What are customary fishing rights?

Common question · Fisheries & Quota Law · New Zealand · 23 October 2026

General information from Lawmateanz

Customary fishing rights in New Zealand recognise Māori fishing rights under the Treaty of Waitangi and fisheries settlements.

Tangata whenua can authorise customary fishing for hui and tangi through appointed kaitiaki, under customary fishing regulations. Areas such as mātaitai reserves and taiāpure can also be set up.

Customary catch can't be sold.

Fisheries New Zealand and iwi organisations can provide more information.

Written by Lawmateanz, not by a lawyer. General information only, not legal advice about your situation. For advice about your own matter, talk to a lawyer.

Lawyer answers

Lawyers listed on Lawmateanz can answer this question. If you asked it, we'll email you as soon as it's answered.

Need help now? Get matched with a lawyer

Are you a lawyer? Answer this question · List free on Lawmateanz

Related questions

More about Fisheries & Quota Law →

General information only. Answers are written by independent lawyers based only on what's in the question. They aren't legal advice about your situation and don't create a lawyer–client relationship. For advice about your own matter, talk to a lawyer directly.

Ask your own questionGet matched with a lawyer