Fisheries officers intercepted two vehicles leaving Warrington Beach on December 22 after a tip-off from a member of the public. The alleged offenders were interviewed and a vehicle seized.
The daily limit for paua collection in East Otago taiapure is five per person, as long as they meet the minimum size of 125mm.
Ministry for Primary Industries Otago district compliance manager Murray Pridham said unfortunately none of the paua survived.
‘‘We received a call ... and we had staff that were able to respond to that,'' Mr Pridham said.
‘‘We were able to stop and apprehend the persons involved.
‘‘[The paua] were still in the shell [but] by the time the persons were apprehended ... they were not fit to return to the water.''
The alleged offenders would likely face prosecution and could be hit with a fine of up to $250,000 plus forfeiture of property used in the alleged poaching.
‘‘The taking of this many is not a common occurrence,'' Mr Pridham said.
‘‘The extent of the offending is something we haven't experienced for some time.''
It was now up to the court do decide the penalty.
There was no evidence to suggest the paua was destined for sale, Mr Pridham said.
‘‘The offending is extremely disappointing. Restrictions are fundamental in sustaining fish stocks and conserving fish for our future.''
Mr Pridham reminded people to check the rules and regulations for collecting shellfish and urged members of the public
to contact the ministry on 08004POACHER if they saw any suspicious behaviour.
