Patron:
J R Chibnall
Telephone: 0274853600
President:
B Gutsell
E-mail: secretary@nzsportfishing.org
Secretary:
H Pastor
Website: www.nzsportfishing.co.nz
PO Box 55242 The Marina 2144 15 October 2021 NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT THE 65th ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING OF COUNCIL WILL BE HELD ON FRIDAY AND SATURDAY 15TH & 16th OCTOBER 2021, HOSTED BY THE NEW PLYMOUTH SPORTFISHING AND UNDERWATER CLUB, NEW PLYMOUTH, COMMENCING AT 9 AM AGENDA NB: CELLPHONES: Cellphones can only remain turned on in ‘silent’ mode for medical reasons if proof is supplied. 9.00 Bob Gutsell
WELCOME NZ Sport Fishing Council
PRESENT:
Attendance register to be signed by all attendees
APOLOGIES: 0910
INTRODUCTION & CONFIRMATION OF INVITED GUESTS: Bob Gutsell
0920 MINUTES SILENCE: In respect of those who have passed away over the year 0925
AGM LEGASEA Peter Campbell 1 AGM AGENDA – 15/16 October 2021
0950 AGM NEW ZEALAND SPORT FISHING COUNCIL CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES: 1000
MATTERS ARISING FROM MINUTES:
1010
PRESIDENT’S ANNUAL REPORT: Presented by Bob Gutsell
1020
ANNUAL AUDITED STATEMENTS: Presented by Finance Committee Chairman Peter Campbell
1045
APPOINTMENT OF OFFICERS:
Auditor:
PKF Kerikeri Chartered Accountant
Patron: President:
Bob Gutsell – nomination received
Vice Presidents:
Warren Maher – nomination received Ian Steele – nomination received
Records Officer:
Currently Pete Saul
Ratifying Board Representatives: Zone One Pete Saul Zone Two Scott Macindoe Zone Three Warren Maher Zone Four Vance Fulton Zone Five Wayne Bicknell Zone Six Ken Barry Zone Seven Mark Connor Zone Eight Hayden Johnstone Council Treasurer
Ian Steele
IGFA Representative/Life Member Rep: Mark Hemingway 1100
BUDGET: Presented by Finance Committee Chairman Ian Steele
2 AGM AGENDA – 15/16 October 2021
1115
AFFILIATION FEES:
There is no change to affiliation fees for the 2021-2022 year. Invoiced October 2021. The Affiliation Fees 2022/2023 were set at the 2020 AGM Senior member - $14.00 inclusive of GST Junior members - $4.50 inclusive of GST Plus $2.00 per senior member and $1.00 per junior member donation to NZMRF This will be invoiced October 2022
1130
CEO REPORT - Presented by Steven Stanford
1200
NZ MARINE RESEARCH FOUNDATION REPORT Presented by Terry Creagh
1215 LUNCH 1315
PRESENTATION/DISCUSSION ON NOTICE OF MOTIONS
Points and discussion 1515 AFTERNOON TEA: 1530
PRESENTATION/DISCUSSION ON NOTICE OF MOTIONS
Points and discussion 1630
ADJOURN:
Dinner buffet – Cape Egmont Fishing Club SATURDAY MORNING 0900
LEGASEA – Presented by Sam Woolford Rescue Fish report
1000
FISHERIES MANAGEMENT REPORT Presented by Mark Connor
1030
Tim van de Molen MP National Party Spokesperson for Ocean and Fisheries
1045
MORNING TEA: 3 AGM AGENDA – 15/16 October 2021
1100
BLUEWATER MARINE RESEARCH REPORT Presented by John Holdsworth
1130
IGFA REPORT: Presented by M Hemingway
11.45
MARITIME NZ SURVEY RESULTS – Presented by Steven Stanford
1200
Mark Mitchell MP – National Spokesperson on Sport and Recreation
1230
LUNCH
SATURDAY AFTER LUNCH 1330
YOUTH PROGRAMME – JUNIOR TOURNAMENT presented by Warren Maher
1400
COMMUNICATIONS PLAN – Presented by Kylie Fordyce
1445
SPONSOR OPPORTUNITIES – Presented by Scott McNulty
1515
AFTERNOON TEA:
1530
GENERAL BUSINESS Thanks to all sponsors Thank you to New Plymouth Sportfishing and Underwater Club 2022 AGM 2022 AGM to be held at Maraetai Boating Club Discussion on which Club will hold the 67th AGM 2023 Motion for President’s Shout
MEETING CLOSED: 1800
Drinks and Prizegiving dinner – New Plymouth Saturday night dinner – Speaker Rob Hewitt
There will be presentations during the dinner for Service awards for the Delegates, the Lord Norrie Cup, Old Man of the Sea, and three new awards being the Angler of the Year, Club of the Year and Volunteer of the Year.
4 AGM AGENDA – 15/16 October 2021
LegaSea LTD 2021 AGM Pack
Agenda of the LegaSea Annual General Meeting, year ended 30 June 2021. Date: 15 October 2021 Place: New Plymouth Sport Fishing and Underwater Club Start Time: 09.25 Present and/or on Zoom: 1. 2. 3. 4.
Directors - Mark Connor and Peter Cambell LegaSea Standing Committee Members NZSFC Board Members and Delegates LegaSea Crew
Agenda 1. Welcome by Peter Campbell 2. Apologies 3. Review of the 2020 AGM Minutes. 4. Annual Accounts and Financial Report for the year ending 30 June 2021. 5. Appointment of auditor - The accounts of LegaSea Ltd will continue to be audited by PKF Poutsama Lemon. 6. Election of Directors and Directors Fees a. The current Directors for LegaSea will remain as Mark Connor and Peter Campbell. No Director’s fees shall be paid for the year ending 30th June 2021 or the ensuing year b. Dividend - no dividends shall be paid for the year ending 30th June 2021 or the ensuing year 7. LegaSea Governance Advisory Subcommittee. Peter Campbell confirmed: a. The directors would remain the same. b. No directors fees will be paid c. There will be no change to the LegaSea Standing Committee members – Peter Campbell, Mark Connor, Richard Baker, Bob Gutsell, Scott Macindoe and Dirk Seiling. 8. General Business:
Meeting close:
Signed by the Chairperson of the meeting as a true record of the meeting.
Peter Campbell - LegaSea Director and Chairman
Date
2. LegaSea Report
Introduction Over the past nine years LegaSea has successfully raised public awareness of the many issues affecting our coastal fisheries. As a result of this effort, it has been heartening to have gained the confidence and support of many organisations and trusted brands in New Zealand. We are grateful for the support of the New Zealand Sport Fishing Council, delegates, affiliated and non-affiliated clubs. Having this solid platform helps to attract and hold a high performance team committed to more fish in the water and a fair go for future generations. Governance The LegaSea Governance Advisory Standing Committee (LGAS) has included both LegaSea Directors Mark Connor and Peter Campbell, as well as Bob Gutsell, Scott Macindoe, Richard Baker, Lewis Avenell, Ross Lucas and Dirk Sieling. Contractors who have generously shared their expertise over the past year include Simon Yates, Pieter Battaerd, Louise O’Sullivan, Jess Beetham, Momoko Burgess, Benn Winlove, Dallas Abel and Trish Rea. It is also important to acknowledge our guiding lights, the brains trust who we look to for expert advice and wisdom. The Fisheries Management Standing Committee, Barry Torkington who generously offers sage guidance and the occasional straightener when required. We also want to acknowledge Paul Barnes who sadly passed away in late 2020. He was the originator of option4 and showed us the value of having clear principles to guide all activity. Paul’s clarity and depth of understanding of all fish matters is sorely missed. However, his legacy will live on in our hearts and minds. Haere, haere, haere. Public awareness Changes demanded by the response to avoid a Covid-19 crisis meant many events over the past year were cancelled or scaled back. Our digital team leader Benn Winlove has stepped up, leading us into the online world of webinars, zoom meetings and collaborations. As our expertise and confidence grows our team is engaging more naturally and often in this online space. Interest in our campaigns and messages continues to rise. Over the past year we have successfully published 58 print articles, 29 digital newsletters, 8 media releases and a range of one-off material on request.
We are grateful for the commitment of our print partners to help us raise public awareness of the challenges facing us and the continuing decline of our fish stocks. Our communication partners include Monster Print, NZ Fishing Media (NZ Fishing News), NZ Bay Fisher, The Adventurer and Dive New Zealand.
Finances Public donations The advent of our Rescue Fish policy has given people the confidence to invest in our work. The rise in recurring donations is a good indicator of the widespread support and desire of Kiwis to see real change in fisheries management. We have a long-standing policy that 100% of public and unaffiliated club donations to LegaSea are distributed to the New Zealand Sport Fishing Council. These distributions are tagged specifically for investment in the Advocacy, Research, Education and Alignment work streams. Any unspent monies are accumulated in a reserve. As of 30th June 2021 the reserve is $22,000. Platinum and Gold Partners We are humbled by the commitment of our existing Partners to stick with us during the past tumultuous year. We have also enjoyed some great growth in Partners, with nine new partners joining us in the last 12 months. We are encouraged by the number of our Partners asking us “what more can we do to help?” and how comfortable they are working alongside each other. Si Yates takes most of the responsibility in running our Partner programme, he is pleased that we have tagged them with the description “Partners” because that’s exactly what they are. Grant seeking Jess Beetham is our lead on grant seeking. Her versatility is much appreciated as she is able to skillfully manage grant applications for LegaSea, Kai Ika, our educational projects, and for our partners who need a helping hand. In the past year we have secured over $690,000 in grants, with some spanning multi-year projects, several Covid related projects and debt reduction. Regular accountability reports are produced for funders and supporters. Campaigns With the objective of improving Kiwi kids’ knowledge of species found in our coastal waters we have collaborated with a team of experts to develop a Kiwiana version of the quintessential kids card game ‘Go Fish’ called Hī Ika. Hī Ika is a bilingual game using Te Reo Māori for the names of the fish, and providing a description of each species.
In the advocacy realm, we have managed successful campaigns to elevate public awareness of management issues relating to snapper, blue cod, scallops, crayfish and tarakihi. Promoting the Rescue Fish policy has had its challenges over the past year particularly because we have been limited in our ability to have public meetings. As more people realise there are problems with existing management, and that Rescue fish is a viable alternative to address fish depletion and biodiversity loss, we are gathering momentum. Thank you to everyone for their ongoing support for these important initiatives. LegaSea Projects Rescue Fish What is Rescue Fish? Rescue Fish is a practical and affordable alternative to the failing Quota Management System. It is a comprehensive policy that offers a pathway to a more productive marine environment capable of sustaining abundant fish stocks. It is a collaboration by a team of people who between them have over 200 years experience in fisheries and environmental management, policy development, political and public relations. The Rescue Fish policy traverses three core streams: the status quo, how we got here, and what is possible with wholesale policy reform. Our challenge is to get sufficient support for widespread reform from politicians, Māori fishing interests and the public. Since 2018 the team have worked with a range of experts to develop strategies to help amass the necessary support for reform. Sam Woolford and Trish Rea have led this effort on behalf of the New Zealand Sport Fishing Council. Progress has been slow due to the complexity of the issues that need addressing, the lack of meaningful interest in reform by officials, and the limited availability of Sam and Trish. To progress this project, renewed effort is now going into repurposing the material so it is digestible by a wider range of people. This year in Rescue Fish
LegaSea launched Rescue Fish in May 2020. This was followed in July by the release of the documentary The Price of Fish. The documentary was watched by hundreds of thousands of Kiwis. It exposes the fatal flaws of current management and leads people to consider the prospects of a more durable system that will enable all Kiwis to benefit from the use of New Zealand’s marine resources and was so popular that it was rescreened by TV3. We relaunched Rescue Fish in August when the documentary was available for wider public release. It has since reached 40,000 views on YouTube. Since late 2020, the team has focused its efforts on localised issues that highlight the challenges that Rescue Fish seeks to address. These issues include bottom trawling in mixed finfish fisheries, inequitable access to important fish stocks, and the lack of meaningful constraints on destructive fishing techniques in coastal waters. Banning bottom trawling and dredging are simple messages that the public are keen to support so we will be using new engagement opportunities to promote other Rescue Fish principles over the next year. The Kai Ika Project ‘He ika he taonga’ – the gift of fish Since the inception of the Kai Ika Project in 2016 we have collected and distributed over 150,000 kgs of previously unwanted/wasted fish parts to families in need through various marae around Auckland. The Kai Ika Project is a collaboration between LegaSea, the Outboard Boating Club of Auckland and the Papatūānuku Kōkiri marae in south Auckland. The Kai Ika Project started off as an exchange of goodwill and fish parts between fishers who only wanted the fillets, and those who appreciated the unwanted fish parts. Kai Ika has now evolved to include filleting and knife sharpening services, a sophisticated fish processing trailer based at Westhaven Z Pier and soon, a mobile trailer to service events and fishing contests. The good news is that even the inedible fish parts are used, mainly as organic fertiliser in the community gardens at Papatūānuku Kōkiri marae.
The Kai Ika Project is a head to tail solution that enables people to respect and appreciate every fish they catch. 2020 - what a year In the past year The Kai Ika Project has hit the high notes - feeding more families and taking on extra staff to support the work. On 20th April 2021 Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern visited Papatūānuku Kōkiri marae with team leader Dallas Abel, to see the project in action. More recently the Project received several commendations for community collaboration and innovation at the Tāmaki Makaurau Zero Waste Awards. Kai Ika has attracted support, endorsement and financial assistance from a wide range of organisations and agencies. It is encouraging for the New Zealand Sport Fishing Council, LegaSea and the whanau at Papatūānuku Kōkiri marae that their efforts are recognised and appreciated. Foundation North, Ministry for the Environment - Waste Minimisation Fund, Auckland Council Waste Minimisation Fund, Bobby Stafford-Bush Foundation and Guardians Of The Sea, Ministry of Social Development.
LEGASEA HAWKES BAY INTRODUCTION LegaSea Hawkes Bay is a volunteer group established in 2015 to address declining fisheries in the Bay. Our team includes Wayne Bicknell, Jim Yeoman, Brian Firman, Alex Smith, David Bicknell, David Cheetham, David Scott and Carl Fairey. Our Chairman is John Stewart. LegaSea Hawkes Bay enjoys the support of LegaSea (national) and the New Zealand Sport Fishing Council. Over the past year LegaSea Hawkes Bay (LHB) has continued to build strong relationships with other organisations that have an interest in the marine environment. LHB is represented on several working parties including the Hawke’s Bay Regional Council’s Marine and Coastal Group, Napier Port’s Fishing Liaison Group and Pan Pac’s Stakeholders Group. 6 Wharf Project
The Napier Port 6 Wharf Project involves building a new 350 metre container wharf. This requires dredging and then disposing of 3.2 million cubic metres of material. Work commenced in February 2020 and an estimated 738,000 m3 of material has been dredged and taken to the dump site 4 km offshore. This massive two-year project has progressed well. LegaSea Hawkes Bay has confidence in the extensive monitoring of the dredging which has not detected any adverse effect on the nearby Pania, Town and Hardinge Road reef systems. Artificial Reefs LegaSea Hawkes Bay has worked with the 6 Wharf Project to create new artificial reef structures from repurposed natural limestone boulders dismantled from the Port’s old revetment wall. The revetment wall was dismantled to make way for a new wharf. LHB is pleased to report that two artificial reefs have been created as a direct result of negotiations with the Port of Napier. The first reef is commonly referred to as “LegaSea Reef”. It has been under construction since 2020. It is located 1.4 kilometres northeast of Pania Reef. Around twenty barge loads of limestone rock have been deposited there. The second reef is at the Gwen B shipwreck in 55 metres of water at the Northern Springs area. A third reef structure is currently under construction. These artificial reefs will provide a variety of habitats for marine life and eventually enhance recreational fishing and diving opportunities around Napier. A recent dive survey indicates the LegaSea Reef is already attracting a range of fish species and there are signs of marine growth. We are proud of this collaborative work to successively balance environmental and economic needs. Fisheries Liaison Group A real success story for LegaSea Hawkes Bay has been our involvement in the Napier Port Fisheries Liaison Group. Established in 2019 as a condition of the 6 Wharf resource consent, this group has an advisory role in all aspects of the environmental monitoring of the project. Management plans are now in place. This has been a successful collaboration, with recreational and commercial fishers working alongside Napier Port on this significant development. Local area fisheries management Five years ago commercial fishers agreed to voluntarily exclude bottom trawling from around the “Springs” area of Hawke’s Bay, from December to February. LegaSea Hawkes Bay are renewing efforts to stave off the disappearance of hāpuku at the Lachlan Ridge and Banks. Hāpuku were once abundant in shallow waters around Hawke’s Bay, but are now only found around the deeper reef systems.
Discussions are under way with Fisheries New Zealand, commercial fishers, and fishing clubs in the region to find workable solutions, including voluntary reductions in bag limits, banning the use of droppers and longlines, and possible area closures. It is in everybody’s interest that we work together to restore abundance of these species. Clive River dredging In December 2020 the Hawke’s Bay Regional Council announced its intention to dredge part of the Clive River to remove sediment in the lower reaches of the river, to increase water flow and maintain channel capacity. LegaSea Hawkes Bay is not opposed to the dredging per se however, the Regional Council has failed to provide a compelling scientific case to justify dumping the dredged silt at sea. LHB will continue to monitor progress to ensure that the effects on the marine environment are addressed throughout the Resource Consent process. Ahuriri Estuary enhancement LegaSea Hawkes Bay has been instrumental in facilitating a successful grant application by the Ahuriri Estuary Protection Society to the Guardians of the Sea Charitable Trust. Substantial funds sourced for the Estuary enhancement project were bequeathed by the estate of Barry Rollo. The Ahuriri Estuary is one of the most significant habitats of its type on the east coast of the North Island. Of the original 3,840 hectares of the Te Whanganui-ā-Orutū inner harbour estuary existing prior to the 1931 earthquake, only 470 hectares remain. The funding will be used to purchase 3,000 native trees and shrubs to plant adjacent to the upper Ahuriri Estuary. This planting will improve the nursery habitat, spawning habitat, and feeding areas for fish using this significant estuarine area Planting will be undertaken by the Ahuriri Estuary Restoration Group, a group of volunteers established and supervised by the Department of Conservation. Thanks to our supporters LegaSea Hawkes Bay appreciates the ongoing and generous support from so many local people and businesses. Our total income for the past year was just over $10,000, all derived from donations. More than $9,000 was spent on education, advocacy or public awareness initiatives to achieve a more abundant fishery for current and future generations. Your support for this team is most welcome, please email hawkesbay@legasea.co.nz.
3. LegaSea Hawkes Bay Financials 2021 Audited Annual Report Grants to the value of $105000 were approved to LegaSea for the purposes of debt reduction. The debt reduction reduces a current liability to doesn’t show up as an expense, which resulted in a profit of $102257 https://legasea.co.nz/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/2021-Audited-Annual-Report.pdf
Auditor Management Letter https://legaseanz.sharepoint.com/:b:/s/LegaSea/EZ1r0dpOo0pKpGtJvN4wPrABnLnVxJmko8pc upA9AoTBUA?e=DGDu84
Patron:
J R Chibnall
Telephone: 027 485 3600
President:
B Gutsell
E-mail: secretary@nzsportfishing.org
Secretary:
H Pastor
Website: www.nzsportfishing.co.nz
PO Box 54242 The Marina, Half Moon Bay, Auckland 2144 MINUTES OF THE 64th ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING OF COUNCIL HELD ON FRIDAY AND SATURDAY 18th & 19st SEPTEMBER 2020, AT THE BAY OF ISLANDS SWORDFISH CLUB IN PAIHIA, BAY OF ISLANDS COMMENCING AT 9 AM PRESENT: NZSFC President NZSFC Vice President NZSFC Vice President Secretary Ahipara GFC Akitio BC Ashley SFC
Bay of Islands SC
Cape Egmont BC Clevedon GFC
Counties SFC Gisborne Tatapouri SFC Hauraki Gulf SFC Hawkes Bay SFC Hokianga BGSFC Houhora BGSFC
B Gutsell P Campbell Ian Steele H Pastor via Zoom R Matthews L Matthews R Beales J Bruce M Connor Andrew Johnson J Troup J Chibnall R van der Fits T Goodin L Avenell
K Gorden S Harper via zoom D Burns via zoom R Faber C Miller P Stewart via zoom W Bicknell L Pattinson S Percy P Batten
Waikato Delegate, Bowentown Delegate
Zone 7 Delegate - Canterbury proxy, Pegasus Proxy, Marlborough Rec Proxy
Patron / IGFA
Zone 2 Delegate – Manukau Cruising proxy, Mangere BC proxy, NZ Land Based GFC proxy
Mahia BC proxy
Zone 5 Delegate & Board representative
1 AGM MINUTES 18/19 SEPT 2020
Kawhia B&AC Maraetai Beach BC Marsden Cove FC Mercury Bay GFC Mount Maunganui
D Taucher C Hickman I Twist via zoom K Gorden via zoom G Ellis W Harris A Proctor Mark Hemingway
V Fulton New Plymouth SUC I Steele P Saunders L Drummond NZ Land Based R Baker Raglan SFC K Barry Tairua Pauanui SFC W Maher R Scott Taupo BC M Pate Tauranga SFC D Nielsen Tautuku Dunedin & Haast Brett Bensemann Te Aroha AC S Cox G Shanley Te Kaha SFC R Lucas D Murie Waihau Bay SFC C Elmiger – via Zoom C Fraser – Via Zoom B Muir – Via Zoom Warkworth GFC S Macindoe via zoom T Creagh via zoom Wellington S&AC D Pye Whakatane SFC D Davey M Reynolds M Read Whangamata OSC B O’Neill K Lynch R Hoskin P Keogh Whangarei DSAC P Saul B Saul Whangaroa SFC K Mowat T Lay NZ Marine Research T Creagh via zoom Blue Water Marine Research J Holdsworth Board Member D Sieling Life Member H Webb IGFA T Hill LegaSea S Woolford via zoom
IGFA/Life Members/board representative Board Member
Life Member / board representative Zone 6 delegate / board representative Zone 3 delegate / board representative
Zone 8 Delegate & board Representative
Life Member – Co-opt Board Member – LegaSea NZMRF
Zone 1 Delegate / Board Representative
Trustee Co-opted member governance and FM
2 AGM MINUTES 18/19 SEPT 2020
NZ Angling & Casting NZ Fishing News
T Rea via zoom J Yeoman via zoom G Dixon via zoom
Meeting opened – 0900 hrs WELCOME Bob Gutsell, President, welcomed the Delegates and Grant Dixon and Jim Yeoman. Welcome to John Chibnall, Patron. Thank you to the Bay of Islands Swordfish Club for hosting this AGM. MINUTES SILENCE: A minute’s silence was acknowledged for those members that who passed away over the last year. APOLOGIES: Annette Hall Doubtless Bay Phil Appleyard Big Fish FC Stu Arnold Matarangi FC Ed Beetham Wairarapa SFC
Evan Mackay Ros Nelson Scott Bradley Jeff Romeril
Doubtless Bay Life Member NZ Land Based GFC NZMRF
Bob Gutsell moved that the apologies be accepted seconded Ian Steele – Carried LEGASEA AGM: Meeting opened: 1100 The LegaSea AGM was chaired by Peter Campbell. The LegaSea Minutes to be circulated separately. Welcome to all and the zone delegates. ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING OF THE NZ SPORT FISHING COUNCIL Meeting opened CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES: Minutes of the previous meeting were distributed. Minutes moved Warren Maher / Mark Connor – carried MATTERS ARISING FROM MINUTES: Dirk Sieling advised an error on page 3 number 1 – change HG forum to Seachange Advisory committee. Ken Barry advised in Notices of motions 2 and 7 – was S Hart was zone 5 not 6. Moved Ross Lucas – Warren Harris – carried PRESIDENT’S ANNUAL REPORT: As per attached. 3 AGM MINUTES 18/19 SEPT 2020
Moved that the Presidents report be accepted –– Pete Saunders Seconded Richard Baker – Carried ANNUAL AUDITED STATEMENTS: Peter Campbell addressed the delegates and highlighted the key elements of the 2019/2020 Audited Accounts. Attached. Revenue – increased from last year by Grants. Expenses were also up due to grants. Budget on deficit on 140,000 and came out at $55,000. Accumulated funds – has dropped to $587,107 as at 30 June 2020. Grants received $208,400. Number of new grants seeking initiatives were undertaken. Kai Ika brought in the majority of the funds. Foundation North has been very supportive and gave additional funds during lockdown. Auckland City contributed and also Water Safety for Hiwi the Kiwi. It is harder to achieve advertising revenue for the yearbook. The Covid wage subsidy was paid for admin wages. Expenses have increased due to goods and services, mainly the employment of CEO. Comms has been reduced due to the stopping of the Hooked Up magazine. These funds will be used in the comms budget for digital avenues. Move the financial report be accepted – Des Davey – Barney O’Neill – carried
As there were no questions the financial accounts, it was moved that the 2019/2020 Audited Annual Accounts be accepted P Saunders/Warren Harris Carried APPOINTMENT OF OFFICERS: The following nominations were received for 2020 Council office positions in accordance with the Constitution. Auditor Patron:
Tim England Chartered Accountant Moved Peter Campbell/Phil Appleyard – accepted John Chibnall Nomination Kelvin Mowat/ Tony – accepted
Nominations were held for the following: President:
Bob Gutsell
Vice Presidents Avenell Records Officer:
Peter Campbell and Ian Steele nominated Bob Gutsell Seconded Lewis Pete Saul 4 AGM MINUTES 18/19 SEPT 2020
These were duly ratified en blanc. Board Representatives: Zone One Pete Saul Zone Two Lewis Avenell Zone Three Warren Maher Zone Four Vance Fulton Zone Five Wayne Bicknell Zone Six Ken Barry Zone Seven Mark Connor Zone Eight Ross Lucas IGFA Representative/Life Member Representative Mark Hemingway As there was only one nomination for each position, it was moved that the nominations received be accepted. Moved Peter Saunders seconded Wayne Bicknell – Carried Service Awards BOI – Andrew Johnson 2 years Marsden Cove – Graham Ellis 2 years Taupo – Matthew Pate – 2 years World Sport Fishing – Leon Pogoni – 2 years Counties – Stephen Harper – 5 years Demon Anglers – Paul Welsh – 5 years Houhora – Justin Kernan – 5 years New Plymouth – Ian Steele – 5 years Tairua Pauanui – Rob Scott – 5 years Warkworth – Terry Creagh – 5 years Kawhia – Cecil Hickman – 10 years Tairua Pauanui – Warren Maher 10 years Te Aroha – Phil McCarthy – 10 years Whangamata – Barney O’Neill and Roy Hoskin – 10 years Te Kaha – Dave Murie – 15 years Whangaroa – Kelvin Mowat – 15 years Doubtless Bay – Annette Hall – 20 years Mercury Bay – Warren Harris – 20 years Tauranga - Peter Campbell 20 years NZ Land Based – Richard Baker – 30 years Houhora –Don Bellingham 30 years IGFA – Tony Hill – 35 years As the awards cannot be presented the delegates were acknowledged in the meeting and plaques will be sent to the delegates direct.
5 AGM MINUTES 18/19 SEPT 2020
Life Members The following members were Awarded Honorary Life Memberships:John Holdsworth – nominated by Pete Saul Whangarei, Whangaroa and Bay of Islands Trish Rae – nominated by Terry Lay and Kelvin Mowat, Whangaroa, Bay of Islands and Manukau Sport Fishing clubs. Pete Saul – nominated by Kelvin Mowat, Whangaroa. Doubtless Bay and Bay of Islands Peter Campbell – nominated by Deryk Nielsen Tauranga, Te Kaha and Waihau Bay Warren Harris – nominated by Warren Maher – Tairua, Mercury Bay and Whangamata BUDGET: Finance Committee Chairman Peter Campbell presented the draft 2020/21 Budget to the Delegates, highlighting the key points for discussion. See attached. Discussion was had around alternative ways to increase revenue. “It was moved that the 2020/2021- Budget be accepted.” Stephen Cox / W Mayer – carried Notices of Motion Notice of Motion #1 -
2/3rd’s Voting Required
NZSFC Update the Constitution to include CEO Proposer: Lewis Avenell Seconder: Bob Gutsell Current Clauses: 11.5 The Secretary/Executive Officer is a non-voting member of the Board. Secretary/Executive Officer and/or Treasurer/Finance Committee 11.16 The Board shall conditionally appoint the Secretary/Executive Officer and, if considered necessary, the Treasurer which appointments become effective when ratified by the Council at a General Meeting. These offices may be held by one person. The Secretary/Executive Officer and/or the Treasurer so appointed shall hold office until they resign or are removed from office. The Secretary/Executive Officer or the Treasurer cannot be an Executive/Club Delegate or Executive/Regional Delegate. 14.2 The Secretary/Executive Officer shall send a notice of the next AGM to each Club at least sixty days (60) prior to the AGM. Board Proposal: 3.1(w) “Chief Executive Officer” means the person appointed as the Chief Executive Officer under section 11.16 [NEW] 11.5 The Chief Executive Officer/Secretary/Executive Officer are non-voting members of the Board. Chief Executive Officer/Secretary/Executive Officer and/or Treasurer/Finance Committee
6 AGM MINUTES 18/19 SEPT 2020
11.16 The Board shall conditionally appoint the Chief Executive Officer/Secretary/Executive Officer and, if considered necessary, the Treasurer which appointments become effective when ratified by the Council at a General Meeting. These offices may be held by one person. The Chief Executive Officer/Secretary/Executive Officer and/or the Treasurer so appointed shall hold office until they resign or are removed from office. The Secretary/Executive Officer or the Treasurer cannot be an Executive/Club Delegate or Executive/Regional Delegate. 11.18 The board will set down the duties of the Chief Executive Officer within the terms of their job description and employment contract. The CEO reports to the President of the Board and is responsible for all day to day operational affairs of the Council and its subsidiary organisations. [NEW] 11.19 The CEO will attend Councils standing committees as prescribed by the Board as a non-voting participant. [NEW] [Current numbers 11.18 - 11.23 to be re-numbered] 14.2 The Chief Executive Officer/ Secretary/Executive Officer shall send a notice of the next AGM to each Club at least sixty days (60) prior to the AGM. Reasoning: NZSFC has introduced a new role into the management structure and would like the constitution to reflect the updated structure. Voting 100% in favour. Motion carried. Notice of Motion #2 -
2/3rd’s Voting Required
NZSFC Update the Constitution update (separate to Motion #1 as its an effective change to the constitution not entirely due to the New CEO role) Proposer: Bob Gutsell Seconder: Lewis Avenell Speaker at AGM: Bob Gutsell Current Clauses: 11.5 The Secretary/Executive Officer is a non-voting member of the Board. Board Proposal: 11.5 The Chief Executive Officer/Secretary/Executive Officer are not members of the Board. Voting 100% in favour. Motion carried. Notice of Motion #3 -
50% Voting Required
NZSFC Update the Board Charter to include the CEO role Proposer: Bob Gutsell Seconder: Lewis Avenell Current Clauses:
7 AGM MINUTES 18/19 SEPT 2020
Intro
The Board adopts the objectives of the New Zealand Sport Fishing Council Constitution as being essential for the future of NZSFC, and that NZSFC as a whole performs consistently in the manner expected of a leading advocate for NZ recreational anglers.
1.2 (c) Establishing policies for strengthening and sustaining the performance of NZSFC 1.2(g) Safeguarding the reputation of NZSFC and the NZSFC and LegaSea brands. 1.2(j)
Ensuring that adequate procedures are in place for succession planning in relation to the Board and the President
2.2
The Board may from time to time appoint independent directors as it sees fit. Such appointments shall be submitted to the AGM for ratification. The number of such appointees shall not exceed two at any given time.
3.2
The Board has sole authority over its agenda and exercises this through the President. Any Board Member may, through the President, request the addition of an item to the agenda. The agenda will be set by the President in consultation with the President and the Administration Officer.
5.1
The President will be the primary point of accountability and link between the Board and operational management functions
5.2
All Board authority conferred on management is delegated through the President. The President is accountable to the Board for the authority that is delegated and for the performance of NZSFC.
5.3
Management reports to the Board through the President, and the President reports to the Board directly at Board meetings and in written updates and through the President.
12.
Administration Officer
12.1
The Administration Officer, who is appointed by the Board, is accountable to the Board, through the President, on all governance matters. The Administration Officer plays a significant role in monitoring compliance with Board policy and procedures, and with timely completion and despatch of the Board agenda and briefing material. All Board Members have access to the Administration Officer.
Board Proposal: Intro The Board adopts the objectives of the New Zealand Sport Fishing Council (NZSFC) Constitution as being essential for the future of NZSFC, and that NZSFC as a whole performs consistently in the manner expected of a leading advocate for NZ recreational anglers. 1.2 (c) Establishing policies for strengthening and sustaining the performance of NZSFC and delivery of its objectives. 1.2(g)
Safeguarding the reputation of NZSFC, LegaSea and related entity brands.
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1.2(j)
Ensuring that adequate procedures are in place for succession planning in relation to the Board, the President and the CEO.
2.2
The Board may from time to time appoint co-opted board members as it sees fit. Such appointments shall be submitted to the AGM for ratification. The number of such appointees shall not exceed four at any given time.
3.2
The Board has sole authority over its agenda and exercises this through the President. Any Board Member may, through the President, request the addition of an item to the agenda. The agenda will be set by the President in consultation with the CEO.
5.1
The President will be the primary point of accountability and link between the Board and operational management functions through the CEO.
5.2
All Board authority conferred on management is delegated through the CEO. The CEO is accountable to the Board for the authority that is delegated and for the performance of NZSFC.
5.3
Management reports to the Board through the CEO, and the CEO reports to the Board directly at Board meetings and in written updates and through the President.
12.
Administration Officer and CEO
12.1
The Administration Officer and CEO, who are appointed by the Board, are accountable to the Board, through the President, on all governance matters. The Administration Officer and CEO play a significant role in monitoring compliance with Board policy and procedures, and with timely completion and dispatch of the Board agenda and briefing material. All Board Members have access to the Administration Officer and CEO. Voting 100% - motion carried
Notice of Motion #4 -
50% Voting Required
Hapuku & Bass policy to be adopted and introduced to the NZSFC FISHERIES MANAGEMENT POLICY DOCUMENT Proposer: Lewis Avenell Seconder: Bob Gutsell Board Proposal: 5.14 Hapuku & Bass Goal Restore abundance of hapuku and bass in New Zealand waters. Objectives · · ·
Rebuild hapuku and bass populations in eastern New Zealand waters. Ensure robust breeding populations are maintained in selected areas. Maintain a high value niche fishery for commercial, recreational and customary fishers. Strategy
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· · · ·
· · ·
Urgent Halve the Total Allowable Commercial Catch (TACC) in HPB 1 and HPB 2 to ensure most hapuku and bass are taken as bycatch in commercial fisheries. Reduce the daily bag limit for recreational fishers to two per person per day. Review fine scale catch data and close some areas to all bottom fishing for 10 years where local depletion has or is occurring. NZSFC club committees or Zone members to recommend suitable areas to close to all bottom fishing to help rebuild hapuku and bass populations in their region. Medium Term Separate species reporting and management of hapuku and bass. Introduce a species management system at a local or regional level. Apply Rescue Fish principles to maintain a high value niche fishery, without open access. Discussion was had and it was suggested that the second clause be changed to read “Reduce the daily bag limit for recreational fishers to two per person per day in HP1 and HP2.” The amendment to the motion was moved by Scott Macindoe / seconded Kelvin Mowat. The amended motion was put, and voting was 100% - amended motion carried Notice of Motion #5 -
50% Voting Required
Bronze whaler sharks to be adopted and introduced to the NZSFC FISHERIES MANAGEMENT POLICY DOCUMENT Proposer: Lewis Avenell Seconder: Bob Gutsell Board Proposal: 5.15 Bronze whaler sharks Goal To fish successfully without undue interference from bronze whaler sharks. Objectives · · ·
To reduce predation by bronze whalers on fish hooked by recreational fishers. To avoid encouraging bronze whalers to hang around fishing boats. To collect information and develop strategies to avoid losing hooked fish to bronze whalers.
Bronze whalers occur in the North Island and top of the South Island however, the following strategies could also apply to mako and blue sharks in other areas. Strategy · · · · · ·
Observe and learn how to avoid attracting sharks when recreational fishing. Do not process fish or discard fish waste in the area you are fishing. Do not use burley in areas where bronze whalers are likely to be. Move away from an area if sharks are around, or your catch has been taken by a shark. Tag and release bronze whalers if caught and recover tags if recaptured, to collect information on movement patterns and residency times. Create a “notice board” for fishers to report the date and location of predation by bronze whalers to help warn others.
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Voting on this motion was 100% - motion carried Notice of Motion #6 -
50% Voting Required
[Spatial planning/ Marine Protected Areas, RMA application etc] to be adopted and introduced to the NZSFC FISHERIES MANAGEMENT POLICY DOCUMENT Proposer: Vance Fulton Seconder: Bob Gutsell Board Proposal: 4.4 Spatial planning/ Marine Protected Areas, RMA application etc Goals 1. Prevent additional controls on recreational fishing; (over and above current fisheries act) 2. Support controls on commercial bulk harvesting methods where there is an identified/proven issue with that method. Strategy 1. Put pressure on the Regional Council’s to require the appellants to provide proof/technical evidence that shows/supports the benefits of the proposed MPA as part of their initial application under the RMA. This should also apply to any central government parties 2. Focus on the overarching goals/challenges/outcomes rather than discussion going into micromanagement of issues 3. Consistent with point 2 above, put forward evidence on: 1. 2. 3.
Commercial, recreational and customary fishing efforts in the areas of interest; The relative ecological impacts of that fishing effort; The social cultural and economic benefits of recreational fishing.
Dirk Sieling spoke to this. Council was caught unaware with this and so were the commercial and MPI. It was agreed that we need to be involved and have the opportunity to push and get bottom contact fish included. This can be a costly exercise and requires the employment of lawyers. He recommended that the delegates vote for this motion. John Holdsworth suggested an amendment to 1 in the goals:“Prevent additional controls on recreational fishing under the RMA; (over and above current fisheries act).” The amendment to the motion was put – moved B Bensemann / seconded D Nielsen. – Carried The amended motion was then discussed and voted on. Voting was 100% - motion carried Notice of Motion #7 -
50% Voting Required
Scallop dredging Policy Proposer: Lewis Avenell Seconder: Bob Gutsell
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The New Zealand Sport Fishing Council supports measure Proposal: 5.XX
Scallop Dredging Policy
The New Zealand Sport Fishing Council supports measures to reduce bottom contact fishing methods that have dredged the seabed environment and productive ecosystems for many years. The New Zealand Sport Fishing Council: 1. Promotes low impact scallop harvesting methods such as selective hand gathering by diving where possible. 2. Opposes non-selective dredging of scallop beds by commercial and recreational fishers. 3. Supports exemptions for dredging in specific areas where it is proven to have low impact on benthic communities. The New Zealand Sport Fishing Council considers that recreational dredging is acceptable in areas were commercial dredging occurs, and acknowledges that there are areas where dredging is the only feasible option when there are: 1. 2. 3. 4.
High tidal/current flow Low water visibility Depth over 30 metres Dredges without tines and/or equipped with a pressure plate
Reasoning: NZSFC FMMP were requested to write a policy for the Scallop issues Lewis Avenell and Glen Carbines spoke to this motion. The policy has a balance between protecting the environment and maintaining the resource. Pete Saul discussed re those who could not dive. Concern was raised regarding allowing dredging while trying to get commercial dredging stopped. After some discussion the motion was put and voting came back at 72 votes in favour motion was carried Notice of Motion #8 50% Voting Required Create a separate “NZSFC Admin and Management policies” document Proposer: Bob Gutsell Seconder: Lewis Avenell Speaker at AGM: Bob / Steven Proposal: Board to create a separate “NZSFC Admin and Management policies” document to include (but not limited to) the following 1. Child protection policy https://www.nzsportfishing.co.nz/wpcontent/uploads/2020/05/NZSFC-Child-Protection-Policy.pdf 2. Code of conduct water safety https://www.nzsportfishing.co.nz/wpcontent/uploads/2020/05/NZSFC-code-of-conduct-.pdf 3. Future management policies
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Board will have discretion to change / update / modify this “NZSFC Admin and Management policies” Document if and when required - leaved for flexibility to add policies that are required for managing staff, applying for grants etc Reasoning: The policies noted above do not belong in the Constitution, Fishing Rules or Fisheries management documents. We need this as a requirement for grant applications. Bob Gutsell spoke to the motion. Lewis Avenell advised that the board could modify if and when it was required without requiring voting at an AGM. This was done so that grant applications could be completed in a timely manner. The motion was put – voting 100% - Motion carried Notice of Motion #9 -
2/3rds Voting Required
Include the following passage on Clubs individual member application forms Proposer: Lewis Avenell Seconder: Bob Gutsell Current Clauses: 4.2 All Clubs must: (a) have boating and fishing rules compatible with the objects of this Constitution. (b) keep accounts and a register of all the categories of their membership numbers so that both can be made available to the Council’s Secretary/Executive Officer (c) Be financial members as of December 30th each calendar year. (d) fish under the IGFA and Council’s ethical fishing rules including any Bylaws and/or Regulations that are consistent with the fishing objects of this Constitution other than as set down in section 7.5 (e) practise the Safety at Sea rules provided by Maritime New Zealand Proposal Clauses: 4.2 All Clubs must: (a) have boating and fishing rules compatible with the objects of this Constitution. (b) keep accounts and a register of all the categories of their membership numbers so that both can be made available to the Council’s Secretary/Executive Officer (c) Be financial members as of December 30th each calendar year. (d) fish under the IGFA and Council’s ethical fishing rules including any Bylaws and/or Regulations that are consistent with the fishing objects of this Constitution other than as set down in section 7.5 (e) practise the Safety at Sea rules provided byMaritime New Zealand (f) have the following clause on their individual member application forms; “[Club Name] is affiliated to the New Zealand Sport Fishing Council, and all individual members of affiliated clubs have full access to the Council benefits. See www.nzsportfishing.co.nz for more information” Reasoning: It is apparent at meetings between Clubs and Board representatives that there are individual members not aware that the club that they are member of are affiliated to NZSFC or what the benefits are. This is a simple note to remind the individual of the benefits of NZSFC
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Lewis Avenell spoke to the motion. Discussion around members not realising that they are also affiliated to Sport Fishing Council and have access to benefits etc. Intention is that members are made aware of what they are entitled to. Ian Steele – advised in agreement but felt it was too wordy. Put forward an amendment Moved – Ian Steele – seconded Paul Batten – reword to (f) have the following clause on their individual member application forms; “[Club Name] is affiliated to the New Zealand Sport Fishing Council, and members of affiliated clubs have full access to the NZSFC benefits. See www.nzsportfishing.co.nz for more information” The amended motion was put – 99% in favour – 1 against – Malborough Rec Fishers. The amendment to the motion was passed. Notice of Motion #10 -
50% Voting Required
NZMRF donation status in fee structure Proposer: Peter Campbell Seconder: Warren Maher Speaker at AGM: Peter Campbell The $2.00 donation to the Marine Research Foundation collected by the New Zealand Sport Fishing Council from the member clubs on behalf of the Marine Research Foundation will be a voluntary payment effective from 1 July 2020. The NZSFC will continue to include the $2.00 donation in the Affiliation Fee invoice clearly stating that this payment is voluntary. Reasoning: Propose a voluntary option to offer assistance to member clubs via a reduction in the compulsory affiliation/donation fees. Cannot see anything below which would hinder giving the clubs the option to make voluntary the payment this year to the Marine Research Foundation. It would be up to the clubs as to how they collected the $2.00 donation i.e. did they have it itemised on the membership application or renewal forms or just included in the total membership invoice. From the NZSFC CONSTITUTION. SECTION 20.0 – AFFILIATION AND OTHER FEES 20.1 The Council may by a majority of the votes validly cast at an AGM: (a) Set affiliation and other fees for all categories of membership and other funds to be applied by the Council in the pursuance of its objects. (b) Determine the quantum and date for payment of any affiliation or other fee to be paid by a Member to the Council. (c) All affiliation fees or other levies increase or decrease proposals must be by a notice of motion to be voted on at the AGM. 20.2 Affiliation fees will be set at the AGM each year. Members’ fees are to be paid by December 31 each year for the Member Club to remain financial. 20.3 Members must be financial to be eligible to fish the National Tournament. Unincorporated Clubs must show they are a club identity within themselves and are not part of another Club. 20.4 Affiliation fees are to be paid on all types of membership and on each and every member of a Club. For family memberships – fees are to be paid based on the number of persons within the family membership.
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20.5 Member Clubs are required to base their numbers on their previous year’s membership and pay the affiliation fee on this number. 20.6 All Clubs must pay a minimum affiliation fee for at least 35 members if the Club has less than 35 members. Due to Covid 19 a number of member clubs are experiencing financial difficulties which may continue for the foreseeable future. This remit may offer some relief. Peter Campbell spoke to this motion. Covid caused worries and a number of clubs asked for a reduction in fees. Therefore, Peter Campbell suggested that the NZMRF be a voluntary donation. Discussion was had about the work NZMRF does and that they are reliant on the support of our clubs. Terry Creagh – Warkworth spoke against this motion. Projects are costing more and need the funding to continue. John Chibnall and Andrew Johnson both spoke against the motion. Jeff Romeril said in his report - Now I will make some comment on a remit that will be discussed at this conference. That of donations to the NZMRF. As time goes by and the regular turnover of club committees, many historic actions get questioned especially when there is a cost involved. I suspect that given we were formed in the early 90’s that the regular donation per member to the NZMRF has come under review, as committee members see it as a large bill rather than the $2 per member that it is. Marine research in favour of recreational anglers is sorely lacking, especially when we need facts to support our arguments for fisheries management. Over the last 20 years we have spent many hundreds of thousands of dollars supporting several striped marlin satellite projects, yellowfin tuna, bluefin tuna, kahawai, fish welfare and of course the value of recreational fishing to NZ. There were many other smaller projects carried out as well as can be followed on our website www.nzmrf.org.nz After robust discussion the motion was put. With only 20 votes in favour/ 80 against the motion failed. Notice of Motion #11 - Setting of Affiliation fees
50% Voting Required
Proposer: Andrew Johnson Seconder: Brenda Saul Affiliation fees be raised by $5.00 per person (Total of $14 inc Gst) for the 2021-2022 financial year. (Jr’s to remain $4.50) Reasoning: Zone One thinks that we need to raise them in the future, despite them being a contentious issue with some clubs over many years. Although the Covid-19 backlash means this year clubs may struggle, the proposed increase would not come into effect until the following AGM and is necessary. Andrew Johnson spoke in favour of the motion. He advised that the need for the council has never been needed more and do a great thing for fishing in New Zealand and would hate to see what would happen without it.
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Mark Connor advised that the really small clubs are already subsiding at an inflated amount. Whangamata – Barney O’Neill asked for it to be held off to the 2022 year. Houhora has already increased their fee to cover this and there was not objection regarding this. New Plymouth – Ian Steele also asked to wait 12 months to increase this. Tauranga – Deryk Nielsen also asked for an extension till 2022. Brett Bensemann – Tautuku Dunedin and Haast advised that they are worried and feels that they will vote no at this stage but will revisit after things settle down. Milton Reynolds – Whakatane – Could the CEO raise funds for the Council. Mark Read Whakatane – they have already set their fees for 2021/2022 so would not be able to implement until 2022/2023. Barney O’Neill asked if we could amend this to move it out to 2022/2023 year. Barney O’Neill moved that “the fee increase be moved to the 2022/2023 year”. Kelvin Mowat advised if the mover and seconder of the motion are prepared to accept the amendment then the motion can go ahead as suggested. Change will be 2021-2022 to 2022-2023. The amended motion was voted on. Votes in favour were 55 – against 44 – 1 abstention. – 50% required the motion was passed
Notice of Motion #12 - Setting of Affiliation fees - 50% Voting Required Proposer: Roger Faber - Gisborne Tatapouri Sports Fishing Club Seconder: Dave Mullooly - Mahia Boating and Fishing Club Speaker at AGM: Roger Faber The remit we propose is that an associate member category is added to the Affiliation Fees structure such that associate members shall only pay $3.00 per person and there is no NZ Marine Research Foundation donation. An Associate member of a club shall be recognised as; (a)
Persons who, having paid a reduced membership fee and been accepted as such by the Committee are permitted full use of the Club’s facilities and privileges with the following exceptions: (i) They shall not hold any Club office or be entitled to vote
(ii) There shall be no age, area or prior membership requirements for Associate membership Reasoning: Associate members allow the larger clubs to operate a financially sound organisation. Associate members pay a reduced membership fee and in return only get the right to legally use the clubs bar facilities. Other than reciprocal rights with other NZSFC affiliated clubs they get no personal benefit from their affiliation fee and as such should not have to pay a full fee. Bob Gutsell thanked Gisborne for having put this motion for a vote and to get an opinion from their peers. Roger Faber spoke to this motion. Roger advised that he wanted to make it clear that they were not against full fees being paid on fishing members. The club is against paying full fees on associate members and also what they pay verses what they get back. Asked the Council to get benefits of operating expenses. He also mentioned the voting scoring is incorrect comparing small clubs against large clubs.
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Andrew Johnson asked that the motion be dismissed as they are not fully paid up members. Gisborne advised that they settled on an amount with the Council and therefore are fully paid up members. Lewis asked for the differences on levels of memberships and at this stage we do not have any information on this therefore feels that this could not go ahead. Barney O’Neill – Whangamata pay for all of their juniors. Problem will happen that associate members will not be able to come into other fishing clubs. Craig Miller – Gisborne – commented that the Council should have sorted this sooner. Bob Gutsell replied that this does need to be sorted but that we are a council of clubs and it is the clubs’ duty to bring these matters to the AGM for voting from their peers. Kelvin Mowat – As a Council we cannot decide member categories for clubs we only have a mandate to set a fee that will be charged. Hilton Webb – life member – advised that the club has grown and supports Council but clubs needs to sort out the associate member problem. After robust discussion the motion was put to the meeting. Moved Roger Faber/Craig Miller Voting was 8 for and 92 against – the motion failed. Notice of Motion #12b Propose having an affiliation cap of $35,000 per member club on the total fees. Reasoning: The larger clubs are being penalised for being successful. Our clubs fees will be around $70,000 next year and we do not see the value from the council for that level of fees. Board notes for informational purposes: (Approx numbers) Largest 10 Club details Whangamata OSC 6489 $ 50,783.48 Gisborne Tatapouri SFC 5030 $ 39,365.22 Whakatane SFC 3094 $ 24,213.91 Tauranga SFC 2557 $ 20,011.30 Mercury Bay GFC 2496 $ 19,533.91 Mt Maunganui SFC 1671 $ 13,077.39 Whangarei DSAC 1454 $ 11,379.13 New Plymouth SFUC 1449 $ 11,340.00 Bay of Islands Swordfish Club 1299 $ 10,166.09 Counties SFC 825 $ 6,456.52 Roger Faber spoke to this motion. Advised that this could be changed to a voluntary capping and would consider $40,000. This was for larger clubs to make it easier for them. Discussions were around the cost reduction including the proposed 2022 increase in fees and which clubs it would directly affect. Mark Connor advised that the small clubs (less than 35 members) have long been paying an additional fee and this has to come out of income. The Motion to support the capped fees was put. 50 or above required to pass. Moved Roger Faber/Craig Miller Voting was 8 for and 92 against – the motion failed
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Notice of Motion #12c Propose that juniors should not have to pay affiliation fees. Reasoning: Juniors are our future and all clubs should be promoting junior membership for a minimal fee. In our club a larger family membership can incur up to $50 in affiliation fees. Board notes for informational purposes: (Approx numbers) Current affiliation fee income of: Jr’s $4.50 x 3,652 = $16,434 The motion was discussed. The point was that clubs want juniors to join and support the clubs. Lewis Avenell discussed the options of our junior programmes and wanted to keep the junior fees as they are. After some discussion the motion was put. 62 or above required to pass the motion. Moved Roger Faber / Craig Miller Voting was 11 in favour – 89 against – the motion failed Notice of Motion #13 NZSFC to modify the process of becoming an Honorary Member and Honorary Life Member. Proposer: Lewis Avenell Seconder: Mark Connor Speaker at AGM: Scott Macindoe / Lewis Avenell Current Constitution: 5.3 Any person or persons may be elected as an Honorary Member or Honorary Life Member of the Council provided that in each case: (a)
The proposal to nominate such a person as an Honorary Member or Honorary Life Member of the Council shall be in writing signed by no less than three Clubs at the time of the nomination.
(b)
The proposing Club must provide a written detailed profile, explanation and history of the nominee to accompany the nomination.
(c)
The nomination must be sent to the Secretary/Executive Officer for the Board’s approval. Following the provisional acceptance by the Board, notice of the proposed nomination shall be given to the Clubs by way of notice issued with papers for voting on at the next AGM or SGM
(d)
The elevation to Honorary Member or Honorary Life Member shall be ratified by simple majority vote at the AGM, or SGM
Boards proposals: 5.3 Any person or persons may be elected as an Honorary Member or Honorary Life Member of the Council provided that in each case:
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(a)
The proposal to nominate such a person as an Honorary Member or Honorary Life Member of the Council shall be in writing signed by no less than three Clubs at the time of the nomination.
(b)
The proposing Club must provide a written detailed profile, explanation and history of the nominee to accompany the nomination.
(c)
The nomination must be sent to the Secretary/Executive Officer for the Board’s approval. This approval will be a two-thirds majority vote of the Board.
(d)
The elevation to Honorary Member or Honorary Life Member shall be notified at the AGM, or SGM
Reasoning: This is currently how the process has been taking place. This gives the board discretion to elevate someone to the positions. This also limits the possible embarrassment of a member not achieving a majority vote at the AGM. Discussion – the motion was suggested to tidy up our constitution. Motion was put – Moved Bob Gutsell / Lewis Avenell Voting 97 in favour – the motion was passed
AFFILIATION FEES: The 2019/20 Affiliation Fees were set at the 2019 AGM at. $9.00 per Senior member plus a $2 donation per member for the NZ Marine Research Foundation. $4.50 per Junior member plus a $1 donation to the NZ Marine Research Foundation “It was moved that the Affiliation Fees remain the same for the 2020/2021 Financial year.”
P Campbell / W Harris Carried
Dirk Sieling has advised that he done what he wanted to achieve and he is standing down from the board this year. Bob Gutsell thanked him for his contribution to getting us to where we are today.
Steve Stangster – Guardians of the Sea – spoke to the meeting. He thanked the meeting for welcoming him and for what we all do. He spoke about the Guardians of the Sea Charitable Trust. He advised that the trustees work to make the funds go as far as possible. The Trust is very efficient. Most of the gifting has gone to LegaSea plus also a few smaller commercial fisheries.
LegaSea Report – Sam Woolford LegaSea Lead
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Kai Ika project has been going from strength to strength. Seven Marae around Auckland are now involved and receiving Kai Moana. The recent support for the project has allowed us to do so much more in the community while everyone tries to manage during this global pandemic ITM has advised that they are not able to renew their support but are working on a way to achieve sponsorship through their stores. Honda has also advised that they are no longer able to continue. Unfortunate but hopefully temporary. We have new supporters – Withers Tsang in March and Reid Robinson Realty. Hammerhead Visuals have also committed to being gold partners. It has been a tough period for everyone, we are cautiously optimistic but will have to wait and see what happens over the next few months. LegaSea is producing a Fundraising Prospectus. This is aimed at Trusts and individuals who wish to become more involved. This will show the history and our campaign and that we are a trusted and secure organisation. Rescue Fish is now in the public forum. Launch in April, we saw public donations have increased by 30-35%. A follow up campaign will be launched over summer in conjunction with Lumo Digital Billboards and Radio Hauraki.
Rescue Fish update – Sam Woolford Sam thanked Guardians of the Sea for their support. Launched with a digital footprint in April. Then the documentary went to air. This was very successful. 60,000 on the night and a further 170,000 watched it on demand. TV3 has agreed to air another documentary for us. – this programme is now on utube and is available for all. Barry Torkington held a question and answer session for the delegates. A concerted advertising campaign will be held over the summer months with support from Digital Signage companies. Two main threads communication with the public and the second one is engagement with mana te whenua and get support there.
RMA – Rowan Ashton – Senor Association Brookfields Lawyers Rowan spoke about the RMA. He has been assisting NZSFC with regard to the RMA controls on fishing. Background – until recently it was considered that the RMA and fisheries Act were separate but through Motiti situation this was proved not to be correct. The question was does the RMA have a role in regulating fishing resources with regard to the natural landscape and Maori with natural water, outstanding natural features, landscapes and marine indigenous bio-diversity. Accordingly, the Motiti area is to close approximately 60 nautical miles to fishing. Since this NZSFC took legal advice to understand the implications of these decisions. Discussions have been had with the Regional Council as to how this will be implemented and how it could be opened in the future.
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Appeals have been lodged in Northland, Taranaki and Marlborough seeking regulations on RMA on fishing. NZSFC have lodge noticed to become an interested party. Rowan discussed the Northland issue. It has been advised that there has not been proper community communication on these issues. It seems that these applications for fishing controls are being driven by Hapu who are discontent to the state of the marine environment and want to achieve something better. It seems that an opportunity is available for the Rescue Fish to offer an alternative. Rowan answered questions from the floor. Bob Gutsell thanked Rowan Ashton for his time and information.
BLUEWATER MARINE RESEARCH – John Holdsworth John ran through projects that have been undertaken lately. John has done a report on kingfish from 1960 to 2019 on the yellow tail contest in the Bay of Islands. The Size of the fish hasn’t changed over the last 30 years or so. Seems there are more fish, but the average size is going down slightly lately. Seems that kingfish are coming back slightly. Swordfish –the Ministry asked to undertake a survey of commercial catches. Seems to be a bit of a decline in swordfish catch around NZ. Commercial Striped Marlin catch has been undertaken. It is felt that in the early years there was some under reporting. John talked about the spatial distribution of striped marlin. Southern Bluefin tuna. Waihau Bay had a good season. Trailer counts show fishing effort in June in 2019 and 2019. In 2020 the effort in June was low and increased by July.
NZMRF Report – Terry Creagh/Jeff Romeril A report was read by Terry Creagh from the Chairman of the NZMRF. Projects As with the rest of New Zealand and indeed the rest of the world, our planned activity for the financial year being reported was severely affected by Covid 19 virus. We had two approved projects in action at the time. The supporting of Blue Water Maine Research rep John Holdsworth to attend the World Recreational Fishing Conference in Rotterdam and assisting in the satellite tagging of striped marlin project for the IGFA Great Marlin Race being conducted by the New Plymouth Sportfishing and Underwater Club in conjunction with Bay Of Islands Swordfish Club. The conference has been postponed until next year, but the monies ($10925) set aside remain and will be held for when this is rescheduled. The satellite project did get underway but was curtailed after two marlin were tagged. The monies for this have also been paid to cover the tags which are being held until used. Another $2200 was spent in the preparation phase for this project. The low spending in the year reported and some peculiarities of the income for the year explained below means we have a healthy fund for ongoing research this coming year. Finance For the second year running we can present audited accounts for the NZSFC AGM. There were no anomalies and we have a good auditor’s report. The income for the year does require explanation. The NZSFC donation of $67,097 we received in July 2019 should have been assigned in the year previous but were paid late. And due to an agreed position, we allowed the NZSFC to pay only $45,000 for the year reported with approximately a third outstanding in order for the NZSFC not be
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forced into breaking a term deposit. This will show in the next financial year. Overall, we are ready and in a strong position to go ahead with new projects. Donation remit Now I will make some comment on a remit that will be discussed at this conference. That of donations to the NZMRF. As time goes by and the regular turnover of club committees, many historic actions get questioned especially when there is a cost involved. I suspect that given we were formed in the early 90’s that the regular donation per member to the NZMRF has come under review, as committee members see it as a large bill rather than the $2 per member that it is. Marine research in favour of recreational anglers is sorely lacking, especially when we need facts to support our arguments for fisheries management. Over the last 20 years we have spent many hundreds of thousands of dollars supporting several striped marlin satellite projects, yellowfin tuna, bluefin tuna, kahawai, fish welfare and of course the value of recreational fishing to NZ. There were many other smaller projects carried out as well as can be followed on our website www.nzmrf.org.nz Why all should contribute Marine research is not cheap and the very fact we exist shows the spirit of guardianship that members are prepared to take for one of their important past times. Should we see a dilution of the donations through a voluntary contribution or that of fishing members only, then we are on the slippery slide to ineffective and eventually elimination. The contribution of non- fishing members to the NZFSC and NZMRF has long been discussed, normally raised by club managers and newer committee members because of that “item” on their balance sheet. Your fishing club exists because of its primary activity. Take this away and you are purely a social club. Your social members enjoy your club facilities, whether it be dining, bar or functions. They belong because its often cheaper and closer than other social club options. They get all the benefits except voting, pay a discounted membership so it is only proper that they should support you with a contribution to the Sportfishing Council and its umbrella research foundation “us “ Trustees Trustee numbers remain unchanged at 6. We are currently looking at additions to allow for attrition that will eventually occur. We also have the valued assistance of your Administrative Officer, Helen Pastor, who oversees our financial and administrative affairs. New Plymouth Sport Fishing and Underwater Club gave a big thank you to NZMRF and John Holdsworth for the support of the Marlin Tagging Programme. Report and audited accounts moved Terry Creagh seconded Paul Batten – Carried CRM SOFTWARE – Steven Stanford Steven Stanford introduced a Club Management Software. We looked at 14 types of software packages and have now chosen a product called Sporty. Sport is a NZ Not for Profit Organisation. The goal was to provide clubs with a management system, retain knowledge and reduce the burden. This programme is the largest platform in NZ for sporting organisations. It has a full range of services covering online registration, avoiding human error and a whole group of web information forms. Records are automatically collected, and all membership is in one place, which will roll over from season to season. Sporty also has an email function regarding memberships. If you wish to have the facility online payments can be made. The programme is integrated into Xero. A great feature is that is provides an electronic photo id. This card is cheaper for greater numbers. Currently 9 council clubs engaged. Some are scoping and others are operating. Clevedon has offered their club as a set up support and Lewis advised that he will help. If your club is interested Steven will contact Sporty and they will provide a solution. If the clubs want to have add ons the
22 AGM MINUTES 18/19 SEPT 2020
pricing system comes in. This is aimed at the clubs that are keen to update themselves and create a secure database. Question as to whether the programme can handle the numbers. Answer Sporty has undergone a big change and an extensive upgrade during Covid and are now able to cope with much larger numbers. Steven will check whether sponsorship can be placed on the digital cards. The content management is free – but the membership portion will be charged at $495.00 per annum. Currently it does not integrate with Pos systems.
NATIONALS SOFTWARE – Helen Pastor / Steven Stanford Board had a budget of $50,000 for new software and with some extensive investigation we have managed to reduce this to $1,600.00 so have saved a lot. Helen Pastor gave a brief overview of the new Nationals software. Info fish is an Australian company who run successful competitions throughout Australia. They have been working with Helen and Steven to supply NZSFC with a competition software following the rules of the Nationals. The cost is $1,600 per annum to NZSFC. This programme can be used by clubs at the cost of $500 a year. This will cover one competition setup and support. Clubs can run as many competitions as needed per annum. There is also the option for Council to have an app in the future. The software can compile the collation of results as dictated by the clubs and can be downloaded easily. Another benefit is that several tournaments can be run at the same time. The software will link the competitions so that data only has to be entered once. The software is more flexible and user friendly. We are expecting that the administration will be done the same way as we have in the past for the first year and we will work on ways to make things easier in the future. The delegates in the room, and on line, showed support of the CRM package and Info Fish software.
FISHERIES MANAGEMENT REPORT – Lewis Avenell presented his report. Thank you to the dedicated team of volunteers and contractors that make up the FMMP standing committee, it’s a pleasure to work with you all and you can be proud that we can produce such solid work for NZSFC and our membership. It’s amazing to have Jim from NZACA and Andy from NZUA sitting in the room with us as well as NZ Spearfishing being involved, the collaboration between these relevant aligned mandated organisations is uplifting. Please have a read through of the FMMP yearbook that has been presented to you as part of your packs. This includes all the information from this years’ submissions, finances and updates on projects such as Rescue fish. Yesterday we passed motions of Hapuka/Bass, Scallop, bronze whalers and spatial planning for the FMMP document. I am happy that we as a council can come together and have such alignment. The FMMP team has already had a couple of thoughts for policies for approval for next year. One being John Dory and another based around an allocation principle. If there are any topics you wish addressed, discuss and note them in your Zone meetings and we will pick them up. We as a standing committee are still working on improving our consultation process with the clubs / zones. We have been talking and listening to clubs regarding cray concessions, upcoming Sna8 and
23 AGM MINUTES 18/19 SEPT 2020
RMA processes. There is always room for improvement. If there are any specifics you what to discuss for your area, please feel encouraged to contact myself or the FMMP team. With continued pressure in the media recently, the minister has announced taxpayer funding to introduce the long-awaited cameras on some commercial boats by 2024. We will have to wait and see if this eventuates. I would like to leave you with an extract from the 2016 Government Heron report that i think sums up where we are with fisheries management in this country at this point in time. “As you are aware discarding is a systemic failure of the current system and something we have not been able to get on top of from day 1 of the QMS. FM [Fisheries Management] can’t quantify the tonnages involved but we suspect they are significant to the point that they are impacting on stocks.” It’s no wonder we have been driven to developing the alternative which is Rescue fish. This report was discussed. A Johnson advised that the swordfish need help. It was noted that we need to have information on where the clubs want us to focus. Council and John Holdsworth are working with stake holder groups to raise the flag on actions to be taken. Bob has been working with the commercial fishermen trying to get them to be more cooperative. Richard Baker – it is critical to embrace grass roots fishermen and evolve. Need to lead youth into the clubs. The Fisheries Management report was accepted.
IGFA REPORT – Mark Hemingway IGFA has been very quiet over the past few months. Covid 19 has caused them problems. They have started information videos and Mark encouraged members to go online and view them. There is an interesting one on rules and a lot of on-line videos on line testing. The junior passport has also been stopped internationally at this stage. NZSFC has some junior passport kits which are available for clubs to use. It has great information and would be good at junior comps. Stats on the 448 records for 2019. 189 were fresh water and 259 salt. 168 women and 280 men. 45% of all records were released fish. NZ has had its largest ever marlin, ratified 60kg world record – a massive effort. Congratulations to Lynda Randrup. To achieve records the main things to remember are to check wind-on leaders and make sure you measure your gear correctly. Please do not trust leaders that have been wound on by shops. High quality photos are needed for liver of big eye tuna for the weighmaster’s book and also good photos of catches to use on facebook. If you have any please contact either Mark Hemingway or Helen Pastor. IGFA report was accepted.
24 AGM MINUTES 18/19 SEPT 2020
STRATEGIC PLAN – Presented by Ian Steele assisted by Bob Gutsell / Steven Stanford A strategic plan was presented to the board by Ian Steele, with a run through of the metrics by Steven Stanford. This laid out an inspirational plan. It is designed to allow the Council to build towards something and show our value propositions. See attached one-page synopsis of the Strategic Plan. Delegates were asked for feedback. Comments were that we need to build on the youth and that we continue to represent the clubs on all Fisheries Management matters. What clubs need from Council is the functionality to help run the clubs/business and provide programmes. It was agreed that this is a plan to strive to serve and to obtain funding for projects going forward. Strategic Plan was accepted
GENERAL BUSINESS Tagging Annual Draw – John Holdsworth The winner is Jacob Soole – 23 Sussex Terrace Kingfish from the Middlesex Bank. The fish was out for 659 days and went 20 NW. He has won $1,000. The Tagging programme is an important part of what we do. Thanks to records officers.
Sheryl Hart Eulogy – Tony Hill In March during lockdown Sheryl Hart died. Sheryl passed away after a long battle with cancer. She was a delegate for her club for approximately 35 years. She was passionate about fishing and the fishing environment and had a take no prisoners attitude. Sheryl and her husband were one of the founding members of the Raglan Fishing Club. She worked tirelessly signing up and helped to build the club which now has over 500 members. Sheryl will be remembered by many of us who knew her. Rest in Peace Sheryl.
Weighmaster Certification – Terry Creagh Terry put forward the suggestion of having a Certification for weighmasters. Reasons are to have the weighmasters more educated and professional and gives accreditation to the person weighing the fish. Feedback – Richard Baker – stated that you can’t eliminate human error. We have training available and courses for weighmasters. We need to promote fishing and if someone turns up with a fish to be weighed and there is not a certificated person available – we are not going to be able to recognise a fish in this situation. He doesn’t want to see a fish disqualified if a certificated weighmaster wasn’t available. Warren Harris – A certificate is available for those who have attended a course. He feels that this is all we need. Lewis Avenell – needs to be non-compulsory. Key Action/Outcome – Ian Steele – development of a non-compulsory certificate as recognition Ian Steele / Warren Harris – Carried
25 AGM MINUTES 18/19 SEPT 2020
Whangamata – Barney O’Neill. A Donation was given to LegaSea of $1,500.00. Peter Campbell thanked Barney and Whangamata and will go to the LegaSea Legends fund and will towards rescue fish programme. Peter thanked zone 1 for their remit and Andrew for his presentation. He also thanked Barney for suggesting that the increase be put off for two years. This gives the Council surety that there will be a funding boost in the future.
AGM 2021 – Ian Twist Ian Twist from Maraetai Beach Boating Club spoke to the AGM 2021. Maraetai is on the lower eastern coastal area of Auckland. Maraetai is a newer club to Council. Hosting the AGM is an important educational process for their members. Accommodation will be different here as the club is isolated from motels and hotels. The club has the capacity to accommodate campers and has negotiated a camper hire at a 15% discount. Approximately 45/50 Air BnB. Balance of guests will stay at the Sebel hotel in Manukau and transport from there will be available. Discussion is on going with the hotel presently. The club is undertaking a contingency plan due to Covid and will have an alternative if there was an issue. The date for next years’ AGM is the 17th / 18th of September 2021. AGM 2022 – Ian Steele Application has been received and accepted from the New Plymouth Sport Fishing and Underwater Club. They are working together with the Cape Egmont Boat Club. The club has good accommodation and access with a large club area to hold the meeting. Air travel is convenient and plenty of accommodation is available in town and close to the club. A partner programme is being planned. It was moved that “New Plymouth Sport Fishing and Underwater Club” Moved B Gutsell / M Connor – carried
THANK YOUS Bob Gutsell thanked all the support personnel. Special thanks to Andrew Johnson, Jennifer Troup, James and the team in the bar and club. Thanks to Scott and the team at Almorah. Helen Pastor gave special thanks to Jennifer Troup for taking over in the Bay when she could not be there and has made it much easier for her. Also, a big thank you to Rachelle Proctor. Rachelle took up the partners event organisation, planned a new day, liaised with the ladies and generally took over the events.
MEETING CLOSED: The meeting was declared closed at 3.00 pm, Saturday 19th September 2020
Chairman:
26 AGM MINUTES 18/19 SEPT 2020
Date:
27 AGM MINUTES 18/19 SEPT 2020
President’s Report 2021 – Bob Gutsell
What’s in a name? We’re the New Zealand Sport Fishing Council, we formed in 1957 as the New Zealand Big Game Fishing Council. We changed the name in 2010 to the New Zealand Sport Fishing Council to try and distance ourselves from the common misconception that we were a bunch of overly entitled launch owners. Nothing wrong with launch owners mind you, just that wasn’t who we have become. The trailer boat fishing revolution happened 20 years earlier and small boat Sport Fishing became popular with the emergence of light tackle fishing and Marlin becoming easily accessible from trailer boats off the North Island East and West Coasts. So the move to becoming the Sport Fishing Council seemed like a logical and somewhat overdue next step…. At the time. But still today the mention of the name of our organisation almost immediately triggers a response along the lines of “oh we’re not really into fishing for records or anything like that we just like catching a feed.” Meanwhile on a recent LinkedIn social media post an acquaintance posed a question whether it was ok to say you’re of a certain profession if you don’t have a credential aligned with that profession? Of course, the obvious answer is that you can call yourself whatever you want as long as you can do the job. So, what’s our job? We are the New Zealand Sportfishing Council, we have a mission; “To promote and develop the sport and recreational activity of fishing for all”, that supports our Vision for “Responsible fishing for a more abundant tomorrow. Clubs / Communities / Fisheries” That’s what our Strategic plan says and we’re well on our way to delivering those aspirations. For a start we provide a central connection point for 37,000 members of our affiliated clubs. We provide communication channels from those clubs resulting in a united voice for our 37,000 affiliated members. Our club delegates create, debate, amend and ratify policy that represents their collective view of what we as a Council believe is the right thing to do. That’s a really solid basis for representing the interests of Recreational fishers. We created LegaSea in 2012 for taking our ambitions to the wider public of New Zealand (NZSFC owns Legasea), informing them of burgeoning crises, and providing a channel for the public to support our work. LegaSea supporters add critical mass to the mandate we have from our affiliated members and provide financial support for our advocacy activities. Policy creation and engagement Over the three last AGMs we voted to accept 3 such policies; Pink Mao Mao (2019), Scallop Dredging and Hapuka/Bass (2020). The knock-on effect from these policies over the last 12 months has been tremendous. No sooner had we released our Scallop Dredging policy, I had a radio interview on one of the Talk Back radio shows. The Opito Bay Ratepayers association were listening and reached out for help with the depletion of their local fishing grounds off the beach from Opito Bay. From that came the Opito Bay Citizen Science project, and the Rahui from Ngati Hei (which is now awaiting approval from the Minister).
Similarly, the announcement of our Hapuka Bass Policy was well received by none other than Fisheries Inshore NZ, the representative organisation for Inshore commercial fishers. The issue had been a bone of contention between them and Fisheries NZ for some time as they watched their annual catch plummet to half of what they’re allowed to catch over ten or more years. Fisheries NZ have just completed a consultation review forHapuka/Bass areas 1 and 2. Hapuka and Bass are two unique species that move around for breeding purposes. They are extremely susceptible to overfishing due to their slow growing residential nature. We recreational fishers can more easily over fish them with the advent of high-power depth sounding technology, anchorless position holding, electric reels and boats that will travel much further distances to fish new grounds. This increased recreational effort and effectiveness, combined with continued commercial effort has not been good news for the Hapuka / Bass population. We all have a part to play in helping these species to recover - we will have more to do for these species no matter what the Minister decides. Fisheries Management Systems NZ is said to have a “world leading” fisheries management system. Those claims are “supported” by statistics about the number of species that are supposedly doing well. But when the system fails it fails cataclysmically. We see this time and time again - Scallops, Crayfish, Tarakihi and now Hapuka & Bass. These downward trends are plain for all to see in annual commercial catch records. But still these signs are ignored in the interests of getting more scientific evidence from more scientific assessments. But when the data eventually is made available, it’s too late, Commercial fishers lose 60% or more of their annual catch entitlement and recreational fishers have our daily bag limits slashed. We developed an alternative to the current management system, and we keep working to build momentum to get this system. The proposed system comes as close to the holy grail as you can imagine in leaving more fish in the water and putting more money in the pockets of those who fish commercially. More recently the unlicensed commercial fishery of Pink Mao Mao on the Coromandel East coast was “outed”. Our Policy from 2019 formed the backbone of our response to the Government. Marine Protected Areas and the RMA Looking forward we now have the issue of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) to deal with. Our position is that we don’t support “Type One” MPAs (total non-extraction) unless there is a very specific reason for protecting something in the target area. However, Type 2 and 3 MPAs can be quite useful for restricting fishing methods like Bottom Trawling, and Dredging. We are seeing parts of desperate communities attempting to use the RMA for purposes that it’s not intended for. As I write this, the reefs surrounding Motiti Island have been closed off for at least the next 10 years as a result of an Environmental Court judgement. We’re heavily invested and engaged in the Environment court attempting to prevent a similar thing being imposed in the Bay of Islands. No doubt there will be other unintended outcomes of this outdated RMA to deal with before the RMA is replaced. Revitalising the Gulf: Government action on the Sea Change Plan Finally, we have just seen the Government response to the Sea Change plan for the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park announced. They couldn’t have got it more wrong if they tried. This plan is the implementation of 18 Highly protected areas areas which are Type 1 Marine Protected Areas that allow Customary fishing.
Meanwhile Trawling and Dredging are allowed to continue in designated areas, and the future of purse seining in the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park depends on the outcome of a forage fish evaluation. We have work to do here to get this plan back to what was originally agreed by the original stakeholder group that formed it. Fisheries management Submissions If that wasn’t enough, we also submitted on behalf of recreational anglers for • • • • •
Southern bluefin tuna 1 Deemed value rates Blue cod 3 Snapper 8 Gurnard 1
A huge thanks to Ken Barry and John Holdsworth and Trish Rea for their tireless efforts in leading the charge on the Snapper 8 stakeholder engagements, and particularly to Trish, John Barry and the wider FMMP team in putting together these submissions. Discussion So, we might be called the New Zealand Sport Fishing Council we create and deploy policy for achieving an abundant fishery and protecting your access to fish your part of New Zealand’s coastline. But wait there’s more… The last 12 months has seen the withdrawal of Club Marine from the NZ insurance landscape. This has left a number of us literally high and dry looking for a new insurance provider. One of the chief concerns about why people wouldn’t sign up with Club Marine is that they did not want to depart from the relationship they had with their Broker. So this year we have introduced PIC Insurance
brokers as our insurance option for our members and affiliates. PIC provide advice on insuring our boats but beyond this they work for us come claim time making sure insurance companies meet their obligations under the insurance contract. As a fully-fledged brokerage PIC are able to advise on Club Insurance and all other insurance risks. They have upped the ante and got right in behind our new NZSFC National Measure champs competition.
The National Measure Champs competition has been launched. All you have to do is enter, then photograph your catch on a measure mat and submit via our new app. There are great prizes supported by PIC Insurance brokers and Marine Deals. You may have noticed that fish can even be caught on a handline, allowing grass roots fishers from across the nation to participate. We also kicked off the development of our Youth fishing programme with the steering committee being formed in January of this year, and more recently a youth committee consisting of our younger enthusiasts from around the country. I have great hopes for this initiative to become an ‘end to end’ programme that connects young people in the wider community with our clubs and a lifetime of fishing fun, no matter what their circumstances. More exciting info to come … This year sees a few changes at Board Level, the most significant of which is the retirement of Peter Campbell from the roll of Vice president that he has held for 8 of the 20 years he has been involved with the Council. Thanks Pete for your years of service to the council and your support during my time in this role.
We welcome Warren Maher into the role of Second Vice President. Warrens had a huge year taking on a lead role in the Opito Bay Scallop Restoration Programme and as the inaugural chair of our Youth Programme Steering Committee. We also have Ross Lucas who retires this year after 5 years on the board as the Zone 8 representative. He’ll be replaced by Heyden Johnstone from the Whakatane Sport Fishing Club, welcome aboard Heyden! We’ve also been hugely blessed with a large and highly capable contingent of non-board members voluntarily supporting the Communications, Youth and Fisheries Management committees. We’ll thank those individuals over the next couple of days because there’s too many to do them justice here. Finally thanks to our Executive team CEO Steven and Administration Officer Helen, and Fisheries management contractors who have been up to their ears in delivering all that and more to come. So please join me in a standing ovation to recognise the tireless work your board, executive, supporting volunteers and contractors have into providing value for our members and helping us to be everything that is the New Zealand Sport Fishing Council!
BUDGET NZ Sport Fishing Council Incorporated 2021-2022 Excluding GST
$
37300 7.83
$
4.78
NZSFC Budget 2022 (minus fisheries management) Income Affiliation Fees AGM income Bad Debt Recovery Booklet advertising PIC Insurance Fisheries Management Grants Covid relief - sport NZ Grants Received Grant Lotteries Interest Income Interest First Mortgage Trust IGFA fees received LegaSea Hawkes Bay Donation LegaSea Donation Measure Champs Tournament Prize Money (PIC) Measuring Devices National Tournament Income Nationals Tournament sponsorship NZMRF member donations received Opito Bay Scallop Project Other Revenue PL Fuel Rebate Postage and courier received Tags Sport NZ covid relief Maritime NZ Funding Youth Funding Total Income
282,783 33,000 5,000 3,000 20,000
4,000 500 160,000 6,000 500 30,000 5,000 58,600
10,000 20,000
638,383
*****
Less Operating Expenses ACC Levies Accountancy Annual leave provision AGM Expenses Allowance for doubtful debts Audit Fees Bank Fees Board Expenses Board Phone LegaSea work on behalf of NZSFC Club Marine Expenses Club management software Communications - Social Media Computer Expenses Contractors Covid relief - sport NZ Depreciation Engagement and Comms Software NZSFC Contribution Fisheries Management Fisheries Management General expenses Grant expenditure Grants Lotteries Hiwi the Kiwi Website IGFA Affiliation and travel costs Insurance Legal expenses - NZSFC LegaSea Capital Measure Champs Expenses Member donations paid to NZMRF Motiti National Tournament Expenses Nationals Software Newsletter Opito Bay Scallop Project Expenses Postage PL Fuel Presidents honorarium Printing & Stationery records claim Records Officer Expenses Rescue Fish Secretary's Expenses Stock on hand Storage - BBYC Tag purchases Telephone & Internet Trophies and presentations Wages & PAYE levies Website Expenses Yearbook Youth Funding
200 4,500 20,000 2,500 4,500 300 15,000 1,200 5,000 13,000 13,000 5,000 170,000 10,000 95,000 160,000 2,000 20,000
500 4,000 4,000 12,000 58,600 9,000 2,000
5,000 5,000 500 2,000 2,500 1,300 12,000 1,500 3,000 66,327 4,000 18,000
765,426.53
Total Operating Expenses Profit (deficit) LegaSea Capital Injection Unspent LegaSea Contributions Reserve
-$
127,044
16,554
Notes Revenue 1) Affiliation fees: Assume 3,000 juniors and 34,300 seniors Expenses 1) AGM Expenses: Increase to 33k to cover off possible zoom coverage (10k) 2) Board expenses: Increased to cover off extra travel pertaining to increase committee participation. Especially in Youth Fishing 3)LegaSea work on behalf of NZSFC: Introduced from April 2021 board meeting. Rules to access funds have been set in place 4) Club management software: Reduced to reflect changes in strategic direction 5) Hiwi the Kiwi website has been disbanded 6) Legal expense: increase to 4k to cover ad hoc matters arising 7) Measure Champs expenses: 6k prize spend agreed at Jan 2021 Board meeting and $6k prize money form PIC Insurance 8) Nationals software: Provision for extra development for reporting 9) Postage: Extra 2k provision to cover increased prices General Note: 2) The NZSFC contribution (95k) has been expressed as an expense to NZSFC and revenue to Fisheries Management
Notices of motions 2021 AGM Dear Clubs and Delegates, In preparation for the upcoming 2021 NZSFC AGM, below is a list of notices of motion that the board has approved in accordance with the 60/55day AGM protocol. (this will all be included in the AGM booklet) ********************************************************************************** Notice of Motion #1 50% Voting Required Bluenose policy to be adopted and introduced to the NZSFC FISHERIES MANAGEMENT POLICY DOCUMENT Proposer: Warren M Seconder: Bob Gutsell Speaker at AGM: John H Board Proposal: 5.XX Bluenose Goal Restore abundance of bluenose in New Zealand to 50% of un-fished levels. Objectives ·
Rebuild bluenose populations in areas that have been depleted.
·
Ensure robust breeding populations are maintained.
·
Maintain a high value niche fishery for commercial, recreational and customary fishers. Strategy Urgent
·
Update bluenose commercial catch per unit effort and stock assessment by region.
·
Encourage fishers to limit bluenose catch to no more than three per person per day. Current daily bag limit is five per day.
·
Produce a FishCare guide for bluenose fishers and include bluenose vs ocean blue-eye ID.
·
Review fine scale catch data and close some areas to all bottom fishing for a period where local depletion has or is occurring.
·
NZSFC club committees or Zone members to recommend suitable areas to close to all bottom fishing to help rebuild the bluenose population in their region. Medium Term
·
Introduce a management system at a local or regional level.
·
Apply Rescue Fish principles to maintain a high value niche fishery, without open access. Rationale
Bluenose become sexually mature between at 17 years old and may live in excess of 70 years. The long life, slow growth, late maturity, and low natural mortality make bluenose susceptible to overfishing. Their main depth range is 250–750 m, with a peak around 300–400 m. A target trawl fishery started in the lower North Island in the mid-1980s and over the last 25 years most catch has been taken by longline. The prime areas had good catch rates at first but by the mid-2000s catch rates were declining around the country. The commercial catch (TACC) was reduced from 3,233 tonnes in 2008, 2011. 2016 and 2017. The TACC for all areas combined is now 630 tonnes. It is reported that the TACC reduction changed how the commercial fishers operated and this affected catch rates. The boats fished shallower water for smaller bluenose which were preferred by the market. Initially catch rates went up as fishing effort was shifted but then declined. This is another stock that is difficult to determine sustainable levels because commercial catch rates are not a good indicator of changes in abundance. The National Panel Survey (NPS) recorded the estimated recreational harvest of bluenose for the 2017–18 fishing year was 9 629 fish, or 46.2 tonnes (± 11 t) for all New Zealand. The total recreational allowance is currently 63 tonnes. Most of the bluenose catch (78.6%) came from BNS 1 where harvest was 36.5 tonnes (± 10 t) the current recreational allowance in BNS 1 is 15 t. The individual daily bag limit is 5 bluenose. Of the 38 NPS trips recorded in BNS 1, 77% of fishers kept 1 or 2 fish and 14% kept 5 or more (there may be some catch sharing among the crew). Data collected for the NPS are limited from other areas so the proportion of catch per trip is not well determined. Until bluenose populations recover, recreational fishers should limit their catch to three fish per person per day to avoid local depletion of accessible fishing areas. Areas that are fished hard tend to have small, juvenile bluenose. Fishers should also learn to identify catch of ocean blue-eye, a similar looking warehou species. These are smaller fish, often around 4 kg, and are covered by the mixed species recreational bag limit. The base bluenose assessment model assumes a single New Zealand stock with two areas, a ‘background’ area where recruitment and the trawl fishery took place, and a ‘features’ area where the bluenose target longline fisheries took place. Fish were assumed to move from the background to the features at a constant rate-at-age which was estimated by the model. Also a new approach to analysing commercial catch per unit effort (CPUE) and regional stock assessments was used. A significant reduction in the commercial catch of bluenose has seen national catches around the current TACC of 630 t over the last three years, down from around 3,000 t in the mid-2000s. Changes in areas fished, seasonal movement of bluenose and changes the size of fish targeted will make measuring any increases in abundance difficult. It is unclear whether the almost 50% reduction in TACC between 2015–16 and 2017–18 caused changes in fishing practices.
Figure 1: The estimated trend in stock status of bluenose in New Zealand as a percentage of the unfished biomass (dotted line is B40) . The updated model runs from 1975. The national bluenose stock is estimated to be at B25 in 2021. However, trends in target longline catch rates in East Northland and Bay of Plenty do not show an increase since 2010.
Bluenose are a prized eating fish. There has been concern from recreational fishers about the status of bluenose stocks and low catch rates in some areas. Measures to restore the abundance of hapukū and bass across a range of depths as proposed in the NZSFC hapukū and bass policy will also assist the recovery of bluenose. This proposes closing some reef systems and surrounding areas to bottom fishing by all sectors for several years.
Identification Guide Bluenose: (Hyperoglyphe antarctica) Large eye, scales on back of head, step in dorsal fin longest spines in the centre, anal fin spines tapper from long to short, broad tail, round body. Colour bright blue to blueish-grey, brown areas sometimes, paler belly, colour fades on death. Average size 60 to 100 cm, maximum size 140 cm. Found mainly from 200 to 800 m depth, Otago to Kermadec Islands. Other names Matiri, bonita, blue-eye trevalla (Aust.).
Ocean blue-eye: (Seriolella labyrinthica) Another species in the warehou family. The eye not as large as bluenose, skin covering scales on head, blunt snout, continuous dorsal fin with short weak spines, anal fin spines weak with gradual tapper to short, body oval slightly compressed. Colour electric blue with strong, irregular broad darker bars, white belly, fades rapidly to grey on death. Maximum size 85 cm. Found from surface around floating objects to 400 m depth, Hawke Bay to Kermadec Islands. Also good eating.
Reasoning: NZSFC FMMP were requested to write a policy for Bluenose
********************************************************************************** Notice of Motion #2 50% Voting Required OIA Policy to be adopted and introduced to the NZSFC FISHERIES MANAGEMENT POLICY DOCUMENT Proposer: Scott Macindoe Seconder: Lewis Avenell Speaker at AGM: Scott Macindoe Board Proposal: 3.XX Official Information Act (OIA) Requests Council will make reasonable requests to source information that is relevant to NZSFC members’ interests Reasoning: NZSFC FMMP saw fit to write a policy simple OIA policy ********************************************************************************** Notice of Motion #3 50% Voting Required Catch reporting Policy Proposer: Peter Saul Seconder: Vance Fulton Speaker at AGM: John Holdsworth Proposal: X.XX
Recreational Harvest Surveys
Goal
High quality harvest estimates for recreational fisheries Problem definition •
•
• •
A range of survey methods have been used to collect information from recreational fishers to estimate annual harvest by species. Often changes to the survey method have resulted in large changes to estimates across all species. Technology has changed methods of contacting survey participants (mail, landline, smart phone) so surveys must evolve, but some basic principles of obtaining a representative sample of participants remain. Apps on mobile phones are powerful and easily scalable but self-selection by participants and voluntary reporting do bias results. Recreational harvest from a number of sought-after species has increase, as stock abundance and fishing technology has improved (kingfish, southern bluefin tuna etc). Regular harvest estimates help with management and allocation decisions.
Objectives • •
Ensure that recreational fishers and organisations maintain confidence in the harvest estimates and survey methods used in fisheries management. Recreational fishers continue to provide complete and accurate information when surveyed.
• • •
Ensure survey methods are fit for purpose and avoid misinformation and confusion about harvest survey results. Insist that data standards and peer review of methods and results is maintained. Collect information to monitor recreational fishery performance, the harvest in tonnes, and the size or age distribution of fish kept.
Standards Consideration needs to be given to most if not all of the following: •
•
•
•
•
• • •
Know the Sample Frame: The survey will not cover all fishers, all boats, or all days of the year. If the survey results are being scaled up for the whole fishery, we need to know what sample frame will be used. See Table 1. Representative Sample: To avoid a biased result the sample of fishers or days needs to be a fair representation within the sample frame. A random selection of fishers or days is best. Volunteers that self-select will be biased toward the most active (avid) fishers. Catch vs Harvest: There needs to be a clear separation between fish kept (harvest) and catch which includes fish caught and released. Other information collected also needs to be fit for purpose. Low Attrition: People who start the survey but do not continue can bias the results. They may no longer wished to participate in the study (resignations) or contact information changes or they are out of the country (suspended). Often attrition rate is a measure of how well the survey is tolerated by participants. Peer Review: These must be a written research plan that can be peer reviewed prior to the survey starting. The Marine Amateur Fisheries Working Group is the best avenue for peer review. NZSFC will not support mandatory fisher registration or licencing for the primary purpose of providing cheaper harvest surveys. NZSFC will challenge the validity of harvest surveys based on a self-selected sample of fishers with no defined sample frame, valid way of scaling results, or methods for reducing bias. NZSFC accept trends in catch-per-unit-effort (CPUE) from avid fishers may be useful if consistently collected and regularly peer reviewed.
Survey types Offsite surveys rely on contacting fishers and asking them to recall fishing events and catch. The National Panel Survey enrols a random selection of about 7,000 fishers to the panel using Statistics NZ methods. They use a detailed computer assisted phone survey and provide a high level of support to maintain a high response rate and low attrition. This is the only method that covers of all areas and platforms (land based, small boat, trailer and moored boat). On-site surveys at boat ramps have developed a valuable time series of data for monitoring trends in recreational fishing effort, average weight by species, and harvest. The fish can be counted and measured by the interviewer and trip details are easily recalled by fishers. The Colin Murray ramp surveys in Napier and NIWA web camera and ramp surveys are good examples. For some specialist fisheries that are predominantly accessed by boat, on-site surveys provide acceptable harvest estimates. Data collected on gamefish landed and tagged and released by NZSFC clubs has proved valuable for research and advocacy for billfish and tuna. Clubs will be encouraged to maintain good catch records
and supply information to Council and the end of each season. A streamlined approach to this is needed. There will be some use of apps or web forms to supplement data collected in structured surveys. Table 1: Attributes of some of the survey methods discussed above. National southern bluefin tuna - BWMR
Survey
National Panel Survey - NRB
Aerial-Access NIWA
Access census - BWMR
Survey method
Off-site SMS and phone survey of panellists
On-site aerial count of boats fishing plus boat ramp catch
On-site overage of all launch sites and marinas
Ramp Waihau Bay and Club records, Charter boat reports, s.111
Off-site selfreported catch
Sample frame
All NZ 15 residents years and older, all platforms
365 days in the year Boat-based harvest
365 days in the year Boat-based harvest
Ramp survey scales to total trailer counts at Waihau Bay
People with smart phones
Sample area
Main Islands of New Zealand
Fisheries Management Area 1
Western Bay of Plenty
New Zealand
South Island ?
Primary sampling unit
Meshblock, a small statistical unit of dwellings
Random selection of survey days in four strata
Random selection of survey days in four strata
Dwelling Then one randomly chosen fisher per dwelling, if any. Also sample of non-fishers
Sample size
7013 fishers 1780 non fishers
Maximum count of boats fishing from the air and creel surveys at 21 main access points 45 days 19,856 boats interviewed
Self-selected fishers that register and download the App
Other sampling units
Trailer counts at Waihau Bay. All year charter boat catch Phone survey of South Is SBT fishers. Unscaled catch
45 days 11,346 boats interviewed
Various
?
Sample intensity
7099 fisher respondents from a survey estimate of 695,000 fishers (1.02%)
12% of days
12% of days
Various
? unknown
Almost all 87 +
Snapper, kahawai, trevally, gurnard, tarakihi
Rock lobster, scallops, kahawai, gurnard
Southern bluefin tuna
Average fish weight from national boat ramp survey
Panel survey proportion of fish (by species) caught with land-based or set line methods in FMA1
Panel survey proportion of fish by boat-based methods outside the survey area and by land-based methods
? Partial blue cod, and paua harvest reported
Club weigh station records. Amateur Fishing Chater Vessel records
?
Species with harvest estimates
Complemented data
Survey at all boat access points (46) in the survey area
Regional Phone App
? unknown
********************************************************************************* Notice of Motion #4 -
50% Voting Required
Hapuku and Bass Policy Proposer: Wayne Bicknell Seconder: Warren Maher Speaker at AGM: John Holdsworth
Existing Policy: 5.15 Hapuku & Bass Goal Restore abundance of hapuku and bass in New Zealand waters. Objectives ·Rebuild hapuku and bass populations in eastern New Zealand waters. ·Ensure robust breeding populations are maintained in selected areas. ·Maintain a high value niche fishery for commercial, recreational and customary fishers. Strategy Urgent -Halve the Total Allowable Commercial Catch (TACC) in HPB 1 and HPB 2 to ensure most hapuku and bass are taken as bycatch in commercial fisheries. -Reduce the daily bag limit for recreational fishers to two per person per day in HPB 1 -and HPB 2. -Review fine scale catch data and close some areas to all bottom fishing for 10 years where local depletion has or is occurring. -NZSFC club committees or Zone members to recommend suitable areas to close to all bottom fishing to help rebuild hapuku and bass populations in their region. Medium Term · Separate species reporting and management of hapuku and bass. · Introduce a species management system at a local or regional level. · Apply Rescue Fish principles to maintain a high value niche fishery, without open access.
Proposal: X.XX
Hapuku and Bass Policy
Goal
Restore abundance of Hapuku and Bass in New Zealand Problem definition
•
• •
Hapuku were once abundant in a wide range of depths in New Zealand, but were overfished by the time the quota system was established in 1986. A lack of any effective management since then means it is easily forgotten how prolific they once were. New technology and fishing gear have, until recently, helped maintain catches by steadily exploiting more distant and deep grounds where bass have also been over-fished. Commercial catches in hapuku and bass areas 1 and 2 (HPB1 and HPB 2) have been steadily declining and there is across sector support for urgent action to rebuild stocks.
Objectives • • •
Rebuild hapuku and bass populations in New Zealand to 50% of the unfished biomass. Ensure robust breeding populations are maintained in selected areas. Maintain a high value niche fishery for commercial, recreational and customary fishers.
Strategy Urgent •
• • • •
• •
Reduce the Total Allowable Commercial Catch (TACC) in HPB 1 and HPB 2 below current catch levels and prohibit targeting to ensure hapuku and bass are taken as bycatch in commercial and non-commercial fisheries. Reduce the daily bag limit for recreational fishers to (one or two) per person per day during the rebuild phase and two per person per day after that. Limit the number of hooks used by recreational fishers to (two) hooks per line. Set a HPB accumulation limit for fishers on charter boats and private vessels to (four) fish per multi day trip. Close large areas of reef to all bottom fishing for 10 years where local depletion has or is occurring. Full Rahui or closure under regulation would help compliance. Select the most useful closures, not the least fished areas, and encourage high levels of support and compliance. NZSFC club committees or Zone members to recommend suitable areas to be closed to all bottom fishing to help rebuild hapuku and bass populations in their region. Start a series of monitoring projects: • Collect length and location (approx.) of catch by commercial and charter boats. • FNZ initiated longline survey on fixed sites and age catch. Repeat to show trends. • Set lines with breakaway hook tags (fish not brought to surface) to track movement. • Determine baselines and relative management objectives.
Medium Term • • •
Separate species reporting and management of hapuku and bass. Apply Rescue Fish principles to maintain a high value niche commercial fishery, without open access, once the rebuild is achieved. Develop a cross sector agreement on monitoring and HBP catch management system at a local or regional level.
Rationale Hapuku and bass become sexually mature between 10 and 13 years old and may live in excess of 60 years. The long life, slow growth, late maturity, and low natural mortality make hapuku and bass susceptible to overfishing. What we have seen over the last 100 years is an exploitation rate far too high for the species, and the continuing depletion of hapuku as it becomes growth overfished. When
the quota management system was introduced in 1986 large cuts were made to the historical catch tonnage to help rebuild the depleted stock. However, the quota appeal authority allowed the TACC to increase by a quarter to a third in east coast areas (Table 1). Large quota management from the advent of high has enabled catches to be overfishing. Vessels move ground, causing serial populations as they go. catch rate makes catch per a way of monitoring 2005). What is obvious is hapuku which were often or less. Now their range is (Middleton et al in press).
areas and increase efficiency resolution sounders and GPS maintained despite obvious from fishing ground to fishing depletion of hapuku and bass Shifting effort to maintain the unit effort (CPUE) unreliable as changes in abundance (Paul the reduction in range for caught in depths of 50 meters nearly always over 80 m
Commercial catch has declined in HPB 1 and HPB 2 in recent years and this is where this policy is focused, for now (Figure 1). To restore abundance to areas across a range of depths some reef systems and surrounding areas need to be closed to bottom fishing by all sectors. A significant reduction in the TACC is also required to avoid concentrating effort and further depleting remaining areas.
Table 1: Hapuku and bass commercial catch before and TACCs after introduction to the QMS for eastern New Zealand. Also the 2017-18 commercial landings and recreational harvest estimates. Year
Average Catch 1983-84 to 1985-86 TACC set at the start of the QMS TACC after quota appeals
1986-87 1994-95
Percent increase from appeals
HPB 1
HPB 2
HPB 3
tonnes
tonnes
tonnes
728 360 481
384 210 264
438 270 335
34%
26%
24%
Commercial catch in 2017-18 Percent of TACC caught in 2017-18
2017-18 2017-18
276 57%
159 60%
344 103%
Recreational catch Panel Survey Proportion recreational catch
2017-18 2017-18
73 21%
55 26%
51 13%
Figure 1: The percentage of the TACC caught in the eastern New Zealand quota management areas by fishing year.
********************************************************************************** Notice of Motion #5 50% Voting Required Member Benefits Proposer: Ken Barry Seconder: Peter Campbell Speaker at AGM: Steven Stanford Proposal: NZSFC develops reciprocal Club visitation agreements with like-minded incorporated societies such as Yachting NZ. Reasoning 1. Provides Club members with a wider range of Club facilities in locations where Sport Fishing Clubs are not present. 2.
Has the potential to drive extra custom to Sport Fishing Clubs
3.
Will help foster national relationships with like minded organisations
All potential agreements to be confirmed and signed by the Board before implementation.
********************************************************************************** Notice of Motion #6 -
50% Voting Required
Reef Fish Policy Proposer: Richard Baker Seconder: Scott Macindoe Speaker at AGM: Richard Baker Existing Policy 5.14 Pink Maomao The NZSFC support the addition of pink maomao to the ‘Sale of Reef Fish’ schedule which reads ‘No person shall sell or possess for sale any species of fish taken from the Auckland fishery management area that is specified in the following table (Appendix 1)’ Given the low productivity and increasing demand for pink maomao a bag limit of three pink maomao per person be adopted for the Auckland Fisheries Management Area. These to be included within the amateur bag limit of 20 mixed fin fish per person. Proposal: 5.14 Reef Fish Policy The NZSFC support the addition of the following species; to the ‘Sale of Reef Fish’ schedule which reads ‘No person shall sell or possess for sale any species of fish taken from the Auckland fishery management area that is specified in the following table (Appendix 1)’ pink maomao blue maomao grand daddy hapuka pigfish / wrasses Given the low productivity and increasing commercial & recreational demand for these species, a daily bag limit of three of any of these fish per person be adopted for the Auckland Fisheries Management Area. The maximum of 3 of any of these species is to be included within the amateur daily bag limit 20 mixed fin fish per person. Reasoning: Unquestionably reef environments with their wide biodiversity incorporating many small slow growing species with lesser fecundity are highly susceptible to increased fishing pressure. The Quota Management System with its large fisheries management areas, coupled with minimal if any knowledge of these fish stocks, is totally inadequate for the inshore / local area management needed / required to manage commercial extraction / harvesting. Recent media exposure has highlighted the issue, with what could only be illegal commercial levels of harvesting from recreational boats.
********************************************************************************** Notice of Motion #7 -
50% Voting Required
Game Fishing Tags Proposer: Brett Bensemann Seconder: Ian Gunion/Michael Todd. Speaker at AGM: Brett Bensemann The current rule on page 109 of 'Sport Fishing Yearbook 2021', number 13, reads: 13. Only fish tagged with tags supplied or approved by council will be recognised. Fish are tagged for the purpose of research. Proposal: 13: As fish are tagged for the purpose of Research; all bona fide research tags are recognised by the council. Reasoning: The council and represented clubs should endorse all attempts to participate, contribute, or support all forms of research in our Marine Environment. These would include marker darts and electronic tags. ********************************************************************************** Notice of Motion #8 -
2/3rd Voting Required
Change to minimum number for affiliation fees. Proposer – Peter Van Eekelen – Pegasus Bay Seconder – Mark Connor – Ashley Speaker at AGM – Mark Connor Clause 20.6 currently reads as follows:All Clubs must pay a minimum affiliation fee for at least 35 members if the Club has less than 35 members. Change to All Clubs must pay a minimum affiliation fee for at least 20 members if the Club has less than 20 members. Rational Smaller clubs are struggling and have limited resources but still wish to be part of the NZ Sport Fishing Council.
Previously small clubs have been paying a premium to become a member. It is harder for small clubs to get grants and support from local community grant schemes. This will make very little difference to the overall income of NZ Sport Fishing Council. Some small clubs play a very big part in the activities of the NZ Sport Fishing Council – for example LegaSea donations, working on the technical advisory group with Fishing NZ. ********************************************************************************** Notice of Motion #9 -
50% Voting Required
Awards and trophies: Day member entitlements Proposer – Ian Steele Seconder – Peter Saunders - New Plymouth Speaker at AGM – Ian Steele Introduction At the NZSFC Fishing Subcommittee meeting in April 2021, a query was raised regarding whether day members of clubs were eligible for NZSFC Awards and Trophies (note this is separate to Club Awards and trophies). Clubs are required to pay affiliation fees on all membership types, which includes day members. Clubs define their own types of memberships (there is no alignment between clubs) – such as Senior, juniors, family, associate, social and day members. Some clubs do not allow day membership, some do. For those Clubs that allow day membership, some clubs place restrictions on what entitlements that membership allows or not – for example some allow a day member to participate in a given competition, add to season boat tally’s but not win Club Awards and Trophies. This Motion seeks to clarify the entitlement of a Day Member with respect to NZSFC Awards and Trophies (including First and Heaviest, Season Trophies and also Nationals). Background: Excerpts/extracts from the relevant NZSFC documents is shown below: NZSFC constitution NZSFC Rules and regulations Nationals Rules Discussion Clubs set their own rules regarding Club awards and trophies, and what levels of membership qualify for awards and trophies. For example, some clubs do not allow social/associate or day members to be eligible for Club awards and trophies, whereas some do. Some clubs allow for day member catches to
count toward boat tally’s related to awards and trophies, but not individual angler awards. Most clubs are clear on their own requirements regarding eligibility. Section 4 of the NZSFC constitution (4.1 ( c) and (d)) identifies that people must belong to a club to be eligible for NZSFC awards and trophies. The NZSFC Rules and Regulations state that NZSFC provide awards and trophies for members of NZSFC affiliated clubs. The purpose of this Motion is to gain clarity in the NZSFC requirements regarding awards and trophies, noting that our constitution requires Members be financial to fish (for example) the Nationals, though if a day member wishes to enter the Nationals they must enter for each of all 8 days of the Nationals to participate (Nationals Rules). __________________________________________________________________________________ There are two parts to this motion – firstly to clarify if day members are eligible for NZSFC Awards and Trophies (generally) including First and Heaviest, Annual Trophies and the like (Part A). And the second part is related to NZSFC Nationals (Part B).
Part A: clarification for NZSFC Rules and Regulations – general entitlement of Day Members to NZSFC Awards and Trophies The intent with Motion 1 and 2 is that there is absolute clarity for all NZSFC Members (Clubs) regarding Day Membership entitlement for NZSFC Awards and Trophies. Motion 1 Proposed motion – amendment to the NZSFC Rules and Regulations. Red text shows additional/new text. NZSFC Rules and regulations 1.3
NZSFC Awards and Trophies
NZSFC provide awards and trophies for members of NZSFC affiliated clubs. This does not include day members. In the event that Motion 1 does not pass, then Motion 2 shall apply for consideration, and to be voted on. If motion 1 passes, then Motion 2 is null and void. Moved: Ian Steele Seconded: Peter Saunders __________________________________________________________________________________ Motion 2 NZSFC Rules and regulations
Proposed motion – amendment to the NZSFC Rules and Regulations. Red text shows additional/new text. 1.3
NZSFC Awards and Trophies
NZSFC provide awards and trophies for members of NZSFC affiliated clubs. This includes day members. Moved: Ian Steele Seconded: Peter Saunders
__________________________________________________________________________________ Part B: NZSFC Nationals The following motion relates to the NZSFC Nationals rules, to ensure that there is understanding and clarity between the intent of Motion 1 or 2 above (or amendment of either Motion) and the Nationals Rules. This motion is still to be considered regardless of the outcome from Motion 1 and 2. Motion 3 Proposed motion – Proposed amendment to NZSFC Nationals Rules. Red text shows amended and new text. 4. Eligibility and conditions of entry All team members must be financial members of an affiliated club. Team members that enter as a day member must pay the day membership fee for each and every day (8 days), irrespective of how many days the team actually fishes. This does not include day members. Moved: Ian Steele Seconded: Peter Saunders
********************************************************************************** Notice of Motion #10 -
50% Voting Required
Fishing Rule - When is a Fish Caught Proposer – Mark Hemingway - Mount Maunganui Seconder – Pete Saul - Whangarei Speaker at AGM – Mark Hemingway As our rules are now DEFINITION OF WHEN A FISH IS CAUGHT: 1. When landing or boating a fish the leader, if used, should be in hand before it is gaffed. 2. The catch will not be deemed caught until the fish is weighed. The intention is that all angling regulations & rules including equipment used to entice, hook, fight, land and secure the catch must comply with all IGFA International Angling Rules & NZSFC fishing rules until the fish has been weighed. Once a fish is gaffed it cannot be tagged and released. 3. In the event of a fish being tagged for releasing the leader should be in hand when the tag is inserted into the fish. When the tag is inserted the catch is deemed complete. The leader then can be intentionally cut as close to the fish as possible, or the hooks removed, or the fish releases itself. 4. In the event of a fish being released without tagging the fish is deemed caught and released when the leader is in hand and the leader is intentionally cut as close to the fish as possible, or the hook is removed. 5. A fish that has been tagged and the leader in hand still uncut and attached to the fish, may be gaffed and weighed if the angler considers that it is unlikely to survive or for any other reason. The tag must remain in the fish until it is weighed and then removed and returned to the tag card. 6. When fly fishing it is not necessary to have the leader in hand and when a fish is released without tagging the fish should be within tagging or gaffing distance when released Rational for amendment For NZSFC annual awards and the National fishing tournament there is a lot of confusion with “time caught” when filling out catch cards or recording forms, the actual intention for the award is for when the fish is actually landed or released, not when it is weighed, so to avoid confusion with when a fish is deemed caught (this came about from a judges definition where it is deemed caught when it is weighed and all equipment checked off ) the “time of capture” shall apply. Proposed amendment “2a” DEFINITION OF WHEN A FISH IS CAUGHT: 1. When landing or boating a fish the leader, if used, should be in hand before it is gaffed.
2. The catch will not be deemed caught until the fish is weighed. The intention is that all angling regulations & rules including equipment used to entice, hook, fight, land and secure the catch must comply with all IGFA International Angling Rules & NZSFC fishing rules until the fish has been weighed. Once a fish is gaffed it cannot be tagged and released. 2a. ”Time of Capture” - For the purposes of competitions or awards time of capture shall be when the fish is secured within or on the vessel or the fish is successfully tagged & released or released. 3. In the event of a fish being tagged for releasing the leader should be in hand when the tag is inserted into the fish. When the tag is inserted the catch is deemed complete. The leader then can be intentionally cut as close to the fish as possible, or the hooks removed, or the fish releases itself. 4. In the event of a fish being released without tagging the fish is deemed caught and released when the leader is in hand and the leader is intentionally cut as close to the fish as possible, or the hook is removed. 5. A fish that has been tagged and the leader in hand still uncut and attached to the fish, may be gaffed and weighed if the angler considers that it is unlikely to survive or for any other reason. The tag must remain in the fish until it is weighed and then removed and returned to the tag card. 6. When fly fishing it is not necessary to have the leader in hand and when a fish is released without tagging the fish should be within tagging or gaffing distance when released
NZMRF report for NZSFC 2021 AGM
Covid precautions and lockdowns have again hindered our activity for the year being reported. The upshot of this was the lack of spending and a healthy balance going forward. We also had some changes in the trustees with the inaugural foundation trustee John Chibnall standing down after 22 years as an active trustee. His replacement Rick Pollock was inducted earlier this year. We did manage some work although most of it is still incomplete as timelines have been extended due to covid. Projects The marlin satellite tagging program in conjunction with the New Plymouth Sportsfishing and Underwater club and BOI Swordfish Club continued but only four tags were deployed in the year due to the poor fishing season. None of the 6 tags (2 from the previous year) deployed have yet reported although 2 are not due to pop off until November this year. There was also some concern about the suitability of the tags and 2 of the remaining six have been swapped for bigger tags. Results and deployment are disappointing to date however the project is only 50% completed despite the fact it will now span three seasons. We helped a group of concerned Marlborough Sounds citizens with their research for their objection to NZ King Salmon proposing to take 1800 hectares of water space in the outer sounds region to farm king salmon. The concerned group namely: Guardians of the Sounds Inc. Friends of Nelson Haven and Tasman Bay Kenepuru Central Sounds Residents Association Marlborough Environment Centre Inc They needed financial assistance to commission expert evidence to respond to the proposal. NZMRF assisted with $3500. The original hearing date has been delayed from June 2021 until October 2021 as NZ King Salmon have revised their consent to 1200 hectares but nevertheless still significant take of the Marlborough Sounds. The Kai Ika project sponsored by LegaSea was also a beneficiary during the year with a $10,000 grant to support a research assessment to investigate full utilisation on marine resources. This was with joint contributors of the Auckland City Council and Ministry of the Environment Waste Minimisation.
The World Recreational Fishing Conference was supposed to have happened last year in Rotterdam but was delayed to this year and then became an online event. So, our funding to send John Holdsworth to attend and present a paper was not required. A new conference is planned in 2022 and we standby again to support LegaSea and send John to this conference if required. Finance Due to covid delays we await our auditors report of our yearly accounts. This may be through before your NZSFC AGM however the report is based on our accountant’s submission to the auditor. Our accumulated cash fund has risen to nearly $300,000. As stated, before this is largely due to low
activity this year. We are in a good position going forward and standby to support projects where needed. With nearly $200,000 in usable funds available it is the best position we have been in for some time. Of course, we have largely the NZSFC clubs to thank for this and the trustees are very aware of this. Trustees As stated, earlier John Chibnall leaves us this year and Rick Pollock has joined. With a new trustee on board, it is appropriate we review our deed to see if it still fits the direction we should be taking. This will be done in the coming year and advice of any changes will be passed on. We also have the valued assistance of your Administrative Officer, Helen Pastor, who oversees our financial and administrative affairs. This valuable assistance is very much appreciated and another gift from the NZSFC. Jeff Romeril Chairman On behalf of Trustees John Chibnall Rick Pollock Dr Peter Davie John Rae Richard Baker Terry Creagh
New Zealand Marine Research Foundation Charitable Trust Entity Information For the year ended 30 June 2021
Legal Name of Entity:
New Zealand Marine Research Foundation
Other Name of Entity (if any):
N/A
Type of Entity and Legal Basis (if any):
Charitable Trust
Registration Number:
CC20788
Entity's Purpose or Mission: The New Zealand Marine Research Foundation's mission is to sponsor research on aquatic plants and animals and the physical marine environment for the benefit of all New Zealanders, including participants in ocean recreation. Research on interactions between people and marine ecosystems, including fisheries will be undertaken in partnership with national and international participants in marine recreation, marine research and fisheries.
Entity Structure: The Foundation is governed by a Board of Trustees who oversee the operation of the organisation. Currently there are five trustees in the Foundation. They oversee the raising of funds for the organisation and the distribution of funds for Research P rojects. A volunteer secretary provides admininstration support to the organisation.
Main Sources of the Entity's Cash and Resources: The main source of funds are an annual donation from the New Zealand Sport Fishing Council. NZSFC levie each adult member $2 and junior member $1 in donations for the Foundation. Other funding souces include Crowdfunding campaigns, and donations from companies and individuals. Limited funding has been received from other Charitible Trusts, including the Guardians of the Sea Trust.
Main Methods Used by the Entity to Raise Funds: Crowding funding campaigns on the Givealittle page. Applications to Trusts for specific projects
Entity's Reliance on Volunteers and Donated Goods or Services: The Foundation is completely run on a volunteer basis, including the administration of the Foundation
Page 2
NZSmall&
New Zealand Marine Research Foundation Charitable Trust Statement of Financial Position As at
30 June 2021
Note
Actual This Year
Actual Last Year
$
$
Assets Current Assets 220,809
138,608
1,458 78,869 301,136
1,101 77,507 217,216
301,136
217,216
2,355
2,100
Total Current Liabilities
2,355
2,100
Total Liabilities
2,355
2,100
298,781
215,116
215,116 83,665 298,781
124,132 90,984 215,116
3 3 3 3
Bank accounts and cash Debtors and prepayments Other current assets Investments
Total Current Assets Non-Current Assets 3
Investments
Total Non-Current Assets Total Assets Liabilities Current Liabilities 3
Creditors and accrued expenses Employee costs payable Unused donations and grants with conditions Other current liabilities
3
Total Assets less Total Liabilities (Net Assets) Accumulated Funds Opening accumulated funds Accumulated surpluses
Total Accumulated Funds
SIGNED AS APPROVED BY BOARD OF TRUSTEES 06/09/2021 DATE
CHAIRPERSON
Page 6
�
NZ Small Audit