Auckland councillor Calum Penrose and councillor Penny Webster addressed Hibiscus and Bays Local Board meeting last night about ongoing issues around set netting in Arkles Bay.
With the end of the prohibition season on set netting at the popular beach, which runs between Labour Weekend and Easter weekend approaching, the council is urging beach users to make sure they are being safe and considerate.
Councillor Penrose says the council needs to strike a balance between those in the community opposed to set netting and others who consider it an important recreational and cultural experience.
“What we want to see is people sharing the beautiful Eastern beaches, looking out for each other and making sure we have a safe environment for everyone.
"We have had lots of issues with some people ignoring the bans when they are in place and during the times they are allowed to set net, not doing so in a safe manner.”
Councillor Webster said that coming into the season where the activity is allowed, the council is reminding people who see set netting being done unsafely to call the council on 09 3010101, and if they feel threatened, they should contact the police on 111.
“If we are provided with good information about offending activity in a timely manner we can often identify the individuals and take effective action. What we don’t want to see is confrontations between members of the public which can escalate and potentially end up as dangerous situations,” she says.
The council will continue to work with the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) and MPI officers have been invited to the next regulatory and bylaws meeting to improve their understanding of how the council operates, and so committee members can find out more about MPI’s role in managing set netting.
The rules:
- Set netting is not permitted on Arkles Bay between Labour Weekend and Easter Weekend.
- During the rest of the season the activity is lawful provided it doesn’t create real nuisance or safety risk, or is associated with threatening or intimidating behaviour.
- Nets should be clearly visible, not obstructive, and the activity should leave no trace.
