Daily catch and legal size limits
The daily catch and legal size limits for scallops and oysters vary from area to area. It's important that you check the rules in your area every time you head out fishing. If you eat any shellfish caught during your trip, you must also count them as part your daily catch limit.
Check the fishing rules for your area
Use safe and sustainable practices
To stay safe on the water and protect the sustainability of New Zealand scallops and dredge oysters:
- dive in pairs
- have at least 2 safety people out of the water to be able to respond to emergencies
- keep within the size and bag limits
- measure and count the shellfish as you collect them
- count what you eat as part of your daily catch limit.
Find out more
Diving for Scallops and Dredge Oysters
A summary of the rules and methods for gathering scallops and oysters, including daily catch limits and legal size information, measurement instructions, and safe diving methods and guidelines.
Find out more about pāua rules and regulations in your area
Report poaching
Report poaching, suspicious, or illegal activity by calling 0800 4 POACHER (0800 47 62 24).
Fisheries Review
The Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) has started a review of New Zealand's fisheries management system to ensure it's still fit-for-purpose and maintains sustainable fisheries for current and future generations.