Commercial catch limits for Coromandel scallops will be reduced by 50 tonnes to ensure the long-term sustainability of the species.

Announced recently by Primary Industries Minister Nathan Guy, it's one of four fishing limits changed under the annual fisheries sustainability review and will come into effect on April 1.

As part of the annual fisheries sustainability review, commercial catch limits for Coromandel scallops will be reduced by 50 tonnes come April 1. Photo: File

The changes also include commercial catch limits for rock lobsters in the Wellington/Hawkes Bay region being reduced by 15 per cent, while recreational allowances for rock lobsters in the Canterbury/Marlborough region will be raised to 87 tonnes.

Commercial catch limits for four surf clam species at the top of the South Island will also be increased.

'All these decisions make the best possible use of the latest scientific information to ensure sustainable stocks whilst maximising the benefits of New Zealand's fisheries,” explains Nathan.

'Regular monitoring and amendments to catch limits are key elements of our fisheries management system. They are informed by science and ensure we retain a flexible and responsive system.”

Concerning Coromandel scallops, Nathan says further work is also being planned to determine a long-term approach to managing this shared fishery which is known to naturally vary in abundance.

For more information visit the Ministry for Primary Industries website.