Snapper affected by milky white flesh syndrome
In 2022, we got reports of snapper and some other species with milky white or mushy flesh. We have run tests and are investigating the issue.
About snapper
Māori names: tāmure, kouarea
Scientific name: Pagrus auratus
Snapper are copper-pink on top with a silver-white underside and small blue dots on their sides.
They are:
- most commonly found at depths of 15 metres to 60 metres but can also be found down to about 200 metres
- most common in warmer waters around New Zealand – especially in the Hauraki Gulf
- the dominant fish in northern inshore communities
- at home in a wide range of habitats, including rocky reefs and areas with sandy or muddy bottoms.
Snapper grow at different rates depending on region, reaching maturity between 3 and 7 years, when they are 25 cm to 45 cm long. They can live for more than 60 years and grow up to 105 cm. They release many batches of eggs all through spring and summer.
Fishing rules for snapper
The fishing rules for snapper and other fish are different around different parts of the country and can change. They can also change over time. Make sure to check the rules for your area every time before you go fishing.
Find the fishing rules for your area
Snapper status and how we manage snapper fishing
Snapper are managed under New Zealand's Quota Management System (QMS), with 6 quota management areas. Under the QMS, annual catch limits and allowances are set differently for each area depending on population size, the health of the stock, and to ensure fishing pressure is at sustainable levels.
To find information about catch allowances and stock status for various areas, see the snapper sections in Volume 3 of the Fisheries Assessment Plenary. This publication summarises all available information on fisheries and the status of each fish stock.
See the latest Fisheries Assessment Plenary
Report poaching
You can report poaching, suspicious, or illegal activity online:
Report illegal fishing (such as poaching)
You can also:
- call 0800 4 POACHER (0800 47 62 24), or
- email poacher@mpi.govt.nz
You can help us by providing:
- the location
- vehicle/trailer registration number
- boat name
- description of the person
When reporting any suspected poaching, put your personal safety first. All calls and personal details are treated as confidential.
Who to contact
If you have questions about the information on this page, email info@mpi.govt.nz
