Auckland divers have been stripped of their dive gear and their vehicle, after being caught taking more than twice the daily limit of koura from Lake Okataina.

The four divers had 587 of the fresh water crayfish, says MPI spokesman Adam Plumstead. The daily limit is 50 per person.

'They collectively took 387 more than they are legally entitled to.”

The Ministry for Primary Industries is hailing the efforts of local iwi and members of the public for helping fishery officers catch the divers.

'After following up on this invaluable information, we discovered that a group of divers, all from the Auckland region, had taken a total of 587 kōura from the lake.

'This sort of offending is really serious. Kōura is a very important species with cultural significance. On top of this, the amount taken has an impact on the sustainability of the fishery.

'Obviously the local community has been deeply distressed by the actions of these divers and they are pleased and relieved that we have been able to put a stop to their activity.

'It is thanks to the eyes and ears of the public that we've been able to achieve this outcome. People in the area care deeply about the health of their local fishery. The fact they came to MPI to report what they had seen and heard about is fantastic.”

MPI is making further inquiries into the incident and the alleged offenders could face serious charges, says Adam.

Anyone who sees or hears about illegal fishing activity is encouraged to call the MPI poacher hotline on 0800 4 POACHER (0800 476 224).