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Major app version update – 1 July 2025
MPI published a major version update to the NZ Fishing Rules app on 1 July 2025. To ensure that you receive the latest version of the app, enabling automated app updates on your device is encouraged. You will receive in-app prompts to update the app version.
NZ Fishing Rules app features
With the app, you can:
- check local fishing rules, including legal minimum sizes and maximum catch limits
- find out about areas that are closed to fishing
- check where it's safe to collect shellfish from
- identify fish species and whether they're common in your area
- report poachers.
You'll also find videos on how to release undersized fish properly, how to hand measure, and how to find out the sex of crayfish.
If you're going somewhere without cellphone coverage, we recommend that you open the app first. This will ensure you get the latest updates. The app will work even if there's no network.
You can also free text the word "app" to 9889 and the links will be sent to your phone. After you install it, the app will work without an internet connection.
Ways to check fishing rules for your area
Who to contact
If you have questions about the NZ Fishing Rules app, email info@mpi.govt.nz
