visitor, knowing when and where you need a fishing license can save you from potential fines and ensure you enjoy your fishing experience to the fullest. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the different types of fishing licenses available in New Zealand, the regulations you need to be aware of, and how to obtain your license for the 2024 fishing season.

Types of Fishing Licenses in New Zealand

New Zealand offers a variety of fishing licenses to cater to different anglers’ needs. The main types of licenses include:

Adult Whole Season License: Valid from October 1, 2023, to September 30, 2024, for New Zealand resident anglers aged 18 and above.
Family License: Includes a couple and up to four children or grandchildren under the age of 18 on October 1, 2023. Valid for New Zealand resident anglers only.
Junior License (12-17): For juniors between the age of 12 and 17 on October 1, 2023. Valid for New Zealand resident anglers only.
Under 12 License: Required for children under the age of 12. Free of charge.
Adult Local Area License: Allows fishing in one specified Fish & Game region only. Cannot be used in other regions. Valid for New Zealand resident anglers only.
Senior License: For New Zealand anglers aged over 65 on October 1, 2023, who have held an Adult Whole Season License or Family License for the last five consecutive years or more.
One Day License: Ideal for beginners or those who want to fish for only a few hours. Valid for 24 hours from the user-selected start time. For New Zealand residents only.
3-Day License: Suitable for a getaway holiday or novices. Valid for three consecutive days from the user-selected start time. For New Zealand resident anglers only.
9-Day License: For holidaymakers or others who plan to fish for nine consecutive days (e.g., two weekends plus days in between). Valid from the user-selected start time. For New Zealand resident anglers only.
Winter Season License: For those who fish over the colder months, from April 1, 2024, to September 30, 2024. For New Zealand resident anglers only.
Non-Resident License: For international visitors who are not New Zealand residents on October 1, 2023.

It’s important to note that children under the age of 12 need a license, but it is free of charge.

Regulations for the Taupō Fishing District

The Taupō Fishing District, which includes Lake Taupō, the catchment area for Lake Taupō, the Waikato River down to Huka Falls, Lake Moawhango, and Lake Otamangakau, requires a separate fishing license. Your Fish & Game New Zealand license cannot be used in this area.

To fish in the Taupō Fishing District, you need to purchase a special Taupō Trout Fishery license from the Department of Conservation (DOC). This license is in addition to your regular fishing license and is required to fish the waters within the Taupō Fishing District boundaries.

Where You Can Fish in New Zealand

New Zealand offers a wide range of fishing spots, but there are also areas where fishing is restricted or prohibited. Here are some key points to remember:

You can fish anywhere on conservation land with the right license, except for marine reserves and other protected areas where fishing is not allowed.
There are 44 marine reserves in New Zealand where fishing of any kind is prohibited.
Your Fish & Game New Zealand license is valid in any area administered by Fish & Game New Zealand but cannot be used in the Taupō Fishing District.

Obtaining Your Fishing License

You can purchase your fishing license in several ways:

Online through the Fish & Game New Zealand website
By calling the Fish & Game New Zealand license hotline at 0800 LICENCE (0800 542362)
From authorized retailers, such as sports stores and fishing shops

When purchasing your license, make sure to select the appropriate type based on your age, residency status, and fishing requirements. Remember to carry your valid license with you whenever you go fishing, as it is illegal to fish without a proper license.

Illegal Activities and Penalties

It’s important to note that certain activities related to fishing are illegal in New Zealand. One such activity is selling any fish or shellfish caught for recreational purposes. If caught doing so, you can face severe penalties, including:

Up to 5 years in prison
A fine of up to $250,000
Both imprisonment and a fine

Engaging in these illegal activities can result in heavy consequences, so it’s crucial to adhere to the regulations and use your catch for personal consumption only.

In conclusion, obtaining a fishing license is a mandatory requirement for anyone wishing to fish in New Zealand, with the exception of children under the age of 12. By understanding the different types of licenses available, the regulations specific to the Taupō Fishing District, and the areas where fishing is permitted or prohibited, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable fishing experience in New Zealand during the 2024 season. Remember to purchase your license from an authorized source, carry it with you at all times, and respect the laws and regulations to avoid penalties and protect the country’s precious fishing resources.