Commercial crayfish catch limits in the Bay of Plenty area are being slashed by 36 tonnes under new regulations imposed by the Government.

Primary Industries Minister Nathan Guy today announced the changes for seven commercial fish stocks, to help sustain the species nationwide.

From April 1, there will be a 36 tonne decrease in commercial limits in the Bay of Plenty CRA2 region, while Wellington/Hawke's Bay has a 33 tonne decrease in CRA4.

The remaining five changes sees a 35 tonne increase in Gisborne's CRA3, 22 tonne increase for CRA7 in Otago and Westland/Taranaki allowed an extra 14 tonne in CRA9.

The changes apply solely to the commercial sector with no change to any recreational or customary fishing limits across the country.

A significant increase in the southern blue whiting fishery near Campbell Island, SWB 6I, has enabled a rise in the catch limit from 30,000 tonnes to 40,000 tonnes.

There is also a decrease to the scallop commercial catch limit at the top of the South Island from 747 tonnes to 400 tonnes.

The Minister says these regulations are being put in place to ensure healthy levels within the fisheries are maintained for all Kiwis.

'I have also approved a new management approach for CRA 2 that will closely monitor performance. If the numbers of crayfish don't improve then I will be looking to make further changes,” says Nathan.

'The decrease in the commercial catch limit takes into account the future enhancement potential of the fishery, while balancing any sustainability risk.”