Download AEBR 129 Habitats of particular significance for fisheries management: the Kaipara Harbour

The Kaipara Harbour supports important fisheries functions both locally and for the wider west coast North Island ecosystem. We explore its past environmental history, through semi-structured interviews of long-time local residents (to the 1930s), and historical material (to the 1800s). Current fish–habitat research is reviewed, including new data; and linked to other research on harbour threats and stressors. Subtidal seagrass meadows are mapped as important fish nurseries.