A Christchurch man has been jailed for 18 months for poaching 1,432 sea cucumbers.
Jason Murray Nix (55) was also banned from all fishing for 3 years when he appeared for sentencing in the Christchurch District Court on 2 charges under the Fisheries Act yesterday (7 August 2025).
"In one instance, Mr Nix was stopped by NZ Police on other issues and was found to have more than 20 times the daily limit for sea cucumbers in his vehicle that were likely to be sold on the black market," says Fisheries New Zealand district manager Marlborough/Canterbury Stuart Moore.
"When we find evidence of poaching or any other illegal fishing, we will investigate and – in serious situations – place the case before the court. Our job is to protect the sustainability of our shared fisheries now and into the future."
In November 2023, police stopped Mr Nix and another man and impounded his vehicle because of other legal matters. A search of the car found 1,022 sea cucumbers and fishery officers were contacted. Mr Nix was caught again in December 2024 with another 410. The daily limit per person for taking sea cucumbers is 50.
"Our investigation found strong electronic evidence of illegal seafood sales. To buy sea cucumbers commercially can cost up to $80/kg. Black market sales of sea cucumbers can be as little as $25/kg, seriously undermining the legitimate market.
"We urge any member of the public who is aware of or has been offered cheap sea cucumbers to contact us," says Mr Moore.
The other man stopped with Mr Nix is still to appear before the court.
Mr Nix received a total sentence of 30 months' imprisonment as he was also sentenced on separate police charges. A range of equipment, including 2 boats and a car, were forfeited to the Crown.
MPI encourages people to report suspected illegal activity through the ministry's 0800 4 POACHER number (0800 476 224)
For further information and general enquiries, call MPI on 0800 008 333 or email info@mpi.govt.nz
For media enquiries, contact the media team on 029 894 0328.
